The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 is more than just a laptop, it’s a gateway to endless possibilities, blending performance, design, and affordability. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply love surfing the web, this machine is designed to cater to various computing needs. Let’s dive into what makes the IdeaPad L340-15 stand out in a crowded market.
TheTechBasic Verdict
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 is a versatile, reliable laptop that balances performance, design, and affordability. Its sleek build, vibrant Full HD display, and solid performance from the Intel Core i5 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 make it suitable for both work and play. With a comfortable keyboard, decent battery life, and ample connectivity options, it covers all the essentials. While it may not be the lightest laptop, its robust construction and comprehensive features make it a great value for anyone needing a dependable, multi-purpose device. Overall, the IdeaPad L340-15 is a standout choice in its category.
Pros
- Sleek Design: Professional look with polished Onyx Black finish.
- Vibrant Display: Sharp and colorful Full HD screen with narrow bezels.
- Strong Performance: Intel Core i5 and NVIDIA GTX 1650 for smooth multitasking and gaming.
- Good Audio: Clear and loud Dolby Audio speakers.
- Decent Battery: Around 8 hours of usage with rapid charging.
- Comfortable Keyboard: Full-sized, backlit keyboard.
Cons
- Heavier Build: Weighs 4.8 pounds, less portable.
- Speaker Placement: Bottom-firing speakers may not sound best on soft surfaces.
- Limited High-End Gaming: GTX 1650 is not ideal for the latest games at ultra-settings.
- Touchpad Precision: External mouse recommended for precise control.
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Technical specifications
| Component | Specification |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-9300H, 4 cores, 2.4 GHz base, up to 4.1 GHz, Coffee Lake-H |
| Graphics Adapter | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile, 4 GB VRAM, Core clock: 1395 MHz, Memory clock: 2001 MHz, GDDR5, TU117M, NVIDIA 430.81; Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Memory | 8 GB DDR4, single-channel |
| Display | 15.6-inch IPS panel, 1920 x 1080 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, 141 PPI, non-glossy |
| Platform | Intel Cannon Lake HM370 |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD (454 GB free space) |
| Weight | 2.082 kg (4.59 lbs) |
| Power Supply Weight | 586 g (1.29 lbs) |
| Price | $870.01 |
| Links | Lenovo homepage, Lenovo notebook section |
Overview
Lenovo has given the V155 a facelift, adding budget-friendly yet gaming-capable hardware to its 15-inch frame. The outcome is the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming, priced under $900. Naturally, it’s not built for high-end gaming. In our review, we’ll highlight exactly where the trade-offs lie.
In addition to its many office devices, Lenovo offers IdeaPad laptops with a reasonably powerful graphics card, creating a usable gaming laptop for under $900. Equipped with an Intel Core i5-9300H and Nvidia’s GeForce GTX 1650, many games should run smoothly, though you’ll need to lower graphics settings for the latest blockbusters. It also comes with 8 GB of memory and a 512 GB SSD.
Other manufacturers also offer affordable gaming laptops, so in this review, we compare the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming to similar devices from competitors. We selected the Asus TUF FX505DT-EB73, the Asus ROG Zephyrus G, and the HP Omen 15 for comparison. Additionally, we included the similarly configured 17-inch IdeaPad L340-17IRH. Additional laptops from our database can be compared under each table.
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Case of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming features a plastic chassis with a sleek, smooth finish designed to mimic the appearance of brushed metal. The build quality is commendable, with smooth, even edges that contribute to an overall polished look. One notable design feature is the laptop’s sturdy base, which allows the lid to be easily opened with just one hand. Additionally, the display can be tilted back to a full 180°, providing flexibility for various viewing angles. The screen is framed by narrow bezels, enhancing its modern aesthetic. However, a significant drawback is its high susceptibility to fingerprints, particularly on the lid’s top surface, which can mar the otherwise refined appearance.
Weighing in at 2.1 kg (approximately 4.6 pounds), the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming is one of the lighter options among its competitors. This makes it relatively portable for a gaming laptop. Despite its lightweight nature, its dimensions are more in line with mid-sized laptops. In terms of size, it sits comfortably between the Asus ROG Zephyrus G GA502DU and the HP Omen 15.
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming aims to balance performance and portability, making it a suitable choice for gamers on the go. The plastic construction does not compromise durability, and the smooth, brushed-metal-like finish adds a touch of sophistication. The ability to open the lid with one hand and the 180° hinge are practical features that enhance usability. The narrow bezels around the display not only contribute to a sleek look but also help keep the overall size of the laptop manageable.
Despite its positive attributes, the laptop’s tendency to attract fingerprints is a downside. This issue is particularly noticeable on the lid, where smudges can accumulate quickly, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance.
Connectivity of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming includes only the essential ports, all conveniently located on the left side of the laptop. Lenovo has opted to omit both a memory card reader and a Thunderbolt port in this model. Instead, users will find a USB Type-C port adhering to the 3.0 standard. It is important to note, however, that this USB Type-C port does not support laptop charging.
While the absence of a memory card reader and Thunderbolt port might be a drawback for some, the inclusion of a USB Type-C port offers some compensation by providing fast data transfer capabilities. The streamlined port selection aligns with the laptop’s focus on delivering core functionalities without unnecessary extras, maintaining a balance between simplicity and performance.
The decision to place all ports on one side of the laptop contributes to a cleaner, more organized appearance and potentially reduces cable clutter during use. However, this might also mean some users will need to adapt their usual setup, especially if they are accustomed to having ports on both sides for ease of access.
Despite these limitations, the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming ensures that users have access to the most commonly used connections, prioritizing essential functionality over additional features. This design choice reflects Lenovo’s intention to create a straightforward, user-friendly gaming laptop without overcomplicating the interface with superfluous options. While the lack of certain ports might be a limitation for some users, the focus on essential connectivity ensures that the laptop remains practical for everyday gaming and computing needs.
Communication of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming is equipped with a Gigabit Ethernet port and a Wi-Fi module supporting standards 802.11 a, b, g, n, and ac. However, without 2×2 MIMO antenna technology, its transfer speeds are not as high as those found on devices like the HP Omen 15. Even with the mentioned antenna technology, the L340 achieves only moderate transfer rates of 290 Mb/s for receiving data and 309 Mb/s for sending data.
Accessories of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
Out of the box, the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 includes the gaming laptop itself and the corresponding power adapter. Additional accessories such as Type-C USB stations for docking, external input devices, carrying bags, and more can be bought from the manufacturer’s website.
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Maintenance of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The bottom cover of the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 can be removed by unscrewing all base plate screws. This provides access to the memory, which in our review model is 8 GB installed in the single RAM slot. The SSD is also replaceable, and the fans are easily accessible for cleaning. The case theoretically has space for a 2.5-inch SATA drive, though we did not find a corresponding port on the motherboard during our inspection.
Warranty of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
Lenovo offers a 24-month warranty period for purchasers of the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming, providing extended peace of mind for buyers.
The keyboard of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The keyboard on the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 provides short key travel and distinct pressure points. Typing feels secure under the fingertips, though the up and down arrow keys are noticeably smaller compared to the other keys. Alongside a full numeric keypad, this Lenovo laptop includes monochrome keyboard backlighting that emits a blue glow in our reviewed model. The backlighting is even and adjustable across two brightness levels, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions.
The Touchpad of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
Lenovo has chosen a ClickPad as the mouse alternative for the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming. It exhibits some looseness within its frame, leading to audible rattling during use. The mouse buttons require firm pressure on the bottom corners to register commands. Moreover, the surface resists fingertips, making navigation with the mouse pointer somewhat challenging.
Display of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming features a 15.6-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. Its average brightness of 253 cd/m² positions it in the middle range among our comparison devices. The screen also boasts a respectable brightness distribution of 83%. Our tests indicate that the display starts flickering only at brightness levels below 20%, with a very high frequency of 25,910 Hz. This high frequency ensures that even users with sensitive eyes should not experience any discomfort when using the L340-15 Gaming.
Alternatively, buyers can opt for the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming with a TN panel, which also offers a 1920×1080 pixel resolution and a brightness of 220 cd/m², as per the datasheet.
Our measurements reveal that the L340 boasts an impressive contrast ratio of 1528:1 and a very good black value of 0.18 d/m². This results in well-defined color separation and deep, rich black tones, making Lenovo’s gaming laptop a leader in our test field for these metrics.
Additionally, CalMAN analysis indicates very consistent color reproduction out of the box. Although initial deviations are minimal, further enhancement is possible through calibration. Users can download the corresponding ICC file from the window located above on the right, next to the brightness distribution graph.
With fair brilliance and a matte presentation surface, the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 performs well outside. Nonetheless, concealed regions are ideal as brilliant daylight can make on-screen content hard to peruse.
Performance of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
Lenovo positions the IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming as a robust laptop designed for gamers, though it falls within the entry-level category. It adequately supports smooth gameplay for modern titles, albeit at lower graphics settings and not suitable for 4K resolution. The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card is the standard option, while configurations vary for RAM and storage. Different CPU options are also available, with models reaching up to Intel’s Core i7-9750H.
Processor of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
In our review unit, the Intel Core i5-9300H ensures responsive system operation. Its four cores operate between 2.4 and 4.1 GHz, with the maximum turbo speed achievable on up to two cores simultaneously. Sustaining this performance level depends significantly on the efficiency of the cooling system.
During our Cinebench R15 stress test, the L340 exhibited minimal performance fluctuations even over extended periods, indicating excellent stability. Compared to other laptops in our test group, both multi-core and single-core performance metrics confirm the effective utilization of the Core i5-9300H’s capabilities. Only the AMD Ryzen 7 3750H in the Asus ROG Zephyrus G outperforms it in multi-core performance. When running on battery, the L340’s multi-core performance is approximately 53% lower compared to when it’s plugged in.
Storage of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
In our review unit of the IdeaPad L340-15, Lenovo includes a 512 GB SSD. Our storage benchmarks indicate that it delivers moderate performance. Users will experience faster speeds compared to conventional HDDs, but our comparison devices feature significantly faster SSD models. According to the specifications, Lenovo offers this budget-friendly gaming laptop with SSD options up to 1 TB and HDD options up to 2 TB.
Noise Emissions Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
During typical daily use and under light loads, the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 remains very quiet. However, under heavier loads, the fans become audible, reaching a noise level of up to 40.2 dB(A). The fan noise is consistent and can be easily tuned out. Similar laptops in this performance category also maintain quiet operation.
The L340-15 Gaming is suitable for quiet environments when not running demanding applications.
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Temperature
Our estimations demonstrate that the L340 arrives at surface temperatures of up to 27.9 °C (~82 °F) during inactive use and a limit of 58.1 °C (~137 °F) under load. The warmest area is situated at the bottom rear left, beneath the power connector. At nearly 60 °C (~140 °F), the case feels quite warm, making it less comfortable for lap use.
During our approximately one-hour continuous stress test, CPU core temperatures peak at 82 °C (~178 °F). Initially, the power consumption of the L340 was 124 watts, reflecting the CPU’s maximum TDP of 45 watts. This value gradually decreases to 100 watts (25 watts for the CPU), stabilizing at 90 watts (15 watts for the CPU). Since such extreme loads are rare in real-world use, users shouldn’t encounter performance restrictions due to excessively high temperatures.
Speakers of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The speakers in the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 Gaming provide modest volume and reasonably balanced sound, albeit lacking bass. They suffice for occasional audio playback in very quiet settings, but for better quality, external speakers or headphones are recommended. These can be easily connected via the laptop’s 3.5 mm audio jack, which ensures secure connections without compromising sound quality.
Battery life of Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming lasts for 6 hours and 49 minutes in our real-world Wi-Fi test, ranking second to last among the devices we compared. Only the Asus ROG Zephyrus G GA502DU has a shorter battery life. It takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes to fully recharge the 45 Wh battery using the included charger.
Conclusion
The Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15 strikes an excellent balance between performance, design, and value. It’s a versatile laptop that can handle a variety of tasks, from everyday computing to more demanding applications like gaming and content creation. While it might not be the most portable option, its robust build and comprehensive feature set make it a reliable companion for both work and play.
In the ever-competitive market of laptops, the IdeaPad L340-15 stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a powerful yet affordable machine. Whether you’re diving into a work project, streaming your favorite show, or playing the latest game, this laptop has got you covered. With the Lenovo IdeaPad L340-15, you’re not just getting a laptop, you’re investing in a tool that enhances your digital experience every step of the way.