Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid Review: A Premium 2-in-1 Experience

When it comes to pushing the boundaries of what a laptop can be, Lenovo's ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid refuses to be a wallflower. Currently strutting its hybrid flair at a price point that could make even the staunchest tech enthusiast blink—over $3,000—it stands as an audacious entry into the niche realm of multi-functional devices. Marrying the functionality of a full-fledged Windows PC with the mobility of an Android tablet, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid isn’t just a device; it’s a conversation starter. But does it deliver on the promise of 2-in-1 versatility, or is it merely eye candy with a hefty price tag? Let’s dig deeper.

A Niche Device for the Unique User​

From the moment you set eyes on the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid, it’s clear that this isn’t your average laptop. Clad in an all-aluminum body that exudes strength and sophistication, Lenovo has crafted a device that not only prioritizes aesthetic appeal but also aims for the blend between productivity and entertainment. However, this device is distinctly positioned in the niche market—it's not meant for everyone. For those who live in a world that requires seamless transitions between Android and Windows, this might be your ideal companion.

Price Point and Realities​

The starting price has sparked quite the debate—initially slashed by over $1,000, it has returned to a lofty $3,518. The volatility in pricing adds to a certain level of confusion about its target audience. If you’re contemplating shelling out that much cash, you’d likely expect some premium features. While there’s no denying the quality engineering and unique design of this device, prospective buyers must weigh whether they’re buying into a lifestyle or merely a gadget.

Design: Stunning Yet Heavy​

One of the most striking features of the ThinkBook is its build quality. Lenovo has gone all out to create an aesthetically pleasing chassis that feels as robust as it looks. The device carries a significant heft, mainly due to its durable aluminum construction. It’s almost like Lenovo wanted to make sure you knew you were holding something special—and they succeeded!

Key Design Features:​

• Display: Boasting a breathtaking 14-inch 2.8K OLED display, it offers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness that makes watching movies a delight.
• Ports and Connectivity: The laptop is equipped with Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, which not only enhance performance but also expand connectivity options for users.
• Control Features: With a dedicated key for switching between Android and Windows, Lenovo made multitasking intuitively easy.

While the design shines brightly, the weight could be a dealbreaker. Users accustomed to lightweight laptops might find the heft cumbersome over prolonged usage.

Display: A Visual Feast​

The screen is one of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid’s crown jewels. The OLED technology displays colors that seem to leap off the screen, and the high pixel density ensures that everything from spreadsheets to streaming services appears crystal clear. Cinema enthusiasts will revel in the clarity, though it’s worth noting that the glossy finish can lead to reflections if not positioned optimally.

Key Display Features:​

• Brightness Levels: Outstanding brightness that allows for effective outdoor usage.
• Color Accuracy: Offers 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, catering to creatives who rely on precision.

Performance​

Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and an Intel Arc GPU in its Windows component, alongside a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip for its Android side, the ThinkBook offers respectable performance that can handle most tasks flawlessly. You won’t be rendering high-end 3D graphics, but everyday computing, light gaming, and multitasking are well within this device’s wheelhouse.

Performance Tidbits:​

• Windows Experience: Smooth operation of Windows 11, with excellent interactivity between Android and Windows systems.
• Android Capabilities: Runs Android apps without breaking a sweat, ideal for those who lean on mobile applications regularly.

Battery Life: A Bit of a Trade-off​

With both Windows and Android functioning off separate battery systems, Lenovo claims an impressive combined battery life of up to 12 hours. However, real-world usage may vary significantly based on settings and application demands. My experience mirrored this, yielding around 10 hours under balanced settings. Expect reduced performance if you’re pushing the device with high-brightness settings or resource-intensive tasks.

Audio and Webcam: Functional but Not Flawless​

The audio setup, tuned by Harman Kardon, delivers surprisingly decent sound quality for a laptop, but it doesn’t escape the limitations common in devices of this type—thin lows and lackluster bass. Though not a primary selling point, having Dolby Atmos support is a neat touch for those in need of quality sound for conferencing or media playback.
The camera system features a 1080p front-facing camera that meets contemporary standards for video calls—nothing groundbreaking, but it gets the job done.

Conclusion: A Mixed Bag of Performance and Price​

The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid acts as a fascinating experiment in technology that could entice those with unique needs. It’s an exciting device for users ready to embrace the duality of both Windows and Android operating systems. Yet, with its significant price, it raises the ultimate question: Is the crossover worth the cost?
For many, a traditional laptop paired with a separate tablet may still be the more practical choice. But for those who value carrying around one cutting-edge device that can seamlessly switch contexts, this hybrid is a bold option worth considering. As with all things tech, the decision rests on individual requirements, preferences, and willingness to invest in what can be classified as a rather exquisite piece of hardware.

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Source: Techaeris Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid review: An interesting Windows and Android in one device