Lenovo has introduced the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid, a unique laptop that offers a dual OS experience with Windows and Android in one device. This innovative 2-in-1 laptop combines a 14-inch Windows laptop with an Android tablet, providing users with the flexibility to detach the screen and use it as a standalone tablet or switch between Windows and Android modes with the press of a button. Priced at $3,518, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid offers a one-of-a-kind computing experience that is sure to appeal to tech enthusiasts.
Design and Build Quality
The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid features a sleek and solid design, crafted from silver and gray aluminum. Weighing in at 3.87 pounds, this laptop is heavier than traditional 14-inch laptops due to the inclusion of two separate computers in one device. The mechanism for attaching the screen to the base station may feel a bit clunky at first, but with some practice, it becomes more manageable. The detachable screen allows for a seamless transition between laptop and tablet modes, offering a more versatile experience than traditional 2-in-1 laptops.
Display and Speakers
The 14-inch 2880×1800 OLED display on the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details. While the screen is excellent for laptop mode, it may feel a bit large and unwieldy in tablet mode. The laptop also features a dual-speaker system that provides clear audio with decent bass for a 14-inch laptop. Whether watching movies or listening to music, the speakers offer a pleasant audio experience.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The full-size keyboard on the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is of high quality, offering a comfortable typing experience in both Windows and Android modes. The trackpad is responsive and smooth, with ample space for navigation. Additionally, Lenovo includes an active pen that attaches magnetically to the laptop lid, allowing for easy access when needed. The keyboard and trackpad work well for both productivity tasks and creative endeavors.
Performance
Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU and 32GB of RAM, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid delivers solid performance for day-to-day productivity applications. The Intel Arc graphics provide adequate performance for most tasks, although users requiring more powerful discrete graphics may need to look elsewhere. While the laptop may not be ideal for intensive gaming or CPU-heavy tasks, it performs well for general desktop applications.
Battery Life
Equipped with a 75 Watt-hour battery, the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid offers reasonable battery life for typical use. In our benchmark tests, the laptop lasted for nearly 13 and a half hours while playing a 4K video on repeat. While real-world battery life may vary, the laptop’s OLED display helps optimize power consumption during video playback. Lenovo suggests that switching to the Android mode can extend battery life when needed.
Conclusion
The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is a unique and innovative machine that combines the functionality of a Windows laptop and an Android tablet in one device. While the $3,518 price tag may be steep for some users, the dual OS experience and versatile design make it a compelling option for those seeking a different computing experience. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as limited connectivity ports and a somewhat clunky screen attachment mechanism, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid offers a one-of-a-kind solution for users looking for a dual OS laptop experience.
