Hands-on Review: Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 laptop

The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 is more than just another 2-in-1 laptop; it's a bold statement of what a premium convertible should be. Designed for creators, professionals, and anyone who values both power and versatility, the Yoga 9i 2-in-1stands out with its refined design, innovative features, and remarkable performance. After hands-on testing, it's clear this device has been meticulously crafted to deliver on its promises. Here's an in-depth look at what this sleek machine brings to the table.

Design and build quality

At just 15.9mm thick, the Yoga 9i 2-in-1's slim profile is complemented by its glossy rounded edges and precision-cut unibody. Its "comfort edge" design feels intuitive to hold, whether in laptop, tablet, or tent mode. Despite its lightweight form, the device exudes durability, making it a dependable companion for life on the go.

The 360-degree hinge is smooth and reliable, transitioning seamlessly between modes. Whether you're sketching with the included Lenovo Slim Pen or streaming a movie in tent mode, the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 adapts effortlessly, providing a premium feel throughout.

Display and audio

The 14-inch OLED PureSight display is a standout feature, boasting a 2.8K resolution with stunning contrast and colour accuracy. Covering 100% of both P3 and sRGB colour gamuts, it's ideal for creatives who demand visual precision. High refresh rates ensure buttery-smooth visuals, whether you're editing videos or simply scrolling through web pages.

Complementing the display is the four-speaker setup tuned by Bowers & Wilkins, supported by Dolby Atmos®. The rotating soundbar ensures optimal sound quality in any mode, delivering immersive spatial audio with impressive clarity and depth.

Performance

Powered by the Intel® Core Ultra 7 155H processor, the Yoga 9i 2-in-1 is built to handle demanding workloads with ease. From multitasking across productivity apps to editing high-resolution media, this laptop doesn't miss a beat. Intel® Arc graphics add an extra layer of power for creatives, making it suitable for graphic design and light 3D rendering.

The 16GB LPDDR5X memory ensures smooth multitasking, while the 512GB SSD provides ample storage with lightning-fast read/write speeds. For those who require more, configurations offering up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage are available.

Battery life

The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 promises extended productivity with its 75Wh battery. In real-world use, it easily lasts a full day of moderate tasks, and the Rapid Charge feature provides a quick top-up when needed. Whether you're working from a café or attending back-to-back meetings, battery anxiety is a thing of the past.

Smart features and software

The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 excels in smart functionality. The AI-driven Lenovo AI Engine+ optimises performance, battery life, and thermal management depending on your usage. Features like Smart Login use facial recognition for a seamless sign-in experience, while Super Resolution upscales video quality, ensuring older content looks its best.

The included Lenovo Slim Pen takes note-taking and sketching to another level, with responsive tilt and pressure sensitivity. It magnetically attaches to the laptop, so it's always within reach.

Sustainability

Lenovo has made significant strides in sustainability with the Yoga 9i 2-in-1. Certified carbon neutral and using recycled materials in its build and packaging, it's a product designed with the environment in mind. The reusable paperboard laptop stand in the packaging is a thoughtful touch for eco-conscious buyers.

Who is it for?

The Yoga 9i 2-in-1 is a stellar choice for professionals, students, and creatives who need a versatile device without compromising on performance or style. Its lightweight design makes it portable, while its robust features cater to a wide range of tasks, from everyday productivity to creative pursuits.

Verdict

The Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 sets a high bar for 2-in-1 laptops. With its stunning display, exceptional audio, and powerful internals, it excels as a multi-purpose device. The smart features and eco-friendly design are icing on the cake, making it a standout in its category. While the premium price tag may give some pause, it's a worthwhile investment for those seeking a capable, stylish, and flexible companion.