Lenovo IdeaPad Z370 Subnotebook

Lenovo launches a compact 13.3 inch subnotebook the market with the IdeaPad Z370. Lenovo has designed the IdeaPad Z370 according to the idea: "superior elegance can be affordable". But the IdeaPad Z370 not only is to score with its looks, but the latest Intel processors with Sandy Bridge architecture are to ensure sufficient computing power. The list ranges up to a new Core i7 and a 1 TB hard disk. We are looking at the model with an Intel Core i5-2410M and 750 GB hard disk in our review. In addition, there are a lot of special functions installed. For example, Lenovo treats the IdeaPad Z370 to OneKey Recovery, OneKey Theater and Rapid Boost Technology, among others. If these programs can provide a real added value for the user will have to be seen.

Case

Lenovo's advertising text already implies that a lot of value has been placed on the Lenovo IdeaPad Z370 Subnotebook's looks. A lot of effort has been invested in only the display lid. Here, a transparent, metallic and 3D effect has been incorporated. A pattern of

small squares is underneath the surface. It becomes more or less visible depending on the angle of view. It is basically a nice effect, but the lid again receives a smooth, glossy surface. In return, it is very sensitive for fingerprints and scratches. Thus, a cleaning cloth is recommended. The display lid yields slightly under pressure and the display is not resistant against twisting, either. However, it didn't cause any color deviations. The hinges aren't pulled particularly tight. It allows you to open the laptop with only one hand without lifting the base unit at the same time. The display teeters evidently during movements, though.

When the display is opened, you see an aluminum surface that covers the entire interior. You can debate about the surface's color – our test device had a slightly pinkish color – but it is resistant against fingerprints and even feels good. The wrist-rest is very pressure resistant and doesn't yield at all even under higher, selective pressure. The keyboard's left also proved to be very stable. However, the stability clearly decreases the more we move toward the optical drive. The keyboard can be depressed by a few millimeters directly over the drive. The surface can also be dented by a few millimeters at the back edge, so over the battery compartment.

The notebook's workmanship generally makes a very solid impression. We were pleasantly surprised about the wrist-rest made of aluminum. The gaps are very even for the most part. We could only find slight differences on the keyboard's left and right. The IdeaPad Z370 can be upgraded via a big cover on the bottom. Lenovo gives the user a lot of leniency. If you like, you could even theoretically replace the processor.

Connectivity

Unfortunately, Lenovo doesn't install any fast USB 3.0 ports. The notebook has a total of three USB 2.0 ports available instead. One of them is a combined USB 2.0/eSATA port. The interfaces are basically placed so that they won't get in the user's way too much. There are hardly any ports on the laptop's right and the interfaces that are needed more frequently have been moved to the back (USB and power socket). Regrettably, the majority of ports on the left have been placed far front. But they don't get very annoying because most users will sooner have the mouse placed on the notebook's right. There are no interfaces on the rear due to the display's and battery's design.

The 5in1 card reader is located on the front. It supports MMC, SD, Memory Stick (Pro) and xD card formats. A dummy card has been inserted for protection. A small switch for turning the wireless technologies on and off is beside the slot.

Communication

The IdeaPad Z370 practically meets all needs with its wireless technologies. An Atheros AR9285 Wireless Network Adapter card takes care of WLAN connections. It supports 802.11 b/g/n standards. If you prefer to be on the Web via cable, you can fall back on the PCIe Family Controller from Realtek. However, it only delivers speeds of 10 MB/s and 100 MB/s. Gigabit Ethernet is not supported. Bluetooth is also installed, but still in the 2.1 version with EDR and not in its 3.0 version.

Scope of Delivery

The scope of delivery isn't very lavish. In addition to the laptop, the battery and the power adapter, you'll find some printed documentation and a warranty card in the box. There are no drivers or recovery DVDs. The system recovery is solved via the OneKey Recovery program. We have already been acquainted with it in previous Lenovo devices and it worked well in them.

Warranty

The Lenovo IdeaPad Z370 comes with a 2 year bring-in service. However, there isn't any further information about the service's period and response time.