Currently testing: Lenovo IdeaPad S540 15-inch - A great all-rounder with one weakness

Lenovo introduces masses of new devices into the market, so it can become difficult for the customer to keep track. For example, the IdeaPad S540 is available in a 13, a 14, and a 15-inch version, and only the two digit number in the label, "-15IWL" in our case, tells you about the display size.

The all-rounder offers many strengths under the hood. Above all, the bright (>300 nits) and contrast-rich IPS Full-HD display is able to convince us. Then, the built-in 1-TB SSD is one of the fastest representatives of its kind (Samsung PM981a, 123 Euros (~$134) at Amazon; in the US the PM981 is available for $99), and finally, the notebook runs very efficiently and remains fairly cool.

Of course, the S540 also has some weaknesses, but most are rather minor. Those include the small variety of connections (no LAN, no Thunderbolt, only 3 USB-ports), the unusual power connection (keyword: compatible replacement charger), the throttling that is present, and the single RAM slot.

However, the greatest weakness lies somewhere else: While Lenovo uses one of the quietest cooling systems in terms of its measurements in the comparison, this measurable positive effect is undone by a subjectively very annoying, high-pitched fan noise. Without this blemish, we would have been able to give our unconditional recommendation for the IdeaPad S540, but in this way, the manufacturer messes up its top valuation. You can read the full review here.