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Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK (80TK003KGE) Notebook Review

Silver companion! Lenovo presents another 14-inch lightweight that is furnished with a ULV processor and Intel Iris graphics. Its attempt to mingle in the premium range is not completely successful. Our in-depth report reveals why Lenovo's subnotebook fails and how the review sample fares in our demanding test course.

For the original German review, see here.

HP, Asus, and Acer have presented some attractive devices in the first half of this year. They have a good price-performance ratio in common. Lenovo, of course, does not want to simply stand aside and rocks the subnotebook market with the now released IdeaPad 510S lineup. Lenovo's IdeaPad 510S-14ISK that we have been provided with for testing purposes is a 14-inch subnotebook. Our review sample houses a sixth-generation Intel Core i5 ULV processor. The newest devices that will soon be launched will even be furnished with seventh-generation Core processors. Intel's Iris Graphics 550 serves as the graphics accelerator in our case. Its performance is much better than Intel's HD Graphics 520.

However, Lenovo also offers other hardware configurations. Intel's Core i5-6200U alongside AMD's Radeon R5 M430 and a 1 TB, 2.5-inch hard drive in a slim case starts the series (799 Euros, ~$897). Another option is Intel's faster Core i7-6500U. AMD's Radeon R7 M460 dedicated GPU is installed here. The conventional hard drive makes way for a 256 GB, 2.5-inch SSD. The faster bundle is priced at 999 Euros (~$1121). Both GPU solutions also include a 2 GB dedicated VRAM and thus do not load the 8 GB DDR4 RAM that all models have in common.

Our review configuration is no longer listed on Lenovo's German website. Buyers who are happy with the performance of Intel's Core i5-6267U in conjunction with Intel's Iris Graphics 550 can purchase the device for 799 Euros (~$897) in diverse online shops.

There are plenty of devices that could be used for comparison in this test. However, we decided to set the price limit at 1000 Euros (~$1123). Thus, we selected the following devices for this test report:

Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK (Ideapad 500 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-6267U 2 x 2.9 - 3.3 GHz, Skylake
Graphics adapter
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Core: 1100 MHz, 20.19.15.4390
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4, 1866 MHz, Single-Channel, occupies 1 of 1 banks
Display
14.00 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 157 PPI, NV140FHM-N41, a-Si TFT-LCD, IPS, LED, 262K, 6 Bit, non-reflecting, glossy: no
Storage
Samsung MZYTY256HDHP, 256 GB 
, 2.5-inch SSD , 193 GB free
Soundcard
Realtek High Definition Audio
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, 1 Kensington Lock, Audio Connections: stereo, Card Reader: MMC, SD, SDHC, SDXC
Networking
Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller (10/100/1000MBit/s), Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 19.5 x 340 x 240 ( = 0.77 x 13.39 x 9.45 in)
Battery
30 Wh, 4050 mAh Lithium-Ion
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 720p-HD
Additional features
Speakers: Audio by HARMAN, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, McAfee LifeSafe, Lenovo Solution Center, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.542 kg ( = 54.39 oz / 3.4 pounds), Power Supply: 230 g ( = 8.11 oz / 0.51 pounds)
Price
799 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

Most of the completely silver-colored casing is made of plastic and aluminum. The upper sides are metal and the undersides are plastic. Lenovo's logo adorns the casing's lid. The IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is relatively inconspicuous otherwise. The silver design makes a high-quality impression and is not overly susceptible to fingerprints. The base's build is solid and can only be warped with effort.

The display lid also makes a positive impression. Like the base, it is stiff and can only be warped with effort. Thus, the plastic and metal mix is a good choice, and the casing is equipped for everyday use.

Both hinges that keep the display in every desired position do a good job. The display only rocks to an acceptable extent and cannot be opened with one hand. The device looks very thin in a closed state. The keyboard and touchpad are incorporated directly into the base's upper side. A chrome bezel frames the touchpad. The panel has been incorporated well into the casing's lid, and the edges are relatively narrow.

Although the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK does not have a maintenance hatch, the base unit's tray can be removed easily. Caution: After releasing all screws, innumerable plastic clips that could break easily when removing the base tray heedlessly surround the plate. The RAM, SSD, battery, and small fan can be accessed after successful disassembly.

Size Comparison

The size comparison shows that the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK belongs to the largest devices in terms of surface area. However, this is due to its 14-inch size. Some comparison devices, such as HP's Envy 13-d020ng with only a 13.3-inch diagonal, naturally need a smaller platform. Lenovo's IdeaPad 510S-14ISK weighs approximately 1.5 kilograms. The weight is absolutely acceptable for this laptop size. Lenovo's casing is thinner than the rivals from Acer (19.7 millimeters) and Asus (25.6 millimeters) but is thicker than HP's laptop (12.6 millimeters).

340 mm / 13.4 inch 240 mm / 9.45 inch 19.5 mm / 0.768 inch 1.5 kg3.4 lbs340 mm / 13.4 inch 240 mm / 9.45 inch 19.5 mm / 0.768 inch 1.6 kg3.44 lbs328 mm / 12.9 inch 234 mm / 9.21 inch 25.6 mm / 1.008 inch 1.6 kg3.51 lbs327 mm / 12.9 inch 228 mm / 8.98 inch 19.7 mm / 0.776 inch 1.6 kg3.42 lbs327 mm / 12.9 inch 228 mm / 8.98 inch 19.7 mm / 0.776 inch 1.6 kg3.42 lbs326.5 mm / 12.9 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 12.6 mm / 0.4961 inch 1.4 kg3.09 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

The IdeaPad 510S does not have any interface innovations compared with the 500S. Thus, Lenovo still does not install a USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt 3 port. All interfaces are on the sides. We find a Kensington lock slot for securing the device against theft on the left. Furthermore, there are a line-out and microphone jack, USB port that operates in 2.0 standard, card reader, and power socket here. Lenovo does not use the rectangular ports and again installs the known round power sockets.

Two more USB ports that support USB 3.0 speeds are on the right. An HDMI port and Gbit LAN socket are situated beside it. The interface distribution is middling. Both USB 3.0 ports are cramped, which might cause problems with big USB peripherals. It does not look like problems will occur on the left. However, the angled power plug could collide with the neighboring Kensington lock slot or USB port.

Left: Kensington lock slot, power-in, 1x USB 2.0, 3.5 mm combo jack, SD-card reader
Left: Kensington lock slot, power-in, 1x USB 2.0, 3.5 mm combo jack, SD-card reader
Right: power on LED, 2x USB 3.0, HDMI, GBit-LAN
Right: power on LED, 2x USB 3.0, HDMI, GBit-LAN
Front: no interfaces
Front: no interfaces
Rear: no interfaces
Rear: no interfaces

SD-Card Reader

The card reader on the side supports all common formats (MMC, SD, SDHC, SDXC). We would recommend taking out the SD card to prevent damage when transporting the laptop since roughly half of it juts out.

We test the card reader's performance with our Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II reference memory card. This test involves copying 250 identical JPG files from the memory card to the hard drive. The IdeaPad 510S achieves an average speed of 49.5 MB/s after three runs. This result places the IdeaPad 510S in the midfield. The former IdeaPad 500S achieved 62 MB/s, which puts it first place among the comparison devices in this test. Both Lenovos are on par in sequential read that we determine with the AS SSD tool, closely followed by HP's Envy 13-d020ng in first and second place.

SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
 
61 MB/s +23%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
 
54 MB/s +9%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
 
49.5 MB/s
Asus X302UV-FN016T
 
27.9 MB/s -44%
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
 
22.4 MB/s -55%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
 
15 MB/s -70%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
 
85.7 MB/s +3%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
 
83.4 MB/s
HP Envy 13-d020ng
 
83 MB/s 0%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
 
37.1 MB/s -56%
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
 
27.3 MB/s -67%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
 
27.1 MB/s -68%

Communication

Wireless-AC 3165 module by Intel
Wireless-AC 3165 module by Intel

Like in the predecessor, Lenovo continues to rely on a Wireless-AC 3165 by Intel as the Wi-Fi module. This module achieves a gross data transmission rate of 433 Mbit/s. We measured 268 Mbit/s in receive and 291 Mbit/s in send in our test in ideal conditions. The theoretically possible speeds are not met, but the determined rates are on a level that is more than sufficient for normal use. We did not have any problems with this network connection in the test period. Users who need faster data transmission can establish a cabled connection of up to 1000 Mbit/s. Realtek's chip functions reliably and without problems.

Networking
iperf Server (receive) TCP 1 m
Dell Inspiron 15 5568
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
372 MBit/s +39%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
268 MBit/s
iperf Client (transmit) TCP 1 m
Dell Inspiron 15 5568
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
390 MBit/s +34%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
291 MBit/s

Security

Devices not made for the business sector come with only limited security features. The IdeaPad 510S only sports a Kensington lock slot and Trusted Platform Module 2.0 (TPM). Lenovo offers a 36-month McAfee LifeSafe security software license for 100 Euros (~$112) when purchasing the laptop.

Accessories

Like most other manufacturers, Lenovo is very economic with accessories. A quick-start guide and the power supply are in the box. Lenovo does not offer any proprietary accessories for the 510S lineup. Standard accessories, such as a headphone, mouse, Kensington lock, and power bank, are found on Lenovo's shop website.

Operating System

The devices are shipped with Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64-bit operating system.

Maintenance

As said in "Casing", the IdeaPad 510S lacks a dedicated maintenance hatch like its predecessor. It has been adopted 1:1. Thus, the end user can only remove the entire base tray. However, disassembly should not be attempted without the fitting tools to prevent scratches. Although this is not exactly user-friendly, it will not be absolutely necessary to open the device very often since almost no upgrade options exist.

Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK with removed base plate
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK with removed base plate

Warranty

Lenovo's IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is sold with a 24-month manufacturer's warranty. Various online shops offer an additional warranty packages that also go beyond the 24 months for an extra charge.

Input Devices

IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: keyboard
IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: keyboard
IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: backlit keyboard
IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: backlit keyboard

Keyboard

We can only repeat the positive impression of the predecessor here. The chiclet keyboard does a good job. The solid base prevents the keyboard from denting. The pressure point is clearly defined and the key drop is very pleasant. Energetic typing should not cause problems. The keys that are lightly curved in the lower part also have a comfortable size. Typing is audible but in no way distracting.

The printed letters are well legible. Furthermore, the keyboard layout looks clearly arranged and not stuffed. The keyboard's subtle three-level backlight helps when typing in the dark.

Touchpad

IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: ClickPad
IdeaPad 510S-14ISK: ClickPad

The ClickPad continues where the keyboard's positive qualities left off. The touchpad supports multitouch and allows accurate inputting up into the lateral areas. For example, zooming pictures functions just as impeccably as moving files or folders. Both keys incorporated in the lower area have a firm, clearly defined pressure point. It is not too spongy, which prevents unintentional clicks. However, the click noises are very audible and are louder than when typing on the keyboard. A chrome bezel clearly separates the input area's borders.

Display

Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid
Virtually no visible backlight bleeding
Virtually no visible backlight bleeding

Our review sample is furnished with an IPS panel by BOE. The 14-inch screen has a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. This leads to a pixel density of 157 PPI. Lenovo does not offer any other screen options for its IdeaPad 510S series. The FHD panel in our review sample offers a good brightness (263 cd/m²) and high contrast (1071:1). These rates are typical for IPS panels. HP proves that this can be even better with its Envy 13-d020ng. The AU Optronics screen is evidently superior to the BOE panel. The rates in the chart illustrate this clearly.

Our review sample is nevertheless impressive since its good screen brightness and an illumination of 90% are decent and allow working outdoors. The anti-glare surface also contributes to this. We have to criticize the detected screen flickering at a screen brightness of 60% or lower. The homogeneous illumination that hardly leads to visible backlight bleeding has to be mentioned positively. The screen's subjective quality is good. The decent contrast (1071:1) results in a low black level (0.35 cd/m²), and thus darker sequences are not covered by a grayish haze.

270
cd/m²
272
cd/m²
276
cd/m²
264
cd/m²
257
cd/m²
259
cd/m²
267
cd/m²
254
cd/m²
248
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
NV140FHM-N41 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 276 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 263 cd/m² Minimum: 4 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 90 %
Center on Battery: 257 cd/m²
Contrast: 1071:1 (Black: 0.24 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.44 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.95 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
64% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
40% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
44.3% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
64.1% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
42.88% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.29
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
NV140FHM-N41, 1920x1080, 14.00
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Chi Mei CMN14A7, 1920x1080, 14.00
Asus X302UV-FN016T
InfoVision M133NWN1 R3, 1366x768, 13.30
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
LG LP133WF2-SPL3, 1920x1080, 13.30
HP Envy 13-d020ng
AU Optronics AUO272D, 1920x1080, 13.30
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
LG Display LP133WF2-SPL3, 1920x1080, 13.30
Display
-5%
13%
-9%
47%
-9%
Display P3 Coverage
42.88
40.74
-5%
48.37
13%
39.18
-9%
63.7
49%
39.05
-9%
sRGB Coverage
64.1
60.6
-5%
72.6
13%
58.6
-9%
93
45%
58.7
-8%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
44.3
42.15
-5%
49.98
13%
40.51
-9%
65.1
47%
40.35
-9%
Response Times
8%
6%
-12%
116%
3%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
45 ?(17, 28)
43 ?(22, 21)
4%
42 ?(20, 22)
7%
41 ?(16, 25)
9%
34 ?(11, 23)
24%
46 ?(19, 27)
-2%
Response Time Black / White *
26 ?(7, 19)
23 ?(8, 15)
12%
23 ?(6, 17)
12%
34.4 ?(11.6, 12.8)
-32%
24 ?(5, 19)
8%
24 ?(5, 19)
8%
PWM Frequency
50 ?(60)
50 ?(90)
0%
208 ?(40)
316%
Screen
-43%
-14%
-21%
17%
-13%
Brightness middle
257
249
-3%
218
-15%
247
-4%
345
34%
250
-3%
Brightness
263
235
-11%
210
-20%
239
-9%
335
27%
247
-6%
Brightness Distribution
90
87
-3%
88
-2%
81
-10%
95
6%
87
-3%
Black Level *
0.24
0.44
-83%
0.5
-108%
0.38
-58%
0.25
-4%
0.43
-79%
Contrast
1071
566
-47%
436
-59%
650
-39%
1380
29%
581
-46%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.44
9.47
-74%
3.89
28%
5.95
-9%
4.94
9%
4.51
17%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
10.93
15.41
-41%
7.11
35%
14.2
-30%
8.85
19%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.95
10.22
-159%
4.9
-24%
5.25
-33%
5.85
-48%
3.18
19%
Gamma
2.29 96%
2.34 94%
2.41 91%
2.42 91%
2.25 98%
2.43 91%
CCT
6896 94%
11451 57%
7860 83%
6736 96%
7105 91%
6743 96%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
40
39
-2%
46
15%
37.28
-7%
60
50%
37
-7%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
64
57
-11%
73
14%
58.37
-9%
93
45%
58
-9%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-13% / -29%
2% / -5%
-14% / -17%
60% / 41%
-6% / -10%

* ... smaller is better

The DeltaE 2000 rates are slightly higher than the target rate of 3 in delivery state. Furthermore, the screen also displays a light greenish tint. This rate improved after calibration. As always, we provide the corresponding ICC profile for downloading. The IPS panel reproduces 64% of the sRGB color space. It is only enough for a 40% coverage of the extended AdobeRGB color space, which is simply insufficient for professional purposes.

Grayscale
Grayscale
ColorChecker
ColorChecker
Saturation Sweeps
Saturation Sweeps

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
26 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 7 ms rise
↘ 19 ms fall
The screen shows relatively slow response rates in our tests and may be too slow for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 57 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
45 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 17 ms rise
↘ 28 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 73 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 50 Hz ≤ 60 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 50 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 60 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 50 Hz is very low, so the flickering may cause eyestrain and headaches after extended use.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

The IPS panel can again use the advantages of this technology in the viewing-angle test. This results in a clear reproduction of the test image from all nine viewing angles. A slight color distortion is only seen in a very flat and slanted view that is not needed in routine use.

The anti-glare surface alongside the screen's maximum brightness of 263 cd/m² ensures good legibility outdoors. However, the sun should not shine directly onto the screen. We would recommend looking for a sun-protected place for outdoor browsing.

Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK in direct sunlight
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK in direct sunlight
Outdoors in the sun
Outdoors in the sun
Outdoors in the shade
Outdoors in the shade

Performance

The IdeaPad 510S' performance is decent for a subnotebook. It could be increased a few percent with the seventh Core processor generation. Nevertheless, Intel's Core i5-6267U in conjunction with the 8 GB of RAM provides enough power to cope with most routine tasks, such as Internet browsing, office applications or playing multimedia content. The 2.5-inch SSD also contributes to fast and lag-free working. The entry-level model of the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is shipped with Intel's Core i5-6200U processor. The buyer can also optionally choose Intel's Core i7-6500U.

CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
CPU-Z
GPU-Z
HWiNFO
DPC Latency
Intel Extreme Tuning Utility

Processor

Intel Core i5-6267U with Intel Iris Graphics 550
Intel Core i5-6267U with Intel Iris Graphics 550

Intel's Core i5-6267U processor installed in our review sample is a rare companion. Intel's Core i5-6200U or Intel's Core i7-6500U is used more often. Intel's Core i5-6267U has a different integrated graphics unit than the other models. The performance of Intel's Iris Graphics 550 is roughly twice as high as the frequently installed Intel's HD Graphics 520. This also results in a higher TDP of 28 watts. The CPU is soldered to the motherboard and has two physical processing cores. The base clock of Intel's Core i5-6267U is 2.9 GHz, which can be boosted up to 3.3 GHz (1 core) and 3.1 GHz (2 cores) via Turbo.

The Cinebench scores that the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK achieves are on par with the former IdeaPad 500S-14ISK. Thus, both laptops calculate roughly at the same speed although Intel's Core i7-6500U is installed into the predecessor. Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW that also uses Intel as its central processing unit can utilize its performance much better. Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW reaps in an approximately 10% better score than its rivals in Cinebench R15.

Cinebench R10
Cinebench R10
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R11.5
Cinebench R15
Cinebench R15
Jetstream 1.1
Jetstream 1.1
Octane V2
Octane V2
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Mozilla Kraken 1.1
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
138 Points +12%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
125 Points +2%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
123 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
115 Points -7%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
112 Points -9%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
97 Points -21%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
339 Points +8%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
314 Points
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
313 Points 0%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
291 Points -7%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
290 Points -8%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
285 Points -9%
Cinebench R11.5
CPU Single 64Bit
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
1.58 Points +17%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
1.4 Points +4%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
1.35 Points
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1.33 Points -1%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1.13 Points -16%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
3.71 Points +8%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
3.44 Points
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
3.43 Points 0%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
3.2 Points -7%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
3.09 Points -10%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
5789 Points
Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
13975 Points
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
209.3 Points +60%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
197.5 Points +51%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
194.6 Points +49%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
130.9 Points
Octane V2 - Total Score
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
33031 Points +10%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
30419 Points +1%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
30059 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
29057 Points -3%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
28525 Points -5%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
27593 Points -8%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
1961 ms *
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1311 ms * +33%
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz
1291 ms * +34%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1267 ms * +35%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz
1251 ms * +36%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz
1151 ms * +41%

* ... smaller is better

Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6941
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
10595
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
4903
Cinebench R10 Shading 64Bit
7254 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 64Bit
13975 Points
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single CPUs 64Bit
5789 Points
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Multi 64Bit
3.44 Points
Cinebench R11.5 OpenGL 64Bit
36.75 fps
Cinebench R11.5 CPU Single 64Bit
1.35 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
314 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
123 Points
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
44.42 fps
Help

System Performance

The system's subjective performance is beyond reproach. The fast SSD ensures a very fast booting system and the device is ready to use within seconds. The processor clock of 2.9 GHz is much faster than those of most subnotebooks that are based only on Intel's Core i5-6200U (2.3 GHz). The 8 GB of working memory (DDR4) is sufficiently designed and is enough for most applications. The PCMark benchmark scores reflect this impression exactly. The IdeaPad 510S-14ISK places itself in second place behind Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW with a difference of approximately 10%.

PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Home
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Creative
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Work
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 8 Storage
PCMark 7
PCMark 7
PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
4079 Points +10%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
3710 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Hynix HFS128G3MND
3466 Points -7%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
3246 Points -13%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
3209 Points -14%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz, Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
3006 Points -19%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
4676 Points +2%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
4579 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Hynix HFS128G3MND
4464 Points -3%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
4155 Points -9%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
4113 Points -10%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz, Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
4064 Points -11%
Creative Score Accelerated v2
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
4792 Points +11%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
4327 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Hynix HFS128G3MND
3885 Points -10%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
3774 Points -13%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz, Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
3592 Points -17%
PCMark 7
Score
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
5979 Points +12%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
5340 Points
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
5197 Points -3%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Hynix HFS128G3MND
4955 Points -7%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz, Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
4811 Points -10%
Productivity
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
4481 Points +6%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, 2500 MHz, Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
4334 Points +2%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
4247 Points 0%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, 2900 MHz, Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
4232 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, 2300 MHz, Hynix HFS128G3MND
3837 Points -9%
PCMark 7 Score
5340 points
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3710 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
4327 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4579 points
Help

Storage Device

2.5-inch SSD by Samsung
2.5-inch SSD by Samsung

Our review sample houses an SSD by Samsung. It has a storage capacity of 256 GB. Lenovo exclusively installs system storage devices in the 2.5-inch format into its IdeaPad 510S-14ISK devices. A second interface, not to mention an M.2 interface, does not yet exist. Of course, buyers can replace the SSD with an HDD with more storage capacity. However, Lenovo only sells the IdeaPad 510-14ISK with a 1 TB, conventional hard drive or this 256 GB SSD in its Internet shop.

We record the performance of Samsung's SSD with the tools AS SSD and CrystalDiskMark 3.0. AS SSD measured 476 MB/s (sequential read) and 435 MB/s (sequential write) from the 2.5-inch SSD. CrystalDiskMark achieved similar rates. The sequential read speed is even a fast 510 MB/s here. Seen subjectively, these test outcomes confirm the performance of the device in its whole. The SSD's potential performance is implemented well, making criticism unnecessary.

AS SSD
AS SSD
CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Samsung PM871 MZYLN256HCHP
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Hynix HFS128G3MND
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Samsung MZRPC256HADR-000SO
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Toshiba HG6 THNSNJ256G8NU
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-4%
-40%
-7%
-13%
-11%
Read Seq
510
507
-1%
428.2
-16%
515
1%
478.7
-6%
522
2%
Write Seq
458.8
309.5
-33%
178.6
-61%
338
-26%
268.5
-41%
447.4
-2%
Read 512
399.7
409.5
2%
282.6
-29%
368.1
-8%
386.6
-3%
392.3
-2%
Write 512
299.3
308.3
3%
179.1
-40%
338.6
13%
268.8
-10%
388
30%
Read 4k
35.27
36.24
3%
6.559
-81%
28.88
-18%
26.88
-24%
21.1
-40%
Write 4k
90.2
93.3
3%
71.2
-21%
74.2
-18%
78.7
-13%
71.1
-21%
Read 4k QD32
397.7
394.5
-1%
253
-36%
319.9
-20%
369.4
-7%
248
-38%
Write 4k QD32
257.3
241.6
-6%
174
-32%
309.4
20%
259.7
1%
212.9
-17%
Samsung MZYTY256HDHP
Sequential Read: 510 MB/s
Sequential Write: 458.8 MB/s
512K Read: 399.7 MB/s
512K Write: 299.3 MB/s
4K Read: 35.27 MB/s
4K Write: 90.2 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 397.7 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 257.3 MB/s

Graphics Card

As often mentioned, a somewhat unusual CPU has been installed into this device. The CPU-integrated graphics unit of Intel's Core i5-6267U is called Intel's Iris Graphics 550. The GT3e level of the Skylake processors has a dedicated, 64 MB eDRAM cache. The Iris Graphics 550 can also access the working memory via the CPU's interface. Thus, the exact performance depends on the integrated graphics solution of each CPU and the underlying working memory (DDR3/DDR4).

The graphics unit can now completely decode the H.265/HEVC codec in the hardware and thus works very efficiently. Again, Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW takes the lead in the 3DMark scores. This illustrates the performance capacity of the Iris Graphics 550. The IdeaPad 510S-14ISK cannot implement the performance of the Iris Graphics 550 as well as Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW. The performance of the integrated graphics unit in the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is slightly higher than that of a dedicated Nvidia GeForce 920MX.

3DMark Ice Storm
3DMark Ice Storm Unlimited
3DMark Ice Storm Extreme
3DMark Cloud Gate
3DMark Sky Diver
3DMark Fire Strike
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme
3DMark Fire Strike Ultra
3DMark 11
 
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
12812 Points +44%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
8885 Points
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
8549 Points -4%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
7745 Points -13%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
NVIDIA GeForce 920MX, Intel Core i5-6200U
7733 Points -13%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
7031 Points -21%
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
1589 Points +55%
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
1520 Points +48%
Asus X302UV-FN016T
NVIDIA GeForce 920MX, Intel Core i5-6200U
1282 Points +25%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
1025 Points
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
848 Points -17%
1280x720 Ice Storm Standard Graphics
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
113807 Points +45%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
78253 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
NVIDIA GeForce 920MX, Intel Core i5-6200U
73997 Points -5%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
68430 Points -13%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
62078 Points -21%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
50719 Points -35%
3DMark 11
1280x720 Performance
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
2703 Points +39%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
2423 Points +25%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
1943 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
NVIDIA GeForce 920MX, Intel Core i5-6200U
1888 Points -3%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1487 Points -23%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1483 Points -24%
1280x720 Performance GPU
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
2524 Points +42%
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
NVIDIA GeForce 940M, Intel Core i7-6500U
2366 Points +33%
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Iris Graphics 550, Intel Core i5-6267U
1782 Points
Asus X302UV-FN016T
NVIDIA GeForce 920MX, Intel Core i5-6200U
1747 Points -2%
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1341 Points -25%
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1326 Points -26%
3DMark 11 Performance
1943 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
60650 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
6252 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
968 points
3DMark Fire Strike Extreme Score
414 points
Help

Gaming Performance

Like as already demonstrated in the 3DMark benchmarks, Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW based on identical hardware achieves more FPS in all tests. The performance of Intel's Iris Graphics 550 in the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is, however, enough to occasionally play some games from previous years. We recommend using an HD resolution with a medium preset. Although Intel's Iris Graphics 550 is roughly twice as fast as Intel's HD Graphics 520, not much should be expected. Users who want more power should preferably consider a device with a faster dedicated graphics card.

low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 61.3 34 29 7.8
Battlefield 4 (2013) 59.9 33.4 24.8 8.2
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 23.6 16.2 9.5 4.3

Emissions

Noise characteristics
Noise characteristics

System Noise

The IdeaPad 510S-14ISK has a small fan that is pleasantly restrained in idle mode. Thus, the device is pleasingly quiet with a measured 32.3 dB(A) without load. The fan's speed increases during load until we measure a maximum noise level of 39.9 dB(A). The small fan's noise is not unpleasant, and the device only emits noise during load. The chart shows that Asus' X302UV, HP's Envy 13, and Acer's Aspire V3-372-50LK operate considerably quieter during load.

Noise Level

Idle
32.2 / 32.2 / 32.3 dB(A)
HDD
32.2 dB(A)
Load
38.4 / 39.9 dB(A)
  red to green bar
 
 
30 dB
silent
40 dB(A)
audible
50 dB(A)
loud
 
min: dark, med: mid, max: light   Audix TM1, Arta (15 cm distance)   environment noise: 31.2 dB(A)
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
Intel Core i5-6267U, Iris Graphics 550
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
Intel Core i7-6500U, GeForce 940M
Asus X302UV-FN016T
Intel Core i5-6200U, GeForce 920MX
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
Intel Core i5-6267U, Iris Graphics 550
HP Envy 13-d020ng
Intel Core i5-6200U, HD Graphics 520
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
Intel Core i5-6200U, HD Graphics 520
Noise
2%
4%
2%
3%
8%
off / environment *
31.2
31.3
-0%
31.2
-0%
29.1
7%
Idle Minimum *
32.2
31.3
3%
32.9
-2%
29.1
10%
32.5
-1%
31.5
2%
Idle Average *
32.2
31.7
2%
32.9
-2%
29.1
10%
32.5
-1%
31.5
2%
Idle Maximum *
32.3
31.8
2%
33
-2%
29.1
10%
32.4
-0%
31.5
2%
Load Average *
38.4
36.7
4%
33
14%
41.1
-7%
36
6%
32.4
16%
Load Maximum *
39.9
39.4
1%
34.6
13%
46.4
-16%
36.5
9%
32.3
19%

* ... smaller is better

Stress test Prime95 + Furmark
Stress test Prime95 + Furmark
Stress test Furmark only
Stress test Furmark only
Stress test Prime95 only
Stress test Prime95 only

Temperature

3DMark 11 after stress test
3DMark 11 after stress test

A small heat pipe that discharges waste heat from the casing via a little fan is inside the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK. The casing's idle temperature is sometimes far below 30 °C. The hot spot during full load is on the base's upper side above the keyboard. The vents for discharging waste heat from the casing are also situated here. The casing's maximum load temperature is 39.8 °C. These rates are not at all disconcerting and are within an acceptable range.

Our stress test simulates an extreme scenario that is only rare in practice. We run the programs Prime95 and Furmark simultaneously for at least one hour. The processor reaches a maximum temperature of 73 °C here. The CPU and GPU have to share a TDP of 28 watts. Consequently, the processor clocks stably at 1.7 GHz right after initiating the stress test. Intel's Iris Graphics 550 clocks at an average of 550 MHz.

The processor achieves a maximum temperature of 87 °C when only Prime95 runs. The CPU does not have to share the performance with the GPU, and thus it can utilize the entire performance (28 watts). The clock rates reach 3.3 GHz at the beginning and drop to a stable 2.9 GHz in the course of the test. We did not determine thermal throttling. The 3DMark 11 benchmark was performed again directly after the stress test. The outcome was roughly 100 points less than the benchmark score right after a cold start.

Max. Load
 34.7 °C
94 F
39.8 °C
104 F
35.1 °C
95 F
 
 28.7 °C
84 F
36.5 °C
98 F
32.2 °C
90 F
 
 26.5 °C
80 F
26.3 °C
79 F
28.3 °C
83 F
 
Maximum: 39.8 °C = 104 F
Average: 32 °C = 90 F
32.4 °C
90 F
36.9 °C
98 F
29 °C
84 F
31.6 °C
89 F
34.8 °C
95 F
27.3 °C
81 F
28 °C
82 F
26.6 °C
80 F
25.8 °C
78 F
Maximum: 36.9 °C = 98 F
Average: 30.3 °C = 87 F
Power Supply (max.)  38.5 °C = 101 F | Room Temperature 22.6 °C = 73 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 32 °C / 90 F, compared to the average of 30.7 °C / 87 F for the devices in the class Subnotebook.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 39.8 °C / 104 F, compared to the average of 35.9 °C / 97 F, ranging from 21.4 to 59 °C for the class Subnotebook.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 36.9 °C / 98 F, compared to the average of 39.4 °C / 103 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 30.7 °C / 87 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 28.3 °C / 82.9 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.3 °C / 82.9 F (0 °C / 0 F).

 

 

Idle upper side
Idle upper side
Idle underside
Idle underside
Load upper side
Load upper side
Load underside
Load underside

Speakers

Speaker characteristics
Speaker characteristics

The speakers in the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK come from Harman and are situated on the left and right sides. It could quickly happen that the speaker outlets are covered on soft surfaces, which then audibly muffles the sound. The small speakers' sound is decent and is sufficient for enjoying some videos. The sound impression is also good up into the maximum volume. Scratching or distortion is not audible. Harman's corresponding app allows selecting a predefined sound profile. The user can also tweak the sound since the program also includes an equalizer.

The speakers are situated...
The speakers are situated...
...on the base's front underside
...on the base's front underside
Equalizer with predefined sound profiles
Equalizer with predefined sound profiles
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2034.129.534.12532.233.632.23137.234.337.24030.330.630.35030.932.430.96329.428.929.48027.828.427.810026.926.426.91253026.53016031.624.531.620035.424.435.425049.723.149.731556.922.656.940061.221.261.250060.520.460.563060.719.660.780067.419.467.4100061.81961.8125057.718.557.7160059.518.259.520005918.659250057.418.557.4315058.718.658.7400055.718.855.7500056.718.856.7630052.618.852.6800048.518.948.51000054.118.854.11250059.818.759.81600060.618.660.6SPL71.631.271.6N28.81.628.8median 57.4median 18.9median 57.4Delta6.81.46.835.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseLenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISKApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (64 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 19% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.6% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (7.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (7.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (22% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 70% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 23% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 58% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 35% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Apple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (83.6 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (14.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 2.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (5.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.5% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(+) | overall sound is linear (10.2% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 2% similar, 93% worse
» The best had a delta of 5%, average was 19%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 3% of all tested devices were better, 1% similar, 96% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Frequency diagram in comparison (check boxes above can be turned on/off!)

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The IdeaPad 510S-14ISK's power consumption is good. Our review sample is satisfied with 7.1 watts without load. The requirement per hour climbs to a maximum of 30 watts during load. The average load consumption is, however, 27.6 watts. Both first and second placed devices are a bit more economic in idle but then sometimes consume considerably more than our review sample during load. Asus' X302UV-FN016T and Acer's Aspire V3-372-50LK have a slight edge on the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK that comes in third. The included power supply can provide 65 watts, which is more than sufficient for our review sample. It has enough reserves to recharge the battery even during load.

The compact power supply...
The compact power supply...
...has a maximum output of 65 watts.
...has a maximum output of 65 watts.
Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.3 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.9 / 7.1 / 8.8 Watt
Load midlight 27.6 / 30.2 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, 14.00
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
6500U, GeForce 940M, 14.00
Asus X302UV-FN016T
6200U, GeForce 920MX, 13.30
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, 13.30
HP Envy 13-d020ng
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 13.30
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 13.30
Power Consumption
-20%
6%
-17%
-13%
3%
Idle Minimum *
3.9
3.8
3%
3.3
15%
3.4
13%
4.2
-8%
3.8
3%
Idle Average *
7.1
7.2
-1%
5.1
28%
6.5
8%
7.4
-4%
5.8
18%
Idle Maximum *
8.8
7.6
14%
5.2
41%
7
20%
10.1
-15%
8.1
8%
Load Average *
27.6
40
-45%
29.5
-7%
44.5
-61%
33.4
-21%
30.2
-9%
Load Maximum *
30.2
52
-72%
44
-46%
49.5
-64%
34.7
-15%
32.4
-7%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

Although the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK's energy requirement is not high, the ascertained battery life does not benefit from it. A lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 30 Wh is inside our review sample. Thus, it is one of the smallest in this comparison. Different websites are opened every 30 seconds in our Wi-Fi test. The energy-saving profile "Balanced" is enabled, and the screen's brightness is set to approx 150 cd/m², which corresponds to dimming the screen's brightness by two levels in our review sample. The battery is depleted after exactly 6 hours and 24 minutes, and the device has to be reconnected to an outlet.

A charged battery lasts for 1 hour and 40 minutes of full load. We would have wished that Lenovo had listened to this point of criticism relating to the IdeaPad 500S-14ISK and had installed a slightly bigger battery in the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK here. But far from it - Lenovo sticks to the 30-Wh model. In any case, there would have been enough room inside the casing.

Lenovo installs a 30-Wh lithium-ion battery
Lenovo installs a 30-Wh lithium-ion battery
There is plenty of room for a bigger battery
There is plenty of room for a bigger battery
Maximum battery life
Maximum battery life
Minimum battery life
Minimum battery life
Wi-Fi battery life
Wi-Fi battery life
H.264 battery life
H.264 battery life
Charging time
Charging time
Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
10h 38min
WiFi Websurfing (EDGE: 25.10586.0.0)
6h 24min
Big Buck Bunny H.264 1080p
3h 51min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 40min
Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, 30 Wh
Lenovo Ideapad 500s-14ISK
6500U, GeForce 940M, 30 Wh
Asus X302UV-FN016T
6200U, GeForce 920MX, 38 Wh
Acer Aspire V3-372-57CW
6267U, Iris Graphics 550, 51 Wh
HP Envy 13-d020ng
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 45 Wh
Acer Aspire V3-372-50LK
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 51 Wh
Battery Runtime
-27%
2%
58%
-1%
23%
Reader / Idle
638
346
-46%
1035
62%
906
42%
H.264
231
246
6%
WiFi v1.3
384
257
-33%
392
2%
412
7%
381
-1%
349
-9%
Load
100
64
-36%
206
106%
135
35%

Pros

+ solid, high-quality casing
+ decent input devices
+ viewing angle stable IPS panel
+ low load power consumption
+ fast SSD
+ relatively noiseless even during full load
+ attractive price design
+ 24-month warranty

Cons

- battery's capacity could be higher - enough space is available
- performance of Intel's Iris Graphics 550 could be better
- PWM detected
- using fitting tools to open the device is recommended

Verdict

In review: Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK. Test model courtesy of Notebooksbilliger.de
In review: Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK. Test model courtesy of Notebooksbilliger.de

Lenovo presents a throughout attractive subnotebook to the market with its IdeaPad 510S-14ISK. Its good price-performance offering should lure some buyers. The customer gets a 14-inch device in a stiff casing that houses decent input devices for 799 Euros (~$897). The Full HD IPS panel is viewing-angle stable and provides a good image reproduction with the homogeneous illumination. Intel's Core i5-6267U that also integrates Intel's Iris Graphics 550 has enough power reserves for routine use.

Lenovo has done a proper job with the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK in many aspects. However, users who are often on the go and need a long-lasting device will not be happy with the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK in the long term.

The bad naturally follows the good, and some points of criticism exist that we will recap here:

First, the battery life is noted unfavorably. The battery should at least have a capacity of 45-50 Wh for bridging even longer periods without an outlet. The CPU and GPU's total performance cannot be completely utilized. Acer's Aspire V3-372-57CW based on a similar hardware configuration is much faster in some cases. However, that does not mean that the IdeaPad 510S-14ISK is sluggish. The performance losses are only evident in the benchmarks and hardly cause a perceivable difference in routine use. Besides that, the seventh generation of Intel Core processors will be launched in the near future. Lenovo is already advertising this in its online shop.

Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK - 09/17/2016 v5.1(old)
Sebastian Bade

Chassis
87 /  98 → 89%
Keyboard
85%
Pointing Device
81%
Connectivity
56 / 80 → 71%
Weight
68 / 35-78 → 77%
Battery
81%
Display
87%
Games Performance
59 / 68 → 87%
Application Performance
84 / 87 → 97%
Temperature
93 / 91 → 100%
Noise
87%
Audio
79 / 91 → 87%
Camera
53 / 85 → 62%
Average
77%
84%
Subnotebook - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Lenovo IdeaPad 510S-14ISK (80TK003KGE) Notebook Review
Sebastian Bade, 2016-09-21 (Update: 2018-05-15)