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Lenovo IdeaPad C340-15IWL laptop review: Lenovo's convertible pleases with long battery life

Versatile. With the IdeaPad C340-15IWL, Lenovo delivers a well-equipped 15.6-inch convertible, which also offers very good battery life. The IPS touchscreen display can be operated with your fingers as well as with the Lenovo Active Pen 2, which can be purchased separately.

With the IdeaPad C340-15IWL, Lenovo has a 15.6-inch convertible in its range that is powered by a Core i5-8265U processor and a GeForce MX230 graphics core. The 360-degree foldable screen allows for various usage modes. Devices such as the HP Envy x360 15 and the Dell Inspiron 15 5579 are among the competitors.

Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE (Ideapad C340 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8265U 4 x 1.6 - 3.9 GHz, Whiskey Lake-U
Graphics adapter
NVIDIA GeForce MX230 - 2048 MB VRAM, Core: 1531 MHz, Memory: 1752 MHz, GDDR5, 64-bit interface, Nvidia 346.48, Optimus
Memory
8 GB 
, DDR4 2666, dual-channel mode, one slot (occupied), 4 GB soldered
Display
15.60 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 141 PPI, capacitive, 10 touch points, native pen support, BOE CQ NV156FHM-N48, IPS, glossy: yes
Mainboard
Intel Cannon Lake-U PCH-LP Premium
Storage
SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831, 128 GB 
, Seagate ST1000LM035 (5400 rpm, 1 TB), 1027 GB free
Connections
3 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 HDMI, Audio Connections: combo audio, Card Reader: SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, 1 Fingerprint Reader, Sensors: motion sensor, TPM 2.0
Networking
Intel Wireless-AC 9560 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 20.5 x 364 x 250 ( = 0.81 x 14.33 x 9.84 in)
Battery
52.5 Wh, 4610 mAh Lithium-Ion, 11.4 V
Charging
fast charging / Quickcharge
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: HD
Primary Camera: 0.9 MPix
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, McAfee LiveSafe (trial version), 24 Months Warranty
Weight
2 kg ( = 70.55 oz / 4.41 pounds), Power Supply: 356 g ( = 12.56 oz / 0.78 pounds)
Price
799 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Rating
Date
Model
Weight
Height
Size
Resolution
Best Price
82.6 %
10/2019
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
i5-8265U, GeForce MX230
2 kg20.5 mm15.60"1920x1080
80.1 %
03/2018
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
R5 2500U, Vega 8
2.1 kg19.6 mm15.60"1920x1080
81.2 %
06/2018
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620
2.1 kg20.2 mm15.60"1920x1080

Case and connectivity - Lenovo C340 with USB Type-C

The top of the base unit is made of metal; the remaining components are made of plastic. Most of the case has a silver-gray tone (platinum). Only the display frame is black. The convertible is well built and doesn't reveal any serious stability flaws. However, the base unit should be a bit more rigid for our taste. In order to get to the innards, the bottom cover needs to be removed.

The three USB ports (2x Type-A, 1x Type-C) operate according to the USB 3.2 Gen 1 standard. The Type-C USB port doesn't support the functions for Power Delivery 3.0 or DisplayPort over USB Type-C. In addition, there's an HDMI port.

The built-in SD memory card reader doesn't fully accommodate SD cards; they stick out a good 16 mm (~0.63 in). Moreover, it is one of the faster representatives of its kind. Copying large blocks of data achieves a maximum transfer rate of 83 MB/s. The transfer of 250 JPG image files (each of around 5 MB) is completed at a speed of 70.6 MB/s. We test memory card readers using a reference card (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II).

The Wi-Fi module supports the fast ac standard. The transfer speeds measured under optimal conditions (no other Wi-Fi devices close by, short distance between laptop and server PC) are mediocre.

Size comparison

381.9 mm / 15 inch 253.1 mm / 9.96 inch 20.2 mm / 0.795 inch 2.1 kg4.6 lbs364 mm / 14.3 inch 250 mm / 9.84 inch 20.5 mm / 0.807 inch 2 kg4.41 lbs359.7 mm / 14.2 inch 248.8 mm / 9.8 inch 19.6 mm / 0.772 inch 2.1 kg4.54 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Port configuration

Right side: power button, memory card reader (SD), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
Right side: power button, memory card reader (SD), 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-A)
Left side: power supply, HDMI, USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C), combo audio
Left side: power supply, HDMI, USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C), combo audio
SD Card Reader
average JPG Copy Test (av. of 3 runs)
Average of class Convertible
  (17.7 - 177.7, n=36, last 2 years)
73.8 MB/s +5%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
70.6 MB/s
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
69.4 MB/s -2%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
26.3 MB/s -63%
maximum AS SSD Seq Read Test (1GB)
Average of class Convertible
  (22.6 - 263, n=34, last 2 years)
95.1 MB/s +15%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
83 MB/s
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
82 MB/s -1%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
  (Toshiba Exceria Pro SDXC 64 GB UHS-II)
29.7 MB/s -64%
Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Realtek RTL8822BE Wireless LAN 802.11ac PCIe Adapter
676 MBit/s +119%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Qualcomm Atheros QCA61x4
657 MBit/s +113%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
309 (262min - 329max) MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Realtek RTL8822BE Wireless LAN 802.11ac PCIe Adapter
632 MBit/s +103%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Qualcomm Atheros QCA61x4
612 MBit/s +96%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Wireless-AC 9560
312 (271min - 329max) MBit/s
020406080100120140160180200220240260280300320Tooltip
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230; iperf3 receive AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø311 (271-329)
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230; iperf3 transmit AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø309 (262-329)

Input devices - The IdeaPad features keyboard backlighting

Lenovo has equipped the C340-15IWL with a backlit chiclet keyboard (two brightness levels). The flat, smooth keys provide a short travel and a clear pressure point. The resistance provided by the keys is pleasing. While typing, the keyboard gives in a little, but this didn't prove to be bothersome. All in all, Lenovo delivers a successful keyboard here that has proven its suitability for everyday use.

The multitouch-capable ClickPad takes up an area of about 10.5 x 7 cm (~4.13 x 2.76 in). The smooth pad surface makes gliding easy for the fingers. It has a short travel and a clear pressure point.

The touchscreen supports 10 touch points and responds quickly to inputs. It can be operated with both the fingers and the Lenovo Active Pen 2, which can be purchased separately.

Input devices
Input devices

Display - Lenovo convertible with an IPS panel

The IdeaPad's 15.6-inch touchscreen display works at a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. While it provides a good contrast (1,612:1), the brightness (251.4 cd/m²) is too low. We consider a value beyond 300 cd/m² to be good.

The screen flickers at brightness levels of 90% and below. Due to the low frequency of 352 Hz, sensitive users can experience headaches and/or eye problems.

272
cd/m²
257
cd/m²
267
cd/m²
250
cd/m²
266
cd/m²
232
cd/m²
245
cd/m²
253
cd/m²
221
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
BOE CQ NV156FHM-N48 tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 272 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 251.4 cd/m² Minimum: 4.1 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 81 %
Center on Battery: 266 cd/m²
Contrast: 1612:1 (Black: 0.165 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 6.33 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5, calibrated: 5.23
ΔE Greyscale 3.81 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
57% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
37% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
40.35% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
57.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
39.05% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.38
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
IPS, 1920x1080, 15.60
Display
7%
-4%
Display P3 Coverage
39.05
41.36
6%
37
-5%
sRGB Coverage
57.3
62.2
9%
55.6
-3%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
40.35
42.74
6%
38.23
-5%
Response Times
2351%
20%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
57 ?(26, 31)
40 ?(22, 18)
30%
41 ?(19, 22)
28%
Response Time Black / White *
33 ?(19, 14)
26 ?(14, 12)
21%
29 ?(17, 12)
12%
PWM Frequency
352 ?(90)
25000 ?(30)
7002%
Screen
18%
3%
Brightness middle
266
221
-17%
251
-6%
Brightness
251
207
-18%
240
-4%
Brightness Distribution
81
87
7%
84
4%
Black Level *
0.165
0.15
9%
0.2
-21%
Contrast
1612
1473
-9%
1255
-22%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
6.33
4.35
31%
5.25
17%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
21.03
8.98
57%
10.04
52%
Colorchecker dE 2000 calibrated *
5.23
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.81
3.09
19%
3.28
14%
Gamma
2.38 92%
2.23 99%
2.15 102%
CCT
6057 107%
6068 107%
6502 100%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
37
56
51%
35
-5%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
57
86
51%
55
-4%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
792% / 453%
6% / 3%

* ... smaller is better

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
33 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 19 ms rise
↘ 14 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 87 % 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
57 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 26 ms rise
↘ 31 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. » 93 % 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 352 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 352 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 90 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 352 Hz is relatively high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering. However, there are reports that some users are still sensitive to PWM at 500 Hz and above, so be aware.

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.

Out of the box, we register a DeltaE 2000 color deviation of 6.33. This misses the target (DeltaE smaller than 3). Calibration can be used to slightly improve the color reproduction, making the color deviation drop to a value of 5.23 and the grayscales be displayed in a more balanced way. The display isn't able to map the AdobeRGB (37%) and sRGB (57%) color spaces. 

CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Color Checker
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color saturation
CalMAN - Color Checker (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color Checker (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - Color saturation (calibrated)

The IPS panel can be read from any position due to its stable viewing angles. Outdoors, due to the low maximum brightness and the glossy display surface, the screen can barely be read or not be read at all.

The IdeaPad outdoors.
The IdeaPad outdoors.

Performance - The C340-15IWL houses mid-range hardware

Lenovo's 15.6-inch convertible has enough computing power for office and Internet applications. The dedicated graphics core allows playing games in a limited way. Our test device is available for about 750 to 800 Euros (~$833 to ~$888). Other configuration options are available. Prices start at 500 Euros (~$555).

Processor

The IdeaPad is powered by a Core i5-8265U quad-core processor (Whiskey Lake). The CPU operates at a base speed of 1.6 GHz. Turbo can be used to increase it to 3.7 GHz (all four cores), 3.8 GHz (two cores) and 3.9 GHz (one core), respectively. 

The processor works through the multithread tests of the Cinebench benchmarks at 3.7 GHz for several seconds. The clock speed then drops slowly and gradually to 3.2 to 3.3 GHz. The single-thread tests are processed at 3.7 to 3.9 GHz. This behavior is observed both on battery power and when plugged in. 

CPU-Z
HWInfo
Intel XTU

We test whether Turbo is also used consistently by running Cinebench's R15 multithread test continuously in a loop for a about 30 minutes. Turbo is used, but to a different extent in each run. The diagram illustrates the uneven performance development.

A more consistent performance development (see diagram) can be achieved by turning off the "Smart Cooling" feature within the Lenovo Vantage software and turning on the "Performance" temperature mode.

04080120160200240280320360400440480520560600640680720Tooltip
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE Intel Core i5-8265U, Intel Core i5-8265U: Ø582 (501.37-748)
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng AMD Ryzen 5 2500U, AMD Ryzen 5 2500U: Ø561 (552.26-618.11)
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672 Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel Core i5-8250U: Ø503 (479.16-561.5)
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE Intel Core i5-8265U, Intel Core i5-8265U; intelligente Kuehlung deaktiviert: Ø564 (549.1-743)
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop (smart cooling disabled, performance mode)
CPU clock speeds while running the CB15 loop (smart cooling disabled, performance mode)
Cinebench R10 Rendering Single 32Bit
5904
Cinebench R10 Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
22962
Cinebench R10 Shading 32Bit
6748
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
154 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
748 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
84.5 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
99.6 %
Help
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (68.6 - 287, n=64, last 2 years)
229 Points +49%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (111 - 164, n=35)
155 Points +1%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
154 Points
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
142 Points -8%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U
140 Points -9%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (110.1 - 2889, n=66, last 2 years)
1554 Points +108%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
748 Points
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
618 Points -17%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (457 - 750, n=38)
592 Points -21%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U
562 Points -25%
Cinebench R10
Rendering Single 32Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (6243 - 10510, n=6, last 2 years)
8047 Points +36%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (5841 - 6209, n=9)
6044 Points +2%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
5904 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U
5349 Points -9%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
4473 Points -24%
Rendering Multiple CPUs 32Bit
Average of class Convertible
  (13139 - 53525, n=6, last 2 years)
33259 Points +45%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
22962 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U
19494 Points -15%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (16318 - 22962, n=9)
18952 Points -17%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
16466 Points -28%
Cinebench R20
CPU (Single Core)
Average of class Convertible
  (116.8 - 755, n=64, last 2 years)
602 Points +49%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
403 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (325 - 403, n=16)
389 Points -3%
CPU (Multi Core)
Average of class Convertible
  (242 - 6954, n=65, last 2 years)
3478 Points +122%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
1564 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (972 - 1564, n=16)
1271 Points -19%
Geekbench 3
32 Bit Multi-Core Score
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
14499 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (12198 - 14499, n=6)
13659 Points -6%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
11301 Points -22%
32 Bit Single-Core Score
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
3683 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (3470 - 3842, n=6)
3669 Points 0%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
3477 Points -6%
Geekbench 4.4
64 Bit Multi-Core Score
Average of class Convertible
  (3462 - 30452, n=9, last 2 years)
23641 Points +54%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
15340 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (7144 - 16249, n=19)
13600 Points -11%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
9835 Points -36%
64 Bit Single-Core Score
Average of class Convertible
  (1989 - 6801, n=9, last 2 years)
4777 Points +5%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
4529 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (2106 - 4830, n=19)
4387 Points -3%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
3767 Points -17%
Geekbench 5.0
5.0 Multi-Core
Average of class Convertible
  (2478 - 12205, n=29, last 2 years)
7855 Points +102%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
3881 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (2973 - 3962, n=6)
3446 Points -11%
5.0 Single-Core
Average of class Convertible
  (967 - 1797, n=29, last 2 years)
1522 Points +52%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (986 - 1041, n=6)
1015 Points +1%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U
1003 Points
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U (Edge 41)
1347 ms * -11%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U (Edge 42.17134.1.0)
1314 ms * -8%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U (Edge 44)
1215 ms *
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (851 - 1245, n=25)
1141 ms * +6%
Average of class Convertible
  (472 - 3989, n=65, last 2 years)
721 ms * +41%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Average of class Convertible
  (23395 - 92146, n=16, last 2 years)
75639 Points +158%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (12842 - 35563, n=23)
31246 Points +6%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U (Edge 44)
29343 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U (Edge 42.17134.1.0)
27438 Points -6%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U (Edge 41)
26832 Points -9%
JetStream 1.1 - Total Score
Average of class Convertible
  (124.8 - 443, n=5, last 2 years)
339 Points +48%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U (Edge 44)
228.8 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U
  (193.7 - 244, n=19)
226 Points -1%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U (Edge 42.17134.1.0)
211.3 Points -8%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U (Edge 41)
193 Points -16%

* ... smaller is better

System performance

The built-in hardware ensures a fast and smooth system. We didn't encounter any problems. The processor provides more than enough computing power for office and Internet applications. The dedicated graphics core allows playing computer games to a limited extent. This is complemented by good PCMark results.

PCMark 10
PCMark 10
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3639 points
PCMark 8 Creative Score Accelerated v2
3741 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4837 points
PCMark 10 Score
4104 points
Help
PCMark 10
Score
Average of class Convertible
  (1486 - 7963, n=59, last 2 years)
5616 Points +37%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
4104 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (3764 - 4104, n=3)
3905 Points -5%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
2944 Points -28%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SK hynix SC311 SATA
2208 Points -46%
Essentials
Average of class Convertible
  (3975 - 12059, n=59, last 2 years)
10504 Points +19%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
8799 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (7981 - 8799, n=3)
8298 Points -6%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SK hynix SC311 SATA
6349 Points -28%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
6236 Points -29%
Productivity
Average of class Convertible
  (2764 - 10800, n=59, last 2 years)
7383 Points +16%
Average Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (6380 - 6755, n=3)
6508 Points +2%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
6390 Points
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SK hynix SC311 SATA
4811 Points -25%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3901 Points -39%
Digital Content Creation
Average of class Convertible
  (811 - 12360, n=59, last 2 years)
6335 Points +90%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
3337 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (2685 - 3337, n=3)
3003 Points -10%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
2848 Points -15%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SK hynix SC311 SATA
2656 Points -20%
PCMark 8 - Home Score Accelerated v2
Average of class Convertible
  (4404 - 5830, n=3, last 2 years)
4890 Points +34%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
3639 Points
Average Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (3609 - 3639, n=2)
3624 Points 0%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Vega 8, R5 2500U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3462 Points -5%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, SK hynix SC311 SATA
3370 Points -7%

Storage

The system drive is an NVMe SSD (M.2 2242 format) from SK Hynix, which provides 128 GB of storage space (95 GB usable). Transfer rates are good, but the SSD isn't among the fastest models. There's also a 2.5-inch hard drive inside the laptop (1 TB).

An SSD serves as system drive.
An SSD serves as system drive.
SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
Sequential Read: 907 MB/s
Sequential Write: 266.8 MB/s
512K Read: 742 MB/s
512K Write: 207.9 MB/s
4K Read: 42.38 MB/s
4K Write: 124.1 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 271 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 202.9 MB/s
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
SK hynix SC311 SATA
Average SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831
 
Average of class Convertible
 
CrystalDiskMark 5.2 / 6
96%
-22%
-7%
251%
Write 4K
105
116
10%
48.25
-54%
108.2 ?(90.3 - 129.3, n=3)
3%
150.6 ?(45.5 - 349, n=43, last 2 years)
43%
Read 4K
39.72
42.73
8%
23.77
-40%
39.3 ?(37 - 41, n=3)
-1%
62.8 ?(27.7 - 95.8, n=43, last 2 years)
58%
Write Seq
326.9
1222
274%
444.9
36%
284 ?(203 - 327, n=3)
-13%
2333 ?(402 - 4570, n=33, last 2 years)
614%
Read Seq
1033
1608
56%
497.5
-52%
772 ?(271 - 1033, n=3)
-25%
2608 ?(586 - 4763, n=33, last 2 years)
152%
Write 4K Q32T1
269.1
280.1
4%
223.5
-17%
239 ?(196.8 - 269, n=3)
-11%
385 ?(171.6 - 745, n=43, last 2 years)
43%
Read 4K Q32T1
284.8
333.6
17%
171.8
-40%
279 ?(272 - 285, n=3)
-2%
490 ?(79.6 - 892, n=43, last 2 years)
72%
Write Seq Q32T1
321
1291
302%
511
59%
303 ?(269 - 321, n=3)
-6%
3058 ?(412 - 5232, n=43, last 2 years)
853%
Read Seq Q32T1
1606
3183
98%
553
-66%
1597 ?(1589 - 1606, n=3)
-1%
4342 ?(1974 - 7131, n=43, last 2 years)
170%

Graphics card

The built-in  GeForce MX230 graphics core (Pascal) supports DirectX 12 and can access fast GDDR5 memory (2,048 MB). The 3DMark results are at a normal level for the GPU. The UHD Graphics 620 GPU that's integrated into the processor is active, and the laptop works with Nvidia's Optimus graphics-switching solution.

The MX230 has a base speed of 1,519 MHz. An increase to up to 1,531 MHz is possible through Boost. Higher speeds are feasible if the GPU doesn't reach a set temperature and/or energy threshold. In this way, it processes the "Witcher 3" test at an average speed of 1,628 MHz. The maximum speed we measured is 1,734 MHz.

GPU-Z
GPU-Z
GPU-Z
GPU-Z
3DMark 11 Performance
3720 points
3DMark Ice Storm Standard Score
79069 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
11659 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
2531 points
3DMark Time Spy Score
937 points
Help
3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Average of class Convertible
  (471 - 40768, n=64, last 2 years)
7541 Points +113%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
3549 Points 0%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
NVIDIA GeForce MX230, Intel Core i5-8265U
3547 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (3180 - 3582, n=6)
3392 Points -4%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1529 Points -57%
3DMark
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Average of class Convertible
  (365 - 29684, n=64, last 2 years)
5690 Points +107%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
NVIDIA GeForce MX230, Intel Core i5-8265U
2755 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (2168 - 2755, n=6)
2479 Points -10%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
2310 Points -16%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
997 Points -64%
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Average of class Convertible
  (2965 - 154219, n=50, last 2 years)
31444 Points +82%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
NVIDIA GeForce MX230, Intel Core i5-8265U
17256 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (13376 - 17999, n=6)
15921 Points -8%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
15186 Points -12%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
8112 Points -53%
2560x1440 Time Spy Graphics
Average of class Convertible
  (94 - 11749, n=63, last 2 years)
1943 Points +132%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
NVIDIA GeForce MX230, Intel Core i5-8265U
837 Points
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (698 - 837, n=4)
758 Points -9%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000), AMD Ryzen 5 2500U
649 Points -22%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
317 Points -62%

Gaming performance

The built-in combination of CPU and GPU allows many computer games to run smoothly at HD resolution (1366x768 pixels) and medium quality settings. Games with low hardware requirements can use higher settings. It gets hard with many - not all - titles of the years 2018/2019. A decrease in resolution and/or quality level is often not enough to generate sufficiently high frame rates here.

BioShock Infinite - 1366x768 High Preset
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
79.8 fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (61.8 - 79.8, n=5)
72.7 fps -9%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
AMD Ryzen 5 2500U, AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 (Ryzen 2000/3000)
58.5 fps -27%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
22.4 fps -72%
The Witcher 3 - 1024x768 Low Graphics & Postprocessing
Average of class Convertible
  (35 - 354, n=57, last 2 years)
96.2 fps +99%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
48.4 fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (45.9 - 48.4, n=2)
47.2 fps -2%
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
Intel Core i5-8250U, Intel UHD Graphics 620
15.2 fps -69%
Total War: Three Kingdoms - 1280x720 Low (incl textures)
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
67.7 (28min - 81max) fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
  (55.5 - 67.7, n=3)
61.4 fps -9%
FIFA 20 - 1920x1080 Ultra Preset AA:4xMS
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Intel Core i5-8265U, NVIDIA GeForce MX230
46.4 fps
Average NVIDIA GeForce MX230
 
46.4 fps 0%

In order to verify that the frame rates also remain largely constant over a prolonged period of time, we let the game "The Witcher 3" run for about 60 minutes at Full HD resolution and maximum quality settings. The character embodied by the player isn't moved over this entire period. A drop in frame rates is not observed.

05Tooltip
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE GeForce MX230, i5-8265U, SK hynix BC501 HFM128GDJTNG-831: Ø8.6 (3-10)
GPU measurements during the Witcher 3 test
GPU measurements during the Witcher 3 test
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 168.1 90.6 79.8 31.2
The Witcher 3 (2015) 48.4 28.4 15.9 9.9
Batman: Arkham Knight (2015) 44 38 16 11
Total War: Three Kingdoms (2019) 67.7 19.2 9 5.1
Control (2019) 34.8 11 7.5
Borderlands 3 (2019) 39.6 16 10.1 7.4
FIFA 20 (2019) 73.1 62.4 55.6 46.4
Ghost Recon Breakpoint (2019) 28 14 13 9
GRID 2019 (2019) 46.8 19.2 12.4

Emissions and energy - The Lenovo computer has a lot of stamina

Noise emissions

The Lenovo C340 doesn't produce much noise over the entire load range. When idle, the fan is often off and silence prevails - unless the 2.5-inch hard drive is accessed. Under full load, the fan turns up a little. We measure a sound pressure level of only 36.8 dB(A) during the stress test. 

Noise Level

Idle
30.6 / 30.6 / 30.6 dB(A)
HDD
31.7 dB(A)
Load
36.4 / 36.8 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: 30.3 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2033.532.733.53533.52533.832.430.833.333.83132.831.834.634.832.84030.229.931.53230.25036.430.933.333.136.46329.12828.628.829.18026.92827.726.926.910026.8262827.426.812524.725.824.224.824.716025.825.223.625.325.820024.724.522.123.424.725024.523.622.222.924.531524.424.820.821.824.440024.524.620.320.824.55002424.419.319.62463022.523.519.11922.580024.324.820.718.524.3100027.528.219.517.927.5125025.926.4181825.9160026.326.61817.726.3200026.226.517.817.426.225002626.417.617.526315024.524.717.817.524.5400022.422.617.717.422.4500021.121.618.117.621.1630020.420.617.917.720.4800018.718.71817.818.71000018.118.117.817.718.11250017.81817.817.717.81600017.817.917.817.617.8SPL36.436.830.630.336.4N2.52.51.51.42.5median 24.5median 24.6median 18.1median 17.9median 24.5Delta2.82.81.21.52.8hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseLenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE

Temperature

The IdeaPad in the stress test.
The IdeaPad in the stress test.

Our stress test (Prime95 and FurMark run for at least an hour) is processed by the Lenovo computer in slightly different ways on battery power and when plugged in. The processor runs at speeds between 500 and 900 MHz. The graphics core works at 1,400 to 1,500 MHz. On battery power, the CPU clock speed jumps back and forth between 400 MHz and 3.7 GHz. The GPU operates at speeds around 1,700 MHz. The stress test represents an extreme scenario that doesn't occur in everyday life. With this test, we verify that the system remains stable even under full load.  

The convertible doesn't get particularly warm. During the stress test, we only register a temperature just above 40 °C (~104 °F) at one measuring point. In everyday use, the values are in the green area.

Max. Load
 38.2 °C
101 F
40.3 °C
105 F
34.5 °C
94 F
 
 37.1 °C
99 F
39 °C
102 F
27.7 °C
82 F
 
 29.3 °C
85 F
25.8 °C
78 F
25.9 °C
79 F
 
Maximum: 40.3 °C = 105 F
Average: 33.1 °C = 92 F
29.7 °C
85 F
27.6 °C
82 F
37.4 °C
99 F
25.7 °C
78 F
35 °C
95 F
36.1 °C
97 F
25 °C
77 F
26 °C
79 F
28.5 °C
83 F
Maximum: 37.4 °C = 99 F
Average: 30.1 °C = 86 F
Power Supply (max.)  40.5 °C = 105 F | Room Temperature 22.1 °C = 72 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 33.1 °C / 92 F, compared to the average of 30.2 °C / 86 F for the devices in the class Convertible.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 40.3 °C / 105 F, compared to the average of 35.3 °C / 96 F, ranging from 19.6 to 55.7 °C for the class Convertible.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 37.4 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 24.4 °C / 76 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29.3 °C / 84.7 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-1.2 °C / -2.1 F).
Heat development top (load)
Heat development top (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
Heat development bottom (load)
Heat development top (idle)
Heat development top (idle)
Heat development bottom (idle)
Heat development bottom (idle)

Speakers

The stereo speakers are placed in the front area of the device's bottom. They produce a decent sound, but bass is largely missing.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2031.63531.62533.433.333.43131.834.831.84030.93230.95033.933.133.96329.128.829.18026.826.926.81002927.42912534.124.834.116040.325.340.320041.823.441.825044.722.944.731554.321.854.340064.620.864.650058.919.658.963060196080062.818.562.8100066.417.966.4125063.91863.9160063.617.763.6200065.317.465.3250060.717.560.7315061.117.561.1400061.117.461.1500060.217.660.2630055.717.755.780005717.8571000054.117.754.1125005117.7511600053.217.653.2SPL74.130.374.1N33.21.433.2median 58.9median 17.9median 58.9Delta7.81.57.8hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseLenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (66.4 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 18.1% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (11.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.3% away from median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (8.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.5% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5.1% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (21.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 51% of all tested devices in this class were better, 12% similar, 37% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 53% of all tested devices were better, 7% similar, 40% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Energy consumption

The energy demand is at a normal level over the entire load range for the hardware platform installed here. When idle, we measure a maximum requirement of 8 watts. During the stress test, the value increases to up to 67.3 watts. The output of the power adapter is 65 watts.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.4 / 0.5 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.23 / 6.3 / 8 Watt
Load midlight 47 / 67.3 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.

Battery life

Our practical Wi-Fi test uses a script to simulate the load caused by accessing websites. The "Balanced" profile is active, the display brightness is about 150 cd/m², and the power saving functions are switched off. The Lenovo computer achieves a runtime of 8:34 h.

Battery Runtime
WiFi Websurfing (Edge 44)
8h 34min
Battery Runtime - WiFi Websurfing
Average of class Convertible
  (329 - 876, n=63, last 2 years)
557 min +8%
Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE
i5-8265U, GeForce MX230, 52.5 Wh
514 min
Dell Inspiron 15 5579-9672
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 42 Wh
435 min -15%
HP Envy x360 15-bq102ng
R5 2500U, Vega 8, 55.8 Wh
426 min -17%

Pros

+ contrast-rich IPS display
+ good system performance
+ moderate heat development
+ low noise levels
+ NVMe SSD plus HDD
+ keyboard backlighting
+ good battery life
+ optional stylus input

Cons

- dim display
- poor color-space coverage
- mediocre Wi-Fi transfer speeds
- no DisplayPort via USB-C
- no power delivery over USB-C

Verdict

The Lenovo IdeaPad C340-15IWL (81N5004QGE), provided by:
The Lenovo IdeaPad C340-15IWL (81N5004QGE), provided by:

Thanks to the Core i5-8265U quad-core processor and the GeForce MX230 graphics core, Lenovo's convertible provides enough computing power for all common applications. Playing games is possible to a limited extent. Good: The device only heats up moderately and produces little noise.

With the IdeaPad C340-15IWL, Lenovo delivers a well-rounded 15.6-inch convertible.

An NVMe SSD provides a fast system. There's also a 1 TB hard drive on board. Furthermore, it's possible to replace both storage devices. The keyboard (two levels of lighting) has left a good impression. This is joined by excellent battery life.

The IPS touchscreen display only scores points with stable viewing angles, a good contrast and a reasonably decent color reproduction. The maximum brightness is too low. The screen's color-space coverage is no cause for enthusiasm either. The touchscreen can be operated both with your fingers and with the optional Lenovo Active Pen 2 (about 50 (~$55) to 60 Euros (~$66)).

Lenovo Ideapad C340-15IWL-81N5004QGE - 10/24/2019 v7
Sascha Mölck

Chassis
80 / 98 → 82%
Keyboard
84%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
48 / 75 → 64%
Weight
63 / 20-75 → 78%
Battery
83%
Display
76%
Games Performance
58 / 78 → 74%
Application Performance
81 / 85 → 95%
Temperature
94%
Noise
92%
Audio
54 / 91 → 60%
Camera
34 / 85 → 40%
Average
72%
83%
Convertible - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Lenovo IdeaPad C340-15IWL laptop review: Lenovo's convertible pleases with long battery life
Sascha Mölck, 2019-10-24 (Update: 2019-10-26)