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Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720 (7500U, QHD) Convertible Laptop Review

3:2 Surface. With its QHD+ display and Kaby Lake 15-watt SOC, Lenovo’s IdeaPad Miix 720 represents formidable competition for the Microsoft Surface. But the unbalanced fans and low-quality microphone spoil the 12-inch model for us.
Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720-12IKB - The Surface competitor par excellence?
Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720-12IKB - The Surface competitor par excellence?

For the original German review, see here.

The Surface Pro has had quite a few rivals in the past — HP’s attempt with Spectre x2, for example. There was also the power-saving Elite x2 1012 G1. Acer’s Aspire Switch Alpha 12 delivered a fanless liquid cooling system. The Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA as well as the Lenovo Miix 510 Pro used fans to enable as much performance as possible within the narrow aspect ratio.

Lenovo’s IdeaPad Miix 720 is the latest answer to the Surface. The 12-inch model promises full subnotebook capacity in a tablet with active fan cooling. In order to maximize connectivity in terms of the ports, Lenovo has built in a Type-C port with Thunderbird 3 as well as Type-A ports.

The premier feature is the screen in 3: 2 resolution instead of the usual 16:9 display (2880x1920 pixels). The Miix 720 borrows these details from its smaller sibling, the Lenovo Miix 510 Pro (1920x1200; 16:10). Apart from the aforementioned similarities, the latter model had no Thunderbolt 3 or IR camera for Windows Hello, and only one FHD screen.

Competitors include all 12 or 13-inch convertibles equipped with 15-watt SOCs. We have also included models with Core m in this classification.

Ideapad MiiX 720 (Miix Series)
Processor
Intel Core i7-7500U 2 x 2.7 - 3.5 GHz, Kaby Lake
Graphics adapter
Memory
16 GB 
, Dual Channel, onboard
Display
12.00 inch 3:2, 2880 x 1920 pixel 288 PPI, 10 Finger, native pen support, AUO B120YAN01 / AUO106F, IPS, glossy: yes, detachable screen
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U Premium PCH
Storage
Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0), 1024 GB 
, 870 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
1 USB 2.0, 1 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, Audio Connections: Combo Mic+Line, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: Lage
Networking
Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18260 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/ad/), Bluetooth 4.2
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 8.9 x 292 x 210 ( = 0.35 x 11.5 x 8.27 in)
Battery
41 Wh Lithium-Polymer, SMP L15M4PC3, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 8 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64 Bit
Camera
Primary Camera: 1 MPix Webcam 1280x720 + Infrared Windows Hello
Secondary Camera: 5 MPix Autofocus 2560x1440
Additional features
Speakers: Stereo, Keyboard: Chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, Lenovo Active Pen 2 mit mount and battery, power supply 45W, 12 Months Warranty, fanless
Weight
1.151 kg ( = 40.6 oz / 2.54 pounds), Power Supply: 192 g ( = 6.77 oz / 0.42 pounds)
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

So close yet so far. Despite certain similarities, the Miix 510 and Miix 720 have different cases. The 720 lacks the side ventilation openings and the plastic camera strip that was in the 510. The 720 also comes with an additional large Type-A USB port, which has resulted in the auxiliary port being moved to the other side.

With a weight of 1.15 kg (~2.5 lb), the Miix 710 is lighter than the 510 (1.24 kg/~2.7 lb). So the 720 is on par with the competition, of which the Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM is the heaviest, at 1.3 kg (~2.9 lb). 

The aluminium tablet is sturdy and stable. The stand is quite durable and warp resistant. The stand’s hinge is firmly connected and can be opened quite wide, securely supporting the tablet between 100 and 165 degrees. The keyboard mount is made of aluminium with a relatively high weight of 404 grams (~1lb). The advantage of this design is in its strength and weight; even with a cavity underneath the keyboard surface, it remains rigid while typing.

Apart from the Aspire Switch Alpha 12, we could say that all the tablets in this size comparison were between 8 and 8 millimeters (~0.31 to ~0.35 in) thick. The Switch Alpha 12 tops this list at 11 millimeters (~0.4 in). The Dell XPS 12 9250 is the slimmest at 8 millimeters (~0.3 in). 

With an aspect ratio of 3: 2, the Miix 720 is typically taller than 16: 9 or 16: 10 tablets. Only the HP Elite x2 1012 G1 and the Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA exceed the Miix 720 in height and width. 

The graph below shows the dimensions of the convertibles without the keyboard dock. In that case, the Miix 720 would be 14.6 millimeters (~0.6 in).

Size Comparison

300 mm / 11.8 in 205 mm / 8.07 in 9.9 mm / 0.3898 in 1.2 kg2.72 lbs300 mm / 11.8 in 213.5 mm / 8.41 in 8.05 mm / 0.3169 in 1.2 kg2.66 lbs298.8 mm / 11.8 in 210.1 mm / 8.27 in 8.35 mm / 0.3287 in 1.1 kg2.49 lbs291 mm / 11.5 in 201 mm / 7.91 in 11 mm / 0.4331 in 1.3 kg2.84 lbs292 mm / 11.5 in 210 mm / 8.27 in 8.9 mm / 0.3504 in 1.2 kg2.54 lbs292.1 mm / 11.5 in 201.4 mm / 7.93 in 8.4 mm / 0.3307 in 1.1 kg2.41 lbs291 mm / 11.5 in 193 mm / 7.6 in 8 mm / 0.315 in 1.3 kg2.8 lbs297 mm / 11.7 in 210 mm / 8.27 in 1 mm / 0.03937 in 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Connectivity

Our Miix 720 is equipped with a Thunderbolt 3 USB C Port. This supports high resolution displays and a great memory capacity. This is in addition to the fast loading speed. Theoretically, you could reach eight times the speed of USB 3.0.

Depending on the interface, a USB-C-to-HDMI or DisplayPort cable may be required. Lenovo has included neither. It is possible to connect to up to two displays with a compatible Hub/Extender.

left: USB 3.0, USB Type-C Gen2 with Thunderbolt 3 (and power supply), Headset-microphone combination
left: USB 3.0, USB Type-C Gen2 with Thunderbolt 3 (and power supply), Headset-microphone combination
right: Power-on, volume, USB 2.0
right: Power-on, volume, USB 2.0

Communication

The Intel Tri-Band Wireless AC 19265 is a 60-GHz-WiGig-Card (802.11ad). Intel puts the bidirectional capacity at 4.7 GBPS. It performs well in the iperf test, although not at the highest level. The Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18265 includes all the features of an Intel Dual-Band Wireless-AC 8265 (802.11ac, 2x2 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2). 

Cameras

As with the Miix 510, the 720 also has on board a higher resolution 5 MP webcam in the back, next to the main webcam. The user-directed webcam produces rather low-quality, pixelated shots. Although this works for Skype calls, it is definitely not for photographic production. For such tasks, the 5 MP camera on the back should be used, since it has good color quality and focuses well. But to a certain degree, even this camera yields fuzzy images. It could not hold its own against good smartphones. We tried out the IR camera for Windows Hello successfully. The face-scanning login functions flawlessly.

Front: 1 MP + infrared camera for Windows Hello
Front: 1 MP + infrared camera for Windows Hello
Webcam range: 1280x720
Webcam range: 1280x720
Reverse: 5 MP
Reverse: 5 MP
Main camera range: 2560x1440
Main camera range: 2560x1440
Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Wireless-AC 7265
685 MBit/s +3%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18260
662 MBit/s
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260 (jseb)
500 MBit/s -24%
iperf3 receive AX12
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260 (jseb)
638 MBit/s +24%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Wireless-AC 7265
560 MBit/s +9%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Tri-Band Wireless-AC 18260
513 MBit/s

Security

Windows Hello addresses one aspect of the security. TPM and other hardware-based solutions are not offered. 

Accessories

The box includes a Lenovo Active Pen 2, the power supply (Type-C) and the battery. 

45-watt adaptor
45-watt adaptor
Lenovo Active Pen 2
Lenovo Active Pen 2

Maintenance

The Miix 720 cannot be opened by normal means.

Warranty

The standard warranty is short at just one year. This is quite disappointing for such a high price device. On the other hand, business clientele can choose from various warranty extensions and insurance options, depending on how it fits into the lifetime of the device.

Please see our Guarantees, Return Policies and Warranties FAQ for country-specific information.

Input devices

Keyboard

We had missed the illuminated keyboard from the 510. It is here on this model again, and you can choose between two different brightness levels. The keyboard (which really tries to make full use of its 12-inch space) is very responsive thanks to the sturdy rubber springs. The keys spring back into place quickly during use. You will not notice this if you just gently press the keys. We did not notice this drawback when the device was put on a desk surface. 

The keys are completely flat, no curvature to speak of. The accuracy of your typing may suffer a bit, but the size of the keys will make up for this. Shift, caps lock and tab in particular are noticeably larger than normal. As with folio keyboards, the stroke path here is pretty short. However, that did not represent a problem for us. 

Touchpad

The ~10.6 cm diagonal is relatively large. You can click quickly and with good feedback. The surface is very smooth, so your fingers slide silently over it. The speed and accuracy are exemplary. 

Touchscreen

The touch screen is even sleeker, and we would not have it any other way. It reacts quickly to inputs and is sensitive even in the margins. Due to the integrated processors and the active cooling system, the tablet is always quite warm.

Lenovo Active Pen

The Lenovo Active Pen 2 complements the Miix 720 as an additional interaction point. Writing and notes can be made with the pen just as easily as by hand. The active pen has a battery. It should be noted that the heel of the hand can rest on the screen without creating any input errors. The pen holder in the USB port is practical and simple.

Folio keyboard with good feedback on stable support structure
Folio keyboard with good feedback on stable support structure
Clickpad with small strokes but well-tuned rubber springs
Clickpad with small strokes but well-tuned rubber springs
Active Pen 2 in stand (USB-Type-A-Port)
Active Pen 2 in stand (USB-Type-A-Port)

Display

Subpixel AUO B120YAN01 2880x1920
Subpixel AUO B120YAN01 2880x1920

The 12-inch display has a resolution of 2880x1920 pixels, which is rare for a 3: 2 format. Usually, the widescreen competitors are 16: 10 or 16: 9. For example, the Dell XPS 12 9250 4K is at 3840x2160 (16: 9). The Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is also 3: 2 (2736x1824). 3: 2 is a compromise between the old 4: 3 and the modern 16: 9 and 16: 10 respectively. The glossy touch display can provide high brightness and uniform illumination. The contrast is first rate: 1353: 1 with a high brightness of 406 cd / m² on the center of the display.

376
cd/m²
384
cd/m²
409
cd/m²
370
cd/m²
406
cd/m²
403
cd/m²
379
cd/m²
414
cd/m²
419
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
AUO B120YAN01 / AUO106F tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 419 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 395.6 cd/m² Minimum: 7.5 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 88 %
Center on Battery: 414 cd/m²
Contrast: 1353:1 (Black: 0.3 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.28 | 0.5-29.43 Ø4.92
ΔE Greyscale 6.71 | 0.5-98 Ø5.2
91% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
59% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
66.1% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
91% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
65.2% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.29
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
AUO B120YAN01 / AUO106F, , 2880x1920, 12"
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Samsung 123YL01-001 ID: SDC3853, , 2736x1824, 12.3"
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
BOE BOE06AC (NV126A1M-N51), , 2880x1920, 12.6"
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Unknown, , 1920x1200, 12.2"
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Panasonic VVX12T041N00, , 2160x1440, 12"
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
LG Philips, , 1920x1280, 12.1"
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Sharp SHP143D, , 3840x2160, 12.5"
Display
5%
19%
-0%
2%
-18%
29%
Display P3 Coverage
65.2
66.9
3%
81.8
25%
64.5
-1%
65.5
0%
53.8
-17%
83.9
29%
sRGB Coverage
91
97.5
7%
98.3
8%
92
1%
96.1
6%
73.7
-19%
99.8
10%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
66.1
68.6
4%
82.2
24%
65.5
-1%
66.9
1%
53.8
-19%
98.1
48%
Response Times
-28%
6%
16%
7%
16%
-13%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
45 ?(22, 23)
48.4 ?(20.4, 28)
-8%
30 ?(14, 16)
33%
33 ?(21, 12)
27%
20 ?(5, 15, detail 5 schraffiert)
56%
33.2 ?(15.2, 18)
26%
36 ?(19, 17)
20%
Response Time Black / White *
24 ?(14, 10)
35.6 ?(8, 27.6)
-48%
29 ?(8, 21)
-21%
23 ?(10, 13)
4%
34 ?(15, 19, PWM@100% mit/ohne PSU)
-42%
22.8 ?(10.4, 12.4)
5%
35 ?(8, 27)
-46%
PWM Frequency
10420
200 ?(90)
125 ?(90)
1000 ?(100)
1000 ?(20)
Screen
18%
4%
-21%
-14%
-16%
13%
Brightness middle
406
436.7
8%
316
-22%
327
-19%
345
-15%
322
-21%
437
8%
Brightness
396
433
9%
307
-22%
324
-18%
328
-17%
319
-19%
399
1%
Brightness Distribution
88
87
-1%
91
3%
88
0%
91
3%
97
10%
81
-8%
Black Level *
0.3
0.326
-9%
0.29
3%
0.35
-17%
0.38
-27%
0.42
-40%
0.35
-17%
Contrast
1353
1340
-1%
1090
-19%
934
-31%
908
-33%
767
-43%
1249
-8%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.28
1.82
66%
3.91
26%
6.54
-24%
8.4
-59%
6.02
-14%
3.56
33%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
9.83
7.9
20%
15.59
-59%
11.9
-21%
10.06
-2%
9.3
5%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
6.71
1.44
79%
5.37
20%
9.52
-42%
4.3
36%
6.29
6%
2.67
60%
Gamma
2.29 96%
2.1 105%
2.36 93%
2.35 94%
2.63 84%
2.4 92%
2.17 101%
CCT
6532 100%
6560 99%
7812 83%
8802 74%
7368 88%
7712 84%
6681 97%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
59
62.3
6%
72
22%
59
0%
62
5%
47.8
-19%
86
46%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
91
97.5
7%
98
8%
92
1%
73.2
-20%
100
10%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-2% / 9%
10% / 7%
-2% / -12%
-2% / -8%
-6% / -12%
10% / 13%

* ... smaller is better

Delta E deviation is slightly below average; those who would like to have the best possible color fidelity should use prepress tools for calibration. We reduced the Delta E grades from 6.7 to 1.6. The ColorChecker Delta E reduced the calibration from 5.3 to 2.5. In both cases, color deviations are no longer visible to the naked eye.

CalMAN gray scale - no blue
CalMAN gray scale - no blue
CalMAN Gray scale - calibrated
CalMAN Gray scale - calibrated
CalMAN saturation
CalMAN saturation
CalMAN saturation - calibrated
CalMAN saturation - calibrated
CalMAN ColorChecker
CalMAN ColorChecker
CalMAN ColorChecker - calibrated
CalMAN ColorChecker - calibrated
Color space: 59% AdobeRGB
Color space: 59% AdobeRGB
Color space: 91% sRGB
Color space: 91% sRGB

The Miix 720 is not that good with the color space sRGB. This measurement is independent of calibration. Only 91% are covered, which is worse than Surface Pro 4, Transformer 3 Pro T303UA and XPS 12 9250 4K. They have 100% or just short of it.

Despite its bright screen, the Miix 720 is not fun to use outside. This is because of the glossy screen surface. Whoever thinks this is inevitable, however, is wrong. Toshiba's X20w 2in1 has an anti-reflective, matte touch panel.

Poor visuals outside: ...
Poor visuals outside: ...
The reflection also hinders the 400 d/m²
The reflection also hinders the 400 d/m²

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
24 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 14 ms rise
↘ 10 ms fall
The screen shows good response rates in our tests, but may be too slow for competitive gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 50 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (21 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
45 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 22 ms rise
↘ 23 ms fall
The screen shows slow response rates in our tests and will be unsatisfactory for gamers.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.165 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 74 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is worse than the average of all tested devices (32.9 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 not detected

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 8747 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 343500) Hz was measured.

Poor viewing angles are not an issue for the Miix 720 with the IPS panel. The view is good from any position.

Angles for the QHD+-Panel
Angles for the QHD+-Panel

Performance

The Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720 is offered with the Core i3-7100U, i5-7200U and i7-7500U SoCs. The SSD is 128GB, 256GB, or 1TB (M.2). The RAM varies between 4.8 and 16 GB. There are four variants, with the entry-level costing 1075 Euros (~$1168; 7100U, 128 GB, 4 GB). The high-end version of the Miix 720 (7500U, 16GB, 1-TB SSD) costs 1700 Euros (~$1847). This one is our sample device.

Out of a total of 1024 GB of memory, 870 GB is available to the user. The rest is occupied by Recovery and Windows. The Samsung SSD PM961 is a RAID array, an x4 NVMe. If the SoC performs at its full capacity and the SSD is as fast as the specifications say, then the tablet can record at the same working speed as most multimedia laptops.

System info: CPU-Z CPU
System info: CPU-Z Cache
System info: CPU-Z Motherboard
System info: CPU-Z Memory
System info: gPU-Z HD 620
System info: HW info Summary
System info: Latencies
 

Processor

Let us consider the SoC during Prime95, which is a CPU stress test on all threads. The Intel Core i7-7500U drops well below its normal speed of 2.7 GHz (maximum 3.5 GHz) and calculates 2.1 to 2.2 GHz with this continuous load. The SOC sensors now report 68 degrees Celsius (~154 degrees Fahrenheit).

The same happens with the Cinebench R15 in the permanent loop with only a few seconds between the runs: It starts each run briefly at 2.3 GHz, but then levels out at 2.1 GHz. There is no turbo option, which is a pity. The following chart of how the Cinebench R15 scores over the time period shows a power drop of 10%.

Stress: Prime95 2.1 - 2.2 GHz
Stress: Prime95 2.1 - 2.2 GHz

There is CPU throttling at normal capacity (just below the normal rate of 2.7 GHz), the R15 test is not a stress test. The latest Kaby Lake i7 does not hold a candle to the Core i7-6650U (Surface Pro 4). In the multi-core tests, it is subject to the Intel Core i5-6200U in the Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12, which costs 750 Euros (~$815).

0102030405060708090100110120130140150160170180190200210220230240250260270280Tooltip
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit
Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Intel Core i7-6650U
132 Points +2%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel Core i7-7500U
130 Points
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Core i7-6500U
117 Points -10%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel Core i5-6200U
116 Points -11%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Intel Core i5-6200U
114 Points -12%
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
Intel Core m5-6Y54
111 Points -15%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Intel Core m7-6Y75
104 Points -20%
CPU Multi 64Bit
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Intel Core i7-6650U
342 Points +29%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Intel Core i5-6200U
289 Points +9%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel Core i7-7500U
265 Points
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
Intel Core m5-6Y54
255 Points -4%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel Core i5-6200U
246 Points -7%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel Core i7-6500U
221 Points -17%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Intel Core m7-6Y75
196 Points -26%
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
130 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
265 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
37.14 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.7 %
Help

System Performance

The application performance is also affected by the somewhat feeble computing capacity: the Miix 720 is only just in the work test of the PCMark 8, probably thanks to the RAID SSD. The Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 scores higher in PCMark 8 Home.

If we look at the whole picture, these are only minor differences. Nevertheless, the Miix 720's criticism is that it is a cutting-edge device with RAID-SSD, which, due to weakening computing performance, is worse than older and significantly cheaper devices such as the Switch Alpha 12.

PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Iris Graphics 540, 6650U, Samsung MZFLV256 NVMe
3394 Points +7%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
3281 Points +3%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
3264 Points +2%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
3186 Points
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
2985 Points -6%
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
HD Graphics 515, 6Y54, Liteon L8H-256V2G
2983 Points -6%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
HD Graphics 515, 6Y75, Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB
2277 Points -29%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
4216 Points
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
4197 Points 0%
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Iris Graphics 540, 6650U, Samsung MZFLV256 NVMe
4052 Points -4%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
3996 Points -5%
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
HD Graphics 515, 6Y54, Liteon L8H-256V2G
3932 Points -7%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
3830 Points -9%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
HD Graphics 515, 6Y75, Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB
3084 Points -27%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3186 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4216 points
Help

Storage Device

The Samsung SSD PM961 (M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe) is barely at the top of the comparison field thanks to RAID. The competitors are 43 to 65% off. The Miix 720 has the advantage, especially when writing / reading large blocks (Write 512, Read 512). However, if you rarely move large amounts of data from the right to the left or from the Thunderbolt disk to internal storage, then that will not work.

Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Samsung MZFLV256 NVMe
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
Liteon L8H-256V2G
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-51%
-65%
-43%
-65%
-60%
-55%
Read Seq
2408
834
-65%
398.9
-83%
1271
-47%
518
-78%
501
-79%
984
-59%
Write Seq
1702
304
-82%
402
-76%
305.4
-82%
199.9
-88%
297.2
-83%
525
-69%
Read 512
1301
396.7
-70%
303.1
-77%
651
-50%
374.9
-71%
351.7
-73%
428.7
-67%
Write 512
1288
304.3
-76%
320.3
-75%
305.2
-76%
201
-84%
295.7
-77%
176.6
-86%
Read 4k
53.6
40.75
-24%
26.11
-51%
41.07
-23%
29.3
-45%
28.31
-47%
37.31
-30%
Write 4k
162.2
106.3
-34%
57.7
-64%
122.7
-24%
76.8
-53%
90.3
-44%
104
-36%
Read 4k QD32
504
393.1
-22%
245.8
-51%
411.2
-18%
272
-46%
285
-43%
254.4
-50%
Write 4k QD32
420.8
292.3
-31%
253.8
-40%
305.1
-27%
197.1
-53%
268.4
-36%
234.1
-44%
Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
Sequential Read: 2408 MB/s
Sequential Write: 1702 MB/s
512K Read: 1301 MB/s
512K Write: 1288 MB/s
4K Read: 53.6 MB/s
4K Write: 162.2 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 504 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 420.8 MB/s

Graphics Card

The Intel HD Graphics 620 follows in the mold of its predecessor, but differs in speed and size. With DDR4 (Shared, as in the Miix 720) it is better situated than with DDR3. However, this is not the case with the Miix 720, because we do not get the Performance Plus of the predecessor, HD 520. On the other hand, the Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 is ahead, if only just. The Miix 720 also does no better against the Iris Graphics 540 of the Surface Pro 4 (+60 to +73%). Further information, including game play, can be found in the data sheet.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Intel Iris Graphics 540, Intel Core i7-6650U
2450 Points +73%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1428 Points +1%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
1416 Points
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
1306 Points -8%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
1271 Points -10%
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m5-6Y54
1200 Points -15%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m7-6Y75
1008 Points -29%
3DMark - 1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Intel Iris Graphics 540, Intel Core i7-6650U
11650 Points +60%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
7307 Points +1%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
Intel HD Graphics 620, Intel Core i7-7500U
7270 Points
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m5-6Y54
6308 Points -13%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i5-6200U
6271 Points -14%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Intel HD Graphics 520, Intel Core i7-6500U
6137 Points -16%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
Intel HD Graphics 515, Intel Core m7-6Y75
4362 Points -40%
3DMark 11 Performance
1558 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
5620 points
Help

Gaming Performance

It should come as no surprise: the IrisGraphics 540 passes the game test with flying colors. In some respects, the Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA also leads the pack. We did not evaluate the Surface Pro 4. In short, despite the DDR4 and Dual Channel, the Mix 720's HD 620 is somewhat weak on the game front. However, an iGPU is really never the sharpest tool in the box when it comes to games.

BioShock Infinite - 1366x768 Medium Preset
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
Iris Graphics 540, 6650U, Samsung MZFLV256 NVMe
49.1 fps +69%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
29 fps
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
28.6 fps -1%
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
26.9 (12.1min - 67.2max) fps -7%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
24.9 fps -14%
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
HD Graphics 515, 6Y54, Liteon L8H-256V2G
24.6 fps -15%
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
HD Graphics 515, 6Y75, Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB
17.37 (7.16min - 64.81max) fps -40%
Thief - 1024x768 Very Low Preset
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
21.7 fps
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
18.2 fps -16%
Rise of the Tomb Raider - 1024x768 Lowest Preset
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
HD Graphics 520, 6500U, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND)
20 fps +20%
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256
17.4 fps +4%
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
HD Graphics 520, 6200U, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2
17 fps +2%
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
HD Graphics 620, i7-7500U, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0)
16.7 fps
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
HD Graphics 515, 6Y75, Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB
8.3 (7min - 10max) fps -50%
lowmed.highultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 48 29 24.7 7.4
Thief (2014) 21.7 14.1 11.7 5.7
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 16.7 10.2 5.5

Emissions

System Noise

Volume Characteristics
Volume Characteristics
Miix 720 air outlet
Miix 720 air outlet

While many core m tablets still dominate the market, more and more tablets are using fans to cool normal 15-watt SoCs. Lenovo Miix 510 Pro, Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA and even the current 360-degree Convertible Toshiba Portégé X20w all rely on active fans. Acer avoids this through a liquid cooling system (Aspire Switch Alpha 12).The noise emissions are, therefore, relevant once again, and the Miix 720 fits in well: we measure 36 dB(A) during the Cinebench tests and also in the Stress Test. The clearly audible fan can cool the SoC down to 68 degrees Celsius (~154 degrees Fahrenheit). When idling, the fan is partially off, otherwise it runs at a quiet 32 dB(A). These values are somewhat deceiving, however. Note: even at low load (30% CPU), the fan jumps to the highest level and has constant noise, 36 dB(A). This hurts the convertible's score.

Noise Level

Idle
30.4 / 32.4 / 32.4 dB(A)
Load
36 / 36.3 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: 30.4 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2032.330.732.735.232.32530.732.534.538.430.73137.836.138.338.537.84032.830.931.632.132.85030.229.229.329.330.26327.727.528.626.627.78026.926.525.925.726.910030.4302526.430.412532.231.92626.132.216024.423.723.323.724.420022.322.922.722.722.325022.122.32221.622.131521.22221.520.821.24002223.620.7202250022.824.619.819.422.863027.628.418.518.827.680023.924.818.618.323.9100022.523.517.717.622.5125025.126.317.617.825.1160025.424.717.617.525.4200026.225.817.717.526.2250023.222.717.717.423.2315024.925.417.617.824.9400023.12317.917.923.1500021.721.71818.121.7630021.221.718.218.321.2800020.220.818.418.420.2100001919.318.318.4191250018.418.418.218.318.41600018.318.318.318.318.3SPL3636.330.430.436N2.42.51.41.42.4median 22.8median 23.5median 18.3median 18.3median 22.8Delta1.91.81.41.21.93838.438.839.33836.238.740.636.736.232.433.431.234.132.432.532.532.831.632.531.332.933.332.831.334.632.932.233.834.630.130.230.930.230.129.129.729.129.329.12727.827.425.92726.327.426.826.426.326.326.625.926.526.324.625.224.724.324.624.825.125.323.724.822.92525.322.422.922.225.625.222.322.221.627.827.521.521.620.525.825.520.920.520.124.724.819.620.119.625.525.619.519.619.227.627.71919.21926.226.118.61918.726.927.318.418.718.725.325.318.418.718.723.223.318.318.718.521.821.618.518.518.62020.218.518.618.619.519.718.518.618.318.918.918.418.318.118.318.518.118.118.218.318.318.118.231.937.137.131.831.91.72.72.71.71.7median 19.6median 25.3median 25.3median 19.5median 19.62.42.92.82.62.4hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseLenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKBAsus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T

Temperature

Stress test Prime95+FurMark: 1,3 GHz constant
Stress test Prime95+FurMark: 1,3 GHz constant

Even if it is loud, will it at least stay cool? It will, but only just. While idling, the average temperature is 30 degrees Celsius (~86 degrees Fahrenheit), and during use 36 degrees Celsius (~97 degrees Fahrenheit) with a peak of 44 degrees Celsius (~111 degrees Fahrenheit). This is more than lukewarm, and probably better for idle resting. The heat images go a bit more in depth and therefore show higher temperatures than our manual measurement on the surfaces.

The Miix 720 completes the Stress test without bravura, the clock is heavily throttled and drops to 1.3 GHz. The iGPU clocks in at 798 MHz, while the SoC temperature is around 68 degrees Celsius (~154 degrees Fahrenheit). Lenovo has decided conservatively in favor of a touchable chassis in the Temperature Table.

 32.8 °C
91 F
30.4 °C
87 F
28.2 °C
83 F
 
 32.1 °C
90 F
29.4 °C
85 F
26 °C
79 F
 
 31.4 °C
89 F
32.4 °C
90 F
29.4 °C
85 F
 
Maximum: 32.8 °C = 91 F
Average: 30.2 °C = 86 F
29 °C
84 F
32.4 °C
90 F
35 °C
95 F
26.2 °C
79 F
30.6 °C
87 F
36.4 °C
98 F
26.1 °C
79 F
28.8 °C
84 F
29.8 °C
86 F
Maximum: 36.4 °C = 98 F
Average: 30.5 °C = 87 F
Power Supply (max.)  30.2 °C = 86 F | Room Temperature 20.3 °C = 69 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 35.9 °C / 97 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 42 °C / 108 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 43.6 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 36.8 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 30.2 °C / 86 F, compared to the device average of 30.2 °C / 86 F.
(±) The palmrests and touchpad can get very hot to the touch with a maximum of 37.5 °C / 99.5 F.
(-) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 28.1 °C / 82.6 F (-9.4 °C / -16.9 F).
Idle, top side
Idle, top side
Idle, bottom
Idle, bottom
Stress test, top side
Stress test, top side
Idle, bottom
Idle, bottom

Speakers

Pink noise characteristic
Pink noise characteristic

Both speakers are located on the rear side, but they are also aligned to the sides. The volume can be turned up quite a bit without much scratchy audio quality. 

The broadest audio reach is achieved when the tablet is placed on the stand. Here, the stand and table top reflect the sound and help spread it.

The microphone quality is a huge disappointment: a heavy electronic distortion effect overruns the whole recording. We originally thought the fan was to blame. But under slightly better conditions in idle, when the fan rotates it produces only 32 dB(A) of sound, which should not interfere with the recording. The sprinkling is only slightly quiet.

This microphone behavior could be a fault of the pre-production device. In the rating, however, this is the first time this is the case and we need further examination.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2033.335.233.32533.538.433.53136.738.536.74031.432.131.45030.829.330.86326.926.626.98028.725.728.710033.726.433.712540.726.140.716045.323.745.320046.722.746.725039.921.639.931548.320.848.340063.82063.850063.519.463.563062.518.862.580063.218.363.2100056.717.656.712505417.854160055.317.555.320004717.547250052.317.452.3315051.917.851.9400054.417.954.4500061.318.161.3630058.718.358.7800052.918.452.91000047.518.447.51250042.418.342.41600033.618.333.6SPL69.830.469.8N261.426median 52.3median 18.3median 52.3Delta7.71.27.739.639.339.63936.73937.734.137.736.931.636.939.132.839.141.233.841.240.630.240.642.929.342.943.425.943.446.526.446.550.426.550.449.224.349.258.123.758.159.522.459.562.222.362.258.221.558.256.120.956.160.719.660.759.519.559.559.71959.764.718.664.76718.46769.118.469.169.718.369.772.718.572.770.418.570.465.618.565.666.518.466.562.418.162.453.518.153.579.231.879.242.51.742.5median 59.7median 19.5median 59.76.52.66.5hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseLenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKBAsus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (64 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 9.9% lower than median
(-) | bass is not linear (16.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 7.3% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (13.3% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.3% away from median
(±) | linearity of highs is average (12.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (25.1% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 75% of all tested devices in this class were better, 7% similar, 18% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 74% of all tested devices were better, 6% similar, 20% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T audio analysis

(±) | speaker loudness is average but good (73 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 11.2% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (8.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 1.8% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (6.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(±) | higher highs - on average 9% higher than median
(+) | highs are linear (5.7% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (19% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 43% of all tested devices in this class were better, 8% similar, 49% worse
» The best had a delta of 6%, average was 21%, worst was 57%
Compared to all devices tested
» 41% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 51% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 24%, worst was 134%

Frequency diagram in comparison (checkboxes can be selected / deselected!)

Energy Management

Power Consumption

The Miix 720 has an average idle power consumption rate: 3.5 to 8 watts. In use, this rises to 30 watts, which can be provided for by the 45-watt power supply. The load at max: Energy consumption (= Strestestest95 + FurMark) differs from the simple load absorption because of the throttling. This is often also the case with the competitors, because they also suffer from throttling in this stress scenario. The only exceptions are the Aspire Switch Alpha 12 and the HP Elite x2 1012 G1 with Core m.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.5 / 0.85 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.5 / 7.2 / 7.9 Watt
Load midlight 29.6 / 30.8 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, Samsung SSD PM961 1TB M.2 PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe (MZVLW1T0), IPS, 2880x1920, 12"
Microsoft Surface Pro 4, Core i5, 128GB
6300U, HD Graphics 520, Samsung MZFLV128 NVMe, IPS, 2736x1824, 12.3"
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
6500U, HD Graphics 520, SK Hynix Canvas SC300 512GB M.2 (HFS512G39MND), IPS, 2880x1920, 12.6"
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Samsung PM951 NVMe MZVLV256, IPS, 1920x1200, 12.2"
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
6200U, HD Graphics 520, Kingston RBU-SNS8152S3256GG2, IPS, 2160x1440, 12"
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
6Y54, HD Graphics 515, Liteon L8H-256V2G, IPS, 1920x1280, 12.1"
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
6Y75, HD Graphics 515, Samsung PM951 NVMe 512 GB, IPS, 3840x2160, 12.5"
Power Consumption
-3%
-37%
-24%
-31%
3%
-21%
Idle Minimum *
3.5
4.4
-26%
6.7
-91%
4.2
-20%
7.3
-109%
3.7
-6%
5.4
-54%
Idle Average *
7.2
9
-25%
10.3
-43%
11.5
-60%
10
-39%
6.8
6%
10.2
-42%
Idle Maximum *
7.9
10.7
-35%
13.5
-71%
11.7
-48%
10.15
-28%
7.6
4%
12.5
-58%
Load Average *
29.6
19.6
34%
26
12%
31
-5%
25.2
15%
22.5
24%
21.4
28%
Load Maximum *
30.8
19.9
35%
28.8
6%
27.4
11%
29.3
5%
34.5
-12%
24.4
21%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Runtime

The run times are as follows: 5:45 hours in the actual Wi-Fi test, where websites are loaded, and almost 12 hours idle at lowest brightness. The Miix 720 thus would not last a full workday, but the competitors do not manage this either. The HP Elite x2 1012 G1 confirms the rule because it is not directly comparable with Core m. Even the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7 last barely 5 hours. Only the Surface Pro 4 with Core m3 is better at eight hours.

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
11h 53min
WiFi Websurfing
5h 45min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 51min
Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB
i7-7500U, HD Graphics 620, 41 Wh
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Core i7
6650U, Iris Graphics 540, 38 Wh
Asus Transformer 3 Pro T303UA-GN050T
6500U, HD Graphics 520, 39 Wh
Lenovo Miix 510 Pro 80U10006GE
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 50 Wh
Acer Aspire Switch Alpha 12 SA5-271-56HM
6200U, HD Graphics 520, 37 Wh
HP Elite x2 1012 G1
6Y54, HD Graphics 515, 37 Wh
Dell XPS 12 9250 4K
6Y75, HD Graphics 515, 28 Wh
Battery Runtime
-17%
-28%
-3%
-5%
16%
-31%
Reader / Idle
713
654
-8%
426
-40%
696
-2%
640
-10%
732
3%
370
-48%
WiFi v1.3
345
293
-15%
223
-35%
322
-7%
321
-7%
443
28%
243
-30%
Load
111
79
-29%
102
-8%
111
0%
112
1%
130
17%
93
-16%
H.264
206
468
432

Verdict

Pros

+ excellent 3:2 display
+ fast WiFi
+ Type-A and Type-C USB connections
+ Thunderbolt 3
+ good keyboard feedback
+ fast SSD
+ good battery life

Cons

- loud fans, even with light use
- 10% CPU throttling
- defective microphone
In review: Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720-12IKB. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger
In review: Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720-12IKB. Test model provided by Notebooksbilliger

Lenovo has launched its response to the Surface Pro 4 with the IdeaPad Miix 720, mainly because the 3: 2 aspect ratio is identical and the high resolution (2736x1.824 of the surface, 2880x1920 of the Miix 720) are almost interchangeable. In terms of the display there is nothing to criticize, except for the color space coverage perhaps, but this would be a bit too stingy.

The advantage of the Miix is that it is equipped with so many ports: 2x large USB 3.0 Type-A, USB Type-C Gen2 with Thunderbolt 3 and then an IR camera for Windows Hello. On the technical side, a Kaby Lake processor is installed, plus a huge RAID-SSD, which is very fast-paced.

Unfortunately, the mix 720 cannot fully utilize the power of the SoC, 10% is missing during continuous load of everyday applications. This puts it at the same level as the Surface Pro 4 i7. Even significantly more affordable models such as the Aspire Switch Alpha 12 (i5) expect their Skylake SoCs to be faster or just  on par.

The Switch Alpha 12 with i5 is already available from 750 Euros (~$815), the Microsoft Surface Pro 4 + Type Cover (i5-6300U) from 1200 Euros (~$1304). Here is the question: Why buy the Miix 720 when processor performance falls short of expectations?

The Miix 720 is certainly not cheap: The 7500U, 16 GB and 1 TB SSD version costs 1700 Euros ($1845). For most users with mobile preferences, however, a small version with 256 or 128 GB and Core i3 or i5 7200U should also suffice. These are available from 1070 Euros (~$1162).

The smaller variant is enough to enjoy the docking advantages of Thunderbolt 3, the runtime, the great display, the IR camera with Windows Hello and the versatile keyboard (illuminated). Sometime soon the price will fall, with 900 Euros (~$978) for the small i3 version being a competitive offer.

Lenovo Ideapad Miix 720-12IKB - 03/21/2017 v6 (old)
Sebastian Jentsch

Chassis
86 / 98 → 88%
Keyboard
90%
Pointing Device
87%
Connectivity
49 / 80 → 61%
Weight
73 / 35-78 → 89%
Battery
86%
Display
85%
Games Performance
56 / 68 → 82%
Application Performance
81 / 87 → 93%
Temperature
88%
Noise
85%
Audio
31 / 91 → 35%
Camera
63 / 85 → 74%
Average
74%
85%
Convertible - Weighted Average

Price comparison

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Lenovo IdeaPad Miix 720 (7500U, QHD) Convertible Laptop Review
Sebastian Jentsch, 2017-04- 3 (Update: 2020-05-19)