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Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB (i5-8250U, UHD 620) Laptop Review

Ultra-mobile office performance. Lenovo calls the new IdeaPad 720s an "extremely high-performance and stylish power package." Even though we would not quite call it that, the performance is still impressive for a notebook that is only 13 mm (~0.51 in) thin. We found out in our test report what exactly you can expect from the 720s in its various configurations.

Previously the IdeaPad 710S-13ISK  left a good impression in our test two years ago; we are now testing a new generation of the ultra-light and slim notebook. Our test unit is equipped with Intel's Core i5-8250U CPU, a 256 GB SSD, and 8 GB of working memory, and an Intel UHD Graphics 620 graphics card is responsible for the display contents.

On the Lenovo website, the IdeaPad 720S is also offered with an Intel Core i7-7500U. In addition, various vendors are listing the device also with an Intel Core i7-8550U or a Core i5-7200U, and the IdeaPad 720s is also available in an AMD version with a Ryzen 5-2500U CPU. During our testing, we will evaluate the possible advantages and disadvantages of the various CPU configurations.

However, we will only use notebooks that are similarly equipped as our test unit for our comparison with other devices, in order to better evaluate the performance of the hardware in our test unit. For this, the IdeaPad 720s is compared with the Acer Spin 5, the two Dell Inspiron 13 7370 and XPS 13 9370 notebooks, and the Schenker Slim 14 (Clevo). All the comparison devices possess the same combination of CPU and GPU as our test unit.

Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB (IdeaPad 720 Series)
Processor
Intel Core i5-8250U 4 x 1.6 - 3.4 GHz, Kaby Lake Refresh
Graphics adapter
Memory
8 GB 
, single channel
Display
13.30 inch 16:9, 1920 x 1080 pixel 166 PPI, LG Philips LGD04EF, IPS, glossy: no
Mainboard
Intel Kaby Lake-U iHDCP 2.2 Premium PCH
Storage
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, 256 GB 
, 200 GB free
Soundcard
Intel Kaby Lake-U/Y PCH - High Definition Audio
Connections
2 USB 3.0 / 3.1 Gen1, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2, 1 Thunderbolt, Audio Connections: combined audio port, 1 Fingerprint Reader
Networking
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165 (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 4.1
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 13.6 x 306 x 214 ( = 0.54 x 12.05 x 8.43 in)
Battery
46 Wh Lithium-Polymer, 4 cells, Battery runtime (according to manufacturer): 8 h
Operating System
Microsoft Windows 10 Home 64 Bit
Camera
Webcam: 720p, 1MP
Additional features
Speakers: stereo, Keyboard: chiclet, Keyboard Light: yes, 24 Months Warranty
Weight
1.1 kg ( = 38.8 oz / 2.43 pounds), Power Supply: 170 g ( = 6 oz / 0.37 pounds)
Price
999 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case

The case of the IdeaPad 720s is made from aluminum and magnesium, which gives it a very sturdy appearance. Our test unit cannot be bent even with the use of significant force. Lenovo uses the same material for the back of the display, and only the display bezel is made of plastic. All the workmanship appears very high quality. While the hinges succeed in keeping the display in its adjusted position, a slight wobbling is still unavoidable during jerky movements. In terms of colors, the buyers of the IdeaPad 720s can choose among "Platinum silver," "Champagne gold," and "Iron gray," with the last being the color of our test unit.

At only 1.1 kg (~2.4 lb), the IdeaPad 720s is the lightest device in our comparison. In terms of the size, only Dell's XPS 13 9370 is smaller. The ultra-mobile concept is definitely working. For buyers who are looking a notebook that needs to be carried around a lot, our test unit is very well suited.

Size Comparison

340 mm / 13.4 inch 243.5 mm / 9.59 inch 22.2 mm / 0.874 inch 1.6 kg3.6 lbs324.4 mm / 12.8 inch 226 mm / 8.9 inch 15.9 mm / 0.626 inch 1.5 kg3.31 lbs309.7 mm / 12.2 inch 215.7 mm / 8.49 inch 16.4 mm / 0.646 inch 1.4 kg3.09 lbs306 mm / 12 inch 214 mm / 8.43 inch 13.6 mm / 0.535 inch 1.1 kg2.43 lbs302 mm / 11.9 inch 199 mm / 7.83 inch 11.6 mm / 0.4567 inch 1.2 kg2.69 lbs297 mm / 11.7 inch 210 mm / 8.27 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 5.7 g0.01257 lbs

Features

Webcam image
Webcam image

You cannot have everything in a device that is as thin and light as possible. Therefore, Lenovo has shaved off everything that is not absolutely necessary. However, you can restore most connections via an adapter for the Thunderbolt or USB Type-C connection. The buyers should also definitely keep in mind, that there is no SD card reader in the device. Any peripherals can only be connected to the IdeaPad 720s via the USB or the Thunderbolt connections.

The webcam of the IdeaPad 720s produces recordings in the 16:9 format with a maximum resolution of 1280x720 pixels, which should be sufficient for simple video chats.

1x USB 3.0 Type-C as power connection, 1x USB 3.0, 1x Thunderbolt
1x USB 3.0 Type-C as power connection, 1x USB 3.0, 1x Thunderbolt
microphone, 1x combined audio port, 1x USB 3.0
microphone, 1x combined audio port, 1x USB 3.0

Communication

The IdeaPad 720s only offers a mediocre WLAN connectivity to the users. Even though the built-in Intel Wireless AC-3165 WLAN adapter supports the fast ac standard in the 5-GHz band, we only achieve transfer rates of 350 MBit/s with the 1x1 Mimo antenna in our measurements. While this is of course still fast, the competitors can clearly surpass our test unit in this regard.

In addition, Bluetooth 4.1 is available for communication with other devices.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
688 MBit/s +101%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
580 MBit/s +69%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
518 MBit/s +51%
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Killer Wireless-n/a/ac 1435 Wireless Network Adapter
505 MBit/s +47%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
343 MBit/s
iperf3 receive AX12
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Killer Wireless-n/a/ac 1435 Wireless Network Adapter
639 MBit/s +105%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Intel 8265 Tri-Band WiFi (Oak Peak) Network Adapter
592 MBit/s +90%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265
520 MBit/s +67%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3165
311 MBit/s
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Atheros/Qualcomm QCA6174
308 MBit/s -1%

Security

The security options of the IdeaPad 720s are straightforward. A fingerprint reader and a TPM-2.0 module are supposed to provide sufficient security for the device. You can easily set up a fingerprint via Windows 10. During the log in, the scanner recognizes the fingerprint after about a second and then logs in the user automatically. Even though the process ran smoothly, the scanner still gave us a sluggish impression.

Accessories

The delivery of the IdeaPad 720s only includes the notebook and a USB Type-C charger. There are no particular connections for a docking station or something similar. Instead, the full range of Thunderbolt devices are available to the user. In its own shop, Lenovo offers a Thunderbolt docking station, which can expand the available connections by VGA, HDMI, LAN, and more.

Thunderbolt docking station
Thunderbolt docking station
Thunderbolt docking station
Thunderbolt docking station

Maintenance

The bottom plate of the IdeaPad 720s can easily be removed by loosening 10 Torx screws. This gives access to all the internal components of the notebook. However, the maintenance options are limited to cleaning the fans. We imagine that the SSD is beneath the silver strip on the right, above the battery. It might be possible to replace it. However, we have the impression that it is not possible to expand the working memory.

Warranty

Lenovo offers a 2-year warranty with carry-in service to the buyers of the IdeaPad 720s, which means that the device has to be sent to the manufacturer and will be repaired there. Upon request, Lenovo can also expand the warranty by various service levels. You can for example order a pick-up-and-deliver service or an on-site service, or get an international manufacturer's warranty. You can also extend the warranty in this way.

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

Input Devices

Keyboard

Despite the limited availability of space, Lenovo was able to make the spaces between the keys sufficiently large. This prevents wrong input from the keys being too close together. The short stroke needs some getting used to and even after a long typing session, one may not get used to it.. In combination with the crisp pressure point, this results in a noticeable constant strain on the fingertips, which can become strenuous in the long run.

For working in badly lit surroundings, you can turn on the two-step keyboard illumination. Both of the steps illuminate the keys with white light. Even at the higher level, the illumination is not too bright and never blinding the user.

Touchpad

Lenovo uses a ClickPad as a replacement for the mouse in the IdeaPad 720s. The pad surface offers a slight resistance when the fingers slide across. However, precise input and fast mouse movements are still possible without any difficulties. The input is recognized in all the corners, and the mouse keys react to input with comfortable feedback and a slight clicking noise.

Display

Subpixel grid
Subpixel grid
Screen bleeding
Screen bleeding

The display of the IdeaPad 720s is an IPS panel with almost no bezel, which displays the screen contents at a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. Lenovo does not offer an alternative with a touchscreen or 4K panel (such as in the Dell XPS 13 9370).

While the brightness distribution in the display of our test is slightly uneven, this does not affect daily operation. The average brightness is in the middle of the range of our comparison group. Screen bleeding is negligible and only becomes noticeable when taking pictures with a long exposure.

Compared to the competing devices, Lenovo's IPS panel offers the fastest reaction times. Even though PWM is used for brightness control, the frequency is so high, that it should not become a problem, even for sensitive eyes.

312
cd/m²
293
cd/m²
292
cd/m²
308
cd/m²
335
cd/m²
313
cd/m²
284
cd/m²
296
cd/m²
290
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
LG Philips LGD04EF tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 335 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 302.6 cd/m² Minimum: 4.8 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 85 %
Center on Battery: 290 cd/m²
Contrast: 728:1 (Black: 0.46 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.09 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 3.23 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
82% sRGB (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
54% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 1.6.3 3D)
60.2% AdobeRGB 1998 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
82.3% sRGB (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
64.3% Display P3 (Argyll 2.2.0 3D)
Gamma: 2.18
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
LG Philips LGD04EF, , 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
ID: Sharp SHP148B, Name: LQ133D1, Dell P/N: 8XDHY, , 3840x2160, 13.30
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
LC133LF102, , 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
BOE071A / NV13FHM / Dell G64PY, , 1920x1080, 13.30
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
LG Philips LGD046D, , 1920x1080, 14.00
Display
14%
13%
5%
3%
Display P3 Coverage
64.3
68.9
7%
69.8
9%
66.7
4%
66.1
3%
sRGB Coverage
82.3
98.4
20%
94.6
15%
86.2
5%
85.2
4%
AdobeRGB 1998 Coverage
60.2
69.5
15%
69.3
15%
63
5%
62.3
3%
Response Times
-85%
-49%
-54%
-34%
Response Time Grey 50% / Grey 80% *
35 ?(17, 18)
67.2 ?(31.6, 35.6)
-92%
49 ?(30, 19)
-40%
46 ?(21, 25)
-31%
37.6 ?(19.6, 18)
-7%
Response Time Black / White *
25 ?(14, 11)
41.6 ?(22.8, 18.8)
-66%
27 ?(15, 12)
-8%
33 ?(17, 16)
-32%
28 ?(14.8, 13.2)
-12%
PWM Frequency
131000 ?(90)
2500 ?(20)
-98%
1000 ?(20)
-99%
201 ?(90)
-100%
20490 ?(99)
-84%
Screen
25%
20%
-1%
7%
Brightness middle
335
496.4
48%
295
-12%
301
-10%
326
-3%
Brightness
303
469
55%
276
-9%
291
-4%
320
6%
Brightness Distribution
85
84
-1%
88
4%
87
2%
81
-5%
Black Level *
0.46
0.5
-9%
0.27
41%
0.33
28%
0.31
33%
Contrast
728
993
36%
1093
50%
912
25%
1052
45%
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.09
2.9
43%
2.97
42%
5.39
-6%
4.6
10%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
11.92
5.26
56%
5.67
52%
8.56
28%
10.3
14%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
3.23
3.9
-21%
3.12
3%
5.93
-84%
4.4
-36%
Gamma
2.18 101%
2.066 106%
2.45 90%
2.6 85%
2.24 98%
CCT
6214 105%
7169 91%
6676 97%
6358 102%
5978 109%
Color Space (Percent of AdobeRGB 1998)
54
63.9
18%
62
15%
56
4%
55.8
3%
Color Space (Percent of sRGB)
82
98.2
20%
94
15%
86
5%
85.1
4%
Total Average (Program / Settings)
-15% / 2%
-5% / 6%
-17% / -10%
-8% / -1%

* ... smaller is better

Even though the measured black value is slightly elevated, black tones appear very dark and saturated on the display. This results in colors having a slight gray veil. The contrast and color space coverage are below the average of the competing devices. Yet subjectively, the colors still appear saturated and clearly separated from each other. While the measured values of the IdeaPad 720s are not bad at all, there are devices with better displays in the comparison within the same price range. 

Color space coverage sRGB: 82%
Color space coverage sRGB: 82%
Color space coverage AdobeRGB: 54%
Color space coverage AdobeRGB: 54%
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - Grayscales
CalMAN - saturation
CalMAN - saturation
CalMAN - color accuracy
CalMAN - color accuracy
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - Grayscales (calibrated)
CalMAN - saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - saturation (calibrated)
CalMAN - color accuracy (calibrated)
CalMAN - color accuracy (calibrated)

In order to implement the ultra-mobile concept, the IdeaPad 720s also has to be usable outdoors. The offered brightness is indeed sufficient to work in shaded areas. However, in direct sunlight it can quickly become difficult to read the screen contents. At least, the matte display ensures that viewing it is not made even harder by additional reflections. 

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
25 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 14 ms rise
↘ 11 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. » 53 % 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
35 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 17 ms rise
↘ 18 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. » 42 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is similar to 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 131000 Hz ≤ 90 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 131000 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 131000 Hz is quite high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering.

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.

A great advantage of the IPS panel is the viewing angle stability. From any angle that still allows you see the display, the colors are not distorted, nor the screen contents faded out. In this regard, the displays of some of the competitors are clearly worse than the display of the IdeaPad 720s.

Viewing angle stability
Viewing angle stability

Performance

Our test unit is equipped with Intel's Core i5-8250U and its integrated UHD Graphics 620 graphics solution. With 8 GB of working memory and a 256 GB SSD, it is particularly suited for office work and can also take on slightly more demanding tasks. We would draw the limits at more demanding 3D applications, while it should still be possible to display older games smoothly.

The alternative models of the IdeaPad 720s also cannot offer more than the built-in 8 GB of RAM. Instead, there are various CPU and SSD configurations, and the storage can be preconfigured up to 1 TB. The available processors are the Intel Core i5-7200U, Intel Core i7-7500U, AMD Ryzen 5 2500U, Intel Core i5-8250U, and Intel Core i7-8550U.

This listing sequence also reflects their average performance. While the i5-7200U and i7-7500U processors each have two cores and are able to work on four threads simultaneously, the Ryzen 5-2500U, i5-8250U, and i7-8550U CPUs are quad-core processors, which can each operate on eight threads simultaneously. With all the processors, the typical power consumption is specified at 15 watts (nominally with the Ryzen 5-2500U).

If we look at the pure computing power, AMD's Ryzen 5 2500U can leave Intel's i5-8250U behind and score evenly with Intel's i7-8550U. The two older Core i5-7200U and Core i7-7500U remain far behind, while their performance is still more than sufficient for an office device, and simpler 3D applications are also possible.

However, for everyday life with a notebook, not only the computing power, but also the system performance plays a role. Even though we only have a few Ryzen 5-2500U results, the offered performance did not correspond to our expectations. If in doubt, we would prefer the i5-8250U or the i7-8550U. 

 

Processor

Intel's Core i5-8250U is a quad-core processor that can operate on eight threads simultaneously thanks to Hyperthreading. As the direct successor of Intel's Core i5-7200U, it offers significantly higher clock speeds at similar energy efficiency. How long it can maintain the maximum clock speed of 3.5 GHz in Turbo mode, depends decisively on the cooling of the notebook.

You can compare the performance of Intel's Core i5-8250U with that of other processors in our CPU benchmark page.

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Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64 Bit

The cooling system of the IdeaPad 720s appears to do a good job. The processor was able to maintain its performance during the whole period of our Cinebench-R15 benchmark loop. Even though most of the competitors started off with higher results, they quickly dropped to similar or lower values than our test unit in the constant performance test. An exception was the Dell XPS 13 9370, whose points also initially dropped quickly, but then leveled out at a significantly higher value.

The performance could also be maintained during battery operation.

Cinebench R15
CPU Single 64Bit
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Intel Core i5-8250U
145 Points +5%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel Core i5-8250U
144 Points +4%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Intel Core i5-8250U
144 Points +4%
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Intel Core i5-8250U
142 Points +3%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel Core i5-8250U
138 Points
CPU Multi 64Bit
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Intel Core i5-8250U
636 Points +26%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel Core i5-8250U
565 Points +12%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Intel Core i5-8250U
564 Points +11%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Intel Core i5-8250U
534 Points +6%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel Core i5-8250U
506 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Single 64Bit
138 Points
Cinebench R15 CPU Multi 64Bit
506 Points
Cinebench R15 OpenGL 64Bit
38.52 fps
Cinebench R15 Ref. Match 64Bit
97.8 %
Help

System Performance

In daily operation, the performance of the IdeaPad 720s is impressive. Subjectively, the small and slim device runs very smoothly and offers astonishing performance. The benchmark results confirm this impression, and of the 13-inch comparison devices, only the Dell Inspiron 13 7370 is able to achieve better results.

PCMark 8
Home Score Accelerated v2
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
4006 Points +13%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
3902 Points +10%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
3544 Points
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
3471 Points -2%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
3197 Points -10%
Work Score Accelerated v2
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
4786 Points 0%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
4777 Points
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
4563 Points -4%
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
4140 Points -13%
PCMark 8 Home Score Accelerated v2
3544 points
PCMark 8 Work Score Accelerated v2
4777 points
Help

Storage Solution

The IdeaPad 720s also owes its good impression in the system performance to its good Samsung SSD. In the comparison, it is only surpassed by the 960Pro of the Schenker Slim 14, which is also manufactured by Samsung. The remaining competitors are left far behind by the storage solution of our test unit.

You can see in our HDD/SSD benchmark page how the built-in storage compares to other SSDs.

Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
CrystalDiskMark 3.0
-44%
-57%
53%
Read Seq
1674
462.7
-72%
476.8
-72%
2860
71%
Write Seq
1191
439.9
-63%
458.3
-62%
1995
68%
Read 512
658
325.2
-51%
351
-47%
815
24%
Write 512
852
361.9
-58%
298.2
-65%
1480
74%
Read 4k
51.8
27.52
-47%
20.79
-60%
57.7
11%
Write 4k
114.9
91.6
-20%
65.8
-43%
196.7
71%
Read 4k QD32
349.2
247.3
-29%
172.8
-51%
565
62%
Write 4k QD32
332.2
292
-12%
160.3
-52%
475.1
43%
Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
Sequential Read: 1674 MB/s
Sequential Write: 1191 MB/s
512K Read: 658 MB/s
512K Write: 852 MB/s
4K Read: 51.8 MB/s
4K Write: 114.9 MB/s
4K QD32 Read: 349.2 MB/s
4K QD32 Write: 332.2 MB/s

Graphics Card

In the IdeaPad 720s, Intel's UHD Graphics 620 integrated into the processor is responsible for displaying the screen contents. The graphics card has a clock speed of up to 1150 MHz. System RAM is shared with the UHD Graphics 620 and so the integrated GPU benefits from fast dual-channel bandwidth.

In the 3DMark benchmarks, our test unit only achieves last place among the competitors. While all the other notebooks profit from their dual-channel RAM, the IdeaPad 720s only has single-channel RAM. However, the results are still decent and almost reach the values of the Acer Spin 5 with dual-channel RAM.

You can see in our GPU benchmark page what graphics performance Intel's UHD Graphics 620 can achieve in other systems.

3DMark 11 - 1280x720 Performance GPU
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1806 Points +18%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1729 Points +12%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1666 Points +8%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1607 Points +5%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1537 Points
3DMark
1280x720 Cloud Gate Standard Graphics
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
9551 Points +19%
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
9349 Points +16%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
8654 Points +8%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
8025 Points
1920x1080 Fire Strike Graphics
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1200 Points +26%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1140 Points +19%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
1049 Points +10%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
Intel UHD Graphics 620, Intel Core i5-8250U
954 Points
3DMark 11 Performance
1683 points
3DMark Cloud Gate Standard Score
7319 points
3DMark Fire Strike Score
893 points
Help

Gaming Performance

As expected, the IdeaPad 720s is not a gaming notebook. However, the integrated graphics card by Intel still offers sufficient performance for casual and older games. For example, you can play the five-year-old "BioShock Infinite" smoothly in medium settings.

The difference between devices with dual-channel RAM and single-channel RAM also shows in the results of the gaming benchmarks. Even though both of the notebook variants are not designed for gaming applications, you can still get quite a few more FPS from dual-channel RAM.

Rise of the Tomb Raider
1366x768 Medium Preset AF:2x
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
13.8 fps +24%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
11.1 fps
1024x768 Lowest Preset
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
24.6 fps +26%
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
21.1 fps +8%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
19.5 fps
BioShock Infinite
1920x1080 Ultra Preset, DX11 (DDOF)
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
10.15 fps +34%
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
10.1 fps +33%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
8 fps +5%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
7.6 fps
1366x768 High Preset
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
29.9 fps +32%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
29.54 fps +31%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
24.6 fps +9%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
22.6 fps
1366x768 Medium Preset
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
34.5 fps +25%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
34.46 fps +25%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
29.9 fps +8%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
27.6 fps
1280x720 Very Low Preset
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G
70.9 fps +43%
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2
65.5 fps +32%
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN
56.1 fps +13%
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
49.6 fps
Thief
1366x768 Normal Preset AA:FX
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
11.3 fps
1024x768 Very Low Preset
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
UHD Graphics 620, i5-8250U, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP
16.3 fps
low med. high ultra
BioShock Infinite (2013) 49.6 27.6 22.6 7.6
Thief (2014) 16.3 11.3
Rise of the Tomb Raider (2016) 19.5 11.1

Emissions

Noise Emissions

During normal load, you rarely hear the fans of the IdeaPad 720s. During idle operation, our measuring devices were only able to detect the surrounding noises. While our test unit is also quiet under load, you can then hear the fan noise. However, the fan runs evenly and only turns off if a stable lower temperature of the processor has been reached.

Noise Level

Idle
30.13 / 30.13 / 30.9 dB(A)
Load
34.7 / 33.3 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: 30.13 dB(A)
dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs205045.34647.544.2502545.84543.742.340.245.8313332.53332.431.6334032.833.133.130.731.532.85031.532.430.428.830.231.56330.533.733.231.930.530.58029.730.731.326.427.229.710033.432.73229.428.433.412528.127.127.426.425.428.116031.228.829.228.42731.220025.326.425.723.623.425.325027.926.126.225.424.127.931525.325.62522.822.525.340025.624.724.223.422.125.650024.524.223.521.92124.563023.323.2232119.923.380024.723.822.819.719.224.7100023.523.92219.518.923.5125022.122.520.918.71822.1160022.122.52118.117.122.1200022.323.32117.71722.3250022.122.921.517.616.722.1315021.52320.716.816.421.5400025.125.520.816.816.225.1500020.622.918.816.816.220.6630018.519.317.916.816.318.580001818.517.81716.3181000017.71817.617.116.417.7125001818.217.817.216.7181600018.118.217.917.517.118.1SPL34.735.133.330.930.134.7N2.32.321.51.42.3median 23.3median 23.3median 21.5median 18.7median 18median 23.3Delta2.42.63.23.12.72.4hearing rangehide median Fan NoiseLenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB

Temperature

If the IdeaPad 720s has not run for a while, the palm rests feel uncomfortably cold. While perhaps, this problem will not occur often in summer, during the colder seasons it takes some time for the case surface to reach a comfortable temperature. Our temperature measurements show that the notebook only reaches 28 °C (82 °F) at the surface during idle. Even though the temperatures rise above 40 °C (104 °F) under load, the palm rests still remain below the 30-degree mark (86 °F).

During our stress test scenario, we utilized the full capacity of the IdeaPad 720s. During the one-hour test, the core temperatures rose considerably, and the processor speed dropped far below the base clock speed. However, the cooling of the notebook managed to stabilize the temperature inside to between 60 and 70 °C (140 - 158 °F). So our test unit ran the last half hour of the hour-long test at the Core i5-8250U's base clock speed of 1.6 GHz. While this scenario is extremely unlikely in everyday life, if it should occur, the cooling is powerful enough to ensure a minimum of performance even over long periods. 

Max. Load
 34.2 °C
94 F
43.6 °C
110 F
38.5 °C
101 F
 
 32.4 °C
90 F
42.8 °C
109 F
34 °C
93 F
 
 29.4 °C
85 F
28.7 °C
84 F
29.6 °C
85 F
 
Maximum: 43.6 °C = 110 F
Average: 34.8 °C = 95 F
36.6 °C
98 F
42 °C
108 F
34 °C
93 F
32 °C
90 F
37.1 °C
99 F
33.1 °C
92 F
29.8 °C
86 F
30.6 °C
87 F
30.7 °C
87 F
Maximum: 42 °C = 108 F
Average: 34 °C = 93 F
Power Supply (max.)  41.1 °C = 106 F | Room Temperature 23.3 °C = 74 F | FIRT 550-Pocket
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 34.8 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 29.5 °C / 85 F for the devices in the class Office.
(±) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 43.6 °C / 110 F, compared to the average of 34.2 °C / 94 F, ranging from 21.2 to 62.5 °C for the class Office.
(±) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 42 °C / 108 F, compared to the average of 36.7 °C / 98 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 27.3 °C / 81 F, compared to the device average of 29.5 °C / 85 F.
(+) The palmrests and touchpad are cooler than skin temperature with a maximum of 29.6 °C / 85.3 F and are therefore cool to the touch.
(±) The average temperature of the palmrest area of similar devices was 27.7 °C / 81.9 F (-1.9 °C / -3.4 F).
Heat map during idle - top
Heat map during idle - top
Heat map during idle - bottom
Heat map during idle - bottom
Heat map under load - top
Heat map under load - top
Heat map under load - bottom
Heat map under load - bottom

Speakers

Lenovo labels the IdeaPad 720s with the stamp of the US speaker manufacturer JBL. However, this does not ensure a great sound at all. Our measurements show a strong emphasis of the mid-range with the high notes flat and the bass notes dropping steeply. Subjectively, we perceive the sound as strongly reverberating, which could be the result of the simulated Dolby-Surround sound. Instead of bringing across a spacious sound, it sounds like it is coming out of a metal box. While the speakers might be sufficient for short audio listening, we recommend using external speakers or headphones.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2047.244.247.22540.340.240.33136.631.636.6403831.5385038.630.238.66338.830.538.88040.127.240.110041.728.441.712541.125.441.116044.82744.820050.223.450.225054.624.154.631559.122.559.140058.422.158.450059.52159.563059.519.959.58006619.266100061.718.961.7125055.61855.616005717.157200054.81754.8250053.516.753.5315050.516.450.5400047.316.247.3500046.116.246.1630047.616.347.6800049.116.349.11000049.616.449.6125004816.7481600050.517.150.5SPL69.330.169.3N24.21.424.2median 50.5median 18median 50.5Delta52.7535.335.132.931.831.83236.535.132.428.93328.936.328.848.32761.52752.924.860.92462.822.763.32269.521.267.82174.82075.919.472.718.97117.770.117.86917.671.817.668.117.671.417.673.717.670.417.571.617.671.617.669.617.459.717.583.630.662.51.5median 69.6median 17.84.72.4hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseLenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKBApple MacBook 12 (Early 2016) 1.1 GHz
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB audio analysis

(-) | not very loud speakers (66 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(±) | reduced bass - on average 6.2% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(±) | higher mids - on average 8.6% higher than median
(±) | linearity of mids is average (8.6% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 2.2% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (5.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (20.8% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 42% of all tested devices in this class were better, 11% similar, 47% worse
» The best had a delta of 7%, average was 22%, worst was 53%
Compared to all devices tested
» 51% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 41% 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 comparison (checkboxes selectable!)

Power Management

Power Consumption

Lenovo is using a USB 3.0 Type-C connection for the power connection of the IdeaPad 720s. The power consumption is in the upper middle of the field of the competitors. At 3.9 watts during idle and 34 watts under load, the notebook is very efficient. However, some of the competing devices use even less power. The included power supply offers a maximum of 45 watts and therefore should be sized sufficiently for any situation.

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.3 / 0.47 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 3.9 / 7.7 / 10.4 Watt
Load midlight 33.3 / 34 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 720S-13IKB
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Samsung PM961 MZVLW256HEHP, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Toshiba XG5 KXG50ZNV256G, IPS, 3840x2160, 13.30
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Micron 1100 MTFDDAV256TBN, IPS, 1920x1080, 13.30
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, Samsung SSD 960 Pro 512 GB m.2, IPS, 1920x1080, 14.00
Power Consumption
-16%
7%
4%
-18%
Idle Minimum *
3.9
4.3
-10%
3.9
-0%
3.6
8%
6
-54%
Idle Average *
7.7
8
-4%
8.2
-6%
6.8
12%
8.46
-10%
Idle Maximum *
10.4
8.1
22%
8.8
15%
8.9
14%
9.48
9%
Load Average *
33.3
46.6
-40%
28.5
14%
36
-8%
37.4
-12%
Load Maximum *
34
49.8
-46%
30.7
10%
36.5
-7%
41.1
-21%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

The battery life of the IdeaPad 720s is without peer. At more than 10 hours in our WLAN test, the device outlasts the competitors by almost two hours. However, the battery discharges significantly faster under load. The screen turns dark after an hour and a half. While Lenovo does not envision replacing the battery, you can reach it below the bottom of the case of the IdeaPad 720s. 

Battery Runtime
Idle (without WLAN, min brightness)
17h 15min
WiFi Websurfing
10h 08min
Load (maximum brightness)
1h 31min
Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 46 Wh
Dell XPS 13 9370 i5 UHD
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 52 Wh
Acer Spin 5 SP513-52N-54SF
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 53.9 Wh
Dell Inspiron 13 7370
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 38 Wh
SCHENKER Slim 14 L17
i5-8250U, UHD Graphics 620, 44 Wh
Battery Runtime
-11%
-18%
-27%
-50%
Reader / Idle
1035
869
-16%
772
-25%
WiFi v1.3
608
408
-33%
500
-18%
345
-43%
304
-50%
Load
91
106
16%
78
-14%

Verdict

Pros

+ very light
+ very thin
+ good cooling system
+ long battery life
+ almost bezel-less display

Cons

- few connections
- hardly any maintenance options
- only single-channel RAM is available
The Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-13IKB was provided by campuspoint.
The Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-13IKB was provided by campuspoint.

The IdeaPad 720s by Lenovo is a very light and ultra-slim notebook for everyday office work. As one of the few devices in our test, the IdeaPad 720s is able to maintain its performance consistently and without drops. Even under extreme conditions, the good cooling ensures that the system can continue to be used. However, the maintenance options are limited, and Lenovo concentrated only on the most essential connections. But thanks to the Thunderbolt connections, all the necessary ports can be provided by the corresponding peripheral.

With the Lenovo IdeaPad 720s, the buyers receive a very thin and light notebook, which will always be there, but never in the way during everyday life.

In the current offerings, the IdeaPad 720s can be purchased with a Kaby Lake CPU of the 8th generation without hesitation. However, the buyers have to follow their own preferences in deciding whether the models with AMD's Ryzen 5 2500U or the Kaby Lake processors of the 7th generation are worthwhile in terms of their price.

Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB - 02/06/2018 v6(old)
Mike Wobker

Chassis
87 / 98 → 89%
Keyboard
80%
Pointing Device
87%
Connectivity
40 / 80 → 50%
Weight
74 / 20-67 → 100%
Battery
93%
Display
87%
Games Performance
57 / 68 → 83%
Application Performance
90 / 92 → 98%
Temperature
91%
Noise
93%
Audio
50%
Camera
56 / 85 → 66%
Average
76%
85%
Office - Weighted Average

Pricecompare

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > Lenovo Ideapad 720S-13IKB (i5-8250U, UHD 620) Laptop Review
Mike Wobker, 2018-02- 7 (Update: 2019-03-25)