Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro Review: Laptop First, Yogi Second
The Personal Nature of Laptops
Laptops often establish a more intimate connection with users compared to conventional desktop computers. Although a desktop serves as my primary workstation for approximately 90% of my computing tasks, my laptop frequently accompanies me on various journeys.
It travels with me during flights and road trips, remains accessible on the sofa, and even joins me in bed, enduring accidental spills and snack debris along the way.
Ultimately, when faced with the decision of selecting a single machine to support me through both favorable and challenging periods, my laptop – presently an older Thinkpad X60 model – consistently proves reliable.
While desktops offer flexibility and ease of component upgrades, the next laptop I acquire, regardless of whether it's used for three or thirteen years, must be a suitable choice.
Introducing the Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro
The Yoga 2 Pro embodies Lenovo’s initiative to fully leverage the touch-focused Metro interface of Windows 8. This model represents a significant departure from the traditionally bulky, black Thinkpads that Lenovo commonly manufactures.
The Yoga 2 Pro boasts a sleek design, available in silver or orange, coupled with a display offering exceptionally high resolution and a comprehensive set of features.
Versatile Operating Modes
The Yoga 2 Pro derives its name from its ability to transition into various “poses,” or operating modes. These modes each serve distinct purposes, although the utility of all configurations except the standard laptop mode is somewhat specialized.
The different modes offer unique ways to interact with the device, catering to a range of user preferences and scenarios.
Preferred Yoga Poses
A key feature driving the popularity of the Yoga series is its innovative “360-Degree Flip-and-Fold Design”. This design philosophy reflects the ambitions of Windows 8, which aimed to cater to a diverse range of devices.
Essentially, the design allows for versatile usage, enabling the laptop to function as a tablet when desired. The actual practicality of this tablet mode, however, remains a separate consideration.
Design Versatility
The 360-degree hinge provides multiple poses for operation. These configurations enhance usability in various scenarios.
- Laptop Mode: Traditional laptop experience for productivity.
- Tablet Mode: Folded flat for touch-based interaction.
- Tent Mode: Inverted V-shape, ideal for presentations or media consumption.
- Stand Mode: Similar to Tent Mode, but with a more stable base.
Each pose offers a distinct way to interact with the device. This adaptability is a core strength of the Yoga line.
Windows 8 Integration
The Yoga’s design directly addresses the evolving landscape of operating systems like Windows 8. Windows 8 sought to bridge the gap between desktop and mobile experiences.
By offering a convertible form factor, the Yoga seamlessly integrates with this vision. It provides users with the flexibility to switch between modes as needed.
Practical Considerations
While the ability to transform into a tablet is appealing, user preference varies. Some individuals may find the laptop mode sufficient for their needs.
The value of the flip-and-fold design ultimately depends on individual usage patterns and requirements. It’s a feature that caters to a broad spectrum of users.
Laptop Functionality
When purchasing a laptop, its primary function will undoubtedly be as a portable computer. Considering this, the Yoga 2 Pro excels as a laptop, offering an aesthetically pleasing design, practical usability, and a remarkably intuitive user experience.
Core Laptop Experience
It's important to acknowledge the Yoga 2 Pro’s versatile nature, however, for focused productivity, a traditional laptop setup is essential. A keyboard and pointing device are fundamental for completing tasks efficiently.
In this regard, the Yoga 2 Pro is ideally suited. It effectively delivers the performance and features expected of a standard laptop.
The device is well-equipped to handle typical computing needs, making it a strong choice for users prioritizing work and productivity.
Stand Mode Functionality
Stand mode represented a particularly favored configuration for me, primarily due to its enabling of a relaxed viewing experience. It permitted reclining while maintaining proximity to the screen, effectively minimizing keyboard obstruction.
The potential benefits of this posture for long-term eye health, however, remain a subject of discussion.
Adjustable Viewing Angles
A key advantage of stand mode lies in its capacity for viewing angle adjustment. This flexibility renders it suitable for diverse environments, including tables, desks, couches, and beds.
Keyboard Considerations
Transitioning to stand, tent, or tablet modes automatically deactivates the Yoga 2 Pro’s keyboard. However, the keyboard remains physically exposed in these configurations.
Consequently, careful consideration of the surrounding environment is necessary to prevent potential damage or accidental key presses.
- The keyboard is deactivated in stand, tent, and tablet modes.
- Users should exercise caution regarding keyboard placement.
Utilizing Tent Mode
Tent mode proves particularly advantageous when a presentation or display is required, for instance, on a flat surface like a desk or table.
The upward tilt inherent in tent mode limits its practicality when used on softer surfaces such as a couch or bed, and it doesn't offer a comfortable experience when positioned on a lap or stomach.
Practical Applications
I discovered tent mode to be especially helpful during cooking activities.
A quick Google search for a recipe could be performed, and then the laptop could be folded into tent mode and positioned on the table for easy reference, functioning similarly to a traditional cookbook.
This configuration allows for hands-free viewing of instructions while preparing meals.
Tent mode offers a convenient way to interact with digital content in specific scenarios.
Tablet Mode Functionality
The desire to integrate tablet functionality into larger devices is prevalent, yet a 13-inch, 3-pound form factor presents challenges. Utilizing a device of this size in tablet mode proves impractical.
Even with the keyboard deactivated during tablet operation, the physical presence of the keys remains a distraction, potentially causing accidental input when held.
Evaluating Tablet Mode Usefulness
Considering the practicality of tablet mode, even for relaxed settings, it becomes apparent that the benefits are limited. If a device offers laptop capabilities, utilizing those features is often more efficient.
A conventional physical keyboard provides a superior user experience compared to the on-screen keyboard found in Windows 8. Consequently, employing the Yoga 2 Pro as a tablet offers minimal advantages.
Ultimately, the attempt to combine tablet and laptop functionality in this specific design doesn't fully succeed due to the size and weight of the device.
Design and Construction
The Yoga 2 Pro is available in two color options: Silver Gray and Clementine Orange. The unit we evaluated for this review was finished in Silver Gray. Initial impressions reveal a design aesthetic reminiscent of the Macbook Air.
The configuration of our test model was as follows:
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows 8.1 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-4500U running at 2.4 GHz (1 CPU, 2 cores, 4 threads)
- Memory: 8 GB of RAM
- Storage: 225 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4400 Mobile
- Display: 13.3-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 3200x1800 at 59 Hz
Key Specifications
Intel Core i7-4500U processing power was present in the review unit. This processor features 2 cores and 4 threads, providing efficient performance.
The 8 GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking capabilities. Coupled with the 225 GB SSD, the system delivers fast boot times and application loading.
The Intel HD Graphics 4400 Mobile handles graphical tasks. The vibrant 13.3-inch display, boasting a 3200x1800 resolution, offers a sharp and detailed visual experience.
Initial Observations
The device’s build quality appears solid. The Silver Gray finish provides a premium look and feel.
Exterior Build Quality
The overall construction of this laptop is exceptionally high quality. Identifying significant flaws in its design proves remarkably difficult. The device is assembled with precision, offering a robust feel and an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Typically, a thorough inspection reveals at least some minor drawbacks. However, the Yoga 2 Pro presents a challenge in this regard. The use of plastic in its construction could be considered a potential negative. However, this plastic possesses a pleasant texture, resisting the accumulation of fingerprints and smudges.
A degree of flexibility is present in the rear of the display panel. This flex is minimal, though, and doesn’t impact screen integrity or cause visual distortion.
Effective ventilation is integrated into the laptop’s rear design. The device consistently maintained comfortable operating temperatures, making it suitable for extended use on a lap.
The cooling fan activated infrequently – only three or four times during testing – and operated with minimal noise when engaged.
The hinge mechanism is robustly engineered, a necessity given the demands placed upon it. Despite this functional requirement, the hinge inspires confidence when opening and adjusting the screen.
Its motion is remarkably smooth and consistent; no twisting or instability is apparent. Once positioned, the lid remains securely in place.
Ports and SwitchesThe Yoga 2 Pro provides a sufficient number of expansion ports for basic connectivity. However, users should anticipate the need for accessories to achieve a level of convenience comparable to desktop or standard laptop configurations. It’s important to remember that this is an ultrabook, prioritizing a minimal design.
Located on the right side are, from front to back, a battery status indicator, the power button, and the “Novo” button. The Novo button facilitates access to the BIOS and system recovery options.
Further towards the rear of the right edge, you’ll find a rotation lock, a volume control rocker, a headphone jack, and a USB 2.0 port.
On the left side, arranged from front to back, are an SD card slot, a micro HDMI port, a USB 3.0 port, and the power connector.
A substantial rubber border surrounds the display. This provides a distinct tactile and auditory feedback – a satisfying “twunk” – when the lid is closed.
The rubber lip also ensures a secure and tight seal around the display edges.
The area surrounding the keyboard features a textured, rubberized coating. This finish offers a comfortable and stable surface for resting hands.
The tactile sensation is quite pleasant; it was enjoyable to rest palms on this surface or lightly tap fingers during moments of contemplation.
This rubberized material is relatively easy to clean, which initially raised some concerns. Consideration was given to its appearance over time with prolonged exposure to skin oils.
Regular maintenance should help preserve the Yoga 2 Pro’s aesthetic appeal. However, it’s expected to age differently than surfaces constructed from hard plastics or metal.
Usability
The touchpad on this laptop is generously sized and exhibited a responsive nature, reacting to even the most delicate touches. However, personal preference led me to find it less than ideal. Its surface texture felt somewhat lacking in definition, and it lacks dedicated physical buttons.
Instead of physical buttons, subtle delineations are indicated by a faint white line along the bottom edge. While not inherently flawed, I struggled to adapt to this design. Further customization within the Control Panel might have yielded a more satisfactory experience.
Lenovo has a strong reputation for producing high-quality keyboards, known for their comfortable feel and reliable performance. Despite this, the keyboard on the Yoga 2 Pro didn’t fully resonate with me. The slim profile of the device limits key travel, requiring an adjustment period, especially for those accustomed to traditional keyboards.
The arrangement of keys also presented a challenge. Laptop manufacturers frequently modify keyboard layouts, attempting to accommodate rarely used keys that cannot be entirely eliminated. This results in the persistence of keys like “Scroll Lock,” “Pause,” and “Caps Lock,” despite their limited modern utility.
For instance, on the Yoga 2 Pro, the “Home” key is positioned directly adjacent to the “Backspace” key. This placement frequently caused my cursor to jump to the beginning of a line unexpectedly, raising the question of how often the “Home” key is actually utilized to warrant a dedicated, full-size key.
Fortunately, the laptop’s portability is a significant advantage. Its thinness – measuring just 0.61 inches – and lightweight design (3.1 pounds) make it ideal for travel. It’s easily carried through large airports, such as George Bush International in Texas, without causing undue strain.
The Display Characteristics
The Yoga 2 Pro features a ten-point capacitive display with a glossy finish, representing an early example of the increasing trend towards high-resolution screens in the computing market. Future product cycles are anticipated to bring even greater resolutions, such as 4K, into widespread availability, mirroring the progression of multicore processors and substantial RAM capacities.
In general, the display quality of the Yoga 2 Pro is commendable, offering good brightness, clarity, and accurate color reproduction. Considering the laptop’s $1200 price point, it delivers a strong visual experience. The touchscreen functionality proved responsive to various gestures, including swipes, flips, and pinches.
However, the width of the bezel surrounding the display’s active area appears somewhat substantial. While a wider bezel can be beneficial for tablet-style handling, the likelihood of frequent use in this manner seems limited.
Prolonged use of this device as a tablet could potentially cause discomfort due to its weight and size.
A primary concern regarding the display isn’t inherent to the hardware itself or Lenovo’s design, but rather the inconsistent scaling of Windows desktop applications at the high resolution of 3200x1800. The results range from acceptable to problematic, with some applications exhibiting significant issues.
For instance, popular programs like VLC media player and the desktop version of Dropbox may present challenges to users, requiring increased precision with the mouse pointer. Controls might appear excessively small, and text could overflow boundaries, leading to a frustrating user experience.
Further details regarding the behavior of high-resolution displays, specifically in the context of the Yoga 2 Pro and Windows, can be found in this related article.
A practical solution to mitigate these application scaling issues is to reduce the display resolution to a more manageable level. A resolution of 1920x1080 (Full HD) proved to be a suitable compromise, though the optimal setting will depend on individual tolerance for application inconsistencies.
While the native resolution is functional, Windows 8.1 itself scales reasonably well. However, unless users are willing to replace legacy desktop applications with Windows Store alternatives – a potentially difficult undertaking – or seek out desktop equivalents optimized for high resolutions, a degree of patience will be necessary.
Despite these considerations, the display is likely to be well-received, or at least appreciated. At 13.3 inches, it achieves a pixel density exceeding 275 DPI, comparable to similarly sized “Retina Displays”. Nevertheless, some reservations exist regarding its overall value, particularly given the limited viewable area and the scaling inconsistencies encountered throughout the system.