I’ve seen a lot of people mention problems with Ideapads, and I’m curious about the main issues. I just bought one secondhand and wonder what I might be in for.
They’re no worse than other budget laptops, but all low-cost consumer laptops tend to have mediocre build quality, especially with hinges that can break over time. The IdeaPad 5 series is better regarded than the 1 and 3 series because of its metal build.
It’s not that they’re bad, but they’re Lenovo’s entry-level laptops. To hit budget pricing while still offering decent specs, they cut corners, often on build quality. Displays have improved because people demand better, but the durability lags behind Lenovo’s more premium ThinkPad or ThinkBook lines.
With budget laptops, you need to treat them gently—both physically and workload-wise. I’ve seen basic laptops last 7–8 years when used within their limits.
I’ve owned two Ideapads and think they’re great for budget laptops. Look for models with better specs, though. Mine usually last 3.5–4.5 years, but the plastic build shows wear over time. Repairs might not be worth it when you can replace one for $500–550.
The IdeaPad line includes a wide range of models. Some have issues, others don’t. They’re mid-range laptops overall and generally fine for most use cases. The idea that you need to worry about workload is nonsense.
It’s the same concept as Dell Inspirons or HP Pavilions—lower-tier consumer-grade lines that can be decent at higher price points.