The 2023 Lenovo Legion Slim 7i strikes an exceptional balance between sleek design and robust performance. Equipped with a 13th-generation Intel i9, 16GB DDR5 RAM, NVIDIA RTX 4070, and a capacious 1TB SSD, it delivers impeccably smooth 1440p gaming on a stunning display. However, it’s worth noting that this gaming laptop can produce significant noise, even when not under load.
Pros:
- Slim and lightweight
- Minimal compromises
- Excellent 1440p gaming and creative capabilities
- Outstanding audio and visual experience
Cons:
- Fans can become excessively noisy
- Bulky power adapter
- Comes with standard Lenovo pre-installed software
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): A BRIEF OVERVIEW
In the previous year, our review of the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) lauded its remarkable performance, all packed within a slightly above five-pound chassis. This gaming laptop, although exceptional, did involve some trade-offs. The latest version brings some commendable upgrades in power and performance, but it’s accompanied by a notably unwieldy power brick.
Moreover, this gaming laptop managed to shed some weight, now just under five pounds. While it might encounter challenges with native 4K resolutions, it excels in the 1440p range, making graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield run splendidly. However, it’s worth noting that these resource-intensive tasks can push the cooling system fans to produce more noticeable noise than during lighter activities like web browsing.
The battery life slightly surpasses average expectations, providing around 7 hours, suitable for a short coastal trip. Yet, it implies that gaming at high visual settings will require a continuous power source.
Under the hood of the 2023 Legion Slim 7i, you’ll find a robust 14-core 13th-gen Intel i9, 16GB DDR5 RAM, Nvidia RTX 4070, and a capacious 1TB SSD storage. The gaming experience is further enhanced by a stunning 16-inch 2560 x 1600 display with a 240Hz refresh rate and impressive Harman speakers. Familiar features include an individually per-key lit RGB keyboard and an array of ports. Lenovo Vantage offers customization options, although apps like Legion Arena and WebAdviser feel like unnecessary bloatware.
While substantial improvements may be lacking in the latest Legion Slim 7i, the incremental boost in power and reduced weight are the true standouts. In essence, it stands as one of the top thin and light gaming laptops of the year.
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): PRICE & AVAILABILITY
- Cost: The base price starts at $1,499.99 / £1,820 / AU$2,719.
- Availability: It is currently available for purchase.
- Locations: You can purchase it in the US, UK, and Australia.
Pricing for the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) varies depending on your region. In the United States, you have three configurations to choose from, and you can even customize your build. The review model I received is priced at approximately $1,749.
For a more budget-friendly option, you can opt for the $1,499 configuration, which includes a 13th gen Intel i7, Nvidia RTX 4060, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB SSD storage. You can also reduce the storage to 512GB for around $50 less. At the highest tier, costing around $2,211, the customizable build matches the review model but allows you to increase RAM to 32GB and offers a better 3200 x 2000 display with a 165Hz refresh rate.
In the UK, there’s a pre-built option priced at £1,980, featuring a 13th Gen Intel i9, 32GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 4070, 1TB SSD storage, and the 3200 x 2000 display. Customizable configurations fall in the £1,820.00 – £2,300.00 range, offering similar CPU, RAM, storage, GPU, and display options as in the US. All options, whether it’s the $2,719 pre-built or the customizable builds ranging from $3,089 to $3,799, come with a 3200 x 2000 display with a 165Hz refresh rate. The pre-built includes an Intel i7, 32GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 4060, and 1TB SSD.
The Legion Slim 7i is notably more affordable than the Razer Blade 14 or MSI Stealth GS66, yet it offers comparable performance. In the category of slim gaming laptops, it stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options.
Price Score: 4.5 / 5
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): SPECS
In my review configuration, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) sits in the middle price bracket at $1,749. It boasts an Intel i9 CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a 16-inch WQXGA display with a speedy 240Hz refresh rate.
For those with a more flexible budget, a customizable version priced at around $2,211 offers the same configuration as the review unit but with an enhanced 32GB DDR RAM and a 16-inch 3.2K display operating at a 165Hz refresh rate.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the specifications for the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023):
| Component | Base Model | Review Unit | Top Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,459 / £1,820 / AU$2,719 | $1,749 | $2,211 |
| CPU | 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700H Processor | 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H Processor | 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H Processor |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6 | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6 | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU 8GB GDDR6 |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5-5200MHz | 16GB DDR5-5200MHz | 32GB DDR5-5200MHz |
| Storage | 1TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC | 1TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC | 1TB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC |
| Screen | 16″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600) | 16″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600) | 16″ 3.2K (3200 x 2000) |
| 240Hz, HDR 400, 500 nits | 240Hz, HDR 400, 500 nits | 165Hz, 100%DCI-P3, 430 nits | |
| Ports | Multiple USB-A, HDMI 2.1, SD card reader, Thunderbolt 4, Audio combo jack | Multiple USB-A, HDMI 2.1, SD card reader, Thunderbolt 4, Audio combo jack | Multiple USB-A, HDMI 2.1, SD card reader, Thunderbolt 4, Audio combo jack |
| Wireless | Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6 1675 (AX211), Bluetooth | Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6 1675 (AX211), Bluetooth | Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6 1675 (AX211), Bluetooth |
| Camera | 1080P FHD, Dual Microphone, E-camera Shutter | 1080P FHD, Dual Microphone, E-camera Shutter | 1080P FHD, Dual Microphone, E-camera Shutter |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs / 2.0 kgs | 4.4 lbs / 2.0 kgs | 4.4 lbs / 2.0 kgs |
| Dimensions | 19.9 x 357.7 x 259.3 mm | 19.9 x 357.7 x 259.3 mm | 19.9 x 357.7 x 259.3 mm |
Beyond variations in CPU, GPU, RAM, and SSD storage, the significant distinction lies in the choice of two 16-inch displays: the standard WQXGA (2560 x 1600 at 240Hz) or the 3.2K (3200 x 2000 at 165Hz). Lenovo provides a configuration tool for tailoring the perfect setup for buyers.
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): DESIGN
Despite a power boost, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) has shed weight. It maintains an ample selection of ports and boasts a captivating RGB keyboard.
The design philosophy of the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) remains a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. Closed, it showcases an all-metal chassis crafted from sandblasted aluminum and magnesium, offering a smudge-resistant, sturdy feel.
The port arrangement has seen minor shifts but largely mirrors its predecessor. At the lower rear, you’ll find an HDMI port and three USB-A ports, accompanied by a power port that connects to a somewhat unwieldy power brick, noticeably weightier than the laptop itself. The rear ports also sport illuminated icons atop the laptop’s base, with the display set about an inch above. Small alterations to the side include the left-sided audio jack, dual USB-C ports, and an SD slot for content creators, alongside a camera shutter for privacy. The laptop, when closed, maintains a slim profile of less than an inch.
Upon opening, you’ll notice the power button/fingerprint scanner centered amidst the Harmon speakers. The speaker’s audio quality is impressive for music, gaming, and video, although graphically demanding games can push the cooling fans to their limits, suggesting headphones for those scenarios.
The display is a visual delight, featuring vibrant colors, deep blacks, and respectable brightness. Above the screen lies a 1080p webcam with dual microphones, ideal for video conferencing and streaming with proper lighting. Below, the per-key RGB keyboard, elegantly backlit, offers comfort for both typing documents and gaming. The trackpad underneath is smooth to the touch and provides a satisfying click when pressed.
The slim package fits neatly into backpacks or briefcases, but the weighty power brick does detract from portability. Whether laid flat or on the lap, the Legion Slim 7i ensures comfortable usage during extended periods.
Design Score: 4 / 5
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): PERFORMANCE
This gaming powerhouse conquers AAA titles at native 1440p with ease and flexes its muscle with creative software. However, the blazing 240Hz may not see much action in graphically intensive games due to exceptionally loud cooling fans.
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): LAPTOP BENCHMARKS
Let’s delve into the benchmark performance of the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i:
| Benchmark | Results |
|---|---|
| 3DMark: Night Raid | 61244 |
| 3DMark: Fire Strike | 25797 |
| 3DMark: Time Spy | 12202 |
| GeekBench 6 (Single-core) | 2653 |
| GeekBench 6 (Multi-core) | 2653 |
| Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition (1080p, Extreme) | 49.11 fps |
| Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition (1080p, High) | 93.73 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, Ultra) | 88.23 fps |
| Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, Low) | 125.12 fps |
| Dirt 5 (1920×1200, Ultra) | 103.90 fps |
| Dirt 5 (1920×1200, Low) | 213.00 fps |
| 25GB File Copy | 2006.553812 |
| Handbrake 1.6 | 4:28 |
| CrossMark (Overall) | 1948 |
| CrossMark (Productivity) | 1908 |
| CrossMark (Creativity) | 2044 |
| CrossMark (Responsiveness) | 1794 |
| Web Surfing (Battery Informant) | 7 hours 01 minute |
| PCMark 10 Gaming Battery Life | 59 hours |
Despite its compact size, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) packs a punch. It handles multitasking effortlessly, from numerous Chrome tabs to resource-intensive apps like Tidal and Xbox. High-quality 4K video and hi-fi audio playback present no challenges. Surprisingly, the cooling fans can get quite loud even during less demanding tasks.
In the gaming realm, this slim laptop shines, effortlessly running AAA titles at native 1440p with commendable frame rates. Cyberpunk 2077, for instance, achieved an average of 88 FPS in benchmark tests, with ray-tracing dropping it to still-playable levels above 60 FPS. Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition, while hitting 49 FPS, remains playable above 30 FPS. Notably, Dirt 5 boasts an impressive 103 FPS at Ultra settings.
Enhancing these frame rates further is Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling, compatible with the mentioned games. Despite its capabilities, don’t count on fully exploiting the 240Hz refresh rate; only Dirt 5 at low settings enters that realm.
For creative software aficionados, the Legion Slim 7i excels. Photoshop handles 4K resolution images and layers without slowdown, while Premiere Pro exports videos with remarkable speed.
Performance Score: 4.5 / 5
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): BATTERY
Battery life on gaming-focused laptops typically falls short, and the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) is no exception. During the PCMark 10 Gaming Battery Life test, it endured for only about 59 minutes. In general usage, it offers an average of 7 hours, suitable for short journeys, surpassing many lightweight gaming rivals.
Charging this gaming laptop to full capacity takes a bit over an hour. There are two ways to recharge it: through the port connecting to the substantial power brick or via USB-C, which can provide up to 140W of charging, although using a MacBook charger may impact performance.
Battery Score: 4 / 5
SHOULD YOU BUY THE LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023)?
Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023)
Attributes Notes Rating
Price The price point is a nice sweet spot for a gaming laptop that blends portability with performance power. 4.5 / 5
Design Though the design carries over from last year, it still balances efficiency with a sleek and slim yet sturdy build. 4 / 5
Performance For a gaming laptop its size, it still manages to handle the visually best AAA games at great resolution and frame rates. Just know that the cooling fans will run incredibly loud. 4.5 / 5
Battery Battery life is in line with the previous Legion Slim 7i. Users can get a solid 7 hours out of it if doing more general tasks like web browsing. Performance-pushing gaming won’t last more than an hour. 4 / 5
Average rating The Lenovo Legion Slim 7i has the performance power to back up its lightweight design. It’s also feature-rich with a great display, audio (when the fans aren’t screaming), port selection, and a beautifully lit RGB keyboard that’s comfortable to use. 4.5 / 5
Buy it if
You want a gaming laptop that doesn’t weigh a lot
Large power brick aside, the Legion Slim 7i design weighs under five pounds and less than the size of a quarter when closed.
You require significant performance power
Size be damned as the gaming laptop has a powerful combo of an Intel i9, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and Nvidia RTX 4070 that allows great performance across the many visually impressive AAA games.
You want a great display and audio combo
Between the beautiful 2560 x 1600 display with a 240Hz refresh rate alongside Harman audio speakers, this laptop is great to look at and sounds great.
Don’t buy it if
You want a laptop that is quieter
Even when using web browsers or music streaming apps, the cooling fans can get extremely loud.
You don’t want to carry that large power brick
The power brick that comes with the Legion Slim 7i feels heavier than the laptop itself.
You can care less for manufacturer-focused software
The Lenovo Vantage app is fine for personalizing user experience but everything is a bit useless.
LENOVO LEGION SLIM 7I (2023): ALSO CONSIDER
| Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) | Razer Blade 14 | Asus Zephyrus G14 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,499.99 / £1,820 / $2,719 | $2,399.99 / £2,149 / AU$3,199 | $1,449 |
| CPU | 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700H | AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS | 3.0GHz AMD Ryzen 9 4900HS |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 | Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 (6GB GDDR6) |
| RAM | 16GB DDR5-5200MHz | 16GB DDR5 | 16GB DDR4 (3,200MHz) |
| Screen | 16″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600), IPS, Anti-Glare, HDR 400, 240Hz | 14-inch, QHD+ (2560×1600), 240Hz | 14-inch, QHD+ (2560×1600), 240Hz |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC | 1TB SSD | 1TB SSD (PCIe) |
| Ports | 3X USB-A, HDMI 2.1, 4-in-1 SD card reader, Thunderbolt 4, Audio combo jack | 2x USB Type-C, 2x USB Type-A, Kensington port, HDMI port, Audio jack | 2 x USB 3.1 Gen2, HDMI-out, Gigabit Ethernet, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1, Mic-in, Headphone-out |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 or above | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Camera | 1080P FHD with Dual Microphone and E-camera Shutter | 1080p IR FHD webcam | N/A |
| Weight | 4.4lbs (2.0kgs) | 4.05lbs (1.84kg) | 3.53 pounds (1.60kg) |
| Dimensions | 19.9 x 357.7 x 259.3 mm | 12.23 x 8.97 x 0.70 inches (310.7 x 228 x 17.99mm) | 12.75 x 8.82 x 0.70 inches (32.4 x 22.4 x 1.79 cm); W x D x H |