Lenovo IdeaPad 3 17" vs Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 17" comes with a stronger CPU and better-integrated GPU compared to the Slim 3, making it more suitable for demanding engineering and design tasks; however, its larger size means less portability. The Slim 3 is lighter and more compact, featuring a touch screen, but has a less powerful processor and graphics, which may not be ideal for intensive applications, although it could be more convenient for on-the-go use.

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 17" offers a larger screen and likely a higher resolution which enhances readability and workspace for general use and engineering tasks, along with sufficient brightness, but its standard refresh rate is less ideal for gaming, where smoother motion is crucial. Despite the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 having a fair screen, its smaller size and possibly lower resolution may reduce effectiveness in detailed tasks like engineering and its modest screen quality impacts the gaming experience. Neither model likely offers the advanced color accuracy required for professional engineering and design work, nor the high refresh rates desired in gaming and 3D applications.

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 17" is better for general use because of its superior CPU, the AMD Ryzen 5, which leads to better performance, and a more vibrant screen, with better color coverage, which enhances the viewing experience. In contrast, while the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is lighter and thus more portable with a very slightly longer battery life, its less powerful AMD Ryzen 3 CPU and lower-quality screen mean it may not handle tasks or display content as well, making it fair for general use.

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 17" and Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 are rated similarly in gaming and 3D largely due to their graphics capabilities and screen refresh rates which are modest and may not deliver the high-end gaming experience sought by enthusiasts. While both have integrated graphics and standard refresh rates, the larger screen of the IdeaPad 3 could slightly enhance the gaming experience, although both are limited by their relatively modest processing power and average screen quality.

PerfectRec’s Content Creation Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for photo editing, video editing and other content creation tasks.

PerfectRec’s Software Development Score takes into account the many different features of the laptop that make it more or less suitable for software developers.

Battery life estimate is based on a mix of common use patterns. More portable and higher performing laptops tend to have less battery life.

PerfectRec’s Build Quality Score incorporates case materials, display and keyboard flex, hinge quality, and overall reliability.