Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023): The Best Thin and Light Gaming Laptop Available Now
In our review last year, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) received high praise for its outstanding performance power and lightweight design. However, there were some compromises that needed to be noted. With the latest version, Lenovo has made some improvements in terms of power and performance, although there are still some drawbacks, such as the uncomfortably large power brick. Nevertheless, the new Legion Slim 7i weighs even lighter than its predecessor, making it a top contender in the gaming laptop market.
While the Legion Slim 7i may struggle with native 4K resolutions, it truly excels in the 1440p range. This means that graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield run smoothly and beautifully. However, it’s important to note that the cooling system fans may become noticeably louder during these power-demanding tasks compared to when performing simple web browsing. The battery life is slightly above average, lasting around 7 hours, which is sufficient for short trips. But if you’re planning on playing games with high visual fidelity, it’s best to have the power supply handy, as the laptop won’t survive without it.
The 2023 Legion Slim 7i is equipped with impressive specs, including a 14-core 13th gen Intel i9, 16GB DDR5 RAM, Nvidia RTX 4070, and 1TB SSD storage. It also boasts a stunning audio/visual experience thanks to its beautiful 16-inch 2560 x 1600 display with a 240Hz refresh rate and high-quality Harman speakers. Other features carried over from the previous version include the individually per-key lit RGB keyboard and generous port selection. However, some pre-installed apps like Legion Arena and WebAdviser may feel unnecessary and bloated.
The latest Legion Slim 7i doesn’t bring significant improvements, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Its incremental power boost and lighter weight are more than enough to make it one of the best thin and light gaming laptops on the market this year.
Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023): Price and Availability
The price of the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) varies depending on the region. In the US, there are three configurations available, with prices starting at $1,499.99. The review spec version I received costs around $1,749. For those looking for a more affordable option, there is a configuration priced at $1,499, which includes a 13th gen Intel i7, Nvidia RTX 4060, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and 1TB SSD storage. The highest-tier customizable build costs $2,211 and includes all the features of the review build, with the option to upgrade the RAM to 32GB and the display to 3200 x 2000 resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate.
In the UK, there is a pre-built option priced at £1,980, featuring a 13th gen Intel i9, 32GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 4070, 1TB SSD storage, and a 3200 x 2000 display. The customizable configurations range from £1,820.00 to £2,300.00, offering similar Intel CPU, RAM, storage, GPU, and display options as in the US. Regardless of the specific configuration, the display has a resolution of 3200 x 2000 and a refresh rate of 165Hz. The pre-built option in Australia is priced at $2,719 and includes an Intel i7, 32GB RAM, Nvidia RTX 4060, and 1TB SSD.
Compared to other slim gaming laptops like the Razer Blade 14 or MSI Stealth GS66, the Legion Slim 7i is more affordable while providing similar power. It is undoubtedly one of the most reasonably priced options for those looking for a slim and powerful gaming laptop.
Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023): Specifications
My review configuration of the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) is priced at $1749 and includes an Intel i9 CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 1TB SSD storage, and a 16-inch WQXGA display with a 240Hz refresh rate.
The cheapest configuration starts at $1,459 and includes an Intel i7 CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, 16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD storage, and the same 16-inch display as the review configuration. There is also a customizable version available for around $2,211, which includes all the features of the review configuration, along with 32GB DDR RAM and a 16-inch 3.2K display with a 165Hz refresh rate.
There are various options for the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023), including different CPU, GPU, RAM, and SSD storage choices. The most notable difference is the option to choose between a standard WQXGA display with a 240Hz refresh rate or a 3.2K display with a 165Hz refresh rate. Lenovo offers a configuration tool to help buyers customize their own ideal setup.
Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023): Design
More lightweight than ever with improved power
Adequate port selection
Beautifully lit RGB keyboard
The Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) continues to showcase a balanced design that combines both form and function. The all-metal chassis made from sandblasted aluminum and magnesium gives it a durable and smudge-free finish. The port placement has been slightly changed but still feels familiar compared to the previous model. At the lower rear, you’ll find an HDMI port and three USB-A ports. However, the power port is still connected to a large and somewhat heavy power brick. Overall, the design of the Legion Slim 7i is sleek and visually appealing.
In summary, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i (2023) is a top choice for gamers seeking a thin and lightweight gaming laptop. It offers excellent performance, a stunning display, and a comfortable keyboard. Although there are a few drawbacks, such as the loud cooling system and the bulky power brick, these minor inconveniences are outweighed by its overall power and portability. With its competitive pricing, the Legion Slim 7i is certainly a strong contender in the gaming laptop market.
