Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11
| Company type | Product |
|---|---|
| Industry | Consumer electronics |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Defunct | July 17, 2013 |
| Products | Convertible Windows RT device |
The Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 is a convertible Windows RT device introduced in late 2012, featuring a dual-mode hinge that enables multiple usage configurations. Its name highlights this adaptable design. Due to underwhelming sales of Windows RT-based products, the Yoga 11 was discontinued on July 17, 2013.
Design
Both the Yoga 11 and Yoga 13 are named after their distinctive hinge mechanism that allows the screen to rotate backward, transforming the laptop into a tablet. According to PC Pro, its versatility is demonstrated in 'tent mode', where the touchscreen holds a precise angle; when flipped with the keyboard facing down, robust hinges prevent wobbling; and when fully folded, magnets keep the display firmly attached to the base, converting it into a tablet form. The Yoga 11 sports a slim profile with an orange matte finish on the exterior and a black interior, weighing approximately 2.79 pounds. It offers a full-sized QWERTY keyboard which TechRadar commended for its large, well-cushioned keys and roomy trackpad, providing a more comfortable typing experience compared to the Microsoft Surface.
Specifications
Equipped with a quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor running up to 1.3 GHz and integrated graphics, the Yoga 11 shares hardware similarities with many Android tablets. It comes with 2 GB of RAM, adequate for Windows RT’s modest memory requirements. Storage choices include solid-state drives of either 32 GB or 64 GB capacity. The system operates on Windows RT and includes pre-installed Microsoft Office 2013. Nevertheless, like all devices running Windows RT, it only supports Metro-style applications and cannot run traditional Windows desktop programs.
Performance tests by TechRadar reveal that while the Yoga 11 slightly lags behind the Microsoft Surface RT despite identical processors, it outperforms in battery longevity, lasting 9 hours and 32 minutes compared to the Surface RT’s shorter endurance. PC Pro documented an impressive battery life approaching 12 hours.
The device features an 11.6-inch glossy IPS screen with a resolution of 1366×768 pixels, peak brightness of 344 nits, and a contrast ratio of 1,146:1. Connectivity options include two USB 2.0 ports, an SD card slot, headphone jack, HDMI output, and an integrated 720p webcam.
System restore
Windows RT incorporates a built-in system recovery tool and supports creating a USB recovery drive to restore functionality if system files become corrupted or fail to boot. For the Lenovo Yoga 11 specifically, initiating boot from an external USB device involves pressing "Volume Up" together with the "Windows Key" located below the display.
Reviews
TechRadar characterized the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11 as an elegant, lightweight, and sturdy convertible laptop that also functions as a tablet. Its compact size at 11 inches makes it portable and slim enough for tablet use; however, having keys on the underside can affect handling comfort. The review recommended it mainly for users desiring a compact Windows 8 laptop with touchscreen capabilities.
PC Pro praised the Yoga 11’s outstanding battery endurance nearing twelve hours and its practical tablet mode features while noting its weight of just 1.19 kg as favorable compared to many Ultrabooks. Despite this, it pointed out that Windows RT restricts its overall appeal and suggested waiting for Lenovo’s forthcoming Intel-based Windows 8 IdeaPad Yoga 11S model.
The Inquirer lauded the Yoga 11 for its innovative design and versatile multimode functionality combined with a quality HD touchscreen and responsive keyboard. However, it criticized Windows RT’s limited app ecosystem as significantly reducing its practicality.