Lenovo IdeaPad U330-22672BU

A slick design, smooth performance, and switchable graphics makes the IdeaPad U330 one of the better-value lightweight notebooks.

Lenovo has an attractive thin-and-light notebook on its hands with the IdeaPad U330, a 13-inch system that takes some design cues from the 11-inch IdeaPad U110, released earlier this year. Like the U110, the U330 offers both touch-sensitive media controls and facial recognition. However, the glossy black U330 adds a more comfortable keyboard and switchable graphics (for summoning additional battery power or graphics muscle when needed). We wished the U330 lasted longer on a charge, but it offers a good mix of features and performance for $1,199.

Design and Build

Measuring 12.5 x 9.3 x 0.9 inches and weighing 4.4 pounds, the U330 provides excellent balance between screen size and portability, with a heaping dose of eye candy. The machine features a glossy Bold Black lid and a subtle pinstripe pattern on its base that begs to be touched. Unfortunately, doing so leaves behind a fair share of fingerprints, so you may want to keep a cloth at hand if you want to maintain its pristine appearance.

Despite the fact that this is a consumer notebook, Lenovo didn’t skimp on the durability. It features a magnesium alloy frame and Lenovo’s Active Protection System, which gives the U330 extra endurance courtesy of a shock-mounted hard drive.

Keyboard and Touch Controls

Unlike the U110, whose keyboard layout we found to be a bit slippery, the U330 has a firm, responsive keyboard. It is nearly identical to that on a ThinkPad, which is a good thing, but the business-like layout clashes a bit with the surrounding glossy deck. The touchpad worked well, and it has a dedicated scrolling area. The two touchpad buttons were responsive but a little mushy.