Starting at $3,500
Pro’s Pros
- The dream, one device and serveral use cases: Android tablet and Windows laptop in one
- Premium: Sharp and vibrant 2.8K OLED panel, excellent sound and great camera experiences
- Flexibility: Tablet and keyboard base can work independently
Cons
- The connecting and docking can get old quick
- Too much computer for too high of a price
I’ve had the pleasure (and occasional frustration) of putting the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid through its paces, and what a ride it’s been! This device is a tech enthusiast’s dream and nightmare rolled into one sleek package. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what happens when you get everything you thought you wanted.
The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid on paper is the ideal computing device for tech enthusiasts. Since tech settled on a few mainstream operating systems, enthusiasts have been asking for a way to consolidate the number of devices they need to handle to maximize their exposure to their favorite OS’s.
Apple fans have been pleading for a MacBook with a touchscreen to bring it closer to their iPhones and iPads or an iPad that can convert to macOS for expanded productivity. Android users have been clamoring for a broader productivity UI that can emphasize desktop-level workflows and better app user experiences. Chromebook users are looking to Android developers to help bring over dedicated app features to the web app experience that’s often lacking.
On the Windows side, users are just looking for a way to incorporate the myriad of other mobile devices they use outside of their productivity walled garden. Ironically enough, Windows has become the walled garden of work since it only has the desktop experience to fall back on.
But what if Windows could work with another open platform like Android?
Enter the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid dream child.
Tech Specs
ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid (Station & Tab)
| What’s in the Box | ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid (14″) Station & Tab100W AC adapter USB-C® tipLenovo Tab Pen PlusLenovo Universal Easel StandQuick Start Guide |
|---|
Performance
| Processor | Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 155H Processor (E-Core Max 3.80 GHz, P-Core Max 4.80 GHz with Turbo Boost, 16 Cores, 22 Threads, 24 MB Cache) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Graphics | Intel® Arc™ GPU |
| Memory | 32GB LPDDRX5 dual-channel 7467MHz |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 PCIe Gen 4 (2280 compatible) |
| Battery | 75WhrSupports Rapid Charge (60 minutes = 80% capacity) with 65W or higher adapter |
| Audio | 2 x 2W speakers Audio by Harman Kardon® Dual-array mics |
Connectivity
| Ports/Slots | 2 x USB-C® (Thunderbolt™ 4, USB 40Gbps)Headphone / mic combo *USB port transfer speeds are approximate and depend on many factors, such as processing capability of host/peripheral devices, file attributes, system configuration and operating environments; actual speeds will vary and may be less than expected. |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Intel® WiFi 6E* 802.11AX (2 x 2)Bluetooth® 5.3 * 6GHz WiFi 6E operation is dependent on the support of the operating system, routers/APs/gateways that support WiFi 6E, along with the regional regulatory certifications and spectrum allocation. |
| Supported Docking | USB-C® Thunderbolt™ 4 dock |
Design
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 9.4mm x 313.5mm x 234.5mm / 0.37″ x 12.3″ x 9.2″ |
|---|---|
| Weight | Starting at 0.97kg / 2.14lbs |
| Keyboard | Backlit with white LED lightingDedicated Copilot key to launch cloud-based CopilotTrackPad (75mm x 120mm)ThinkBook keyboard (1.0mm travel) |
| Color | Luna Grey |
| Power Supply | 100W AC adapter USB-C® tip |
Sustainability
| Material | CNC aluminum used in keyboard frame (C) & bottom (D) cover90% post-consumer content (PCC) recycled plastic used in 100W AC adapterRapid-renewable bamboo & sugarcane content used in giftboxForest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified plastic-free packaging with 90% recycled content, biobased plastic, non-wood biobased fiber material and/or sustainably-forested materials |
|---|---|
| Certifications / Registries | Audio by Harman Kardon®Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) |
Other Information
| ThinkShield Security | Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM) 2.0Intel® Hardware ShieldKensington Nano Security Slot™Smart Power On: match-on-chip (MOC) fingerprint reader integrated with power button |
|---|
Performance
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon® 8+ Gen 1 Mobile Platform |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android™ 13 with Lenovo ZUI 15.1 user interface* *Supports upgrade to Android™ 14 |
| Graphics | Qualcomm® Adreno™ GPU |
| Memory | 12GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 256GB UFX 3.1 |
| Battery | 38.7WhrSupports Rapid Charge (60 minutes = 80% capacity) with 65W or higher adapter |
| Audio | 4 x 1W super-linear speakers |
| Camera | Front: 1080p FHD & infrared (IR)Rear: 13MP autofocus & 5MP wide with flash |
Connectivity
| Ports/Slots | Power button Smart connectorUSB-C® (hi-speed USB) with power delivery 3.0 / programmable power supply up to 50W quick charge* *Supports analog headset USB port transfer speeds are approximate and depend on many factors, such as processing capability of host/peripheral devices, file attributes, system configuration and operating environments; actual speeds will vary and may be less than expected. |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Intel® WiFi 6E* 802.11AX (2 x 2)Bluetooth® 5.3 * 6GHz WiFi 6E operation is dependent on the support of the operating system, routers/APs/gateways that support WiFi 6E, along with the regional regulatory certifications and spectrum allocation. |
Design
| Display | 14″ 2.8K (2880 x 1800) OLED, 100% DCI-P3, TÜV Eyesafe®, certified low blue light, Dolby Vision®, touchscreen, color sensor |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 6.6mm x 313.5mm x 224mm / 0.26″ x 12.3″ x 8.8″ |
| Weight | Starting at 0.78kg / 1.73lbs |
| Pen | Lenovo Tab Pen Plus, magnetic |
| Sensors | G-sensor / accelerometer for auto screen rotation, motion control, etc.Gyro-sensor for angular velocityHall-sensor to avoid accidental inputsMagnetometer for calibration & digital compass |
Sustainability
| Material | 100% recycled hydro-aluminum used in top (A) cover90% post-consumer content (PCC) recycled plastic used in 100W AC adapter45% bio-based content used in rubber feet90% post-consumer content (PCC) recycled plastic used in 100W AC adapterRapid-renewable bamboo & sugarcane content used in giftboxForest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified plastic-free packaging with 90% recycled content, biobased plastic, non-wood biobased fiber material and/or sustainably-forested materials |
|---|---|
| Certifications / Registries | Dolby Atmos®Dolby Vision®ENERGY STAR® 8.0TÜV Eyesafe® low blue light certified |
Other Information
| ThinkShield Security | Discrete Trusted Platform Module (dTPM) 2.0Kensington Nano Security Slot™Smart Power On: match-on-chip (MOC) fingerprint reader integrated with power buttonTime-of-Flight (ToF) sensor for human-presence detectionZero-touch login with Microsoft Windows Hello |
|---|---|
| Preloaded Software | Lenovo VantageLenovo Smart MeetingMcAfee® LiveSafe™ (trial)Office 365 (trial) |
Look and Feel
Having had the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid in my hands for a few months now, I can say this device is an interesting blend of innovation and occasional frustration.
Angular and Modern Design
The ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid boasts a sharp, angular design that is both eye-catching and functional. The industrial aluminum chassis exudes a premium vibe, and the Luna Grey color scheme gives it a sophisticated look. The metallic surfaces are cool to the touch and have a certain sturdiness that assures me this device can handle daily wear and tear. When closed, the Hybrid is a rigid tank that feels solid when transporting from desks to bags and from bags to outdoor locations as well.
However, the feeling in hand is where things get a bit more complicated. At nearly 4 pounds (with the tablet alone weighing 1.73 pounds), this isn’t a lightweight device. When using it in tablet mode, the extra weight is immediately noticeable. Holding it for extended periods, especially during reading sessions or casual browsing, can be a bit of a workout. It’s like holding a high-end hardcover book—solid and substantial, but not the most comfortable for extended use.
The Hybrid reminds me very much of the Surface Book and while the tablet portion of the device is thinner than Microsoft’s version, it’s still not as lightweight as say a modern Samsung Galaxy Tab device, and this may just be the curse of trying to do too much with Android.
Dual Camera Setup
The dual-camera setup on the display lid, reminiscent of an iPhone, adds a touch of modernity. There are additional internal camera that rest on the screen side of the tablet that integrate well with Windows Hello for secure logins. It is a neat feature that I’ve found quite useful for quick face recognition, and it works seamlessly even in various lighting conditions.
- Front Camera: The front camera is a 2.0MP FHD (1080p) camera with infrared (IR) capabilities. This combination allows for high-resolution video calls and secure facial recognition for Windows Hello. The IR sensor ensures that the facial recognition works even in low-light conditions, providing a seamless login experience. The webcam is perfect for virtual meetings, online classes, and other video conferencing needs.
- Rear Cameras: The rear camera setup includes a 13MP autofocus camera and a 5MP wide-angle camera with a flashlight. The 13MP camera captures detailed and vibrant photos, while the 5MP wide-angle camera is perfect for capturing a broader field of view, making it great for scanning documents or capturing larger scenes. The flashlight adds versatility, allowing you to take clear photos even in dimly lit environments.
But lets be honest, most of already have better webcam setups thanks to the pandemic and when out and about, tablet photography is still frowned upon.
Keyboard Design
The keyboard is designed with a focus on usability and comfort. The keys are well-spaced and have a decent travel distance, providing satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. The slightly darker gray keys contrast nicely with the Luna Grey chassis, making them easy to see and use.
Typing Comfort
The keyboard layout is standard, with no surprises in terms of key placement. This familiarity is a plus for users who are accustomed to traditional laptop keyboards. The keys are responsive and offer a smooth typing experience, whether you’re drafting documents, coding, or simply sending emails.
Touchpad
Complementing the keyboard is a spacious and responsive touchpad. It’s smooth to the touch and supports multi-finger gestures, making navigation and control intuitive. The large surface area ensures that you have ample space for both cursor movement and gesture controls. I do wish Lenovo would get fully onboard with haptic trackpads across all their devices. The diving board touchpad is starting to feel very dated and feels like another opening for a mechanical failure point for a device that risk the use pogo-pins and manual shutters switches.
Detachable Keyboard
One of the standout features of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is its detachable Bluetooth keyboard. This adds a layer of versatility to the device, allowing you to use the tablet portion independently while still having access to a full keyboard when needed. The keyboard connects seamlessly and maintains a strong connection, ensuring that you can switch between modes without any hassle.
I’ve used it to type up reports, respond to emails, and even draft this review, all with ease.
However, there is a plane landing feel when trying to line up the pogo-pins and connecting tray between the two devices. Users may struggle at first when trying to reconnect. After about two weeks, users will figure out the angle at which to start the connection between the tablet and keyboard that works seamlessly every time. Again, very reminiscent of the Surface Book and its docking experience.
Vents and Cooling System
The cooling system is impressive. The vents are strategically placed along the sides of the keyboard base, ensuring efficient heat dissipation. This design choice helps keep the device cool, even during intensive tasks like video editing or running multiple applications. I haven’t noticed any significant heat buildup, which is a testament to Lenovo’s engineering prowess.
Power Button Placement
The power button’s placement under the tablet is unusual but quickly becomes second nature. It doubles as a fingerprint reader, adding an extra layer of security. Initially, I found myself fumbling to locate it, but now it feels intuitive and ensures quick access in both laptop and tablet modes.
Ports and Connectivity
The array of ports, including USB-C Thunderbolt 4, a Smart connector, and a 3.5mm audio jack, provides ample connectivity options. Whether I’m transferring data, connecting peripherals, or just plugging in headphones, the ports are conveniently accessible and make the device versatile for various tasks. However, with the weight of the keyboard and the intended Window-centric nature of its use case, it would have been nice to include a microSD, HDMI, or USB-A ports.
Build Quality and Weight
The build quality is top-notch. The robust aluminum frame gives it a solid, premium feel. However, weight remains a drawback. Carrying it around, especially in a bag along with other essentials, can be quite cumbersome. It is not the most portable device, and my shoulders can testify to that after a day of commuting.
Display and Hinge Mechanism
The 14-inch 2.8K OLED display is a visual treat. Colors are vibrant, details are sharp, and high resolution makes everything from video editing to reading comics a pleasure. The hinge mechanism, placed about half an inch forward of the rear, adds to the device’s unique look and functionality. It feels sturdy and offers a good range of motion for adjusting the display angle. When attached, the display will fold back about 65 degrees and Lenovo supposes that if you need more of angle than that, you might as well just disconnect and use in tablet form.
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid’s hardware design is a mixed bag. While it excels in build quality, display vibrancy, and versatility, the weight and some design quirks like the power button placement and clunky docking experience can be frustrating. It’s a powerful, high-performance device best suited for those who need the flexibility of both a laptop and a tablet and are willing to navigate its few eccentricities.
If you appreciate a device that packs a lot into a sleek package, and don’t mind the occasional clunky moment, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid could be your next tech adventure. Just be ready for a bit of a workout when holding it for long periods!
The Pitch
Switching Between Android and Windows OS
One of the coolest features of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is its ability to switch between Android and Windows OS at the press of a button. Picture this: I’m deep into editing a video on Windows, and suddenly, I remember I need to update my social media on the Android side. A quick switch, and I’m there! It’s a bit like having a split personality, but in a good way. However, not everything is perfect. Sometimes the switch feels as smooth as a train ride during rush hour—clunky and slightly delayed. But when it works well, it’s a game-changer.
Also if you have ADD or ADHD, being able to switch between operating systems may also be a down side in productivity.
Just know you’ve been warned.
When I first booted up the Android 14 side of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid, I was greeted with a sleek, modern interface that felt both familiar and refreshing. Lenovo has kept the bloatware to a minimum, which is a huge plus. The interface is clean and intuitive, with a few custom tweaks that enhance usability without overwhelming the user.
Despite my initial skepticism about the performance of the Android system on this device, I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, combined with 12GB of RAM, ensures that everything runs smoothly. Apps open quickly, multitasking is seamless, and there’s virtually no lag. Whether I’m streaming videos, browsing the web, or running productivity apps, the experience is snappy and responsive.
Lenovo has done a commendable job integrating Android 14 into the hybrid’s ecosystem. The UI is intuitive, with easy access to settings and notifications. I particularly appreciate the ability to customize the home screen with widgets and shortcuts, making it easy to tailor the experience to my needs. The multitasking capabilities are impressive, allowing me to easily switch between apps or use split-screen mode for enhanced productivity.
Custom Features
Lenovo has added a few custom features to Android 14 that enhance the overall experience. One standout feature is the “Productivity Mode,” which optimizes the system for work-related tasks. This mode prioritizes performance for productivity apps and tools, making it easier to get work done on the go. The inclusion of Lenovo’s proprietary apps for note-taking and document management adds an extra layer of functionality.
Battery Life
Battery life on the Android side of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid has been impressive. The 38Whr battery allows me to use the device for an entire day of mixed usage without needing to recharge. Whether I’m attending virtual meetings, reading e-books, or streaming content, the battery holds up well. And when it’s time to recharge, the fast-charging capabilities ensure that I’m back up and running quickly.
I’ve found several use cases where the Android 14 experience truly shines. For example, when I’m reading comics or e-books, the high-resolution OLED display combined with the smooth performance makes for an enjoyable experience. Crafting marketing materials on the go is also a breeze, thanks to the versatility of Android apps and the responsive touchscreen. Video editing and media consumption are equally seamless, with the device handling intensive tasks without breaking a sweat.
The Hybrid Experience
Switching between Android and Windows on the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is a unique experience that truly sets this device apart. While the transition isn’t always instantaneous, it’s generally smooth and allows me to leverage the strengths of both operating systems. I can seamlessly switch from a work-related task in Windows to a more casual activity in Android, all on the same device. This flexibility is invaluable, particularly for someone who needs to balance productivity and leisure.
Overall, my experience with Lenovo’s version of Android 14 on the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid has been overwhelmingly positive. The clean interface, impressive performance, and thoughtful customizations make it a pleasure to use. While there are a few quirks to navigate, the Android side of this hybrid device is well-executed and offers a powerful complement to the Windows environment. If you’re looking for a versatile device that can handle both productivity and entertainment with ease, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is a compelling option.
On the Windows side, well it’s Windows 11 for better or for worse.
Vibrant 2.8K OLED Display
Let’s talk about that display—oh, the glorious 2.8K OLED display. It’s like having a mini movie theater in your hands. Watching Netflix has never been more enjoyable. The colors are so vibrant that I half-expected them to leap off the screen and start dancing on my desk. Whether it’s crafting marketing materials for ads or editing videos, everything looks sharp and lifelike. The high resolution makes my comic book reading sessions a visual delight, bringing every panel to life with stunning clarity.
High Price and Weight
Here’s where we hit a bit of a snag: the price and the weight. At around $3,518, this hybrid beast doesn’t come cheap. It’s an investment, to say the least. And the weight? At 3.87 pounds (with the tablet alone weighing 1.73 pounds), it’s not exactly featherlight. Carrying it around feels a bit like lugging a small brick, which isn’t great for portability. My backpack and shoulders have certainly felt the strain.
Clunky Docking Experience
Ah, the docking experience—it’s a bit like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Connecting and disconnecting the tablet from the keyboard base can be a fiddly affair. Sometimes it snaps into place perfectly, and other times it feels like I’m forcing a jigsaw piece where it doesn’t belong. It’s not the seamless experience I had hoped for, and it can be a tad frustrating when I’m in a hurry.
Performance and Battery Life
Despite these quirks, the performance is nothing short of impressive. The Windows base is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU with Intel Arc integrated graphics, while the Android tablet runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 CPU. Whether I’m editing videos, crafting marketing materials, or binging on comics, the device handles everything smoothly. The battery life is also solid, with the Windows base offering up to 75Whr and the Android tablet providing 38Whr. This means I can go a full day of mixed usage without worrying about finding a power outlet.
Use Case Scenarios
The ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is a fantastic choice for professionals who need the flexibility of both a Windows laptop and an Android tablet. It’s perfect for video editors, marketers, and creatives who benefit from the high-resolution display and versatile input options. Students can also make the most of this device, using the Windows base for research and assignments and the Android tablet for entertainment and note-taking.
Summary
All in all, the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is a lot of computer packed into a sleek, albeit heavy, frame. It’s a niche device that offers tremendous flexibility but comes with a high price tag and some usability challenges.
Interestingly, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid feels like the spiritual successor to the Surface Book lineup. Just like the Surface Book, it aims to blend the best of both worlds—laptop and tablet—into one cohesive device. It takes the hybrid concept forward, pushing the envelope with its dual OS capabilities and detachable keyboard. While it inherits some of the quirks from its spiritual predecessor, it also brings fresh innovations that make it stand out. This hybrid marvel is best suited for tech enthusiasts and professionals who need the dual functionality of a Windows laptop and an Android tablet and are willing to invest in a high-end device. If you can navigate its quirks, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid can be a powerful and versatile addition to your tech arsenal.
