Lenovo Z70-80 17.3″ Full HD Laptop with 5th Gen Intel Core

The Lenovo Z70-80 is the latest refresh of the Z70 17.3-inch mainstream notebook series. In comparison to the previous version, design remained the same, but internals got an update in form of the 5th Generation Intel Core “Broadwell” processor options. Furthermore, Full HD resolution is now standard on all configurations.

The Lenovo Z70-80 features the Intel Core i3-5010U, i5-5200U, or i7-5500U Braodwell, depending on customer’s choice. When put against the 4th Gen Core Haswell, these CPUs bring slightly better performance in terms of main computing and graphics, as well as a better power efficiency. Generally, the i3 provides just enough computing power to keep basic users happy, while the i5 and i7 options are for those who often do more demanding tasks like photography or high-def video editing. The chips include the Intel HD 5500 integrated graphics. The Nvidia GeForce GT 840M 2GB dedicated video card is optional. The HD 5500 is suitable for light casual, retro or indie games, but not the latest AAA titles. the GT 840M on the other hand provides playable experience even in the modern AAA games, but on low graphics and resolution settings.

System memory size can be 4GB, 8GB, or even 16GB for insane multitasking. As for data storage you can select either a 500GB or 1-Terabyte hard drive, with the latter having optional 8GB Flash cache for enhanced responsiveness. As expected, the Z70-80 has a built-in DVD optical drive. RAM and HDD are user-replaceable and easily accessible thanks to the removable bottom cover. The battery is user-removable too. It has a mediocre capacity of 41 WHr, which translates to about 4 hours of battery life, according to Lenovo’s estimation.

Touchscreen is missing even as an option, as same as IPS wide viewing angle technology. For data input and interaction with the operating system and programs, you can use the full-size non-baklit keyboard with numeric pad and spacious trackpad with integrated buttons for clicks.

The chassis is made of quality plastics, with finish resembling brushed metal. The notebook is fairly sleek with its 1″ profile. It weighs in at 6.6 pounds.

Lenovo’s Z70-80 features JBL-branded stereo speakers and a 720p web camera. To get you online, it uses 802.11AC wireless and Ethernet LAN. It also has three USB ports, HDMI video out, a combo audio jack, and a media card reader.