The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 Gen 9 (referred to as Yoga 9i hereafter) initially appears to be another standard 2-in-1 laptop. However, this device boasts a unique feature that sets it apart. While every laptop involves compromises, the Yoga 9i asks: What matters most to you? If portability and a premium media experience are paramount, the Yoga 9i, despite compromises on ports and keyboard space, might be your perfect match.
Lenovo Yoga 9i in tablet mode
Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 Gen 9: Specifications and Features
Priced at $1,500, the Yoga 9i offers substantial value. Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, a common choice in modern laptops, it distinguishes itself as a true 2-in-1, allowing the display to fold back completely. The high-resolution OLED display with a fast refresh rate complements this 2-in-1 functionality, making tablet mode genuinely useful. The reviewed model features 16GB of RAM (upgradable to 32GB), a 2880×1800 display (with a 3840×2400 option available), and a 1TB SSD. Bonus additions include a slim USB-C rechargeable pen (magnetically attachable to the lid) and a protective sleeve with a pen loop. While functional, the pen lacks internal storage, increasing the risk of misplacement.
Key Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5-7467
- Graphics: Intel Arc Integrated Graphics
- Display: 2880×1800 OLED Touch, 120Hz
- Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 2242 M.2 SSD
- Webcam: 2.5K IR Webcam
- Connectivity: 2x Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 PD 3.0 DP 1.4, 1x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
- Networking: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Biometrics: Fingerprint Reader, IR Webcam
- Battery: 75Wh
- Weight: 2.91 pounds
- Price: $1,449
Lenovo Yoga 9i side view
Design and Build Quality
Departing from the traditional ThinkPad aesthetic, the Yoga 9i adopts a more contemporary design in Cosmic Blue (or Luna Grey). Notable features include the familiar webcam notch and the innovative speaker grill integrated into the hinge. The build quality feels robust, with no noticeable flex or creaks. The 360-degree hinge offers smooth and sturdy transitions between laptop and tablet modes.
Keyboard, Trackpad, and Pen
The keyboard, while functional, presents some ergonomic challenges. The addition of a dedicated button column on the right side, housing quick access features and the fingerprint reader, compresses the remaining keys and cursor controls. This cramped layout can lead to accidental keystrokes and discomfort during extended typing sessions. The trackpad performs well, with responsive clicking in the corners. The included Lenovo Slim Pen offers decent pressure sensitivity for sketching and note-taking, but lacks the precision some artists might desire.
Lenovo Yoga 9i keyboard
Audio and Visual Experience
The Yoga 9i’s standout feature is its exceptional audio. The sound bar integrated into the hinge delivers surprisingly rich and powerful sound, eliminating the need for external speakers in most scenarios. The OLED display further enhances the media experience with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, ideal for media consumption and casual gaming.
Lenovo Yoga 9i speakers
Webcam, Microphone, and Biometrics
The webcam, while functional for video calls, offers average image quality and an unflattering upward angle. The microphone similarly performs adequately for casual use but might not suffice for professional recording or frequent video conferencing. The Yoga 9i provides dual biometric login options: facial recognition via the IR webcam and a fingerprint reader integrated into the dedicated button column.
Lenovo Yoga 9i webcam
Ports and Connectivity
The Yoga 9i’s port selection is a mixed bag. The inclusion of two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, distributed on both sides of the laptop, is a welcome feature. However, the single USB-A port’s awkward placement near the hinge makes it difficult to access. The absence of HDMI, SD card, and Ethernet ports further limits connectivity options. Wireless connectivity is robust, with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support.
Lenovo Yoga 9i left side ports
Performance
The Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor delivers strong overall performance for everyday tasks and media consumption. Benchmark results in PCMark and Cinebench 23 demonstrate its capabilities. However, the Yoga 9i’s performance in more demanding tasks, such as video encoding (Handbrake benchmark), reveals its focus on media consumption rather than content creation. The integrated Intel Arc graphics performs well for its class, enabling casual gaming and light photo editing.
Lenovo Yoga 9i PCMark results
Lenovo Yoga 9i Cinebench R23 results
Lenovo Yoga 9i Handbrake results
Lenovo Yoga 9i 3DMark results
Battery Life
After resolving initial inconsistencies with a replacement review unit, the Yoga 9i achieved an average battery life of around 13 hours in video playback tests. While not class-leading, this provides ample runtime for most daily usage scenarios and extended media consumption.
Lenovo Yoga 9i battery life results
Conclusion
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 Gen 9 excels as a multimedia-focused 2-in-1. Its exceptional speakers, vibrant OLED display, and solid performance make it ideal for enjoying movies, music, and browsing. While the keyboard layout and limited port selection might deter some users, the Yoga 9i’s strengths lie in its ability to deliver a premium media experience in a portable and versatile form factor. If your primary needs revolve around media consumption and tablet functionality, the Yoga 9i is a compelling option worth considering.
