The LaVie Z 360 is a 2-in-1 machine not a 4-in-1

May 12, 2015 07:34 GMT  ·  By

A few weeks ago, we told you that Lenovo introduced the super thin and light LaVie Z convertible lineup on the US market, to compete with Apple’s line of MacBooks with Retina display.

When the company launched the LaVie Z 360 model (the LaVie Z is the standard model), we had the impression that it would work as the company’s popular Yoga lineup, meaning the laptop would take advantage of a 360-degree hinge that lets you push the screen back all the way. The result is that you can use the Windows computer as a notebook or a tablet.

However, it seems that for the new LaVie Z 360, this is not the case.

The Lenovo LaVie Z360 ships with flaws

As Consumer Reports has discovered, the LaVie Z360 doesn't really work when you use it in “tent” or “stand” modes.

So when users try to prop the device up like a tent, the screen won’t auto-rotate. When they try to flip the screen so that the keyboard becomes a sort of kickstand, the keyboard doesn't automatically shut off, allowing for some inaccurate presses.

Lenovo has sent a letter to Consumer Reports in which it is apologizing for the inconveniences. What’s more, the company is offering a 5% refund on the cost of the computer. Which matters quite a lot given that the notebook ships out for $1,699 / €1,522.

The company has also updated its website to clearly show that the LaVie Z 360 is a 2-in-1 device, not a 4-in-1 module as initially stated. But for those who have already ordered the device, you should know that a small refund is bound to arrive on your doorstep as well.

Lenovo's laptop is still a good option for users

For those who don't know, Lenovo’s laptops embed a fifth generation Core i7-5500U Broadwell CPU under the hood, unlike the new MacBook, which takes advantage of a severely underpowered Core M processor.

They also offer a 13.3-inch panel with 2560 x 1440 pixel resolution (WQHD), up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, which explains the high price tag.

On the other hand, if you don’t need a device that can be turned into a tablet, there’s always the laptop-only LaVie Z version, which sells for a more convenient price tag that shaves $200 / €179 off.

Lenovo LaVie Z 360 (4 Images)

Lenovo ships LaVie Z 360 with flaws
Lenovo LaVie Z 360 is a 2-in-1 machineLenovo LaVie Z 360 was previously advertised as a 4-in-1
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