What to know
- The MSI Modern 14 boasts a 50Wh battery that can last up to 10 hours on a single charge.
- The keyboard on the MSI Modern 14 is comfortable to type on, with well-spaced keys and a responsive feel.
- However, if budget is a primary concern and basic functionality is sufficient, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a viable option.
In the realm of budget laptops, two formidable contenders stand out: the MSI Modern 14 and the Lenovo IdeaPad 3. Both devices boast impressive features at an affordable price, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each laptop, helping you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
The MSI Modern 14 exudes a sleek and professional aesthetic with its aluminum chassis. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it a portable companion. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional plastic construction. While it’s not as premium as the MSI, it still offers decent durability.
Display
The MSI Modern 14 features a 14-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. It delivers vibrant colors and sharp images, making it suitable for both work and entertainment. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 has a similar 14-inch IPS display but with a slightly lower resolution of 1366 x 768. While it’s not as detailed, it’s adequate for basic tasks.
Performance
Under the hood, the MSI Modern 14 is powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, which provides ample performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. It comes with 8GB of RAM and 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, offering a snappy and responsive experience. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3, meanwhile, features an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, which is less powerful but still capable of handling basic productivity and web browsing. It comes with 4GB of RAM and 256GB of NVMe SSD storage, which may be limiting for multitasking or storing large files.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for portable devices. The MSI Modern 14 boasts a 50Wh battery that can last up to 10 hours on a single charge. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 has a smaller 35Wh battery, which provides up to 7 hours of battery life. While both laptops offer decent battery life, the MSI Modern 14 has a clear advantage in this area.
Connectivity
Both the MSI Modern 14 and the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, USB-A, and HDMI ports. However, the MSI Modern 14 has the edge with its Thunderbolt 4 port, which allows for faster data transfer and charging.
Keyboard and Touchpad
The keyboard on the MSI Modern 14 is comfortable to type on, with well-spaced keys and a responsive feel. The Lenovo IdeaPad 3’s keyboard is also decent, but it has smaller keys and a less tactile feel. Both laptops have integrated touchpads that are responsive and support multi-touch gestures.
Operating System
The MSI Modern 14 comes pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, while the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers both Windows 11 Home and Windows 10 Home options. Windows 11 offers a refreshed design and improved features, but Windows 10 remains a stable and reliable operating system.
Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Verdict
After carefully comparing the MSI Modern 14 and the Lenovo IdeaPad 3, it’s clear that both laptops have their strengths and weaknesses. The MSI Modern 14 emerges as the superior choice for those seeking a premium design, better performance, and longer battery life. However, if budget is a primary concern and basic functionality is sufficient, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a viable option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Popular Questions
Q: Which laptop has a more powerful processor?
A: MSI Modern 14 with Intel Core i5-1135G7
Q: Which laptop has a better display?
A: MSI Modern 14 with 1920 x 1080 IPS display
Q: Which laptop has longer battery life?
A: MSI Modern 14 with 50Wh battery
Q: Which laptop has more storage space?
A: MSI Modern 14 with 512GB NVMe SSD
Q: Which laptop is more portable?