ZDNET's key takeaways The Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is on sale for $499.
It excels as an inexpensive work laptop thanks to its comfortable keyboard and useful features in ChromeOS.
Its lower-end touchscreen will limit usability for some. $499.99 at Amazon $499 at Lenovo $379 at Best Buy more buying choices
I've been really curious to see how things have changed since my last Chromebook review, which was the Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 last year. I recently had that opportunity with the Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus a computer that I would now recommend over Acer's device. Not only is it cheaper, but it performs better, too.
Also: This Lenovo Chromebook easily replaced my Windows laptop for work - and I can't go back
Lenovo's model isn't flashy -- it's a demure laptop clad in a dark gray aluminum chassis. The closest thing to a flourish is the two-tone pattern on the back. The Flex 5i makes up for its lack of pizzazz by being a dependable work machine, starting with the keyboard.
Reliable and comfortable
According to the company, the laptop sports a "drop-down hinge," positioning the keyboard at a slight angle. I noticed this does two things. First, it places your hands in a more comfortable position, and secondly, it pushes the edges of the wrist rest away, so they're not poking your arm. You can type away for hours and hardly notice any strain.
Below that is a spacious trackpad. It's big enough that you can drag the cursor from one side of the screen to the other without having to lift your finger. The trackpad is solid overall, although I wish it were slightly off to the side. I've found having the trackpad off-center to be more comfortable.
Also: Why I prefer this Lenovo tablet over the iPad for multimedia consumption (and it's on sale)
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