Lenovo’s Yoga series spans from adaptable laptops-tablets hybrid models to high-end notebooks, making it challenging at times to select the ideal computer suited for your needs.
Indeed, it’s particularly relevant today as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors have made their entrance, providing a robust competitor to both Intel and AMD. For individuals seeking exceptional efficiency without compromising on Windows usage, the Snapdragon platform offers an appealing alternative.
After examining both the latest versions of the Yoga Slim 9i (10th generation) and the Yoga Slim 7x (9th generation) here at Windows Central, where they were both honored with our Best Award and high ratings, I’ve prepared this comprehensive comparison to aid you in selecting the ideal laptop for your needs.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Specs
Before we dive deep into comparing these two Lenovo laptops, let’s first examine the basic specifications that make up their construction.
The information I’ve gathered comes directly from Lenovo’s documentation, which means some items may not be accessible or offered in every geographic area.
| Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) | Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) | |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, Core Ultra 7 258V | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (78-100), Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64) |
| GPU | Intel Arc 140V (integrated) | Qualcomm Adreno (integrated) |
| NPU | Intel AI Boost, 47 TOPS | Qualcomm Hexagon, 45 TOPS |
| RAM | 16GB, 32GB LPDDR5x-8533 (soldered) | 16GB, 32GB LPDDR5x-8448 (soldered) |
| Storage | 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD | 512GB, 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD |
| Camera | 32MP UDC, e-shutter | 2MP + IR, e-shutter |
| Audio | 2x 3W woofers, 2x 2W tweeters, Dolby Atmos, Smart Amp | 2x 2W woofers, 2x 2W tweeters, Dolby Atmos, Smart Amp |
| Display | 14 inches, 3840×2400, touch, OLED, 600 nits (SDR), 750 nits (HDR), glossy, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, DisplayHDR True Black 600 | 14.5 inches, 2944×1840, touch, OLED, 500 nits (SDR), 1,000 nits (HDR), glossy, 90Hz, Dolby Vision, DisplayHDR True Black 600 |
| Ports | 2x Thunderbolt 4 | 3x USB4 with PD 3.1 & DP 1.4 |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| Battery | 75Wh | 70Wh |
| Dimensions | 12.32 x 8.01 x 0.57 inches (312.93mm x 203.5mm x 14.55mm) | 12.79 x 8.86 x 0.51 inches (325mm x 225.15mm x 12.9mm) |
| Weight | From 2.71 pounds (1.23kg) | From 2.82 pounds (1.28kg) |
| Price | From $1,820 at Lenovo | From 1,199 at Lenovo |
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Price and availability
The Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) stands out as the pricier option among laptops, with starting prices at $1,819.99 on Lenovo’s site for a configuration that includes an Intel Core Ultra 7 256V CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD.
Upgrading the CPU to the Core Ultra 7 258V with 32GB of RAM will set you back approximately $2,049.99 at Lenovo, but you can find it for a lower price, specifically $1,999.99 at Best Buy.
If you’re looking to save money, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) should be your first choice. It retails for a starting price of $1,199 at Lenovo, offering a Snapdragon X Elite System-on-Chip (SoC), 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD.
You can increase the specifications to 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD, which typically retails for $1,399.99 at Lenovo. However, currently, it’s on sale and available for only $1,149.99, a reduction in price due to an ongoing discount.
The Yoga Slim 7x is also available at Best Buy starting at $1,199.99.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Design and features
In the Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) review by Zachary Boddy, it is stated that this PC could very well be one of the most aesthetically pleasing laptops Lenovo has ever produced.
Thanks to its sleek design that truly embodies the Slim title, this device is remarkably slender at only 0.57 inches thick and tips the scales at 2.71 pounds. Its exterior boasts smooth, glossy, curved edges and a glass lid, yet it manages to pass the demanding MIL-STD-810H durability testing.
The Slim 7x model boasts another attractive design, featuring an aluminum frame that is slimmer than the Slim 9i, with a thickness of 0.51 inches. In his review of the Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9), Windows Central’s Zachary Boddy expressed his admiration for it.
Contrary to what you might assume, the premium materials and features aren’t compromised in the Yoga Slim 7x. It is made of aluminum and glass, boasting a full multitouch screen, and it has been tested to meet MIL-STD-810H military standards for durability.
The streamlined build of both Yoga Slim laptops carries a notable impact: limited port options. Specifically, the Slim 9i (Gen 10) provides only two Thunderbolt 4 connections, while the Yoga Slim 7x boasts three USB4 ports, which are similar to Thunderbolt but manufactured by non-Intel brands; it lacks additional ports.
If you’re employing any of these laptops as part of a complete desktop configuration, it’s likely that you’ll require a robust Thunderbolt dock to enhance your connection options.
Regarding wireless connectivity, both laptops support the newest Wi-Fi 7 standard, ensuring a swift and dependable internet experience. Additionally, they are equipped with Bluetooth 5.4 to facilitate seamless communication with your assorted wireless devices.
In terms of keyboard and touchpad performance, Lenovo’s designs for both the PC models are not outstanding. Regrettably, neither device incorporates haptic touchpad technology; however, the one on the Yoga Slim 7x is slightly more spacious. As usual, I suggest testing these keyboards personally before reaching a definitive conclusion.
The audio quality on the Yoga Slim 9i is notably stronger than that of regular laptops, making it an ideal choice for those who frequently listen to music or watch films on their computer.
This device boasts a setup featuring two 3W woofers positioned at the bottom and two 2W tweeters nestled beneath the keyboard. As a result, sound appears to be coming straight towards you, creating an immersive experience. It’s backed by Dolby Atmos technology and a Smart Amp for superior audio quality.
As a tech enthusiast, I’d say that when it comes to the Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9), you’ll find four speakers, albeit with slightly less oomph compared to its counterpart, the Slim 9i. Nestled at the bottom of this PC are a pair of robust 2W woofers, while two 2W tweeters, positioned above the keyboard and firing upwards, complete the setup. Now, don’t get me wrong, they might not reach the same decibel levels as those on the Slim 9i, but they come equipped with Dolby Atmos and a Smart Amp to enhance your audio experience.
In terms of one aspect where the Slim 9i (Gen 10) could use improvement is its camera. Due to the extremely narrow borders on this device, Lenovo has placed the camera below the OLED screen. This means that when the camera isn’t being used, it becomes hidden.
When actively utilized, it creates a hole-like appearance on the screen, similar to a traditional hole punch. Moreover, an issue arises as the under-display camera (UDC) captures images via the 4K panel, leading to poor image quality. Additionally, it fails to support facial recognition through Windows Hello and human presence detection.
The Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) adopts a more conventional design for its camera, equipped with an FHD camera enhanced by IR technology for facial recognition situated _on top_ of the screen. It also includes human presence detection, a function that automatically locks and unlocks the PC as you move closer or further away.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Display
What stands out most about the Yoga Slim 9i is its exceptional 4K OLED screen. Its bezels are remarkably slim, almost unnoticeable compared to other Windows laptops, with the camera even being hidden under the display, much like a modern smartphone.
Critic Zachary Boddy praises this 14-inch laptop for having an exceptional screen. He highlights its impressive 120Hz refresh rate, nearly full-body screen design (approximately 98%), gently rounded top edges, and outstanding color accuracy.
During the testing process, the Boddy monitor displayed 100% sRGB, 94% AdobeRGB, and 100% DCI-P3 color, offering an infinite contrast due to its OLED panel. Additionally, it boasts Dolby Vision and VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 600 certification, enhancing HDR content significantly. The monitor’s brightness reaches approximately 395 nits when displaying standard dynamic range (SDR) content, while it can peak at a stunning 750 nits with high dynamic range (HDR) content.
Body points out a few potential issues, such as the fixed refresh rates at 60Hz and 120Hz (which don’t automatically change) and the application of pulse-width modulation (PWM), which may lead to discomfort like eye strain and headaches in individuals who are sensitive to it.
As a tech enthusiast, I’ve got to share my thoughts on the Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9). While it boasts a larger screen size of 14.5 inches, it steps down from a high-resolution 3840×2400 to a lower resolution of 2944×1840 for a less intense pixel density. Also, unlike its predecessors, this model maxes out at a 90Hz refresh rate without the dynamic setting for automatic adjustments.
This OLED panel boasts exceptional contrast and vivid color representation, as confirmed by the reviewer Zachary Boddy during tests that covered a wide range of color spaces: 100% sRGB, 96% AdobeRGB, and 100% DCI-P3 gamuts.
If you’re seeking an outstanding laptop featuring a vibrant screen, the Yoga Slim 7x is highly recommended. This display can peak at around 500 nits for standard dynamic range (SDR), but it can go as high as 1,000 nits when playing HDR content. It boasts Dolby Vision and DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification.
The Yoga Slim 7x’s display also uses the same PWM tech, so there’s no difference on that front.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Performance and battery
The internal hardware and performance delivered by these two computers vary significantly.
The Yoga Slim 9i (Generation 10) incorporates an Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) 8-core processor at its core, allowing it to operate standard x86 Windows, a system that many people recognize.
This laptop is an Intel Evo model, which means it offers quick wake-up and start-up times along with efficient battery usage when on standby. For the most part, it stays cool without producing excessive fan noise. However, if you heavily utilize the system, you’ll certainly notice the fans working harder.
Reviewer Zachary Boddy notes:
The Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i demonstrates exceptionally well the true potential of Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors. It offers more than adequate performance for most users’ laptop needs, and with its robust design, it is equipped to handle software updates and evolving features for years to come.
Conversely, the Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) is fueled by a Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor, which operates Windows on Snapdragon. Although the ARM64 architecture differs from x86, the Windows experience remains largely similar.
Pay attention to applications that aren’t designed to run directly on ARM architecture. Most incompatibilities are handled by Microsoft’s Prism emulation layer, which doesn’t significantly affect performance, and the majority of users likely won’t perceive any change.
Additionally, an increasing number of applications are adopting native ARM64 compatibility, which makes it smoother for users with unique requirements, particularly those in the design and development sectors, to enjoy a hassle-free Snapdragon X experience without concerns.
Zachary Boddy evaluated the Yoga Slim 7x variant, equipped with the Snapdragon X Elite processor, noting that it appears to be the primary option available in many marketplaces.
The Yoga Slim 7x operates smoothly during most laptop tasks, remaining as calm and quiet as a cucumber. It even maintains this consistency in benchmark tests, performing exceptionally well whether it’s plugged in or running on battery power. This is particularly impressive compared to many traditional Intel and AMD laptops that tend to slow down when using battery power.
I’ve taken performance measurements using synthetic benchmarks on two laptops for a direct comparison. The Snapdragon X Elite System-on-Chip (SoC) surpasses the Intel CPU in Cinebench, Geekbench, and Handbrake tests, but lags behind in Time Spy. You can find these results in the table below.
| Benchmark | Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) | Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinebench 2024 (Multi / Single) | 640 / 121 | 1,009 / 108 |
| CrossMark (System) | 1,792 | 1,422 |
| Geekbench 6 (Multi / Single) | 10,934 / 2,746 | 13,687 / 2,426 |
| 3DMark Time Spy (GPU) | 4,462 | 1,909 |
| Handbrake (Seconds, lower is better) | 2,753 | 2,725 |
| CrystalDiskMark (Read / Write) | 6,178 / 4,685 | 5,033 / 4,065 |
As an analyst, I can confidently say that the battery life of the Yoga Slim 7x, powered by Snapdragon X, takes the lead. In a video battery run-down test, it managed to operate for over 17 hours, and in real-world usage, the average performance was equally impressive.
During my recent testing phase, I found that my device’s battery life consistently surpassed 14 hours on average, according to the Windows Battery Report. In daily life, I can confidently anticipate at least 10 hours of practical usage, regardless of the tasks I undertake. This device truly impresses me with its enduring power!
The newer model Yoga Slim 9i (10th generation) didn’t perform as exceptionally well compared to expectations, and a significant factor contributing to this is its Intel CPU and 4K OLED display. Upon completion of the testing phase, the Windows Battery Report indicated an average battery life of around six hours.
In summary, the Yoga Slim 7x outperforms the Slim 9i when it comes to longer battery life and better multi-core performance.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) vs. Yoga Slim 7x (Gen 9): Which should you buy?
In the course of their assessments, not one but two Lenovo laptops earned the Windows Central Best Award – that’s impressive! However, it was just the Slim 7x (Gen 9) that managed to secure a perfect five-star rating. Having weighed them side by side in my evaluation, I must concur with Zachary Boddy’s scoring without reservation.
In several crucial aspects, the Yoga Slim 7x (Generation 9) outperforms the Yoga Slim 9i (Generation 10). It boasts superior speed due to its built-in Snapdragon X Elite processor, and it offers significantly longer battery life.
The screen, albeit lower in resolution, becomes noticeably brighter, offering exceptional color and contrast thanks to the OLED panel. Above the display lies a top-tier camera equipped with an IR sensor and HPD, while the touchpad is expanded slightly for easier use.
Price plays a significant role, with the main difference being that the Lenovo model begins at only $1,199, while the Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) starts at $1,820.
Considering the Yoga Slim 9i (Gen 10) might not be a bad idea, given its striking design and advanced OLED screen boasting a 4K resolution and fast 120Hz refresh rate.
This keyboard offers increased comfort and amplified sound due to its powerful 10W capacity. Notably, it utilizes an Intel CPU that grants flexibility in running the standard x86 Windows version without any restrictions.
Although the compatibility of apps on Windows with Snapdragon is steadily improving, there are certain apps that just don’t function properly on this platform. However, these instances are quite uncommon, particularly for regular users.
Most Windows users shouldn’t encounter issues when using Windows on Snapdragon, allowing them to take advantage of its speed and efficiency.
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2025-06-05 17:11