2-in-1 notebooks continue to gain popularity amongst users, and the latest Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 model is one of the most highly sought-after computers on the market right now.
This Lenovo convertible flagship has nearly everything (if not everything) one can request in a laptop: A premium screen, a portable design, and great performance. And it is also more affordable than other comparable flagships.
In this quick guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the latest Yoga 9i 14. From the different models available to how it compares to other 2-in-1 notebooks, nothing is left out.
Without further ado, let’s answer the most important question: Is the Lenovo Yoga 9i the best laptop for me in 2023?
Lenovo Yoga 9i Convertible: Versions and Specs
As with most Lenovo laptops, the Yoga 9i comes in multiple variations. The truth is that these “models” of the same Yoga allow the brand to attract multiple users with various requirements.
For example, the basic version is by far the most affordable, and it’s perfect for casual users. On the flip side, the premium model is for those who need a powerful, pocket-sized laptop.
Before we start analyzing the main characteristics of the new Yoga 9i, let’s have a quick look at each version’s main specs:
| Specs | Yoga 9i Mica Entry | Yoga 9iShadow Black Entry | Yoga 9i Mica Premium | Yoga 9i Storm Gray |
| OS | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Home | Windows 11 Pro | Windows 11 Home |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 11th gen | Intel Core i7 11th gen | Intel Core i7 11th gen | Intel Core i7 11th gen |
| RAM | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 | 8GB DDR4 | 16GB DDR4 |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe | Intel Iris Xe | Intel Iris Xe | Intel Iris Xe |
| Display | 14″ FHD (1920 x 1080), IPS | 14″ FHD (1920 x 1080), IPS | 14″ FHD (1920 x 1080), IPS | 14″ WQUXGA (3840 x 2400) OLED |
| Price | $749.99 | $1099.99 | $1149.99 | $1339.99 |
Apart from these differences in the hardware specs of the 9i 14-inch models, all other laptop features remain the same. Let’s have a deeper look into this.
2023 Lenovo Yoga 9i 14: Overview
Design and Display
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 is equipped with one of the best touchscreens available on a convertible laptop. The 14-inch display hits the sweet spot. It is large enough for pretty much any task, but still very portable and does not take up too much room in your bag or carry-on.
Even though the WQUXGA display of the most premium version is simply breathtaking, the FHD version is very accurate and pleasing as well. In other words, if you need a laptop for desk-based tasks, movie streaming, or editing, the Yoga 9i has you covered.
Performance
The same is true for the laptop’s performance. Even the entry-level Mica version can easily handle any regular task like word processing, web browsing, multitasking, and streaming. Built on the very capable Intel Evo platform, both the Core i5 and Core i7 (11th generation) are perfect for regular and professional users.
The only downside is that only the Storm Gray version has 16GB of RAM. This makes it challenging for entry-level versions to cope with extreme multitasking and demanding creative apps, such as Premiere Pro (video editing) and After Effects (animation).
But if you don’t use such software, the 8GB RAM is more than enough for you. Finally, both the 256GB and 512GB SSDs will cover the needs of most users.
Connectivity and Accessories
Lenovo is one of the few brands that targets a specific audience with certain devices they launch. As such, the Yoga 9i is specially created for professionals and creative users. This is why the brand includes an active pen and a sleeve for note-taking, annotating, drawing, and editing.
Of course, the laptop also allows you to connect accessories via Bluetooth, Thunderbolt, and USB. There are a total of 4 ports for data transfer and external accessories. Lenovo also included a Wi-Fi 6 adapter and fingerprint reader for extra security.
In short, if connectivity and accessories are your priority, then the new Yoga 9i is for you.
Price
The entry Mica version is probably the most affordable 2-in-1 flagship on the market. Of course, that doesn’t mean that the new Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 is a cheap laptop.
On the contrary, we can safely say that multiple entry-level gaming laptops have the same price as the 9i but come with better specs. Still, it is essential to mention that this is one of the best choices for those who need a powerful yet ultimately portable and lightweight computer.
In that regard, all of the price tags that Lenovo has placed for the latest versions of the Yoga 9i are fully justified. You should remember that there is an innovative way to save some money on your Lenovo 9i 14 purchase. Furthermore, you can always offset the cost of your purchase by selling your older laptop or other electronics for cash on the Gadget Salvation buyback site.
Who is the New Lenovo 9i Flagship For?
With all that in mind, let’s consider who should and shouldn’t buy this Lenovo convertible notebook.
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 is a perfect solution for:
- Casual users who need a powerful, portable, and affordable 2-in-1 laptop
- Students and professionals on the go: The 9i is a very lightweight device that you can easily carry with you anywhere you go
- Creative professionals and artists: With its top-notch touchscreen, great specs, and included active pen, this is an excellent choice for creatives
On the other hand, the Yoga 9i isn’t the best choice for:
- Gamers: If you need a laptop for gaming, then you should probably opt for a different notebook, such as the Razer Blade or the Asus ROG model.
- Animators, video, and 3D editors: Animating, video, and 3D editing software is usually much more demanding than drawing or photo editing software. The only version of the 9i that meets the minimum requirements for such tasks is the Storm Gray.
How Does it Compare to Other 2-in-1 Laptops and Its Predecessor, the Lenovo C940?
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 is actually the brand new version of the previous Lenovo Yoga C940. The previous Lenovo 2-in-1 laptop had similar but inferior specs.
The Lenovo Yoga C940 characteristics could easily cover the needs of most casual and professional users. Still, you can consider the 9i to be an improved version of that model. Finally, we know that many of you are wondering how this laptop compares to other flagships, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 and the Apple iPad Pro.
The truth is that both of these laptops are a bit more powerful than the 9i. But the Microsoft and Apple flagships are also much more expensive.
Wrap Up
To sum up, the Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 is the best option for those seeking a more affordable alternative to other high-end 2-in-1 flagships, such as the Microsoft Surface Pro 8 tablet. This Lenovo convertible laptop has everything a casual user, student, or creative professional needs and more.