The Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 can still make sense as a budget laptop, but mainly when you find a used unit at a price that reflects its age and condition.
The Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 is a 15.6-inch laptop built around a slim aluminum design, with configurations offering Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q graphics. Lenovo also offered Full HD and UHD display options, depending on the configuration.
What matters now is how well its older hardware holds up in real-world use. Let’s look at its specifications, everyday performance, gaming capability, and battery life to see what you’re actually getting for the price.
Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 Specifications
The Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15IKB came in different configurations, so specifications vary between units. Lenovo documented options including Core i5-7300HQ and Core i7-7700HQ processors, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q graphics, and Full HD or UHD displays.
| Specification | Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i5-7300HQ or Core i7-7700HQ |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q, 2GB or 4GB GDDR5 |
| Memory | DDR4-2400, up to 32GB |
| Storage | PCIe M.2 SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD (1920 × 1080) or UHD (3840 × 2160) IPS |
| Keyboard | Full-size backlit keyboard with numeric keypad |
| Camera | 720p HD |
| Battery | Integrated 4-cell, 79Wh |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.1 |
| Ports | USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, audio jack, and 3-in-1 card reader |
| Weight | From 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs) |
| Original OS | Windows 10 Home or Pro |
Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 Performance and Features
The IdeaPad 720S-15 combines everyday performance with dedicated graphics, a 15.6-inch IPS display, and a relatively thin design.
Performance for Everyday Use
The Core i7-7700HQ has 4 cores and 8 threads, with speeds up to 3.8 GHz. It can handle web browsing, Office apps, streaming, video calls, and everyday multitasking.
The PCIe SSD also improves boot and app-loading times, although the older processor has limitations with heavier, modern workloads. Buyers considering other options can also compare models across the Lenovo IdeaPad lineup.
GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q Graphics and Gaming
Some configurations include dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q graphics, making older games and light creative workloads more practical than on integrated graphics alone.
For demanding modern games, however, the hardware is dated. Budget buyers interested mainly in gaming should consider newer gaming-focused hardware instead.
Display Quality
The 720S-15 was available with a 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 × 1080) non-touch display or a UHD (3840 × 2160) touchscreen, both using IPS panels.
Design, Keyboard and Portability
At around 17.95 mm (0.71 inches) thick, the laptop starts at approximately 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs) for the non-touch model and 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs) for the touchscreen version. It also includes a backlit keyboard for low-light typing.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The 720S-15 has a 79Wh battery. Lenovo originally rated the Full HD model for up to 12.8 hours and the UHD touchscreen model for up to 8.8 hours, but a used unit may deliver less because of battery wear. If you’re buying one second-hand, a Lenovo warranty check can also help you confirm whether any coverage remains on the device.
Connectivity includes USB-A, USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, a card reader, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
Windows and Software Support
The IdeaPad 720S-15IKB is no longer actively supported by Lenovo for new software updates. Lenovo currently lists the model as End of Development Support, although existing support resources and drivers remain available.
The Core i7-7700HQ is also not included on Microsoft’s supported Intel processor list for Windows 11. This is an important limitation to consider when buying the laptop.
What People Also Ask More About It
Can You Upgrade the RAM on the Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15?
Yes. The IdeaPad 720S-15IKB supports DDR4-2400 memory with configurations up to 32GB, although the exact upgrade options can depend on the configuration you own.
Does the Lenovo IdeaPad 720S-15 Have Thunderbolt 3?
Yes. The IdeaPad 720S-15 includes a USB-C Thunderbolt 3 port, which can be useful for connecting compatible high-speed storage, docks, and external displays.
