After completing the Windows setup (which Cortana mostly helps you get through), including creating a PIN (not a password), it is advisable to take the Lenovo Flex 11 out of Windows-S and switch to Windows 10 Home. The reason to do this is a bug that I found in the version of Windows S that shipped with this laptop. After setting up the PC which was functioning fine, I closed the lid and came back a few minutes later. When I opened the lid Windows S mode I got the message “PIN is no longer available due to a change in the security settings on the device. You can set up your PIN again by going to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options code (0x8007054f)” No security settings were changed by me, and there is no way to go beyond this page, so there was no going to Settings>Accounts>Sign In Options.
The only thing left to do was shut off the laptop and refresh the PC (start setup all over again), which I did, but the problem still persisted, I was locked out when I closed the lid or the computer went to sleep. One more refresh and I found out that if I turned the power off instead of shutting the lid, the PIN still worked, but who wants a computer that you can’t shut the lid and resume where you left off when you open it back up? Not me! Unfortunately, Windows S ONLY allows a PIN for credentials.
Windows S mode is mostly for school use and disables many settings, blocks any programs other than those from the Microsoft app store, and locks your browser into Microsoft Edge and Bing as the search engine. Chrome and Firefox will not load since there are no Microsoft apps for them. I certainly would have changed from S mode anyway, so switching out of it is no loss. Once it is switched out of S, it cannot be switched back, for that I am grateful! Switching is a quick and easy process. Changing to Windows 10 Home is free, while updating to Windows 10 Pro costs $99 on this machine. Lenovo provides some documentation with a Microsoft link on how to switch, so I won’t go into that here.
Once I finally switched into Windows 10 Home I felt relieved. Settings that were absent in S mode appeared in their familiar locations and I created a local password deleting the PIN business altogether. That just seemed like a disaster that was not ready to be implemented. Now, I know that this is Microsoft’s issue, but Lenovo has to take some blame here for not thoroughly testing this new version of Windows on their systems. Buyers of a new Flex should not have to go through all of that drama, and most people would have to contact Lenovo Support to fix this issue.
Ok, so now I have a Flex 11 that was not going to lock me out, whew! The Lenovo Flex 11 boots up Windows 10 really fast. I had never heard of an Intel Pentium Silver processor before, but it does a good job on this computer with the 4 GB of DDR RAM. Now I wouldn’t do extensive movie rendering on this machine, but I’m sure that it can handle simple movie editing providing there is enough space on the SSD, remember this machine only has a 64 GB drive, 55.7 once formatted, and Windows takes up a big chunk of that. Luckily Lenovo includes a single USB 3.0, USB 2.0, USB-C port and SD Card support to attach a flash drive or an external HD, not to mention any other accessories, mouse, keyboard, etc. You may want to purchase a hub for more ports though. I would advise to save most files using OneDrive or other cloud-based services. Most people will probably either use the Flex 11 as either a laptop or a tablet, but keep in mind it is BOTH. That is why it has nice thick hinges on it and can be flipped so the keyboard is flat against the screen. Just be careful not to touch the power button which protrudes from the side of the system and inadvertently put the machine to sleep (I’ve done this several times). When using it as a tablet the touchscreen is responsive and Windows 10 will switch to tablet mode, bringing up an onscreen keyboard, turning off the physically attached keyboard and touchpad and enlarging icons.
When using the Flex 11 as a laptop, the keyboard has a solid feel, but is not backlit - a feature that I would have liked to have. The touchpad works well, but the left click is a little bit mushy, sinking down a bit too far than I would have liked, so I wonder about the overall durability in the future. The laptop has a HDMI port to connect to an external monitor or television if you want to use it on a screen bigger than 11.5 inches. Speaking of the screen, the quality is about what I would expect for a computer in this price range – not extremely sharp like an iPad, but still not too bad, it has a limited viewing angle, does not have deep blacks or rich deep colors, but is very adequate. The 802.11ac Wi-Fi is quick, which is important because most of the files will probably be saved to the cloud on this machine due to the limited space. The fast Wi-Fi also helps to prevent buffering while watching movies. Since the native screen resolution is only 1366 X 768 it is not capable of displaying 1080p HD video. The speakers on the Flex 11 are located on the bottom front corners and are tiny, so therefore pretty tinny sounding, however the Dolby Audio does a great job of special separation. Luckily you can connect Bluetooth speakers or headphones for a better sound when needed.
Included with the purchase of this machine is a one year subscription to Office 365, some other reviewers mentioned it is a 30 day trial. That is incorrect. Other than Lenovo Vantage, which is their support and update hub there is no bloatware installed. Lenovo gives you the option to install McAfee LiveSafe, but I chose not to, just using Windows Defender.
After removing Windows-S and changing to a straight Windows 10 Home version I am very happy with the Lenovo Flex 11. It is a great convertible laptop for those with general computing needs. It’s nice and portable, weighing only 2.75 pounds it’s certainly in the running with the competition of other low cost convertibles out there.
My previous laptop was getting old so I decided to pull the trigger for this one. My previous one had a larger screen than this one (15.6"), but I decided to go with a more compact route this time, since I'm only going to use this occasionally when I visit my mother. It is an adjustment having the smaller keyboard (I'm 5'11 and have long fingers), but that's just part of the tradeoff of having a smaller device. The shift and backspace keys are proving to be the more difficult ones., and I also miss the number pad I had on my previous one. The screen is also noticeably smaller, but I don't really mind small font. I've been using it for about a week and so far the power seems to hold up fine for doing basic tasks like video streaming, internet browsing, and working with excel and word processor. I like the design, it's simple and sleek, and it has a nice, sturdy feeling to it. For the price of $325, I'd say it's a good deal - I can see myself easily having this for the next 5-6 years. A few minor complaints is I don't like Lenovo's rounded keys at the bottom and I would rather have not paid for the extra features of it having a tablet mode or it rotating completely around. I'm not going to use those features.
I did not see a whole lot of options for this size laptop that runs Windows OS and for this price, so I'm glad this one was a good fit.
In summary, I would not recommend this for regular/daily use for work or school (I would go a little bigger both for the keyboard size and the size of screen/text), but for occasional use to have around for traveling or recreation, I would certainly recommend.
I purchased this netbook basically for day travel. It is not my main laptop. (My main laptop is a Toughbook so I have come to appreciate stability in a machine).
The machine is stable with a very good battery. There was no bloatware on it; the keyboard is really nice, too. I was worried about the 64gb hard drive being big enough. I purchased a SanDisk Ultra Fit 128GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive - SDCZ43-128G-GAM46 from amazon and all of my data is stored there. The hard drive is for programs only.
If I were to change it, I would have a larger screen, but I bought this for day travel.
Overall, I am happy and would not hesitate to buy again.
Installed Lubuntu on it. Runs like a dream! Can do all my coding and even remote into my desktop at home that runs windows. Portable, light, and great on battery.
As an IT Pro for the last 20 years and computer nerd since 1977, I know quality when I get my hands on a device.
I bought this for my mother who wanted a simple computer that was portable, affordable, and limited in frustration seeing that she's a computing neophyte like many people. Admittedly, I'm not all too familiar with Windows 10 S, but know enough about Windows to navigate any other version. From what I experienced, it's a functional OS environment for people who simply want to use the machine without knowing much about security and other IT mumbo-jumbo. In other words, I'm saying that it works as it should for an entry level machine that feels well made without the burden of bloatware and other junk most vendors load onto their devices. The Flex 11 comes straight up with Windows 10 S ready for use straight out of the box -- except for the few minutes you are going to have to spend to get the OS updated via Windows Update.
Unlike other machines that have that "cheap plastic" feel, this doesn't. The keyboard is responsive, the hinges have enough tightness with zero play, and it has all the ports you'd need to plug in any peripheral you would need. The only issue I have with the build is the lack of a "chamfer" on the edge of one of the panels to assist in opening the device when it's closed.
Don't expect this device to beat any speed records - it falls into that "Chromebook" class of 2 in 1 laptops that may outperform many others of its class but again, it's not supposed to be a speed demon with a litany of GPU benchmark records under its belt. It has all the power it needs to surf online, participate in all the social media tools, and entertain with decent multi-media play. The audio and video is functional - not the greatest and certainly not the worst.
What can I say about a machine that does more than what I expected for $266USD? It's a fantastic value for the performance, and it feels durable enough to invoke confidence that it can survive the wear and tear that a primary device will endure.
Feature Product
- POWERED BY INTEL: The Lenovo Flex 11 packs a punch with powerful Intel Pentium processing, 4 GB DDR4 memory and speedy 64GB of eMMC SSD storage
- ON THE GO LAPTOP: Weighing in at just 2.75 lbs. and constructed with premium materials, this small, convertible laptop transitions seamlessly from work to play
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY: With multiple ports including USB 3.0, Type-C, HDMI, and a 4-in-1 card reader, you'll be able to hook up your laptop computer to your existing devices with no fuss and no extra purchases
- DYNAMIC ENTERTAINMENT: Featuring HD resolution on an anti-glare touchscreen and the crystal-clear sound of Dolby Audio Premium, the Flex 11 provides the quality of a home theater in compact form
- REDESIGNED WITH YOUR COMFORT IN MIND: The Flex 11 features an ergonomic keyboard for maximum comfort and a redesigned touchpad for a more precise user experience with multi-finger gestures. Touch, click, and zoom-you'll feel the difference
Description
Simplify your life with the multimode Lenovo flex 11. Ultra-light at less than 3 pounds, it's packed with high-value features — including powerful Intel processing, Windows 10S, and the versatility of multiple connection ports. This touchscreen laptop is sleek and easy, quickly converting from a notebook for easy productivity, to tent mode to binge your favorite shows or hold a video call, to tablet mode for simple and intuitive interaction. You'll enjoy next-level productivity, creativity, and entertainment, All in one convenient package. Not only is the Lenovo flex 11 a great choice for portable productivity, It offers brilliant screen clarity, with HD and anti-glare features, and crisp Dolby Audio Premium sound. You'll also get the best that a Windows laptop can provide, with the new photos app, smarter security features, and much more. This small, affordable laptop computer will help you handle any task that life throws your way.
I have this small laptop and I am quite happy with it so far. At first it was slow moving and lagging when I got on to the internet. I was disappointed at first then I checked on the update and security possibly pending. Well to my amazement there was a list of Windows 10 updates to be downloaded and installed properly to run this little laptop. It took over 2 hours for all the updates to done and installed. I have chosen to stay with Windows 10 S mode because I don't need apps for now on this laptop. Currently my little laptop is running smoothly and much more efficient when surfing the internet. It's not perfect, but I am please with it. The little laptop has some solid feel to it and not the flimsy chrome books and small laptops I have come across in the past. I do like the Lenovo name brand for laptops because I own 4 of them currently. 4 stars only because it's not perfect but darn close to it! It's now a see and wait and hope all is well in the months to come and hopefully for years too!
Everyone whos tried it, likes it, bought another one for my other daughter starting college next year
As a computer hobbyist I was researching possibilities for a friend, who wants to get a new laptop to replace one almost 10 years old. (Windows 7). Works ok as a bulky tablet, but my interest was to find something light, small, and extremely portable. Battery life exceeded my expectations. Windows 10 “S” mode was a disappointment. Too controlling ,so switched it easily to standard Windows 10 Home version. After loading 3 apps and doing a disk cleanup, ended up with 30GB of free space of the fixed 64GB simulated hard drive storage. Video is not crisp as perhaps an iPad, but you can’t beat the price for this device. If it breaks, toss it. Not a great loss like a high dollar laptop might be.
this little laptop didn't have the best packaging bare minimum, but it was totally worth it, the touch is amazing, the battery is ok, and is super light, this is a great pc highly recommend it to anyone who needs a good pc
Great product and price! Just be aware you will need to take this out of school mode!
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