Lenovo just added a new line of notebooks called the Z series that focus on bringing high-end multimedia and stylized designs to the mainstream. New U series ultraportables have also been rolled out, replacing their old models with redesigned lightweight shells and an updated spec, all due out by June.
Three new Z series systems will be available: the 13.3-inch Z360, and the 15.6-inch Z560 and Z565. Starting at $649, the line features a “fashionable” chiclet keyboard over a metallic cover panel, and will feature a spec that’s specifically put together for entertainment on-the-go: HD displays, Dolby Advanced Audio, optional Blu-ray drive, and a OneKey Theater II button for quickly optimizing the AV settings. Both the Z360 and Z560 will feature Intel’s 2010 Core processors and Nvidia graphics (along with Intel’s built-in graphics), while the Z565 will run on AMD’s new mobile quad-core Phenom II processor and ATI Mobility Radeon Graphics.
The U series updates include three models: The 11-inch, 2.9-pound IdeaPad U160, and the 14-inch, 3.8-pound U460 and U460s. The U160 and U460s will run on Intel’s energy-efficient CULV processor for longer run times away from the socket, but the U460 comes with a little bit more thunder with processor options that includes Intel’s Core i7, all packed into a frame that measures less than an inch thick.
We can’t stress this enough, but the spec on the U460 is pretty+awesome rolled into one. That’s a Core i7-based notebook with a 14-inch HD screen and quality audio that they fit into the slim shell. It’s a bit heavier than the U460s at a little over 4 pounds, but that’s still light for a 14-incher. Also, the lid designs look pretty good—we don’t usually spring for stylized lids (we’re pretty old-school with lid preferences), but we have to admit that the square patterns on the new U series kits mesh well with the notebook’s thin lines.
Tags: IdeaPad, Lenovo, Notebooks
