Don't overpay for budget student laptops on Black Friday — this lightweight Lenovo AI PC lasts all day for under $600

lenovo ideapad slim 3x with text reading "Windows Central Black Friday Deals"
(Image credit: Lenovo)

Lenovo's IdeaPad Slim 3X delivers strong everyday performance and excellent battery life thanks to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X platform. It is a relatively affordable Copilot+ capable laptop, which benefits users who rely on AI tools for writing, multitasking, and more.

The Snapdragon X processor includes 45 TOPS NPU, meaning it is capable of handling locally-processed AI tasks, rather than relying on the cloud.

You also get a 15.3-inch 16:10 display, with integrated Adreno graphics for casual use, 16 GB of RAM, and a 512 GB SSD with the option to add more later on. Whilst usually priced higher at $679.99, thanks to the festive season, it’s available for $449.99 at Amazon.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim X3
Budget-friendly
Save 34% ($230)
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim X3: was $679.99 now $449.99 at Amazon


The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X deal includes a Snapdragon X processor with a 45 TOPS NPU, 16 GB of memory, and a 512 GB NVME SSD with an extra slot for future expansion. It features a 15.3-inch display in a 16:10 aspect ratio.

Is the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim X3 right for you?

If you want a lightweight 15-inch laptop with excellent battery life and smooth everyday performance, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X is a strong option at this price. The 16:10 display gives you plenty of room to view and edit documents, browse the web, and/or study.

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X processor also manages to hold its weight here, keeping the laptop quick, cool, and responsive, as well as giving you those 45 TOPS NPU supporting the latest AI features in Windows.

If your everyday tasks include writing, streaming, web apps, and multitasking, you'll be happy to know that all feels responsive here, and the integrated Adreno Graphics is also ideal for light gaming, which is great as this laptop also comes with three months free of Xbox PC Game Pass, usually $49.

The port selection is also impressive and practical, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, a full-size SD card reader, and a headphone jack for easy connectivity. The laptop also comes with a webcam that features a privacy shutter.

If your priorities are long battery life, AI-ready hardware, productivity, light gaming, and dependable day-to-day performance at an accessible price, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X is an easy recommendation.

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FAQ

Is the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X good for students?

Yes. The lightweight design, long battery life, quiet operation, and reliable everyday performance make it well suited for school or university work. It handles writing, research, streaming, and video calls very easily.

Can the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X run traditional Windows apps?

Most standard Windows apps run normally. Many common tools already have native Snapdragon versions, and the rest run through emulation. For specialised or older software, it is best to check compatibility in advance just in case.

Is the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X good for gaming?

It can run casual and less demanding games, but it is not built for high end gaming. The integrated Adreno graphics are designed for light use rather than modern AAA titles.

However, the laptop does come with three months free of Xbox PC Game Pass.

Does The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X have good connectivity?

Yes. It includes WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, USB C, USB A, HDMI, a full size SD card reader, and a headphone jack.

It offers what I would consider the essentials for students and office users.

Is the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3X good for people who travel?

Yes. It is light, efficient, and quiet, and it performs consistently even when unplugged. It also features strong standby times making it easy to pick up and use without worrying about sudden battery drain.


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Adam Hales
Contributor

Adam is a Psychology Master’s graduate passionate about gaming, community building, and digital engagement. A lifelong Xbox fan since 2001, he started with Halo: Combat Evolved and remains an avid achievement hunter. Over the years, he has engaged with several Discord communities, helping them get established and grow. Gaming has always been more than a hobby for Adam—it’s where he’s met many friends, taken on new challenges, and connected with communities that share his passion.

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