The Lenovo Yoga AIO 27i is a refreshingly pragmatic take on the all-in-one desktop. While not groundbreaking, it delivers solid performance for typical office and light creative tasks at a competitive price point. This machine stands out by avoiding the premium pricing often associated with AIOs, offering good value without compromising on essential features.
Solid Performance in a Streamlined Package
At its core, the 27i packs capable hardware—specifically, an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor—that handles everyday workloads with ease. Testing shows it’s competitive with mini-PCs like the Mac Mini and Minisforum X1 AI Pro, even outperforming more expensive Lenovo Yoga AIO 32i models in multicore tasks. While integrated graphics (Intel Arc 140T) aren’t a match for dedicated GPUs, they’re sufficient for casual gaming and media consumption.
Key takeaway: The 27i’s performance is more than adequate for everyday tasks, including browsing, streaming, and light creative work.
Versatility Beyond the Desktop
What sets this AIO apart is its flexibility. Unlike some competitors, the 27i includes an HDMI input, allowing you to repurpose the 27-inch, 120Hz display as a standalone monitor if the internal components become outdated. This future-proofs the investment, ensuring the screen remains usable even as processing power diminishes.
The included keyboard and mouse are serviceable, though not high-end. Still, they connect via a single USB-A dongle, keeping setup clean and simple.
Display Quality and Connectivity
The 27-inch display itself is a strong point, offering 2,560×1,440 resolution with good color accuracy (99% sRGB) and brightness (479 nits in HDR mode). The matte finish reduces glare, making it comfortable for long work sessions.
Connectivity includes five USB ports (three Type-A, two Type-C) at 10Gbps speeds, an HDMI output for dual-monitor setups, and an Ethernet jack. The integrated 5-megapixel webcam with IR emitter supports Windows Hello facial recognition for secure and quick login.
Long-Term Considerations
One potential drawback is the soldered RAM, meaning upgrades are impossible after purchase. This underscores the importance of maximizing RAM configuration at the time of buying. Additionally, the cooling system vents air through the stand with relatively coarse filters, suggesting that dust accumulation could become an issue over time.
Important note: The cooling system’s design may require occasional maintenance to prevent performance degradation due to dust buildup.
Conclusion
The Lenovo Yoga AIO 27i is a well-rounded and practical all-in-one desktop. It provides a solid balance of performance, features, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a streamlined desktop experience without unnecessary frills. Its versatility—particularly the HDMI input for repurposing the display—adds long-term value that many competitors lack.
