Lenovo U300s Owners Thread

Hi all. I was on of the first to get my hands on the U300s and love it. Since there aren't many of us who own the u300s, it was suggested to me to start an Owners thread. So here it is!

Insofar as any questions or concerns, I find that the u300s has been a stellar laptop replacement. I own the i7 256GB and am very happy with the performance and ergonomics. So far, I don't have any issues with it but if you would like for me to answer some questions, please feel free to post them here. We have started a pretty good discussion on the U300s on Amazon.com as well.

Look forward to hearing form other u300s owners!

Buck

 

Not an owner but I would like to read your about your experience with it.

The ASUS Zenbook threads are chock full of issues with having to update drivers, reflashing the BIOS, poor touchpad response, quirky keyboard and... wait for it... getting electrical shocks when plugging in USB peripherals.

While I understand more people will complain than praise, I don't see those kind if posts in the Tohsiba Z830 thread. No one has really started an Acer S3 thread either but I'm trying to track all the ultrabook posts to see how they stack up against each other.

What are your initial pros and cons... and how is the battery life? Also... what about heat and/or fan noise?

 

Here's a good thread you can't find on Amazon anymore so you'll have to bookmark it:

Amazon.com: J. Darji "Buck"'s review of Lenovo U300s 10802BU 13.3-Inch Ultrabook (...

No sense rewriting everything so check it out and post up questions.

So far I love my U300S as well!

Jay

 

Hi Folks,

I got my U300s today and have been doing installations on it. One thing that I need help on is the synaptics mouse pad.

I have this problem with my U460 too.. basically when I move my index finger with my thumb on the left mouse button, my mouse pointer becomes like a cross "+" which the pointer that moves/resize windows and resizes my screen size...this does not happen everytime but frequent enough that it's annoying..does anyone else have this problem and knows how to fix?

Will write more about U300s once I've used it a bit but right now this issue is driving me nuts!

 

Happy to see the Amazon review crew over here for more communication! I'm still waiting on my orange core i7 model. Happy to read your reviews and follow the great information. Hopefully I'll eventually be an owner as well. Thanks!

 

dan, have you already ordered? If you are waiting on availability then look here: Dynamism - Lenovo IdeaPad U300s

It seems like it may be available here. I don't know, I've not tried putting it in shopping cart there to see what the actual shipping date may be.

 

btw, for those who may be having similar issues as mine, I found the setting for it...if you go to mouse properties via control panel and then click on "Device Setting" tab..from there click on settings button and it will bring you to window where you can set various settings/enhancements. Mine was being caused by "pinch to zoom". I set that to off and now it's working fine.

 

Glad you got it figured out. I was going to reply saying it must be a setting issue in the multigesture features of the synaptic touchpad device settings.

Agree with previous post that Asus has had a world of issues! Sad because it looks like a freakin awesome ultrabook. I went through two of them before returning them both and got the U300s and won't look back! It's been awesome.

Also, got a case logic 13" black sleeve for it that I think was meant for the macbook air but works great. It's got a side pouch that hold my ethernet connector, a mini USB port replicator, AND the power supply. Crazy how I can fit all that in this case. The case is made out of neoprene so its stretchy but everything I mentioned fits in well without much effort or stretch.

No overheating issues either. Use it all the time on my lap in bed or one the couch, etc and it's so quiet sometimes I doze off and totally forget I had the thing on my lap!

Great seeing everyone here! U300S users shall unite and take over the world! Muahahaha!!

(Pinky and the Brain moment)

 

Hey Azhar, thanks for the info. I ordered mine from ABT.com on November 9. ...at a much better price, too (the orange 256mb core i7). If you search U300s on their site though, it will say discontinued. I've checked with them and my order is placed.. I just have to wait!

I've searched the web over for information... the latest I've heard is directly from Lenovo that there were a few first production models that shipped, but the US release has not yet officially happened, and the delay is apparently due to the floods in Thailand. One Lenovo rep told me they've been hearing rumors of December 9th, but no guarantee.

I will most definitely post pics and my observations about it when I do eventually get it!

 

Jumped here from the Amazon thread, still waiting for mine.
I had to return two UX 31 due to WiFi issues.

 

Alright! Glad to hear some more hands on reviews!

Haven't had that issue with the touchpad but glad you were able to change the settings for your needs.

I mentioned before but will reiterate - NO wifi issues with my U300S at all.

Looking forward to hearing more from folks as they get them. Dan - not too much longer for you I hope!!

Jay

 

Question for folks who have already received U300s and have been using it:

If you compress the right hand side area where the palm rests, does it feel flex and squeaky to you? When I press the right side area to touchpad it feels flex and squeaky but all other areas like left side of touchpad or top of keyboard etc are solid and there is no flex or squeak. I want to make sure I didn't get a faulty piece so seeking input in that regard.

I've been setting it up since yesterday and so far I love it. Wi-fi works great and its speed is quite fast and reliable.

I've not been able to use it to do a full review and will take some time to do it but this thing is light and slim and a pleasure to hold.

Thanks!

 

Hi. I landed here searching for the US release date for the U300s.

Are any of you located in the United States? If so, where did you purchase the U300s?

 

asudmb, I purchased mine at tigerdirect.com.

I first ordered at amazon.com but the status kept showing "temporarily out of order"...after few days I cancelled order at amazon and placed order at abt.com -- week or so later their product page started showing "discontinued" and my order with them kept showing "back ordered" -- I lost faith in them and placed order at tigerdirect.com and received my laptop after two days. However, the price difference between amazon/abt.com and tigerdirect is $100+

Hope this helps.

 

Thank you, AzharM!

I will check TigerDirect.

Like you, I placed an order with The Microsoft Store. I even called to make sure they had it. I was assured they did. However, after the order was placed, I received an email telling me it was back ordered.

It's very frustrating!

Thanks for the tip.

 

In regards to the flex issue, I notice it when I hold the laptop by a corner and this puts strain on the body of the U300s. I have had my laptop for over a month and have no problem with the hinge or build quality. In fact, it has been with me on trips and has done remarkable.

I got mine from TigerDirect as well Asudmb and I literally drove to their warehouse to pick up the only one they had back in late October. I got very lucky because I got it before the release date and I think the lady at the warehouse didn't realize how sought after this laptop has become. I figure this was probably going to be their display model but I got it as soon as the shipment arrived. Lucky me!

I will end up getting an orange one just to have it and because I just love the U300s design. For me, it's perfect.

 

Hi all. Have had the U300s for about a month now. Still loving it. Like Buckhippo, I also posted my review in Amazon.

http://www.amazon.com/Lenovo-10802B...iewpoints=1&sortBy=bySubmissionDateDescending

I used to have the "flexing" and "creaking" issue that others brought up here, and even cited in my review. But over time, this has gone away. Hopefully, it subsides for you out there too.

I am having two issues that I wanted to get discussions going on:

1) the WiFi sometimes is not able to connect to my home network. It'll work fine 15 times in a row, but then it won't and it can't connect until I reset the router. Anyone else seeing this? Any suggestions?

2) I've repartitioned the drives and adjusted the size of the C: and made a bigger D: drive, all from the original C: partition. I haven't touched any of the hidden ones. But now can't get OneKey Recovery to work properly in Windows. It works fine when I start it using the OKR button on the side and looks like I should be able to restore the system (haven't confirmed, but at least can see the factory image and am able to look for other folders. Main problem is that I now can't create updated images for OKR.

Anyone else having this issue? Any suggestions?

Can I just get rid of OKR and just tap the hidden partitions to use that precious space?

Look forward to feedback. Thanks.

 

1) WiFi - Instead of rebooting the router, did you try to just shut down and restart the laptop? I assume you did. I would suggest if it is a router problem to maybe look at upgrading the router software? Just a thought.

2) I am not sure about the OneKey recovery as it may have been installed when they installed Windows for the first time as a combo. Other posts I have read claim that yes you can get the hidden partitions assimilated into your main drive but then you can forget about having the onekey feature available if that's important to you. In fact, once the hidden partition is removed, Lenovo states that you will have to take it back to them to reset it. Personally, I'm not screwing with this. My feeling is that is has something to do with the registry key in Windows. Maybe since OKR sensed a change in the system (registry or drive size) that it is no longer active? As a self protecting mechanism? Wish I could help more bud.

Best of luck!

Buck

 

Fernandez, since you created partitions, do take a look at this:

Speed Up Your SSD By Correctly Aligning Your Partitions

to make sure you are getting full potential from your SSD. I intend to check for this on my U300s as well as soon as I get a chance.

 

As far as re-partitioning goes... I've read other threads in the IdeaPad & Essential forums for other Lenovo machines; partitioning with the one key restore functionality.

I'll try and find the exact source, but it appears that any tampering with the partition sizes, etc. will break the one key restore. There are several threads of people that have done this on older Ideapad laptops...

I would consult specific to Lenovo info on SSDs before partitioning, etc. It's not like the good ole days when we could easily resize, reallocate and move partitions. Also, I think there is a download ISO to repair the OKR if needed.

 

Buck- I have tried rebooting when the WiFi is unable to connect, and it stays unable to reconnect until I reset the router.

As far as repartitioning, early on in getting the U300s, I repartitioned and resized the C: drive. The OKR restore worked fine and was able to get back to factory settings (which was good news). Even now, after further adjustments...appears that the OKR restore could work (thought I haven't followed through with it).

My problem is actually running OKR in Windows to create new or updated restore images. When I run it in Windows, it seems to hang and nothing pops up. I see it in task manager, and when I click on the shortcut it says that it's already running. So other than using the actual OKR program, don't know how to make an OKR restore compatible image. Will it work with Windows images?

 

AzharM- Thanks for the suggestion re: speeding up SSD.

 

I got mine back in the second week of November. Lucked out. Paid $1399 for the i7 256gb SSD.

Had them deliver it via FedEx. ABT's website had it for $1499 but I called to confirm they had it and the sales rep told me it was $100 cheaper so I ordered it on the spot.

Very glad I got it and super happy with the purchase.

Jay

 

Sorry for the delayed reply re: my purchase experience. Shut off my iPad mid post so figured I would finish it.

In regard to the wifi, I can say I haven't had a single issue. My wifi has been rock solid.

It sounds like your router may have an issue. Mate to blame the router but maybe it's a setting in there. Try a google search or the manufacturer's website to see if anyone else reports the same thing.

Are you having other issues with other computers on the same wifi network?

Jay

 

What size is the hard drive form factor? 2.5, 1.8 or msata?

 

For anyone interested, I just heard from ABT on my order from November 9th, and ETA is now December 30th!!!

I was upset at first, but I suppose I can wait a few more weeks. At least my order isn't cancelled (like many who ordered the Transformer Prime tablet). At least knowing an ETA helps. I'll keep the group posted.

Alternatively, Tigerdirect (and a few others) say the core i5 128gb grey model is in stock. I just have my heart set on the orange i7.

BTW, I'd like to know about SSD physical size as well, but I can't imagine anyone willing to open that beautiful case!

 

How would you compare the i7 in terms of speed on the U300s vs the sony z series or equivalent?

 

In stock newegg, just purchased I7, 256 in orange

 

That was HUGE! Thank you 328is!! I just placed my order and cancelled the order from ABT. Maybe I'll have this thing next week!

 

Good for you Dan! Hope you get it soon. You are gonna love this thing!

 

Just ordered mine off of newegg.com too! Pretty excited to receive it this week hopefully.

I'm also curious if the SSD is mSATA.

 

Anyone dared to crack open their U300s? I'm really curious about the form of the SSD too. There are at least two different types of mSATA SSDs. The type in the ux21/31 is a different form than those those available to consumers. In contrast, the Toshiba z835/830 can be upgraded with consumer SSDs such as the Intel 310 and Runcore T50.

 

Hey all! I'm sorry if this is totally irrelevant- I didn't think this deserved its own thread, and y'all are most active regarding the U300s...

Is it only the i7 configurations that are the clementine orange color? I can only afford the <$1200 configs, but the orange just looks awesome. Actually, can anyone comment on the overall aesthetics in more detail? I saw pictures, but I've also heard many people commenting on how different it looked in person (darker, almost brown-ish exterior, for instance).

 

I can confirm that only the i7 model comes in orange; model 108027u. I was in your boat, too... really wanting the orange, and ultimately I paid extra for it (still on order from Newegg).

I can't speak to real world experience with the color, but I will post pics when I receive mine this week. Videos from TheVerge.com, etc. look very orange though!

 

Lenovo recently updated their training site with U300s info, teardown, hardware replacement info, etc:
RCW09 IdeaPad U300s Service Training

 

Based on the SSD service video, consumer SSDs are not compatible.

The memory module doesn't look to be an unusual form and its not soldered down. Should be upgradeable.

 

Great find on Newegg! I knew Dan would be all over that!

In terms of the color - it's a nice smoky grey on the outside. It's not a dull grey like you used to see on business laptops - so it's not boring!

It has an aluminum type of sheen to it but it's deinitely more smoky, almost oily in color. Two others have said something similar about fingerprints: at first, they are all over the place and annoying. Over time, they seem to blend into each other and nwt I hardly notice them at all.

Hope that helps with the description. I don't know how easy photos will convey the look and feel but it's very nice! Definitely not a rough feel like the MB Air - much smoother metal.

It was darker than I expected but I really like it.

Jay

 

JAYK1- No other problem with any other wireless device on my WIFI. Just U300s for some reason. All firmware is up to date on router. I am using a Netgear Wireless N Router WNR2000.

I was using WEP encryption. Did the same thing, where it would connect but then after a while after sleeping/wakeup would not be able to connect with a router reset.

Changed to (WPA-PSK + WPA2-PSK), worked fine for a little while, then started not being able to connect.

I thought it might be the power profile being used. Same between Performance and Balanced profiles.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

Thanks for the tip on Newegg, had kept checking D&H/ABT/Amazon and forgot about NewEgg. Ordered the orange i7 last night and status just went to "Shipped" a few moments ago... Looking forward to providing some insight and opinions.

 

Thanks a million dan76. My dynamism order from 10/18 got pushed back to Dec 24. Been scouring the Internet with no luck but stumbled on this thread and just purchased my clementine u300s at newegg! Supposed to ship today!!!

 

Don't thank me, thank 328is who mentioned it first!!

Awesome that we're all able to get on the Newegg Clementine Orange train. I ordered on Saturday afternoon, got a shipped notification on Sunday and have a tracking number for Wednesday delivery. I'm ecstatic!

 

I was wondering if anyone has got the cheaper version (i5 with 128gb SSD).

I'm really interesting in having the u300s but I don't wan't to spend $1500. Do you guys think that the different between the i5 and i7 is worth 400-500$.

Or do you think the i5 is more than enough?

Im a engineering student that would mostly use the computer for school and s internet browsing.

Regards.

 

Hmmm, the only thing I can think of is that there is something weird with the router. I had that one in my office for a while and was using a VoIP service that did not recommend it due to buggy issues. Otherwise I thought it was agreat router. Nothing on google about at huh?

I'm not super techie so I can't really help more then I have here but if you haven't done the google search thing it's definitely worth a try. I would probably try something simple like "router model + disconnect" or "reset" and see if anything pops up. Sorry I can't help much more. As I said, I haven't had a single issue with my wireless since I've had the U300S so I'm useless for a solution.

Good luck and please keep us posted!

Jay

 

elvarg09,

I've the i5 version and quite frankly I personally couldn't justify spending another $400 to get to next processor level for the needs I have. It's already nifty enough and works great and in the world of cloud computing 128gb is probably enough for a normal use. I'd rather save those $400 now and get next gen 1 1/2 year from now.

For folks who already have it I've couple of questions:

1- Regarding mouse pad:

I noticed that the right side button is little above the palm rest surface compared to left side button...I don't know if it is supposed to be like that after some use since left side button gets used most for a right-handed person but just wanted to get the opinion from other owners and see if they have similar situation. I'm a little concerned as to it's only few days I've had the machine and one side of the mousepad is already sort of tilted in the favor of left-side button and wonder if after a year's use there would be some kind of damage...

2- One Key Restore:
Today I performed a backup for one key restore and it took most of the space on the OKR partition. Since my C: is a lot bigger (it has ~ 50 gigs left) how would it eventually fit on OKR partition? Or the idea is to do the backup up to the point where it fits on the partition and then for any future need use some external disk backup plan? Just curious to hear others' thoughts.

 

Thank you for the respond. I think i will purchase the i5.

 

Newegg is sold out now as of around 6pm central time.

@AzharM, I'm pretty sure the backup doesn't backup personal files like music/docs I think it backs-up programs and the system files. I could be wrong though.

 

I was more about the 256gb SSD than the i7 chip in mine. Glad it came with it but I was t comfortable with the smaller drive thanks to MS Office hogging up so much space ( and a few other necessities). My Outlook files alone have gotten to 15+Gb alone! (I know, I know!!)

iLife I posted earlier, I was able to get mine for $1399 so it wasn't too bad. I still purchased a USB 3.0 7200rpm external drive just for my data, etc.

Wondering what others are paying now?

No issues with my mousepad btw.

jay

 

I had the Orange core i7 256gb on order from ABT for $1399 also, but delay after delay, and then the find on Saturday at Newegg... I cancelled the ABT for Newegg's orange i7 for $1449, $50 more, but quick shipping. Worth 50 bucks to me!

Good to hear your mousepad is working well Jay!! Azhar, maybe worth RMA-ing yours? Definitely an issue we need to keep tabs on.

 

Hello

I wanted to know after your 128gb hard drive was partitioned and such, how much useable space did you actually have? I saw on another post on amazon where it sounded like someone said they lost ~60GB to formatting and system files on either the 256 or 128.

Thanks.

 

JAYK1-
Thanks anyway. I did the research, and if you look hard enough, almost all routers get complaints of some kind of disconnect issue. The one I had was refurbished and maybe was due for an upgrade.
Did some research and picked up another Netgear, The WNDR3700 (N600) model (was between this one and the Linksys E3200 or Netgear N750). So far so good. Will test it out to make sure it works over a longer haul...otherwise will return.