Lenovo’s new MacBook Neo competitor comes in two sizes and seven colors

Lenovo has officially introduced the IdeaPad Vibe, a new line of cost-effective productivity laptops designed to compete with devices like Apple's MacBook Neo and Dell's XPS 13. The laptops were showcased for the first time at IFA 2026, featuring a vibrant design and a flexible range of hardware options. Although leaked images introduced the IdeaPad Vibe last month, the details remained scarce until the official unveiling.

The laptop boasts a slim design, with a thickness of just 14.9mm, and is available in both 14- and 15-inch sizes. Color choices include Dreamy Violet, Spicy Gold, Zen Green, Chill Blue, Radiant Coral, Moody Blue, and Lowkey Gray. The IdeaPad Vibe introduces a customizable keyboard with interchangeable keycaps, allowing users to match the keyboard to the laptop's color or opt for a contrasting appearance.

In comparison to Apple's MacBook Neo, the IdeaPad Vibe offers more extensive connectivity features, including two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, a full-size HDMI port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a microSD card reader. This minimizes the need for additional dongles and adapters. Display options include panels with refresh rates up to 120Hz, with OLED displays available on select configurations.

The laptops also come equipped with dual 2W speakers and a 5MP webcam with Windows Hello support and a physical privacy shutter. Buyers have the choice between Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X platform and AMD’s Ryzen AI 400 series processors. Qualcomm versions can accommodate up to 24GB of RAM, while AMD configurations support up to 32GB, with storage options reaching 1TB.

Both versions feature dual M.2 SSD slots for potential future storage expansion. Battery life varies between the AMD models, which come with either a 50Wh or 65Wh battery, offering users flexibility based on their preferences. It's worth noting that entry-level models may start with 8GB of RAM, which might be insufficient for some users over time.

Upgrading to 16GB or higher could be a wise investment, particularly for users who prioritize software compatibility. The Lenovo IdeaPad Vibe will launch in the United States at a price of US$700 (~RM2,827) for the AMD-powered models, which will be available starting in October 2026. Qualcomm Snapdragon X versions will follow in November, with Intel-powered variants expected at a later date.

As of now, Lenovo has not announced whether the IdeaPad Vibe will be officially released in Malaysia.