When shopping for a budget-friendly Windows laptop, the HP 15s-fq2673TU and Lenovo IdeaPad 3 emerge as two of the most compelling options under ₹40,000. Both devices promise solid performance for everyday computing, but which one delivers better value? This in-depth comparison examines their specs, design, performance, and features to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

The HP 15s-fq2673TU sports a sleek, minimalist design with a silver finish and a textured HP logo on the lid. Weighing 1.69 kg, it's relatively portable for a 15.6-inch laptop. The chassis is primarily plastic but feels sturdy enough for daily use.

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 opts for a more conservative look with its matte black or blue finish. At 1.65 kg, it's slightly lighter than the HP model. Both laptops feature:
- Standard HD webcams (720p)
- Decent keyboard travel (1.5mm)
- Plastic construction with some flex

Winner: Tie – Both offer similar build quality at this price point.

Display Comparison

Feature HP 15s-fq2673TU Lenovo IdeaPad 3
Screen Size 15.6" 15.6"
Resolution 1920×1080 (FHD) 1920×1080 (FHD)
Panel Type IPS TN (some models IPS)
Brightness 250 nits 220-250 nits

Key differences:
- The HP consistently uses IPS panels with better viewing angles
- Some IdeaPad 3 models ship with inferior TN panels
- Both lack touchscreen options

Winner: HP 15s-fq2673TU for its reliable IPS display.

Performance Showdown

The HP 15s-fq2673TU runs on Intel's 11th Gen Core i3-1115G4 processor (dual-core, 4 threads) with Intel UHD Graphics. Meanwhile, the IdeaPad 3 offers configurations with either:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500U (6 cores/12 threads)
- Intel Core i3-1115G4 (same as HP)

Benchmark comparisons:
- CPU Performance: Ryzen 5 model is ~40% faster in multi-core tasks
- GPU Performance: AMD's Vega 7 graphics outperform Intel UHD
- Thermals: Both maintain decent temperatures under load

Winner: Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (when configured with Ryzen 5).

Storage and Memory

Both laptops start with:
- 8GB DDR4 RAM (soldered on HP, upgradeable on some IdeaPad models)
- 256GB/512GB SSD options

Notable differences:
- HP uses faster PCIe NVMe SSDs
- Some IdeaPad 3 models come with slower SATA SSDs
- Lenovo offers models with HDD+SSD combos

Winner: HP for faster storage, Lenovo for upgrade flexibility.

Battery Life and Ports

Battery Performance:
- HP 15s: 41Wh battery (~6-7 hours real use)
- IdeaPad 3: 45Wh battery (~7-8 hours)

Port Selection:
- HP: 2× USB-A 3.2, 1× USB-C, HDMI 1.4b, SD card reader
- Lenovo: 2× USB-A (one 2.0), HDMI 1.4b, 4-in-1 card reader

Winner: Lenovo for slightly better battery, HP for superior ports.

Software and Extras

Both ship with Windows 11 Home and minimal bloatware. The HP includes:
- HP QuickDrop for file sharing
- HP Audio Switch

The Lenovo features:
- Lenovo Vantage for system management
- Optional fingerprint reader (on some models)

Winner: Tie – Software experience is comparable.

Price and Value

Current market prices (India):
- HP 15s-fq2673TU: ₹36,990 - ₹39,990
- Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (Ryzen 5): ₹38,990 - ₹42,990

The Ryzen-powered IdeaPad 3 offers significantly better CPU performance for a small price premium, making it the better value proposition for most users.

Final Verdict

Choose the HP 15s-fq2673TU if you prioritize:
- Better display quality
- Faster SSD performance
- More future-proof ports

Opt for the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (Ryzen 5 model) if you need:
- Superior multi-core performance
- Longer battery life
- Potential for RAM upgrades

For most users, the IdeaPad 3 with AMD Ryzen 5 delivers better overall value, while the HP 15s excels in specific areas like display quality and port selection.