Gaming laptops have become increasingly popular in recent years, and one brand that stands out is Lenovo. Lenovo’s Legion series is well-known among gamers for its performance and features. However, in a surprising move, Lenovo introduced a new line of gaming laptops under the name “LOQ.” In this comprehensive review, we will take an in-depth look at the Lenovo LOQ 15 (IRH8), the latest launched gaming laptop, exploring its specifications, design, performance, and more. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether the Lenovo LOQ 15 is the right choice for your gaming needs.
I. Understanding Lenovo LOQ vs. Legion: What’s the Difference?
A Shift Towards Affordability
Lenovo’s Legion series needs no introduction in the gaming community. It has established itself as a heavy hitter in the gaming laptop and PC market. So, why did Lenovo introduce a new gaming laptop series called “LOQ”?
The primary difference between Lenovo LOQ and the Legion series is affordability. While Legion laptops offer a wide range of options, including high-end models with premium features such as mini LED panels, 4K resolution, and powerful GPUs, the new LOQ laptops aim to be a more budget-friendly alternative. They prioritize the features that are essential for gamers while cutting some corners that may not bother the average gaming enthusiast.
This shift towards affordability is intriguing, and it sets the stage for exploring the Lenovo LOQ 15, the latest launched gaming laptop, and understanding how it balances price and performance.
II. Lenovo LOQ 15 Specifications
The Heart of the Latest Launched Machine
Let’s start by delving into the core specifications of the Lenovo LOQ 15, the latest launched gaming laptop:
- Price: Rs 99,990
- Processor: Intel Core i7-13620H
- Graphics: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 6GB GDDR6
- Memory: 2x 8 GB (= 16 GB) SO-DIMM DDR5-5200
- Storage: 512 GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0×4 NVMe (two M.2 SSD slots)
- Speakers: Stereo speakers, 2W x2
- Camera: 1080p with e-shutter
- Battery: Integrated 60 Wh
- Power Adapter: 170 W
- Display: 15.6-inch WQHD (2560×1440) IPS 350nits anti-glare 165Hz, G-SYNC
- Keyboard: 4-Zone RGB Backlit
- Weight: 2.4 kg+
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
III. Design and Build Quality
A Balance of Premium and Practicality
The Lenovo LOQ 15 (IRH8) draws inspiration from Lenovo’s existing lineup of premium gaming laptops. From the moment you set eyes on it, you can tell it’s a gaming machine, but it doesn’t have an overly aggressive design. This balance makes it appealing to both gamers and those seeking a powerful laptop for tasks like video editing.
The laptop boasts a premium finish from every angle. The LOQ logo on the lid adds to its charm. The power button sits confidently above the keyboard, complete with a power indicator light. An array of ports is positioned at the back for practicality and a cleaner look. However, one drawback is the laptop’s size and weight; it’s quite heavy at over 2.4 kg. This makes it less suitable for users who need a portable laptop for daily commuting.
IV. Battery Life and Charging
Plugged In for Optimal Performance
One aspect where the Lenovo LOQ 15 falls short is its battery life. The 60 Wh battery barely lasts for 5 hours on a full charge, and that’s during office work with several browser tabs open, along with apps like Slack and WhatsApp. The limited battery life indicates that this laptop is best suited for stationary use, where it can remain plugged in most of the time.
On the plus side, the charging port is located at the back, reducing cable clutter on your desk. If you frequently experience power cuts, the battery can keep the laptop running temporarily, but it might cause anxiety when you need to take the laptop on the go.
V. Ports and Connectivity
Designed for a Stationary Setup
The Lenovo LOQ 15 features an array of ports to support a stationary setup. These include:
- Ethernet (RJ-45)
- HDMI 2.1
- Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm)
- Power connector
- USB 3.2 Gen 1
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (supports data transfer, Power Delivery, and DisplayPort 1.4)
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
The full-sized keyboard on the Lenovo LOQ is a delight to use. While the key travel could be slightly better, the quality of switches, key feedback, and spacing between keys are well-suited for various tasks, including typing and gaming. The keyboard is RGB-backlit and offers three lighting modes: multicolor breathing, multicolor stationary, or blue-colored stationary, allowing you to customize the lighting to your liking.
It’s worth noting that the circular power button is located outside the keyboard and features a distinctive LOQ-inspired design, reducing the chances of accidentally pressing it. However, there’s no fingerprint scanner, but the visually appealing power button compensates for this absence.
VI. Display and Audio Quality
Impressive Visuals and Sound
The 15.6-inch WQHD screen on the Lenovo LOQ 15 offers impressive visuals, especially considering its price range. The display boasts top-notch colors and viewing angles, making it suitable for a variety of tasks. What’s even more impressive is the 165 Hz refresh rate, which contributes to a smoother gaming and viewing experience. The screen supports 350 nits of peak brightness, which is sufficient for working near a window in your office, ensuring a comfortable level of brightness.
In addition to the impressive display, the laptop’s speakers are efficient enough for content consumption without requiring external speakers or headphones. However, using headphones or external speakers will undoubtedly enhance your audio experience.
VII. Performance & Gaming
A Gaming Powerhouse with Some Surprises
The Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 is equipped with the 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13620H processor, combined with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 6GB GDDR6, 16 GB DDR5-5200 RAM, and a speedy 512 GB SSD. This setup promises solid performance, especially for gaming. However, when it comes to benchmark scores, the performance isn’t quite what you might expect.
The processor features 10 cores, consisting of 6 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores. In benchmark tests, it managed to achieve a score of 1,544 for single-core performance and 5,179 for multi-core performance in Geekbench. While these scores are decent, they are notably lower than what you’d get from higher-end processors like the 13th Gen Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 processors. It feels more akin to a 12th Gen chipset, which is surprising for a latest launched gaming laptop.
One possible explanation for the performance dip could be related to heat management, which we’ll discuss in more detail later. However, in day-to-day operations, you might not notice a significant difference in speed. The laptop handles a variety of tasks with ease, never lagging behind or causing frustrating delays. The 16 GB RAM, in particular, shines when it comes to multitasking. Even with multiple browser tabs and background apps open, there are no issues with sleeping tabs or unresponsive applications.
VIII. Heat Management
When Performance Meets Heat
While the Lenovo LOQ 15 performs well in many aspects, it faces challenges with heat management. This is a common issue with gaming laptops, and it becomes evident when using the laptop for extended periods.
The laptop generates a noticeable amount of heat, even during light tasks. The cooling fans’ behavior can be unpredictable. Sometimes, they run at full throttle without a clear need, creating unnecessary noise. At other times, they run casually, even when the laptop’s temperature rises to an uncomfortable level. The area between the trackpad and the keyboard tends to get excessively hot, making it uncomfortable to touch.
The issue with heat management is a trade-off for the laptop’s gaming capabilities. While it can handle demanding games with ease, it’s crucial to use the laptop on a desk and avoid using it on your lap or in a situation where proper ventilation is limited.
IX. Conclusion
The Verdict on the Latest Launched Lenovo LOQ 15
In conclusion, the Lenovo LOQ 15 is a mixed bag of features and performance. As the latest launched gaming laptop in Lenovo’s lineup, it strives to strike a balance between affordability and gaming capabilities. While it has its strengths and weaknesses, the key question is whether it meets your specific needs.
Pros:
- Above-average Screen: The laptop offers an impressive WQHD display with excellent colors and a high refresh rate.
- Solid CPU Performance: Despite benchmark scores that might not meet the highest standards, the laptop performs well in day-to-day tasks.
- Impressive Gaming Capability: For its price range, the gaming performance of the Lenovo LOQ 15 is outstanding.
Cons:
- Heat Management: The laptop struggles with heat dissipation, leading to uncomfortable temperatures, especially during extended gaming sessions.
- Limited Battery Life: The 60 Wh battery doesn’t provide much flexibility for on-the-go usage, making it more suitable for stationary use.
- Weight and Portability: The laptop’s weight and size make it less ideal for those who need a portable, lightweight gaming laptop.
If you can tolerate the heat management challenges and aren’t concerned about its weight or battery life, the Lenovo LOQ 15 offers an appealing balance of price and performance. It’s an excellent choice for creating a comfortable work or gaming station where you don’t need to move your laptop frequently.
Rating: 4/5
Despite its shortcomings, the Lenovo LOQ 15 is a heavy but visually appealing gaming laptop that provides a compelling blend of features and gaming capabilities. Its above-average screen, solid CPU performance, and impressive gaming prowess make it a competitive option in its price range.
