Lenovo LOQ AMD Ryzen 5 24GB RAM 1TB SSD RTX 3050 144Hz 15.6 Inch Windows 11 Gaming Laptop Review
Introduction
In a world where gaming laptops are evolving rapidly, the Lenovo LOQ with AMD Ryzen 5 and RTX 3050 stands out as a compelling choice for gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. With its powerful GPU, substantial RAM, and high refresh rate display, this laptop caters to those who demand performance without breaking the bank. But how does it fare against the rising tide of RTX 4000-series laptops? This review delves into every aspect, from hardware performance to gaming benchmarks, to help you make an informed decision.
🔹 Product Specifications
Here’s a detailed look at the Lenovo LOQ’s specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Screen size | 15.6in |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz |
| Screen Type | LED |
| Battery Technology | Lithium-polymer |
| Manufacturer | AMD |
| Series | Ryzen 5 |
| Number | 7235HS |
| Clock Speed | 4.2GHz |
| Installed Size | 24GB |
| Type | DDR5 |
| Form Factor | SO-DIMM 262-pin |
| Total Slots | 2 |
| Maximum Capacity | 32GB |
| SSD Capacity | 1TB |
| SSD form factor | M.2 2242 |
| SSD interface | NVMe |
| Graphics Type | Dedicated |
| Graphics Manufacturer | NVIDIA |
| Graphics card | RTX 3050 |
| Backlit Keyboard | Yes (white) |
| USB 3.0 | 3 |
| USB-C | 1 |
| HDMI | 1 |
| Ethernet | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Wifi | Wi-Fi |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Height | 3cm |
| Width | 36cm |
| Depth | 26cm |
| Weight | 2.38kg |
| Colour | Luna Grey |
| Optical Drive | None |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Embedded Security | TPM 2.0 Security Chip |
| Warranty | 1 year warranty |
📌 For more details on selecting the best gaming laptop, check out our buyer guides.
🔥 Performance & Hardware
CPU & Multitasking Power
The Lenovo LOQ is powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 7235HS, a processor known for its robust performance in multitasking environments. With a clock speed of 4.2GHz, it competes well against Intel’s i7 in similar price brackets. The Ryzen 5’s architecture allows for efficient processing, making it suitable for streaming, video editing, and programming.
In terms of multitasking, the 24GB DDR5 RAM ensures smooth operation even when multiple applications are running simultaneously. Compared to other laptops in this price range, the Lenovo LOQ offers a competitive edge with its high-speed RAM and ample storage.
RAM & Storage Performance
The transition to DDR5 RAM provides a noticeable boost in speed and efficiency. With a maximum capacity of 32GB, users have the flexibility to upgrade if needed. The 1TB NVMe SSD offers fast boot and load times, significantly outperforming traditional HDDs and older SSD models.
🎮 Gaming Performance
To gauge the gaming prowess of the Lenovo LOQ, we infer performance based on similar hardware benchmarks from trusted sources like NotebookCheck and TechPowerUp:
- Cyberpunk 2077 (Ultra Settings, 1080p): Estimated to run at 45-50 FPS.
- Fortnite (Epic Settings, 144Hz): Smooth gameplay around 100-120 FPS.
- Call of Duty: Warzone (High Settings): Expect around 60-70 FPS.
- Red Dead Redemption 2 (High Settings): Approximately 50 FPS.
The RTX 3050, while not the latest in the RTX series, still supports features like ray tracing and DLSS, making it a solid choice for current gaming needs. Compared to the RTX 3060 and RTX 4070, it sits at the lower end but remains a viable option for 1080p gaming.
🔋 Battery Life & Portability
The Lenovo LOQ offers decent battery life, lasting around 4-5 hours under gaming loads and up to 8 hours for video playback and web browsing. This makes it a practical choice for students and professionals who need a reliable daily driver.
Port Selection & Connectivity
The laptop is equipped with 3 USB 3.0 ports, 1 USB-C, HDMI, and Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring robust connectivity options. However, it does not support USB-C charging, which could be a limitation for some users.
🖥 Display & Build Quality
The 15.6-inch LED display with a 1920×1080 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate offers vibrant visuals and smooth gameplay. While the brightness and color accuracy are decent, they may not suffice for professional content creators who require precise color representation.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
– Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor
– 144Hz display for smooth gaming
– Ample 24GB DDR5 RAM
– Large 1TB SSD storage
– Competitive price point
❌ Cons
– No USB-C charging support
– RTX 3050 may limit future gaming potential
💰 Price & Value for Money
Priced at £778.97, the Lenovo LOQ offers excellent value for money, especially for gamers looking for a budget-friendly option with decent specs. It competes well against other laptops in the same range, offering a balanced mix of performance and affordability.
🏆 Final Verdict
The Lenovo LOQ is a well-rounded gaming laptop that excels in performance, display, and value. It is ideal for gamers, students, and professionals who need a reliable machine for both work and play. While it may not be the most future-proof option due to its RTX 3050 GPU, it remains a solid choice for those who prioritize affordability and current-gen gaming.
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