The Lenovo LOQ 15 is a budget gaming laptop that aims to deliver playable performance without breaking the bank. Priced at $799, this 15-inch machine can handle modern games, albeit at lower settings. While its GPU and CPU are entry-level, Lenovo has prioritized build quality and port selection. This review explores the LOQ 15’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right gaming laptop for you.
Design and Build: Surprisingly Sturdy
Lenovo LOQ closed
The LOQ 15 eschews the flashy “gamer aesthetic” for a more understated gray and black design. The “LOQ” logo on the lid and its thicker profile are the only giveaways of its gaming pedigree. While the chassis is primarily plastic, typical for its price point, Lenovo has achieved impressive build quality. The laptop feels solid and well-assembled, with a sturdy hinge and no noticeable flex. At 5.39 pounds, it’s a bit heavier than some competitors, but the overall construction surpasses expectations for a budget device. Be aware of pre-installed bloatware, including McAfee, which you’ll likely want to uninstall.
Keyboard and Trackpad: Comfortable and Responsive
Lenovo LOQ keyboard
The LOQ 15 features a full-size keyboard with a number pad and a white backlight. Key travel is decent, though the keys have a slightly soft feel when bottoming out. While not as crisp as a mechanical keyboard, the keyboard is comfortable for both typing and gaming. The trackpad is generously sized and surprisingly smooth and responsive, with a satisfying click. Both the keyboard and trackpad exceed expectations for an $800 gaming laptop.
Display and Audio: Adequate, but Not Exceptional
Lenovo LOQ hero head on image
The 15.6-inch IPS display offers a 1920×1080 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, which are suitable for its hardware. The main drawback is the dim display, capped at 300 nits. While colors are acceptable, they lack the vibrancy of OLED panels or the accuracy of higher-end IPS displays. The speakers are underwhelming, producing quiet and tinny sound. Headphones are recommended for a better audio experience, especially for gaming.
Webcam and Connectivity: Practical Features
Lenovo LOQ back
The 720p webcam is predictably basic but serviceable for occasional video calls. A welcome addition is the physical webcam shutter for added privacy. The built-in microphone is surprisingly clear, making it suitable for voice chat during gaming. The LOQ 15 lacks biometric login options like a fingerprint reader or IR camera.
Lenovo LOQ right side
Connectivity is a strong point, with a good selection of ports including a rear-facing power port, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, and multiple USB-A and a single USB-C port. The inclusion of Ethernet is a plus for gamers seeking a stable connection. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
Performance: Budget Hardware, Playable Results
The LOQ 15 pairs an AMD Ryzen 5 7235HS CPU with 12GB of RAM and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU with 6GB of VRAM. While this is entry-level hardware, it can run modern games at lower settings. The laptop’s cooling system is effective, keeping the keyboard relatively cool and fan noise manageable. Benchmark results confirm the budget performance, with scores falling behind more powerful gaming laptops. However, the LOQ 15 outperforms laptops with integrated graphics and delivers playable frame rates in many games.
Battery Life: A Major Weakness
Lenovo LOQ battery life chart
The 60Wh battery and the constant use of the dedicated GPU result in very short battery life, just over three hours in our video playback test. This is a significant drawback for users who need portability.
Conclusion: A Solid Budget Option, but Consider Alternatives
The Lenovo LOQ 15 offers a compelling balance of affordability and build quality. While its performance is limited by its budget hardware, it can play modern games at acceptable settings. The short battery life is a significant trade-off. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize build quality over raw performance, the LOQ 15 is a reasonable option. However, if you can stretch your budget, consider alternatives with better performance and battery life.
