Lenovo LOQ 15IRX9 Gaming Laptop Review: A Budget-Friendly Option with Performance Trade-offs
Lenovo LOQ 15IRX9 Gaming Laptop Review: A Budget-Friendly Option with Performance Trade-offs
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo LOQ 15IRX9 is a budget-friendly gaming laptop aimed at casual gamers looking for a portable option without breaking the bank. It boasts a 15.6” FHD 144Hz display, Intel Core i7-1255U processor, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and NVIDIA GeForce MX550 graphics. But how does it actually perform in real-world usage? Let’s find out.
Features
The LOQ 15IRX9 offers a decent set of features for its price point. The 144Hz refresh rate display is smooth for gaming, and the Intel Core i7-1255U processor provides ample power for everyday tasks. The 8GB RAM is adequate for most users, but you may want to upgrade to 16GB for better multitasking performance. The 512GB SSD offers ample storage for games and other files, while the GeForce MX550 graphics card is suitable for light gaming and multimedia content creation.
Performance
In terms of performance, the LOQ 15IRX9 delivers mixed results. The Intel Core i7-1255U processor handles everyday tasks smoothly, with no noticeable lag or stuttering. However, gaming performance is limited due to the GeForce MX550 graphics card. While it can run older and less demanding games at decent frame rates, expect to lower graphics settings to achieve playable frame rates in modern titles. The 144Hz refresh rate display feels a bit wasted with the limited graphics performance, but it does make everyday browsing and content consumption more enjoyable.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a quick summary of the LOQ 15IRX9’s pros and cons:
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Smooth 144Hz display
- Decent processor for everyday tasks
- Adequate RAM for most users
- Ample storage with 512GB SSD
Cons:
- Limited gaming performance
- Average build quality
- Limited upgradeability
- No dedicated cooling system
Final Verdict
The Lenovo LOQ 15IRX9 is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers a decent combination of features and performance. It’s a good choice for casual gamers who are looking for a portable option without spending a fortune. However, if you’re serious about gaming, you’ll want to look at a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. Overall, it’s a solid option for casual gamers and everyday users on a budget, but don’t expect top-tier performance.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-1255U, 10C (2P + 8E) / 12T, P-core 1.7 / 4.7GHz, E-core 1.2 / 3.5GHz, 12MB |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce MX550 2GB GDDR6 |
| Chipset | Intel SoC Platform |
| Memory | 8GB Soldered DDR4-3200 |
| Memory Slots | One memory soldered to system board, one DDR4 SO-DIMM slot, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 40GB (8GB soldered + 32GB SO-DIMM) DDR4-3200 |
| Storage | 512GB SSD M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0×4 NVMe Opal 2.0 |
| Storage Support | Up to two drives, 2x M.2 SSD | • M.2 2242 SSD up to 1TB |
| Storage Slot | Two M.2 slots | • One M.2 2242 PCIe 3.0 x4 slot | • One M.2 2242 PCIe 4.0 x4 slot |
| Card Reader | None |
| Optical | None |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek ALC3287 codec |
| Speakers | Stereo speakers, 2W x2, Dolby Audio, audio by HARMAN |
| Camera | FHD 1080p with Privacy Shutter |
| Microphone | 2x, Array |
| Battery | Integrated 57Wh |
| Power Adapter | 65W USB-C (3-pin) |
| Display | 14″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, 45% NTSC |
| Touchscreen | None |
| Keyboard | Non-backlit, English (UK) |
| Case Color | Black |
| Case Material | Aluminium (Top), Aluminium (Bottom) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 324 x 220.7 x 17.9 mm (12.76 x 8.69 x 0.7 inches) |
| Weight | Starting at 1.64 kg (3.62 lbs) |
| Operating System | None |
| Bundled Software | None |
| Ethernet | 100/1000M (RJ-45) |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 6E, 11ax 2×2 + BT5.1 |
| WWAN | None |
| SIM Card | None |
| NFC | None |
| Standard Ports | 1x USB 2.0 | 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On) | 1x Thunderbolt™ 4 / USB4® 40Gbps (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort 1.4) | 1x HDMI® 2.1, up to 4K/60Hz | 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm) | 1x Ethernet (RJ-45) |
| Docking | Various docking solutions supported via Thunderbolt | For more compatible docking solutions, please visit Docking for ThinkPad® E14 Gen 4 (Intel®) |
| Monitor Cable | None |
| Smart Card Reader | None |
| Security Chip | Firmware TPM 2.0 Enabled |
| Fingerprint Reader | Touch Style, Integrated in Power Button |
| Physical Locks | Kensington® Security Slot™, 3 x 7 mm |
| Other Security | Camera privacy shutter |
