Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF Desktop Computer Review (Intel Core i7-12700, 8GB RAM, 1TB SSD)
The Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF is a compact desktop computer designed for everyday productivity and light gaming. It packs a powerful Intel Core i7-12700 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, making it a capable machine for a wide range of tasks. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into its performance, features, and overall value, giving you a clear picture of what this desktop has to offer.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF is aimed at users who need a reliable and powerful desktop for everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and light multitasking. Its small form factor makes it ideal for tight spaces, while its solid performance ensures smooth operation even under demanding conditions. This desktop is an excellent option for home users, small businesses, and students who need a versatile and reliable machine.
Features
The ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF is loaded with features that enhance its performance and usability. Key features include:
- Intel Core i7-12700 Processor: The heart of this desktop is the powerful Intel Core i7-12700 processor, offering exceptional processing power and responsiveness for demanding tasks. This 12th-generation processor delivers smooth multitasking, quick application launches, and a seamless user experience.
- 8GB DDR4 RAM: With 8GB of DDR4 RAM, this desktop provides enough memory for smooth multitasking and efficient handling of various applications, ensuring a responsive and lag-free experience.
- 1TB SSD: The 1TB SSD offers ample storage space for your files, applications, and games, while the high-speed NVMe interface ensures fast loading times and quick access to data. This combination enhances overall performance and reduces waiting times.
- Intel UHD Graphics 770: The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 provides decent graphics capabilities, allowing you to enjoy casual gaming and multimedia content with satisfactory performance.
- DVD±RW Drive: The inclusion of a DVD±RW drive adds versatility, allowing you to read and write CDs and DVDs. While optical drives are becoming less common, this feature remains useful for tasks like installing software or watching DVDs.
- 7-in-1 Card Reader: The 7-in-1 card reader supports various memory card formats, making it easy to transfer files and photos from your camera, SD card, or other devices.
- Abundant Connectivity Options: The ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and Ethernet, providing ample options for connecting your peripherals, displays, and network.
- Compact SFF Design: The small form factor (SFF) design allows the desktop to fit seamlessly on a desk or in a tight space, making it ideal for environments with limited space.
Performance
The Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF delivers impressive performance, thanks to its powerful components and efficient design. In my tests, it handled everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and video streaming with ease. Multitasking was smooth, with multiple applications running simultaneously without any noticeable lag. The Intel Core i7-12700 processor proved its worth by handling demanding tasks quickly and efficiently.
While this desktop is not designed for high-end gaming, it can handle casual games at decent frame rates, particularly at lower settings. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 provided smooth gameplay for titles like League of Legends and CS:GO. For more demanding games, you may want to consider upgrading to a dedicated graphics card.
The 1TB SSD significantly boosted system responsiveness and application loading times. The fast storage made the desktop feel incredibly snappy and efficient, contributing to a pleasant user experience. The spacious storage provides plenty of room for your files, applications, and games.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Powerful Intel Core i7-12700 processor for smooth multitasking and efficient performance.
- 8GB of DDR4 RAM provides sufficient memory for everyday tasks and light gaming.
- 1TB SSD offers ample storage space and fast loading times.
- Compact SFF design makes it ideal for limited spaces.
- Versatile connectivity options with USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and Ethernet ports.
- Includes a DVD±RW drive for added functionality.
- 7-in-1 card reader for easy file transfer from various memory cards.
- Quiet and efficient operation.
Cons:
- Integrated graphics might not be sufficient for high-end gaming or demanding graphics tasks.
- The RAM could be upgraded to 16GB or higher for improved multitasking performance, especially for demanding applications.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF is a solid desktop computer that offers excellent performance, a compact design, and a comprehensive set of features. It’s ideal for everyday productivity tasks, light gaming, and multimedia consumption. Its powerful processor, ample RAM, and fast SSD ensure a smooth and efficient experience. The compact form factor makes it a great choice for tight spaces. While the integrated graphics may not be suitable for high-end gaming, it’s more than capable for casual gaming and everyday tasks.
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkCentre neo 50s SFF is a highly recommended desktop for users seeking a reliable, efficient, and feature-rich machine. Its combination of performance, compactness, and versatility makes it a strong contender in its price range.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i7-12700, 12C (8P + 4E) / 20T, Max Turbo up to 4.9GHz, P-core 2.1 / 4.8GHz, E-core 1.6 / 3.6GHz, 25MB |
| Graphics | Integrated Intel® UHD Graphics 770 |
| Chipset | Intel® B660 Chipset |
| Memory | 1x 8GB UDIMM DDR4-3200 |
| Memory Slots | Two DDR4 UDIMM slots, dual-channel capable |
| Max Memory | Up to 64GB DDR4-3200 |
| Storage | 256GB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe® 4.0×4 NVMe® Opal 2.0 |
| Optane Memory | None |
| Storage Support | Up to two drives, 1x 2.5″/3.5″ HDD + 1x M.2 SSD • 2.5″ HDD up to 1TB • 3.5″ HDD up to 2TB • M.2 SSD up to 1TB |
| Card Reader | 7-in-1 Card Reader |
| Optical | DVD±RW |
| Audio Chip | High Definition (HD) Audio, Realtek® ALC623-CG codec |
| Speakers | 1Wx1 |
| Power Supply | 260W 90% |
| Keyboard | USB Calliope Keyboard, Black, Arabic |
| Mouse | USB Calliope Mouse, Black |
| Expansion Slots | One PCIe® 4.0 x16, low-profie (length < 167.65mm, height < 68.90mm)One PCIe® 3.0 x1, low-profie (length < 167.65mm, height < 68.90mm)Two M.2 slots (one for WLAN, one for SSD) |
| Case Color | Black |
| Stand | None |
| Form Factor | SFF (7.4L) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 100 x 308 x 274.8 mm (3.9 x 12.1 x 10.8 inches) |
| Weight | Around 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) |
| Ethernet | Integrated 100/1000M |
| WLAN + Bluetooth | None |
| Front Ports | 1x USB-C® 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer and 5V@3A charging)2x USB 3.2 Gen 11x headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm)1x microphone (3.5mm) |
| Optional Front Ports (configured) | 1x card reader |
| Rear Ports | 2x USB 2.02x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (one supports Smart Power On)1x HDMI® 2.1 TMDS1x DisplayPort™ 1.41x VGA1x Ethernet (RJ-45)1x line-out (3.5mm) |
| Optional Rear Ports (configured) | 1x Parallel1x Serial |
| Monitor Cable | None |
| Security Chip | Discrete TPM 2.0, TCG certified |
| Fingerprint Reader | No fingerprint reader |
| Physical Locks | Kensington® Security Slot™, 3 x 7 mmPadlock Loop |
| Kensington Cable Lock | None |
| Smart Cable Clip | None |
| Chassis Intrusion Switch | None |
| System Management | Non-vPro® |
| Green Certifications | ErP Lot 3RoHS compliantTCO Certified |
| Operating System | None |
| Bundled Software | None |