Lenovo LOQ 2024 Gaming Laptop Review: An Affordable Entry with Intel Arc A530M

In the competitive world of gaming laptops, Lenovo’s LOQ 2024 stands out by integrating Intel’s emerging Arc graphics technology. The Intel Arc A530M is a game-changer for budget-conscious gamers, offering a cost-effective alternative to NVIDIA and AMD without sacrificing too much on performance. Let’s find out if this gaming laptop is worth or not:

Lenovo LOQ 2024 Gaming Laptop Review

Lenovo LOQ 2024 Gaming Laptop Specifications

• Processor: Intel Core i5-12450HX | P-core up to 4.4GHz | E-core up to 3.1GHz | 8 Cores | 12 Threads | 12MB Cache; Display: 15.6″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS Technology | 144 Hz Refresh Rate | 100% sRGB |Brightness: 300Nits Anti-glare || Connectivity: Wifi 6E 11ax (2×2) | Bluetooth 5.1; Memory: 8GB RAM DDR5-4800 | Storage: 512GB SSD (Expandable upto 1TB)
• Graphics: Intel Arc A530M 4GB GDDR6 Dedicated Graphics | Free-Sync and G-Sync || Cooling: Dual 85mm 12V high-speed fans and larger vents ensure quiet and powerful cooling.
• AI Engine: The Lenovo AI Engine+ and Lenovo LA1 AI Chip work together with the MUX Switch with NVIDIA Advanced Optimus for a truly epic boost in performance, at levels you’ve never seen before.;OS and Pre-Installed Software: Pre-Loaded Windows 11 Home with Lifetime Validity || Battery Life: 60Wh (upto 6 Hrs) | Rapid Charge Pro (100% Battery Life in 80min)
• Audio: 2x 2W HD Stereo Speakers | Nahimic Audio with Surround Sound, Sound Tracker, Night Mode, Sound Sharing & Content Profiles || Camera: FHD 720p | E-cam Shutter | Integrated Dual Array Microphone; Keyboard: 1.5 mm Key Travel | White Backlit Keyboard with 100% Anti-Ghosting
• Ports: 1x USB-C (USB 10Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 2), with PD 140W and DisplayPort 1.4 | 3x USB-A (USB 5Gbps / USB 3.2 Gen 1) | 1x HDMI 2.1, up to 8K/60Hz | 1x Ethernet (RJ-45) | 1x Headphone/Microphone combo jack (3.5mm) | 1x Power Connector
• Battery Average Life: 6.0 Hours

Performance and Graphics: Holding Its Own

Intel’s Arc A530M graphics card in the Lenovo LOQ 2024 provides a solid option for gamers looking to play modern titles at reduced visual settings. Despite being paired with a power-hungry 12th Gen Core i5 processor, the LOQ manages to deliver decent performance. However, it doesn’t quite outshine some of the more portable PC handhelds in the market, such as Lenovo’s own Legion Go.

As you can see in terms of performance, as a budget laptop, the Lenovo LOQ 2024 gives decent performance both in terms of CPU and GPU. In terms of gaming, the laptop is perfect for playing Battle Royal games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, Counter-Strike 2, PUBG, and more at medium to high settings. Whereas, in games like Cyberpunk 2077, Helldivers 2, Forza Horizon 5 or Shadow of the Tom Raider, the laptop performs well in Low to Medium settings.

Price Point and Value

Priced attractively at ₹59,990 on Amazon, the Lenovo LOQ 2024 is a budget-friendly 15-inch gaming laptop. It boasts a 1080p screen with up to 144Hz refresh rates, ensuring smooth gameplay. For those keeping an eye on sales, grabbing the LOQ at a discount could provide exceptional value.

Design and Build: Function Over Form

There’s no sugar-coating it—the Lenovo LOQ 2024 isn’t a looker. The design is basic, avoiding overly flashy ‘gamer’ aesthetics and RGB lighting. The chassis is metallic with subtle reflective logos, giving it a somewhat understated appearance.

Port-wise, the laptop is practical:

• Left Side: Completely bare.
• Right Side: USB-A Gen 3.2 Gen 1 port, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, headphone/microphone jack, camera E-shutter.
• Rear I/O: Two USB-A Gen 3.2 Gen 1 ports, HDMI-out, Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 port, Lenovo’s proprietary charging connection.

Gamers will appreciate the inclusion of an Ethernet port for stable wired connections, despite the laptop also supporting Wi-Fi 6.

Keyboard and Touchpad: A Mixed Bag

The LOQ 2024 features a backlit keyboard that’s functional but unremarkable. It has a clunky membrane response and full-sized arrow keys that disrupt the tidy layout. There’s also a numpad on the right side. The touchpad is slightly left-aligned, feels a bit cheap, and hides physical click buttons under its surface. A dedicated Copilot key is present, though the laptop’s 12th Gen Intel Core CPU lacks the NPU to fully utilize Microsoft’s AI features.

Thermal Management: A Design Flaw

Thermal management is one area where the LOQ 2024 could improve. Two intake vents are positioned inconveniently on the underside, which can be blocked when using the laptop on your lap. This positioning can lead to thermal throttling, affecting gaming performance. Exhaust vents are located on the rear, but proper airflow is crucial to avoid overheating.

Audio: Surprisingly Good

The laptop houses two internal speakers on the underside, near the front, delivering surprisingly good sound quality for a budget device. However, its weight—5.40 lbs (2.45 kg)—makes it uncomfortable for extended use on your lap. From listening to music to playing games on the laptop, the LOQ 2024 comfortably gives you a good music listening experience.

Verdict

The Lenovo LOQ 2024 gaming laptop is a commendable entry for those seeking affordable gaming options. While it has its design and thermal management drawbacks, its performance with Intel Arc A530M graphics and attractive price point make, it a worthy consideration. If you find it on sale, it’s certainly worth a closer look.

Buy from Amazon India: https://amzn.to/3KnDyO7