Lenovo recently launched the LOQ series with Intel’s 14th Gen CPUs — targeted at budget-conscious gamers and creators. I got my hands on the Lenovo LOQ 14th Gen (Intel i7 variant with RTX 4050), and here’s my complete review — no technical overload, just real talk.
Specifications (Model I Used):
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Processor | Intel Core i7-14700HX (20 cores, 28 threads) |
GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 6GB GDDR6 (95W TGP) |
RAM | 16GB DDR5 (5600 MHz, dual channel) |
Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD (expandable) |
Display | 15.6″ FHD IPS, 144Hz, 300 nits |
Keyboard | Backlit (White), full size with number pad |
Ports | USB-C, USB-A, HDMI 2.1, RJ45, audio jack |
Battery | 60Wh, 170W fast charging |
Weight | ~2.4 kg |
Price (India) | Around ₹90,000 to ₹1,05,000 (depends on offers/variant) |
Unboxing Experience – Clean & Simple
The box is minimal – no flashy RGB designs. Inside, you get:
- The laptop itself (quite sleek for a gaming laptop)
- 170W power adapter
- Quick start guide and warranty card
First Impressions: Laptop feels sturdy and premium, even though it’s plastic. There’s a clean matte finish, subtle LOQ branding (not too gamer-ish), and the hinge feels solid. Honestly, it doesn’t scream “gaming” at first glance, which I liked – professional enough to carry to college or office.
Day 1 Experience – Setting Up & First Use
Windows 11 setup was smooth. Lenovo’s own software (Vantage) guided me through performance modes, updates, and GPU settings. The 144Hz screen immediately stood out – buttery smooth scrolling and clean visuals.
The keyboard feels excellent – tactile with good key travel. The trackpad is decent (not MacBook-level, but very usable). Fans are silent on idle. So far, so good.
After 15 Days of Usage – Honest Breakdown
Gaming Performance – Solid Mid-Range Beast
Tested on:
- Valorant – 240+ FPS on high settings
- GTA V – 100–110 FPS on very high
- Cyberpunk 2077 – 55–60 FPS on high with DLSS
- God of War – 70 FPS on high with no stutter
The RTX 4050 (95W TGP) gives surprisingly strong results for a mid-range card. Plus, DLSS 3 really helps in heavier AAA titles. Fans do kick in while gaming, but nothing unbearable.
Thermals – Gets Warm but Not Too Hot
In performance mode, the CPU can hit 85-90°C under load. The GPU stays cooler (~75°C). Lenovo’s ColdFront cooling system is doing its job well, and the vents at the back help.
Still, I’d suggest using it on a table or with a cooling pad during long sessions.
Daily Tasks – Fast & Reliable
Boots up in under 10 seconds. Chrome with 15+ tabs, YouTube, light Photoshop — everything runs buttery smooth. No freezing, no lag.
The 144Hz screen also makes a big difference in daily usage, not just games. Even scrolling Instagram feels super smooth!
Battery Life – Average (as Expected)
- 3.5 to 4 hours on mixed use (web + YouTube + docs)
- 1.5 to 2 hours on heavy usage or gaming
It’s not a battery champ, but that’s expected for a gaming laptop. The 170W fast charger charges 0–80% in about 45 mins, so no complaints.
Audio & Display – Good Enough
- Speakers: Loud and clear for casual use. Not super bass-heavy but decent.
- Display: Color accuracy is okay (not for hardcore editors), but brightness and clarity are perfect for gaming/media.
Connectivity & Ports – Everything You Need
- LAN port (rare these days – useful for stable gaming)
- HDMI 2.1 – supports external 4K monitors
- USB-C (no Thunderbolt, though)
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 – both work flawlessly
Things I Loved:
- Excellent performance for under ₹1 lakh
- Clean design – can be used for work and play
- Great thermals for this price range
- Fast SSD, 16GB DDR5 RAM, no lag anywhere
- DLSS support makes AAA games playable at high settings
Things That Could Be Better:
- Battery life is just average
- Speakers could be louder
- Slightly bulky at 2.4kg – not super travel-friendly
- No Thunderbolt support
Final Verdict – Should You Buy?
If you’re a student, gamer, or someone who wants a powerful laptop for under ₹1 lakh – Lenovo LOQ 14th Gen is a superb choice.
It’s not just for gaming — you can also use it for video editing, programming, content creation, and everyday work. After 15 days, I can confidently say: no regrets at all.
If your budget allows around ₹95K, and you want a balanced, durable gaming+work laptop, just go for it.