Lenovo LOQ Tower 17IRR9 Desktop Review: A Compact Budget Option

Introduction: The Lenovo LOQ Tower 17IRR9 Overview

The Lenovo LOQ Tower 17IRR9 is a compact gaming desktop designed for those seeking an affordable, space-saving solution. It targets users who need a reliable machine for everyday tasks and casual gaming. While it offers decent performance, it comes with trade-offs in upgradability and connectivity, making it a nuanced choice for potential buyers.

Design and Build Quality: A Mixed Bag

The LOQ Tower’s compact 20-liter design is its standout feature, ideal for users with limited space. However, its sleek exterior houses a basic interior that lacks upgradability. With limited airflow and few ports, it may not be future-proof. The single intake fan and lack of dust filtration are notable drawbacks, potentially affecting long-term performance and maintenance.

Performance Overview: Capable for Everyday Use

The desktop delivers solid performance for everyday tasks and 1080p gaming, thanks to its Intel Core i5-14400F CPU and RTX 4060 GPU. While not top-tier, it handles modern games smoothly, making it suitable for casual gamers. Its quiet operation under load is a commendable feature, though it may struggle with more demanding tasks like content creation.

Gaming Performance: A Starter for Casual Gamers

For entry-level gaming, the LOQ Tower performs admirably, offering over 100fps in many titles at 1080p. It’s a good starting point for those new to PC gaming, though it may not handle high-end games at ultra settings. Its performance is consistent but not exceptional, often lagging behind higher-end models like the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i.

Value and Pricing: A Budget-Friendly Option

Priced competitively, the LOQ Tower can be a good value, especially when discounted. However, at higher price points, it struggles to justify its cost against better-equipped competitors. Buyers should weigh their needs: if space and budget are priorities, the LOQ is a contender, but for more power and features, alternatives are worth considering.

Conclusion: A Balanced Recommendation

The Lenovo LOQ Tower 17IRR9 is a decent budget pick for those needing a compact desktop for light gaming and everyday use. While it offers good value at lower prices, its limitations in upgradability and connectivity are significant. For those who can accommodate a larger machine, the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i may offer better long-term value, but the LOQ remains a viable option for its target audience.