Aamir Khollam, Author at Exhibit Tech

Best films reboot from the 80s/90s

The 1980s and ‘90s were the epitome of the ‘Hollywood Blockbuster’ Some would also say that Hollywood peaked during the ‘80s and ‘90s and what has followed since then has been a sad attempt to recreate the same magic while the original IPs take the backseat and reboots mint billions at the box office. The movie business might be littered with reboots and franchises as of now which can also be seen in the Indian film industry with the likes of the Cop Universe or the LCU, but there are some reboots which actually manage to hit the right spot. Beloved classics have turned to money spinners and that’s the world we’re living in right now but that does not take away the merit of some actually good reboot films.
So, here is a look at some of the best film reboots from the ‘80s and the ‘90s –

1. The 1980s: Ghostbusters (2016)

Okay, hear me out! I understand the 2016 Female-led Ghostbusters film did not impress a lot of people but we cannot deny that it was actually fun! The original “Ghostbusters” from 1984 is a beloved classic that defined the comedy genre for a generation. When the decision was made to create a reboot in 2016, it was met with both excitement and scepticism. The reboot, featuring an all-female cast led by Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, and Leslie Jones, took the spirit of the original and gave it a contemporary twist. While it faced its share of criticism, it introduced a new generation to the paranormal-hunting antics of the Ghostbusters while offering a fresh take on the story, complete with updated special effects and a unique comedic tone.

2. The 1990s: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

The Rock’s ‘Smoldering Intensity’ was enough to make this reboot a winner for me! “Jumanji,” originally released in 1995, was a family adventure film starring Robin Williams. It enchanted audiences with its magical board game that brought the jungle to life. In 2017, “Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle” emerged as a modern reboot with a video game twist. Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan, and Jack Black took the reins in this action-packed and humour-filled adventure, creating a fresh narrative while paying homage to the late Robin Williams. The film’s clever approach to the concept of video games and body-swapping added a new layer of humour and excitement for both new and old fans.

3. The 1980s: Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

“Mad Max” was a post-apocalyptic film franchise that began in the late ‘70s and continued into the ‘80s, with Mel Gibson playing the titular role. In 2015, “Mad Max: Fury Road” reimagined the world of Max Rockatansky with Tom Hardy as the new Max. This reboot, directed by George Miller (the creator of the original series), retained the gritty, high-octane spirit of the originals while introducing a new generation to the wild, chaotic, and visually stunning world of “Mad Max.” The film was celebrated for its practical effects and daring stunts, earning critical acclaim and becoming a hit at the box office.

4. The 1990s: Jurassic World (2015)

“Jurassic Park,” directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1993, was a groundbreaking film that brought dinosaurs back to life on the big screen. Over two decades later, “Jurassic World” reignited the franchise, transporting us to the fully operational dinosaur theme park on Isla Nublar. With a new cast led by Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard, the film combined nostalgia with thrilling action and the awe-inspiring spectacle of prehistoric creatures. The film was a box office sensation and breathed new life into the Jurassic Park series. Too bad, the third entry in the Jurassic World franchise failed as a cohesive film even with the original cast returning!

5. The 1990s: IT (2017)

Stephen King’s “IT,” originally adapted into a TV miniseries in 1990, is a classic horror story featuring the terrifying clown, Pennywise. The 2017 film adaptation, directed by Andy Muschietti, brought the story to a new generation. Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise captivated audiences, and the film successfully captured the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of King’s novel. With its skilful blend of nostalgia and modern horror, “IT” was a critical and commercial hit, ensuring that the tale of the Losers’ Club and Pennywise continued to haunt the nightmares of moviegoers.

There is a reason why we call blockbuster films from the ‘80s and ‘90s as ‘Classics’ They carry an essence which cannot be recreated no matter how many reboots are launched. However, the younger generation requires independent representation which these reboots bring. I hope with time reboots stop being pure cash grabs and put some value to their classic counterparts

Retro Binge – Shows From 80’s & 90’s

I did not grow up in the ‘80s and perhaps was too young to understand English in my growing days. It was only when I was in junior college that I got introduced to ‘foreign’ content, especially TV shows and what followed was an unhealthy amount of content consumption. Be it Friends or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, I watched everything I could get my hands on. I can give up everything in order to experience these shows again in life but knowing that is not a possibility, I can at least recommend them to you. Here are some of the best TV shows from the ‘80s and ‘90s you can binge-watch right now –

1. THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL-AIR (1990-1996)

“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” is a timeless classic that brought the infectious charm and comedic genius of Will Smith into our living rooms. The show’s premise of a streetsmart teenager, Will, moving from a tough Philadelphia neighbourhood to live with his affluent aunt and uncle in BelAir, provided endless humour and heartwarming moments. With memorable characters like the lovable butler Geoffrey and the preppy Carlton, the show was a masterclass in blending comedy with social commentary. It addressed issues of race, class, and family dynamics, making it as relevant today as it was in the ‘90s. Will Smith’s charisma and comedic timing remain a highlight, making this show an enduring favourite. Too bad the reputation of our Fresh Price Will Smith has now been tainted by the infamous Oscar incident and the tumultuous relationship with his wife but the show remains amazing nonetheless.

2. FRIENDS (1994-2004)

RIP Matthew Perry! “Friends” is the epitome of a show that has stood the test of time. This beloved sitcom about a group of friends living in New York City has been a cultural touchstone for multiple generations. With its relatable characters, witty humour, and exploration of the ups and downs of adult friendships and relationships, “Friends” continues to be a bingewatching favourite on streaming platforms. The show’s themes of love, loyalty, and the search for one’s identity are universal and continue to resonate with viewers today. Its iconic catchphrases, such as “How you doin’?” and “We were on a break,” are still part of our everyday lexicon.

3. THE X-FILES (1993-2002, 2016-2018)

“The X-Files” was a groundbreaking series that blended science fiction, horror, and paranormal investigations. The show’s core duo, FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, had a dynamic that was both intellectually stimulating and emotionally compelling. Their pursuit of unexplained phenomena and government conspiracies kept viewers on the edge of their seats, and the show’s “Monster of the Week” episodes allowed for endless creativity and suspense. “The X-Files” showcased a perfect blend of scepticism and belief, exploring themes of trust, the unknown, and the pursuit of truth. Even after its initial run, the show returned for two revival seasons, proving its enduring appeal.

4. THE GOLDEN GIRLS (1985-1992)

“The Golden Girls” is a prime example of a show that transcends time and age. This classic sitcom featured four older women living together in Miami, providing viewers with a refreshing and hilarious perspective on friendship, ageing, and life’s challenges. The show’s witty writing and strong performances from its leading ladies, including Bea Arthur and Betty White, still make it a hit today. Its discussions on important issues such as sexuality, ageing, and relationships were ahead of their time and remain relevant in the 21st century. “The Golden Girls” continues to warm the hearts of audiences young and old, proving that good comedy is truly timeless.

5. THE SIMPSONS (1989-PRESENT)

“The Simpsons” is an animated juggernaut that has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. The satirical show follows the lives of the Simpson family in the fictional town of Springfield and provides incisive commentary on society, politics, and pop culture. With its vast array of memorable characters and clever humour, “The Simpsons” has remained a cultural touchstone, adapting and evolving with the times. It has tackled various societal issues while maintaining its iconic humour and irreverence. The show’s creators have managed to keep it fresh and relevant, making it a beloved staple of television for multiple generations.

HONORARY MENTION: TWO AND A HALF MEN (2003-2015)

While “Two and a Half Men” doesn’t hail from the 1980s or 1990s, it’s worth an honorary mention for its significant impact on television during the 2000s. This popular sitcom, created by Chuck Lorre and Lee Aronsohn, featured the comedic talents of Charlie Sheen, Jon Cryer, and Angus T. Jones. The show’s humour and often risqué content made it a memorable part of the television landscape during its 12-season run. Though it came a bit later, “Two and a Half Men” still holds a special place in the hearts of viewers who fondly remember the comedy of the 2000s. The 1980s and 1990s delivered a treasure trove of television shows that, like fine wine, have aged with grace and continue to captivate audiences. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming sitcoms, gripping mysteries, or mind-bending science fiction, these two decades offered a diverse array of timeless classics.

Sweet Nostalgia – Cartoons Which Shaped A Generation

We would return from school around 3 PM in the afternoon having only two hours to ourselves before running for tuition at 5 PM. The weak shoulders of my younger self surely grew weary under the weight of my school and tuition bag but there was one thing which kept me going – watching television. Sure, there are kids who play cricket, and some play musical instruments. But my indulgence of choice was always watching the television, especially cartoons, and why wouldn’t it be? The ‘90s was undoubtedly the golden era for animation.

Animation left a great mark on the hearts and minds of a generation. The ‘90s is when globalization and modernization of the Indian culture incepted which led to a diverse range of animated shows making their way to the country. Here’s a trip down memory lane where we chart the course of all the animated shows which impacted our childhood.

SCOOBY DOO

I was too innocent to realize back in the day that Shaggy was probably a big-time stoner! Scooby Doo- the classic animation show has stood the test of time and still reigns supreme when it comes to horror comedy. The show revolved around the adventures of four teenagers and a talking dog as they solve mysteries. “Scooby-Doo, where are you?” is still something I catch myself vibing on from time to time. There are many infamous reboots and rehashes of the show with Mindy Kaling’s ‘Velma’ being the latest offender, but there is nothing as entertaining as the classic show.

JOHNNY BRAVO

Sometimes I do wonder if my relentless and delusional confidence comes from watching Johnny Bravo as a kid. I also think that Johnny Bravo is a role model for many self absorbed men we see in our lives. Jokes apart, his comedy antics and a way to charm women allowed a rather narcissistic character to be loved universally. Only if Johnny Bravo hit the leg day, we would have fewer gym freaks with bulging chests and chicken legs.

POWERPUFF GIRLS

Toxic masculinity was never something I could follow or entertain as I grew up watching Powerpuff Girls which taught me how women can kick ass! The show featured three superpowered sisters named Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles who worked together to fight the supervillains in their hometown. Mojo Jojo still stands tall as one of the most maniacal characters ever put into animation.

POPEYE

Popeye – The Sailor Man was the Spinach-munching character who made his way into the hearts of kids with his charm. Even parents loved the character as he would promote eating green vegetables. The show revolved around Popeye’s battles against his arc nemesis Blutto as they fought for love of Olive. It had some out-of-the-box action sequences with Blutto always coming up with ways to tackle Popeye, only to get trashed by Popeye once he’s had his green edible!

TOM & JERRY

It is actually sad to see that the younger generation does not love or have even watched Tom & Jerry as much as my generation did. A literal game of cat and mouse which subliminally taught us life – Fight or lose! The classic slapstick humour of this series allowed kids to experience hysterical laughter, something no other series in my opinion has ever been able to capture.

I hope reading through all the cartoon shows from the past has allowed you to reminisce about your childhood. Sure, I’ve missed out on some major shows like Pokemon, Shinchan, Doraemon, and even Ninja Hattori but that does not mean you cannot revisit them yourself. Go, indulge in some of the cartoons from your past right now!

Changing Landscape : The Television Revolution

The 1980s and 1990s were transformative decades for India, marked by significant socio-economic and cultural changes. One of the most influential factors contributing to this transformation was the Television Revolution. The advent of television during this period had a profound impact on Indian society, ushering in a new era of communication, entertainment, and information dissemination.

TELEVISION PIONEERS:

In the early 1980s, Doordarshan, India’s state-owned television network, was the primary source of television content. With just a handful of channels and limited programming, it played a vital role in shaping the nation’s collective consciousness. Iconic shows like “Ramayan” and “Mahabharat” captivated millions, making Sunday mornings a ritual for Indian families. These programs not only entertained but also strengthened the cultural and religious bonds among diverse communities.

PRIVATE TELEVISION CHANNELS:

The late 1980s and early 1990s witnessed the emergence of private television channels, a watershed moment in Indian television history. Channels like Zee TV, Star TV, and later Sony Entertainment Television introduced a new dimension to entertainment. They diversified content, offering a wide range of shows, from family dramas to game shows, news programs, and movies. This expansion not only increased the variety of programming but also generated economic opportunities, spurring growth in the entertainment industry.

INFORMATION REVOLUTION:

Television also played a pivotal role in disseminating information to a vast and diverse population. The evening news on Doordarshan became a trusted source of information. During the 1990s, the opening up of the Indian economy led to a proliferation of news channels, such as NDTV and Aaj Tak. These channels made the news more accessible, with 24-hour coverage and real-time reporting, bringing national and international events directly into Indian living rooms.

CULTURAL IMPACT:

Television became a mirror to Indian society, reflecting its aspirations, challenges, and transformations. Iconic shows like “Circus,” “Hum Log,” and “Buniyaad” addressed societal issues and contributed to social awareness. Moreover, television influenced fashion, popular culture, and even language. Phrases from popular shows, like “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi” and “Kaun Banega Crorepati,” became part of everyday conversations.

However, the television revolution was not without its challenges. Critics argued that excessive commercialization and sensationalism in news programming eroded journalistic integrity. The influx of soap operas often centered on regressive themes, leading to debates about the influence of television on societal values.

The television revolution of the ‘80s and 90s dramatically transformed India. It brought entertainment, information, and economic opportunities to a rapidly evolving society. Television became an integral part of Indian life, influencing culture, economics, and politics. As we look back on these decades, it’s evident that the Television Revolution played a pivotal role in shaping the India we know today.

The Birth of the Internet: From Arpanet to Dot-Com

Allow me to ask you a question – Will you be able to survive a week without internet? I cannot speak for the older generation but for someone born in 1998, I have grown up with the internet and cannot fully function without being chronically online, Yes it is a problem! However, it is not just me who has grown accustomed to being dependable on the internet for everything from dates to groceries. There is an entire generation and now generations who have grown up in a world where the internet is not a luxury but rather a basic necessity.

The digital realm we experience where information and entertainment free flow like water connecting people from various corners of the world had a humble start. A few visionaries of their time experimented with cooperative efforts to bring us the internet as we know today. The modern world equivalent of the internet could be the metaverse (just not as outlandish) While I was busy scrolling my night away on a computer researching how the world was back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, I was reminded about the humble beginnings of this eccentric life force we call the internet.
So, let us explore the birth of the internet –

BEFORE THE WORLD WIDE WEB

Before the internet, there were several key technologists who laid the foundation for its development. It was back in the 1960s when the United States Department of Defense launched the ARPANET project which Paul Baran conceived. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) played a key role in the development of ARPANET. It was designed as a decentralized network which could ensure communication even in the event of nuclear attacks. The ARPANET project paved the way for packet-switching which allowed data to be broken into small packets and sent over a network. This fundamental concept is still used today for the use of the modern internet.

WORLD WIDE WEB

1969 was the year the internet was born when the first ARPANET message was sent from one computer to another. The message simply read ‘LOGIN’ An interesting fact here is that the system crashed after the first two characters.

In 1989, the World Wide Web, Internet’s most impactful component was invented by Tim Berners-Lee. His ‘Hypertext Project’ proposal outlined a system which could access information on the internet which enables users to browse web pages, access documents, and link them. This base concept led to the evolution of the first web browser known as WorldWideWeb which paved the way for the first website launched in 1991.

DOT-COM BOOST

The mid-1990s saw the mainstream adaptation of dot-com. This was a period of immense growth in the internet industry where companies like eBay, Google, and Amazon emerged. The early adopters of the internet are still basking in the glory of their decision. There were numerous startups back in the day which focussed on internet-related services, the global stock market even witnessed a frenzy of investments related to the internet. Many companies launched back then failed miserably but the dot-com boom laid the foundation for the digital landscape we know today.

The early experiments of ARPANET and the work of pioneers like Tim Berners-Lee allowed humanity to doom scroll their nights away on Instagram. The Internet has now evolved into a global network which has transformed the way we live. What’s to be seen now is whether the Internet is able to shape humanity towards the collective goal of world peace standing as an independent force. Internet censorship is one of the biggest battles humanity faces now and it is up to us to change it and make the world a better place to live and use the internet.

MOTOROLA EDGE 40 NEO – Masterstroke!

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo has been the talk of the town, especially during the festive sale season in India. The device was selling like hotcakes and getting sold out in minutes. Whenever any device is hyped up to this level it brings a certain level of scepticism. After having used the device for nearly a month I can confirm that the newest addition to the Edge lineup is a worthy piece of tech. Find out whether the Edge 40 Neo stands its ground in the oversaturated 25K price category –

DESIGN

The design element of the Edge 40 Neo sets it apart from the crowd. Phones in this price segment tend to be big bricks whereas this one has a much more poised and elegant form factor. The colour scheme here has been inspired by the Pantone catalogue and the version we used is named ‘Caneel Bay’ The vegan leather finish at the back made up for a good grip but I predominantly used it with the cover provided in the box. The curved screen panel reminds you of some of the premium devices. I used the OnePlus Nord CE3 5G and the Motorola Edge 40 Neo as my two daily drivers and often found myself jumping on to the Neo as it felt more premium even though the OnePlus is priced a little higher.

DISPLAY

Another great aspect of this device is the display which offers a higher refresh rate than the competition at 144Hz. It shares the same display as the standard Moto Edge 40 with HDR10+ support and a max touch sampling rate of 360Hz. But how well does that translate in real-life usage? The display is simply immersive. A curved display with 144Hz at Moto’s standard POLED quality is something to feast your eyes on. It produces warm and punchy colours.

PERFORMANCE

With Dimensity 7020 SoC under the hood, the Moto Edge 40 Neo is designed for a balanced performance. It runs on nearstock Android, an added benefit of buying Moto devices. For an average consumer who uses their phone for social media browsing, watching content, and playing casual games, this device is more than what you’d expect. It is not designed to handle heavy games but still puts up a respectable performance during extended gaming sessions with minimal heating. The camera performance is balanced here though night photography is not exactly its cup of tea. With a 5,000 mAh battery and a bundled 68W charger, the Edge 40 Neo is a dependable device.

VERDICT

The Motorola Edge 40 Neo is one of the most balanced devices you can get your hands on in the current smartphone market. It boasts a premium design and a powerful chipset which make up for a reputable overall experience.

Ratings – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Haunting Delights – Best Horror Films to Watch this Halloween

Valentine’s Day has candy, Christmas has carols, but Halloween simply wouldn’t be the terrifying event it is without horror flicks. While the costumes and candy are undoubtedly lovely, the fun is increased by the accompanying scary movies. There are a ton of enjoyable Halloween activities to partake in every October, but my personal favourite is to curl up on the couch with a big bag of popcorn and watch horror films that frighten the living daylights out of me. Please excuse me because the list below is entirely subjective and may not include all of your favourite horror movies.

Hocus Pocus (1993)

This timeless family favourite follows the misadventures of a teenager and his friends who accidentally awaken a trio of 17th-century witches. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy deliver unforgettable performances in this comedic and bewitching tale.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Directed by the visionary Tim Burton, this animated classic explores the curious intersection between Halloween and Christmas as Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, attempts to take over Santa Claus’s holiday. With memorable songs and a unique blend of whimsy and darkness, this film has something for everyone.

Halloween (1978)

No list of Halloween films would be complete without John Carpenter’s masterpiece. This iconic slasher flick introduced audiences to the relentless killer Michael Myers and the indomitable Laurie Strode. Its haunting score and suspenseful atmosphere have cemented it as a Halloween must-watch.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton strikes again with this darkly comedic tale of the afterlife. When a newly deceased couple finds their home inhabited by insufferable living occupants, they turn to the mischievous Beetlejuice, played brilliantly by Michael Keaton, to reclaim their space.

The Conjuring (2013)

For those seeking a modern scare, James Wan’s “The Conjuring” offers a gripping supernatural thriller. Based on the real-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this film delivers genuine frights and a compelling story.

Coraline (2009)

From the mind of Neil Gaiman comes “Coraline,” a stop-motion animated film that tells the story of a young girl who discovers a mysterious, parallel world behind a hidden door. The film’s eerie and enchanting atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for Halloween.

The Addams Family (1991)

Gomez, Morticia, and their eccentric clan of characters return to the big screen in this delightful adaptation of the beloved TV series. Their macabre sense of humor and unconventional charm are sure to bring a unique flair to your Halloween viewing.

ParaNorman (2012)

This stop-motion animated gem follows Norman, a young boy with the ability to see and communicate with ghosts. When his town faces a supernatural threat, he must use his unique gift to save the day. “ParaNorman” combines humour, heart, and spookiness for a memorable Halloween experience.

The Sixth Sense (1999)

M. Night Shyamalan’s thriller about a young boy who sees dead people continues to captivate audiences with its unexpected twists and haunting atmosphere. It’s a thought-provoking choice for those who prefer psychological horror.

The Shining (1980)

Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel is a chilling masterpiece. Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of a writer descending into madness while caring for a remote, haunted hotel remains iconic. The film’s eerie imagery and unsettling tension make it a classic for Halloween.

Samsung Portable SSD T9 Review: Rapid as Lightning!

Samsung portable SSD T series has been nothing but a delight over the years. I had previously tested the T7 Shield SSD which brought fast data transfer speeds in a rugged form factor. The latest Portable SSD T9 builds upon the strong base set by the T7 Shield and also takes a giant leap ahead. A revamped shell design, faster data transfer, and lightweight form factor have ensured the SSD T9 is one of the best storage options in the market right now. Let’s dive deep into its features and performance –

Design

The T9 comes out of the box in an impressive compact design which is sure to grab some eyeballs. It is light to hold and fits in your palms easily. The newly textured rubberized outer covering is the highlight of this SSD in my opinion. It allows users to have a study grip on the SSD. However, I must mention that the new design is a dust magnet. The rubberized form factor of the SSD traps dust on its body which is hard to get rid of. The minimalist design language of the SSD T9 extends to its sides where on the top end you get a single USB Type-C port. Samsung provides USB C to USB C and USB C to USB A in the box. Samsung claims that the rubberized exterior makes the SSD shock-resistant to drops up to 9.8 feet. We were not harsh during our drop test of the SSD where it was dropped from merely 6 feet resulting in zero damages, it is sturdy for sure!

Performance

The T9 SSD comes equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20 Gbps interface which can be unlocked to its truest potential only when you have a supporting device. If you have a system that does not support the Gen 2×2 interface then the SSD defaults to 10Gbps Gen 2 mode, which is fast enough in itself. When it comes to file transfer speeds, the SSD T9 is the superhero Flash brought to life! I transferred a lot of data from my Lenovo LOQ gaming laptop to the SSD and vice versa; I was always surprised at how quickly this SSD can handle anything you throw at it.

Transferring files over 400GB took me around 389 seconds which is bonkers. There were also no heating issues witnessed during my testing of the SSD even when it was pushed to its limits. Overall, it is a dependable SSD which is a little on the expensive side but well worth its price.

Verdict

The Samsung SSD T9 is a crucial upgrade in the entire T-series lineup. It is sleek and stylish but also pulls its punches really well when it comes to performance.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 Review: Massy Appeal!

Mass consumption has always been a norm for the current generation but it was never as apparent as it is now. We go to theatres & watch masala entertainers to whistle, scream, and have the time of our lives. The idea is simple – people want their money’s worth in all aspects of their lives be it entertainment or tech and there is nothing wrong with it. This is where the Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 laptop comes into the picture which I believe is the laptop that massy appeal.

Design & Build

I’ve been tasked with testing a lot of Lenovo gaming laptops and the universal design form factor of these laptops is a winner for me. Be it the Legion or LOQ, they share a similar if not identical design which streamlines Lenovo’s product portfolio really well. What we get here is a simple no-nonsense design with familiar touch. Sure, it’s not a metal build and sticks to plastic but complaining about it would be nitpicky at this price point. The outer build’s only metal part is its logo which a good attention to detail. I wouldn’t call this laptop a portable gaming machine as it weighs 2.4Kgs and shuffling between office and home having it in my backpack was not exactly a pleasant experience.

There is ample port selection here with the majority of the ports placed in the rear. On the left side, you get a USB-C coupled with a headphone jack, and on the right side, you get a slow USB 2.0 coupled with a web-cam On/Off switch (a welcoming addition for sure) However, the lack of an SD card and a faster Thunderbolt 4.0 port stings. It has a similar webcam cutout on to the top which most Lenovo gaming laptops boast currently. The hinge is fairly sturdy and the overall build of the LOQ laptop is a clear winner. Lenovo has left no stone unturned to ensure this laptop comes with a solid build that is reflective in its tactile keyboard. There is minimum flex on the keyboard, even better than some premium laptops. However, the backlight RGB cannot be selected per key which is a disappointment, though not a big one. The trackpad placement is kinda off, leaning to the left side. However, it ensures a comfortable palm placement for the user’s right hand; a win-win situation!

Display

There are two display variants for the LOQ 15 with 1080P and 1440P resolutions. My review unit is the latter variant which is the one I would recommend if you’re in the market to get the LOQ. Sure, it is an IPS-grade display which is expected in an entry to mid-segment gaming laptop but the matte finish gives it a premium feel. Visuals are crisp with minimum loss of detail. What makes this display a sureshot winner is the refresh rate clocked at the maximum 165Hz. It’s buttery smooth with an above-average brightness of 380 nits.

I take pleasure in watching vibrant saturated visuals while playing games and watching films. The LOQ 15 laptop delivers in that aspect really well. Be it playing Spider-Man Miles Morales or Starfield, I was mesmerized by the visual output of this machine.

Performance

The Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 comes equipped with the Intel Core i7-13620H processor which sports six performance cores and four efficiency cores. On top of it sits my beloved Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU which makes up for the sweetest combination for casual to intermediate gamers. It also packs 16GB DDR5-5200 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD which was sufficient for my usage. I used this laptop as my primary driver for two weeks and did not witness any frame drops or lags. However, the bottom-firing heat dissipation is counterproductive as the laptop gets heated up exactly at that spot & it does get pretty hot. One key aspect of this laptop’s performance is stability. It does not leave you hanging in the middle of an intense gaming session. One can easily call it a reliable machine.

During heavy gaming sessions, the laptop lasts only a meager 60-75 mins. Now, I understand that is normal for a gaming machine but it is never not disappointing. However, the laptop lasts me a good half-day at work as a workstation machine. Overall, the Lenovo LOQ laptop packs a balanced performance for an optimum gaming experience.

Verdict

The Lenovo LOQ 15IRH8 is the perfect choice for people looking for a capable gaming machine that does not burn a hole in their pockets. It brings premium hardware components to the mid-range price category enhancing the price-to-performance ratio in the gaming laptop market overall. It’s not just massy, but a balance of mass and class!

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Lenovo Legion Slim 5i Review: Balance Between Work & Play

We’re living in times when affordable gaming machines are catching up to high-end ones. Gaming itself has garnered mainstream popularity in recent years and manufacturers have been riding this new wave by introducing one gaming laptop after another and saturating the market. The basic idea of a gaming laptop is that it is a bulky and heavy machine that is barely portable but is definitely power-hungry. This is where the new Lenovo Legion Slim 5i laptop comes which doubles down as both an everyday PC and a capable gaming machine. I tested the laptop as my daily driver and can conclude that this is the perfect laptop for people who strike a balance between work and gaming. Check out the full review of the Lenovo Legion Slim 5i below –

Design

The Legion laptop has a similar design aesthetics which has been maintained with the Legion Slim 5i. The dark grey look of the laptop with subtle Legion branding on the upper right of the back panel is a distinctive style statement. Readers should note that while it is called Legion ‘Slim’ 5i, it is bulky in comparison to business laptops. The ‘Slim’ aspect of this laptop can only be contextualized when compared to other gaming laptops which are tediously heavy in general. The lid and bottom covers are made out of an aluminum alloy coupled with a plastic keyboard. Yes, there is a noticeable flex in the keyboard but not as offensive as I’ve noticed in other gaming laptops. The trackpad is pretty big and comfortable to use.

The port selection is neat with two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports on the left. The right side gets an SD card reader and a switch to turn on/off the webcam. The rear of the laptop hosts a power connector, a gigabit Ethernet port, HDMI 2.1, and 2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports. The air vents on the side and the back are designed such that they add to the overall aesthetic of the device. Overall, the design of the Lenovo Legion Slim 5i is a winner.

Display

A vibrant 16-inch display with a matte finish instantly grabs your attention when using the laptop for the first time. The screen offers a smooth refresh rate of 165Hz and users can switch between 60, 82.50, and 165Hz respectively. There’s also support for Dolby Vision, Nvidia G-Sync, and X-Rite Pantone certification. The display is capable of producing some sharp and vibrant colors standing tall on Lenovo’s claims of 100 percent coverage of the sRGB color gamut. Watching movies and series is fun on this display and the fun is doubles while playing graphic-intensive games. High-quality HDR video content is also a treat to watch on this laptop with 2560 x 1600 resolution. The display experience is overall enhanced with the inclusion of a raised section in the middle enabling users to quickly lift open the laptop. Overall, Lenovo Legion SLim 5i’s display does not disappoint.

Performance

The Legion Slim 5i I tested is powered by the Intel 13th-Gen Core i7 – 13700H processor. The 13th Gen i5 variant is also available in this lineup. The CPU is paired with 16GB of DDR5 RAM which is capable of handling much of what you throw at it. The variant I reviewed had a small 512GB PCle Gen 4 SSD which is underwhelming in today’s time. I think manufacturers should consider abandoning the 512GB storage variants at least for gaming laptops. In the graphics arena, you get the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 with 6GB of VRAM which supports all the latest DLSS 3 and ray tracing. With a strong hardware assembly in place, the Lenovo Legion SLim 5i did not disappoint both as a daily PC and as a gaming PC. The duality of this laptop makes it stand out from the crowd and it’s able to pull some strong punches when it comes to gaming performance. I played games like Cyberpunk 2077, Apex Legends, Detroit: Become Human, and The Last of Us 2 on this laptop and barely witnessed it struggling to make ends meet.

The thermal management of the laptop is also done well as I never witnessed the laptop getting abnormally heated during extended gaming sessions. It does get warm but nothing alarming. It features a dual-stereo speaker setup which is not loud but has a passable performance. It was good to see Lenovo include a 1080P web camera as most manufacturers opt for a 720P one.

Verdict

The Lenovo Legion Slim 5i is a well-balanced machine that doubles down as both a gaming and everyday PC. Users looking for a portable gaming machine that does not weigh them down with a heavy form factor should definitely go for this one.