IdeaCentre Q series
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer hardware |
| Founded | 2009 |
| Products | Nettop computers (Q100, Q110, Q150, Q700) |
| Owner | Lenovo |
The IdeaCentre Q series by Lenovo represents a collection of nettop computers tailored mainly for personal and home environments. Positioned as multimedia-centric nettops, the Q Series ranks among the most compact desktop models available, with dimensions similar to those of a standard paperback book. Notable attributes include a small footprint, energy efficiency, support for HD video playback, and quiet performance.
These nettops utilize hardware components akin to those found in netbook devices. The initial release in this lineup was the Q100, introduced in 2009.
2010
In 2010, the only addition to the IdeaCentre Q lineup was the Q150 model.
Q150
Launched in 2010, the IdeaCentre Q150 replaced the earlier Q100 and Q110 models, offering enhanced technical specifications. It was equipped with a dual-core Intel Atom D510 processor running at 1.66 GHz, 2 GB of DDR2 memory, a 500 GB hard disk drive, and NVIDIA Ion 2 graphics capable of DirectX 10 support. A new feature compared to its predecessors was integrated Wi-Fi b/g/n connectivity.
The device provided multiple connection options including HDMI, VGA, two USB ports, Ethernet, and audio input/output jacks. It also came with both a stand and a VESA mount, allowing for unobtrusive placement behind televisions or monitors.
Reviews from industry experts commended its compact form factor and multimedia functionality. PCMag described it as “one of the smallest full-featured PCs,” awarding it four out of five stars along with an Editor's Choice honor, highlighting its effectiveness as a media playback system when linked to larger displays.
2009
In 2009, Lenovo introduced several nettops within the IdeaCentre Q series: the Q100, Q110, and Q700.
Q100
The Q100 was a small unit roughly the size of an external hard drive and powered by a 1.6 GHz Intel Atom N230 processor designed for minimal power use. It included 1 GB of DDR2-667 RAM and a 160 GB hard drive, which was standard for nettops at that time. Connectivity featured four USB ports and Gigabit Ethernet but lacked an optical drive; peripherals such as keyboard and mouse were sold separately. It supported output to a single VGA monitor. PCWorld gave it a low rating, suggesting that netbooks were a better choice.
Q110
Matching the Q100 in size and processor type, the Q110 upgraded memory to 2 GB RAM and storage to 250 GB. It also incorporated NVIDIA Ion graphics and offered HDMI output capable of 1080p resolution. Similar to the Q100 model, it did not include keyboard or mouse accessories.
Q700
Introduced mid-year in 2009, the Q700 targeted users seeking higher performance with an Intel Pentium Dual Core E5700 CPU, 4 GB RAM, and integrated Intel GMA X4500 graphics. Its dimensions measured approximately 2.36 by 7.87 by 9.84 inches and it supported hard drives up to 640 GB capacity. This nettop featured HDMI output along with optional Wi-Fi b/g connectivity, a TV tuner, and versions running Windows Vista. On the front panel were four USB 2.0 ports, a slot-loading DVD writer, a four-in-one media card reader, and audio jacks; an additional four USB 2.0 ports were located on the rear side.