The Lenovo Legion Go is an exciting entrant in the handheld gaming PC market, offering an impressive blend of performance, portability, and versatility.
Designed to compete with devices like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, the Legion Go aims to bring PC gaming to the palm of your hands while retaining the power and functionality of a full-fledged gaming PC. Here’s an in-depth review of this handheld powerhouse.
Design and Build Quality
The Lenovo Legion Go sports a sleek and modern design that feels both premium and ergonomic. Its build quality is excellent, with a sturdy chassis that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The device is slightly larger than some of its competitors but remains portable enough for on-the-go gaming.
The ergonomic grips and well-placed controls make it comfortable to hold, even during extended gaming sessions. The detachable controllers, inspired by the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Cons, are a standout feature, allowing for greater flexibility in gameplay styles. Whether you’re using the controllers attached or detached, the setup feels natural and intuitive.
Display
The Legion Go boasts an 8.8-inch QHD+ IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, making it one of the largest screens in its category. The resolution of 2560×1600 ensures crisp visuals, and the 144Hz refresh rate delivers buttery-smooth gameplay, particularly for fast-paced games. The display’s brightness and color accuracy are excellent, providing vibrant and immersive visuals for all types of games, from graphically intensive AAA titles to indie favorites.
The larger screen size is a welcome addition for gamers who prioritize visuals and immersion. It’s especially beneficial for strategy and RPG games where screen real estate enhances the overall experience.
Performance
Under the hood, the Legion Go is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, a chip designed specifically for gaming handhelds. Combined with RDNA 3 graphics, the device delivers impressive performance, capable of running demanding games at high settings. The 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the up to 1TB SSD provides ample storage for your gaming library.
The Legion Go handles AAA games with ease, maintaining stable frame rates and quick load times. Its performance rivals that of many gaming laptops, making it a serious contender in the handheld gaming space.
Battery Life
The Legion Go features a sizeable 49.2Wh battery, which provides decent longevity for a device of its caliber. Depending on the game’s graphical demands, you can expect 3 to 6 hours of playtime on a single charge. The device also supports fast charging, allowing you to get back into action quickly.
Software and Usability
The Legion Go runs Windows 11, giving you access to a wide range of PC games and software. This compatibility extends to various game launchers, including Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and more. Windows 11 also enables multitasking, web browsing, and running non-gaming applications, making the Legion Go more versatile than gaming-only handhelds.
The device comes with Lenovo’s Legion Space software, a gaming hub that streamlines access to your games and optimizes system performance. The interface is user-friendly, catering to both seasoned PC gamers and newcomers.
Connectivity and Features
The Legion Go is packed with connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 for stable and fast wireless connections. It also features two USB-C ports for charging and accessories, a microSD card slot for expandable storage, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio. The device supports external monitors via DisplayPort over USB-C, allowing you to use it as a portable gaming PC or connect it to a larger screen for a more immersive experience.
The detachable controllers offer additional functionality, such as an integrated trackpad and customizable buttons. These features enhance gameplay flexibility and make the Legion Go suitable for a variety of gaming styles.
Pros
- Large QHD+ Display: The 8.8-inch screen with a 144Hz refresh rate provides stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.
- Powerful Performance: Equipped with AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, the device handles demanding games effortlessly.
- Detachable Controllers: Offers versatility and ergonomic comfort for various gaming setups.
- Windows 11: Full PC functionality with access to multiple game launchers and non-gaming applications.
- Expandable Storage: MicroSD slot and large internal storage options.
Cons
- Battery Life: While decent, heavy gaming can drain the battery quickly.
- Size and Weight: Larger than some competitors, making it less portable.
- Price: Premium features come with a higher price tag, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Who Should Buy the Lenovo Legion Go?
The Legion Go is ideal for gamers who want a high-performance handheld that doesn’t compromise on versatility. Its large screen and powerful hardware make it perfect for those who value visuals and performance. Additionally, its Windows 11 operating system makes it a great choice for users who want a device that can double as a portable PC.
Final Thoughts
The Lenovo Legion Go is a fantastic addition to the handheld gaming market, offering a premium experience with its large display, powerful performance, and versatile features. While its size and price may not suit everyone, it’s an excellent choice for gamers seeking a high-quality device that bridges the gap between a gaming console and a PC.
If you’re looking for a portable gaming powerhouse with a flexible design and robust performance, the Lenovo Legion Go is well worth considering.
