Lenovo Legion Go has changed gaming in this portable lifestyle. We spent two years writing about Legion Go, a handheld PC, and this is now our complete Legion Go review. Gaming fans all over the globe are exploring its unique features.
What is the Lenovo Legion Go?
What the new Legion Go wants to be at Lenovo is a handheld gaming PC. It starts at $699, putting it head-to-head with other Steam Deck counterparts. At this price point, the Lenovo Legion Go is feature-packed and affordable.
This is a Windows 11 gaming PC in your hands. It works just like a normal PC that you can hold. Lenovo aims to strike a balance somewhere between portable console gaming and a laptop with the Lenovo handheld.
Key Specifications and Features
Display Excellence
Featuring an 8.8-inch IPS display, the Legion Go delivers excellence. The 1600p resolution provides extremely clear images. Vibrant and accurate colors appear for any gaming scenario. It makes a world of difference in gaming immersion to have the bigger screen.
Powerful Performance
To run the Legion Go, Lenovo has used the Z1 Extreme chip by AMD. This processor is also present in the ASUS ROG Ally. Performance remains consistent across notably demanding gaming titles. That chip is capable of handling today’s games at decent frame rates.
Storage Options
Storage configurations come in 512GB and 1TB options. The larger model is designed to hold several AAA gaming titles. No having to constantly delete games to make room for more. Support for cloud storage integration provides even more room.
Removable Controllers
In contrast to rivals, the Legion Go provides detachable controllers. It just feels like that mentality behind how Nintendo designed the Switch. The screen can be propped up on surfaces to game comfortably. The detachable characteristic is perfect for cloud gaming obligations.
Comparison Between Legion Go and ROG Ally
Performance Comparison
The Legion Go and ROG Ally use the same AMD Z1 Extreme chip. Performance differences come from optimization and cooling solutions. Overall, the Lenovo Legion Go keeps cooler temperatures. The battery life of devices will vary.
Display Quality
With the larger 8.8-inch screen, the Legion Go stands even taller than the ROG Ally. The Lenovo handheld holds a significant lead in resolution. The larger display also serves to make gaming visuals appear sharper and with more detail.
Design Philosophy
The ASUS ROG Ally is designed when portability and classic handheld form factor are the most important. The primary function is based on the size of the display, with an emphasis on modularity for the Legion Go. That puts the Lenovo Legion Go a step ahead of its competition.
Price Considerations
The ROG Ally X and original ROG Ally are available in different price ranges. The Legion Go is being sold as a premium handheld. Value proposition varies due to the individuality in gaming needs and wants.
Is Legion Go Even More Advanced Than Steam Deck?
Hardware Advantages
Lenovo Legion Go trumps Steam Deck in several departments. Steam Deck can’t compete with the AMD Z1 Extreme for processing power. Quality and resolution of the display are big steps up from the Valve handheld.
Operating System Benefits
Broader game compatibility with Windows 11 integration. Users connect to various game stores such as Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass. There are no Windows compatibility layers for the Legion to work with Windows games.
Gaming Library Access
After all, native support for Windows has a large library of games to choose from. Steam integration functions without any issues on the Lenovo handheld. The Epic Games Store and other outlets work as well.
Performance Metrics
Frame rates are generally well more than those you’d typically see on the Steam Deck for equivalent titles. For the games, it’s real Legion Go. Thermal management prevents over-aggressive performance throttling in extended-use scenarios.
Legion Go vs Gaming Laptops
Portability Factor
More portable than Lenovo gaming laptops is the Legion Go. The Legion laptops require carrying around a bag with your laptop packed inside, along with a dedicated power adapter. The fact that this is a handheld design takes care of those portability issues.
Performance Trade-offs
Lenovo Legion laptops are supreme in raw performance. Desktop-class processors and proper dedicated graphics cards are way out of the league of such handheld constraints. The Legion Go on the other hand, is great for those who are always on the road and do not need the absolute best-in-class performance.
Price Comparison
Gaming laptops like entry-level Lenovo models can be found at similar price points. Requires a higher-end Legion laptop for the same performance needs. As a portable console specifically, the Legion Go provides better value.
Use Case Scenarios
The Lenovo gaming laptop solutions are best for stationary gaming and productivity work. Perhaps the most interesting bit is that Lenovo seems to be focusing on portability with a casual gaming experience for its Legion Go lineup.
Gaming Performance Analysis
AAA Gaming Capability
Lenovo Legion Go can run current AAA titles well. Just changes to settings, made optimal for playing on an actual handheld. Something like Cyberpunk 2077 will be playable at certain settings.
Emulation Performance
The Lenovo handheld also does great with retro gaming emulation. Classic console games run well through various emulators. Retro gaming is greatly enhanced by this big display.
VR Gaming Potential
The Legion Go is not built specifically for VR, but it does work with certain VR apps. Only requires low-end VR gameplay. The core experience is still right where fans of traditional PC gaming have it the best.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Performance
Battery life depends on the intensity of gaming. Casual gaming provides 2-4 hours of continuous play. 1-2 hours to get through AAA games. Power management configurations help conserve battery life.
Charging Solutions
Fast charging capability results in less time spent not gaming. Use any USB-C charger for quick and convenient charging. Compatible with a power bank to extend the gaming time on the go.
Power Management
Windows power profiles configure the system to optimize battery performance depending on a given scenario. Performance modes balance battery life and gaming performance. Additionally, users can tune power settings for individual games.
Build Quality and Design
Construction Quality
The Legion Go features solid construction throughout the device. High-quality materials are used despite their competitive cost. The construction certainly meets the expectations in its price range.
Ergonomic Considerations
Great for longer hands as well due to the roomier fit. With a good grip, long hours of gaming sessions also go comfortably. The detachable controllers are also spectacularly practical.
Cooling System
It features active cooling to keep the system from throttling down when playing hardcore games. During normal use, fan noise is still acceptable. Better thermal performance than other competing handhelds.
Durability Factors
Long-term durability seems promising because of its build quality. The swappable controllers have pieces that slide out that must be taken care of. Premature wear should not occur with regular use cases.
Software and User Experience
Windows 11 Integration
Windows 11 provides the same great Windows PC gaming platform we all know and love. Windows games work without any compatibility layers. The system updates aim at keeping you secure and making the performance faster.
Gaming Launcher Support
All major gaming platforms work without any modifications. Plug-and-play with Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass. All the game libraries exist on the same device.
User Interface Optimization
Lenovo includes handheld-optimized interface elements. Touch controls work well for navigation tasks. It feels like it was made for handheld play.
Software Updates
Frequent software updates improve performance and add new features. The Legion Go benefits from ongoing support from Lenovo. Driver updates ensure compatibility with new games.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Large 8.8-inch high-resolution display
- Removable controllers add versatility
- Native Windows 11 compatibility
- Strong gaming performance
- Premium build quality
- Multiple storage configuration options
- Comprehensive port selection
- Excellent cooling system
Disadvantages
- Price is at the higher end compared to some competitor offerings
- Larger size reduces portability
- Battery life could be better
- Learning curve for new users
- Limited accessories availability
- Fan noise during intensive gaming
- Fatigue occurs during long use due to the increase in weight
Recommended Games and Settings
Optimized Gaming Experiences
The Legion Go performs well with properly optimized games. Titles like Forza Horizon 5 run beautifully on this handheld. Strategy games benefit significantly from the large display.
Settings Recommendations
However, medium to high settings give you the best bang for your buck in terms of performance and graphics quality. Resolution scaling can make a massive difference in frame rates when appropriate. Individual game optimization varies considerably.
Game Store Recommendations
Steam has the most games that are compatible with it. Xbox Game Pass provides excellent value for subscription gaming. Regular free games on the Epic Games Store build libraries cost-effectively.
Accessories and Upgrades
Essential Accessories
- A good carrying case protects the device as you move it around
- Screen protectors help keep your screen pristine and damage-free
- Extra charging cables provide convenience for traveling
Storage Upgrades
- MicroSD cards offer cheaper storage expansion
- Fastest cards are best for game load times
- Cloud storage services complement local storage
Gaming Peripherals
- Bluetooth headphones improve the audio experience significantly
- Desktop-style gameplay works with external controllers
- Wireless mice provide accuracy for strategy games
Competitive Landscape
Market Position
The Lenovo Legion Go competes in the premium handheld gaming category. Direct competition includes the ASUS ROG Ally and the Steam Deck OLED. Market positioning targets serious portable gaming enthusiasts.
Future Competition
This is what competition looks like from 2024 on: If nothing else, the Ally X and maybe Legion Go 2 will set a new bar. Steam Deck updates continue improving Valve’s offering. The growing market attracts more manufacturers regularly.
Value Proposition
Premium features justify the higher price points for target audiences. Display quality and Windows compatibility are huge advantages. Value varies wildly depending on your gaming needs.
Buying Recommendations
Who Should Buy
Gamers who take their handheld gaming seriously will find the Legion Go appealing. Great value for users who want PC gaming in a portable way. They provide significant benefits for travelers seeking entertainment solutions.
Who Should Wait
Casual gamers may think the price point is excessive. You might want to look at alternatives if portability is your main priority. Entry-level options are the way to go for buyers on a budget, such as stylish MSI gaming laptops under budget.
Best Purchase Times
Sales events offer significant discount opportunities. The debut of a new model will usually reduce original prices. Early adoption provides access to the latest features immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Buy a Legion Go?
Legion Go vs ROG Ally?
Is Legion Go Better Than Steam Deck?
Does Legion Go Have Issues?
How Long Will Lenovo Legion Go last?
Will There Be a Legion Go 2?
Can Lenovo Legion Go Run Steam?
How Powerful Is the Legion Go?
Conclusion
The Lenovo Legion Go is a milestone for handheld gaming PCs. The big screen and detachable controllers set new standards. Windows 11 compatibility expands gaming possibilities dramatically.
Performance exceeds most handheld gaming expectations. The AMD Z1 Extreme processor handles modern games effectively. Display quality rivals dedicated gaming monitors.
Build quality justifies the premium pricing strategy. Materials and construction feel appropriate for the price segment. Initial assessments provided an encouraging picture of long-term durability.
The Legion Go succeeds as a premium handheld gaming solution. It’s not going to supplant gaming laptops entirely. But it does offer excellent portable gaming experiences. The device represents the future of portable PC gaming effectively.
