Lenovo has recently unveiled the Legion Go, a new gaming handheld PC that aims to stand out in a crowded market. Priced at $700, the Legion Go packs a punch with its top-notch performance and an impressive 8.8-inch OLED display. The device takes inspiration from the Nintendo Switch with its detachable controllers and Xbox-style button layout. However, it also adds unique features such as a built-in touchpad and Hall effect joysticks for a more responsive gaming experience.
The Legion Go’s large display boasts a 2560 x 1600 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it one of the most impressive screens on any gaming handheld. The device also features a peak brightness of 500 nits, making the visuals vibrant and eye-catching. While the Legion Go lacks full variable refresh rate support, it offers a unique toggle that activates FPS mode, turning the controller into a vertical mouse for enhanced precision.
In terms of performance, the Legion Go is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. It is capable of running major AAA titles, although users may need to adjust graphics settings to achieve optimal performance. The device offers a range of preset performance modes and a customizable setting for thermal design power, allowing users to fine-tune their gaming experience.
Lenovo’s Legion Space app serves as a central hub for performance tweaking and game launching. However, the app feels somewhat half-baked, with unlabeled performance modes and a confusing game store interface. Despite this, the Legion Go managed to impress with its large 49.2Wh battery, providing decent battery life while gaming.
Overall, the Legion Go is a compelling handheld gaming PC that offers a unique blend of performance and features. Its bulky form factor may deter some users, but its impressive display and innovative design make it a standout device in the handheld gaming market. With some software refinements and optimization, the Legion Go has the potential to be a formidable competitor in the space.
