Ava Brooks 
Dec 11, 2023
Lenovo's Legion Go enters the handheld gaming arena to challenge the formidable Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. Boasting an enormous 8.8-inch, 144Hz display, a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, and detachable controllers, it's a tech marvel. Running on Windows 11, this device offers customisation galore via apps and programs.
Lenovo's reputation for crafting top-tier gaming gadgets shines through the Legion Go. But hold on. The pain point here is Windows 11 itself. While it offers customisation options, it also impedes the Legion Go from achieving the seamless, plug-and-play handheld experience similar to the Nintendo Switch.
Speaking from experience, this might be my best tryst with Windows 11, purely because I'm here to game and nothing else. I have smartly evaded Windows' demanding nature by predominantly using the Legion Space launcher, steering clear of Windows' clutches.
Lenovo Legion Go specs
| Legion Go | Specs |
| Chipset | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
| Storage | Up to 1TB |
| Memory | 16GB |
| OS | Windows 11 |
| Display | 8.8-inch QHD+ IPS Touch (144Hz) |
| Ports | 2x USB-C, 1x microSD slot, 1x headphone jack |
| Size | 8.27 x 5.15 x 0.79 inches |
| Weight | 1.88 pounds (with controllers attached) |
| Battery life | 1 hour 51 minutes (tested) |
| Price | US$699.99 on Amazon |
The Legion Go starts at $699 with a configuration boasting an 8.8-inch QHD touchscreen, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD. A $749 variant doubles the storage to a colossal 1TB, setting it head-to-head with the high-end Asus ROG Ally. Despite its unique features, the extras don't always guarantee a smoother gaming experience, as we'll delve into.
Security's solid with Windows Hello, adding a PIN layer for extra protection. Its design is reminiscent of a Nintendo Switch, projecting an air of "let's do this", while the sturdy plastic chassis offers a comfortable grip.
| Pros that stand tall | Cons that dampen the thrill |
| Dazzling display | Battery life could be beefier |
| Ergonomic excellence | Windows' own quirks |
| Superb detachable controllers | |
| Impressive Windows performance | |
| Perfect for content bingeing |
The Legion Go's 8.8-inch display is a standout feature. Boasting 2,560 x 1,600 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, it's a visual feast. Gaming on this screen is a treat, whether it's Madden 24, Alan Wake 2, or Borderlands 2 — vivid, crisp, and immersive!
Audio
Audio-wise, it pleasantly surprised me. The volume is a powerhouse, delivering rich tones without distortion. Gaming with headphones is a notch higher for the ultimate experience.
Performance
Performance-wise, the Legion Go with its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and 16GB RAM handles games at high settings, although some tweaking might be necessary. However, battery life remains a thorn in the side, lasting around four hours for non-gaming use and just under two hours during intense gaming sessions.
Heat management's decent, with slightly elevated temperatures during gaming but nothing uncomfortable.
Summing it up, the Lenovo Legion Go is a handheld gaming beast, a PC gamer's dream for on-the-go action. While the Switch might be more portable, the Legion Go's raw power places it at the top among its rivals like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally. It is priced affordably, making it a compelling choice in the gaming gadget realm.
