Lenovo Legion Go hands-on: A more Switch-like handheld gaming PC

Lenovo’s Legion Go: A Handheld Gaming PC with a Switch-like Twist

For avid fans of handheld gaming PCs, 2023 has proven to be an exciting year. With ASUS’ release of the ROG Ally earlier in the year, Lenovo has now thrown its hat into the ring with the Legion Go. Having had the opportunity to go hands-on with this intriguing device, I must admit that Lenovo’s unique twists might just end up making a significant impact.

Before diving too deep into the details, it’s worth mentioning that the units I had the chance to try were pre-production samples. Evidence of this could be spotted on components like the shoulder buttons. On one side of the device, there was metallic paint (which will be present on retail devices), while the other side featured plain black plastic. Lenovo also revealed plans to equip the Legion Go with a custom app launcher similar to ASUS’ Amoury Crate, alongside a stock install of Windows 11. However, this launcher was absent from the demo units I used. The physical feel of the Legion Go’s body was somewhat uneven, indicating that Lenovo likely has some refinements to make before its official launch in October.

Now, let’s delve into some of the standout features of the Legion Go, starting with its screen. This 8.8-inch, 2,560 x 1,600 IPS panel boasts a 144Hz refresh rate and is rated at 500 nits of brightness. Not only is the Legion Go’s panel as speedy as the one found on the ROG Ally, but it also claims the title of having the largest screen among devices in its category. The vibrant colors of the display make it even more captivating than many of its competitors.

Of course, there’s a trade-off to be made here—between the sizable display and the somewhat boxy body, the Legion Go leans towards the bulkier side. Measuring 11.8 x 5.15 x 1.61 inches, the Legion Go’s size aligns more closely with the Steam Deck than with sleeker competitors like the ROG Ally. As for its design, the front presents a familiar Xbox-style button layout, while the rear introduces an interesting asymmetrical paddle layout with four rear buttons and a scroll wheel. I’m still pondering the intended purpose of that scroll wheel, but I won’t pass up the chance for additional input methods.

Interestingly, Lenovo draws inspiration from the Nintendo Switch, as evidenced by the folding kickstand at the back and the ability to detach the Legion Go’s controllers from the main body. However, I must admit that removing the controllers isn’t quite as seamless or effortless as it is with a Switch. It involves pressing a button at the back and then tilting and sliding simultaneously. Although I eventually got the hang of it after some trial and error, it’s clear that this maneuver takes some practice.

Nevertheless, the kickstand serves its purpose by propping up the display on a table while using the controllers remotely. Thanks to two USB 4 ports, you can even connect peripherals like a mouse and keyboard, effectively transforming the Legion Go into a miniature desktop setup. Alternatively, you can utilize the single touchpad on the right controller to navigate in Windows—a nod to usability that sets it apart from the ROG Ally, which lacks the option to use joysticks for cursor movement.

A clever addition to the Legion Go is the FPS Switch located on the bottom of the right controller. By toggling this switch and placing the controller in an included cradle, you essentially acquire a vertical mouse that can be moved across a table while playing shooters. However, I can’t help but wonder whether I’ll ever prefer this setup over a traditional horizontal mouse or even a joystick.

In terms of specifications, the Legion Go boasts an AMD Z1 Extreme chip, 16GB of RAM, up to 1TB of storage, and a 49.2 WHr battery. This places it on par with the powerful ROG Ally. What truly sets the Legion Go apart, though, is its aggressive pricing strategy. Starting at just $699, the Legion Go includes an accompanying case—an offering that ASUS’ Ally lacks. It’s a remarkable feat considering the larger screen, bigger battery, and more sophisticated controllers that the Legion Go offers.

While Lenovo still has some refining to do before the official launch in October, the entry of another major player into the handheld gaming PC arena indicates that the battle for supremacy is just beginning. With the Legion Go’s unique features and pricing strategy, it’s clear that gamers have exciting times ahead in the world of handheld gaming PCs. The Legion Go is poised to shake things up and give gamers a new way to experience their favorite titles on the go.

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More about Handheld Gaming PC

• Lenovo Legion Go Official Website
• ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming PC
• Windows 11 Operating System
• Nintendo Switch Gaming Console
• Steam Deck Handheld Gaming Device
• AMD Z1 Extreme Chip
• Gaming Technology Trends
• Portable Gaming Devices Comparison