Lenovo Legion Go, Worth to Buy?

If you're not familiar, the Lenovo Legion Go is a portable gaming PC that resembles a Windows Surface tablet with attachable controllers, akin to a Nintendo Switch. Think of it as a PC in the guise of a Nintendo Switch, equipped with a kickstand and a tablet-style interface. The particular model we're reviewing is priced at $749, featuring the Z1 extreme chip.

Let's start with the positives. The Legion Go boasts a sizable 8.8-inch display with a resolution of 1440p and a refresh rate of 144 Hz. The display is undeniably stunning, outclassing competitors like the Steam Deck and Rog Ali, even surpassing the OLED Steam Deck in visual appeal. The large screen offers an immersive gaming experience and makes a noticeable difference in handheld use.

The detachable controllers are a noteworthy feature. They can be removed, allowing for a more portable setup or alternative controller use. The joysticks, buttons, and triggers on the controllers are well-designed and functional. Additionally, the Legion Go comes with a detachable mouse component for FPS gaming, although its practicality is subjective.

However, some design choices and functionalities are questionable. The mouse feature might not resonate with everyone, especially those who prefer traditional controllers for FPS games. The ability to detach controllers for portability is useful, but the device remains bulky and heavy, impacting its overall portability and ease of use.

One significant drawback is the software experience. Despite robust hardware, the Legion Go suffers from suboptimal software optimization for gaming on a device of this form factor. The full-fledged Windows OS, while versatile, proves to be a hindrance in delivering a smooth gaming experience. The issues encountered during setup and gameplay are reminiscent of those faced by the Rog Ali, highlighting a common challenge in effectively adapting Windows to portable gaming devices.

Another notable downside is the battery life. Despite sharing a similar 50W hour battery capacity with the Steam Deck, the Legion Go offers, at most, around two hours of gaming. The power-hungry 1440p 144Hz display, while visually impressive, contributes to the relatively short battery life.

The Legion Go is undeniably attractive for its hardware and design, but the software experience and battery performance may dissuade many potential buyers. The weight and bulkiness further compromise its appeal for on-the-go gaming. Priced at $749, it competes in a range where alternative options, such as budget gaming laptops with dedicated GPUs, might provide a more satisfying gaming experience without sacrificing portability. Ultimately, we find it hard to recommend the Legion Go for most users, unless you're a PC gaming enthusiast willing to tackle potential software challenges.