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The handheld gaming industry is booming, with new devices pushing the boundaries of portable gaming. Lenovo has now entered the scene with its latest offering—the Legion Go S. Designed to compete with established players like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, this powerful handheld PC brings high refresh rates, customizable controls, and PC-level performance to gamers on the go. But does it have what it takes to stand out in an increasingly crowded market? Let’s dive into its features, performance, and how it stacks up against the competition.
A Fusion of Power and Portability
The Legion Go S is built for serious gamers who want a high-performance handheld without sacrificing portability. It features an 8-inch touchscreen display that supports a variable refresh rate of 48-120Hz, allowing for smooth, lag-free gameplay in both fast-paced and graphically demanding titles.
Under the hood, Lenovo has equipped the Legion Go S with the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, designed to deliver solid gaming performance while keeping power consumption in check. This means longer battery life without compromising frame rates, a crucial factor for handheld gamers.
Key Features of the Lenovo Legion Go S
Lenovo has packed this device with impressive specs that enhance the gaming experience:
- 8-inch touchscreen display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay and vivid visuals.
- AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, providing efficient and reliable gaming performance.
- Customizable rear triggers, giving players more control over their gameplay.
- Windows OS, ensuring access to an extensive library of PC games.
- Sleek, lightweight design, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions.
- Expandable storage options, so players never run out of space for their favorite titles.
Performance and Usability: Is Windows Holding It Back?
While the Legion Go S is a powerful device, its reliance on Windows OS as a gaming platform comes with both advantages and drawbacks. The biggest advantage is the ability to play a wide range of PC games, including titles from Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more. Unlike console-restricted handhelds, this device offers versatility and flexibility.
However, Windows isn’t optimized for handheld gaming, which can lead to interface navigation challenges and inconsistent touchscreen responsiveness. Many gamers prefer SteamOS for a smoother user experience, and Lenovo is rumored to be working on a SteamOS version, which could significantly improve usability.
Legion Go S vs. the Competition: How Does It Compare?
The handheld gaming market is more competitive than ever, with devices like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Razer Edge offering various levels of performance and affordability. Let’s see how the Legion Go S stacks up:
| Feature | Lenovo Legion Go S | Steam Deck OLED | ASUS ROG Ally |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 8-inch, 120Hz | 7.4-inch, 90Hz | 7-inch, 120Hz |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z2 Go | AMD APU | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
| Operating System | Windows 11 | SteamOS | Windows 11 |
| Price | $729.99 | $549-$649 | $699.99 |
While the Legion Go S wins in display size and refresh rate, Windows OS can be a drawback compared to the streamlined SteamOS experience. However, for gamers who want full access to PC games without restrictions, this device provides the ultimate flexibility.
Battery Life and Cooling System
Battery life is a crucial factor for any handheld device, and the Legion Go S delivers mixed results. While the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor is designed to be power-efficient, playing demanding AAA games at high refresh rates drains the battery faster. Lenovo has included fast-charging support, allowing users to quickly top up battery life between gaming sessions.
Cooling is another area where Lenovo has made improvements. The Legion Go S features an advanced cooling system, ensuring that performance remains stable even during long gaming marathons. The ventilation design helps dissipate heat efficiently, preventing overheating issues that some other handhelds struggle with.
Is the Legion Go S Worth It?
The Lenovo Legion Go S is a premium handheld gaming PC that brings power, versatility, and high refresh rates to the table. However, its reliance on Windows OS, its price tag, and battery life concerns may make some gamers think twice before choosing it over competitors.
Pros:
✅ Large 8-inch display with 120Hz refresh rate
✅ Customizable controls for a more tailored gaming experience
✅ Access to a huge PC game library
✅ Strong cooling system for longer gaming sessions
Cons:
❌ Windows OS isn’t optimized for handheld gaming
❌ Battery drains quickly when playing graphically intense games
❌ Higher price tag compared to some competitors
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Legion Go S?
The Lenovo Legion Go S is an excellent option for PC gamers who want a powerful, portable gaming device with a large screen and smooth performance. However, if you prefer a more streamlined, console-like experience, the Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally might be better alternatives.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your gaming preferences. If you want a handheld that provides access to a full PC experience, the Legion Go S is one of the most powerful handhelds on the market today.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that we earn commissions for purchases you make after clicking on the links. This is at No extra cost to you. Read more here. Thank you for your support!
