Impressions of the Lenovo Legion Go:
It's got potential, but not much else.

THE DISPLAY

Now, let’s get into the intricacies of the Legion Go's display, a captivating 8.8-inch QHD+ IPS screen with a commendable 144Hz refresh rate. While the lack of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) doesn't significantly mar the visual experience, there's a noteworthy aspect that warrants some extra thought.

The portrait orientation of the display, a deviation from the ideal and almost necessary landscape format introduces some challenges, particularly with older games. Some users have even reported issues with games like Red Dead Redemption 2 on Vulkan/DX11, Final Fantasy VII Crisis Core Remake, Monster Hunter Rise, and Tales of Symphonia (on specific portrait devices like the Aya Neo Air and Legion Go).

The problems are not solely tied to the Legion Go; they stem from Windows compatibility with portrait displays. For instance, in Apex Legends with the original DX11 renderer, there's observed blurriness in fullscreen exclusive mode, which is, interestingly, rectified in the beta DX12 version. This is a nuanced issue, and although not completely Lenovo's fault, it could've been completely solved by incorporating a proper landscape display in the device, which is exactly what they said they did when asked about it on their Reddit's AMA and on their own forums (they lied.) Lenovo also told us that the display would be VRR however that was also untrue.

To tackle this, some users resort to third-party software to mitigate the problem in certain games. It's important to acknowledge that these intricacies are not specific to the Legion Go alone but are part of the broader landscape of Windows compatibility with portrait displays, overall though we still love this display.

USB PORTS AND CONNECTIVITY

The Legion Go boasts two remarkable full-speed USB4 ports—one conveniently located on the top and another on the bottom. This not only provides users with an abundance of connectivity options but also allows seamless integration with a variety of accessories, including full desktop-grade eGPUs. The absence of proprietary restrictions is a standout feature, offering users the freedom to enhance their gaming experience with a range of peripherals.

While we applaud this open-access approach, it's crucial to note that a few users, including our team, have observed the top USB-C port heating up during use. Although our unit endured this warmth without any failure, it's worth mentioning that this issue is not universal. However, we want to acknowledge a case reported by YouTuber Bob Wulff from Wulff's Den, where the port failed due to excessive heat. While such instances appear isolated, it's advisable to keep an eye on the temperature, especially during extended usage.

For now it's early days and in truth, we just don't know how the Legion Go will age.

THE CONTROLS

The Legion Go presents a mixed bag when it comes to controls. On the positive side, the D-pad stands out with its direct and clicky responsiveness, offering a satisfying feel during gameplay. Contrary to some reviews, we found it to be a noteworthy D-Pad that actually excels above the rest. The face buttons, while not particularly memorable, deliver an acceptable experience and are free from any issues or concerns.

One standout feature is the included trackpad, adding a layer of convenience for navigating Windows. It proves to be indispensable for a Windows-based device, and in our opinion should be a requirement for all Windows based handhelds going forward, however it's important to note that while the trackpad facilitates smoother Windows operation, it lacks the precision needed for in-game use, especially when compared to the stellar trackpads of the Steam Deck. If you're expecting anything more than windows navigation with the trackpad, you're likely to be disappointed.

COMFORT

Exploring the comfort terrain of the Legion Go is akin to navigating an unpredictable journey. Despite its sizable build, the device pleasantly surprises with an even weight distribution, providing an unexpectedly light and manageable feel. This balance stands out, especially when compared to contenders like the AYANEO Kun.

Now, when it comes to the controllers, the experience takes a different turn. The edges, instead of offering a sleek and ergonomic design, introduce discomfort during prolonged use. These sharp edges have a tendency to dig into your palms, which can be quite the pain- literally.

The placement of the L1/R1 buttons adds another layer of complexity. Accessing them during intense gaming requires a bit of hand adjustment with my medium-sized male hands, making quick maneuvers sometimes necessitate a momentary pause for realignment on a surface. It's a consideration for those who value seamless, uninterrupted gameplay.


And if that's not enough, the right controller introduces a quirky feature. The button layout on the hand grips differs from the left controller, resulting in buttons that are constantly nudging your inner palms. While this doesn't significantly impact gameplay, the constant button brushing can be a mild annoyance, especially considering they're primed for use in the "fps mode," a feature that, in our view, falls more into the gimmick category than a game-changer. The pros, in this case, don't quite outweigh the cons.

SOFTWARE

Comparing Legion Space to more robust interfaces like Asus' Armoury Crate or AYANEO's AyaSpace emphasizes its shortcomings. Legion Space lacks critical functionalities and smoothness, including the absence of features such as button customization and VRAM changes. The frustration extends to the process of accessing Legion Space, which requires multiple button presses and navigating a convoluted menu, including a custom TDP controller, for simple adjustments.


Even the experience of using Legion Space is subpar, with stuttering and bugs frequent.

It's worth noting that alternatives like AyaSpace demonstrate far superior software capabilities, allowing users to see the exact TDP in increments and change them on the fly with a single button press. While we anticipate improvements from Lenovo over time, the current state falls short of the standards we expect from one of the world's largest computer manufacturers, especially when small startup companies who mostly operate from crowdfunding are doing so much better.

FPS MODE

Lenovo's FPS Mode for the Legion Go introduces an intriguing concept that, at first glance, offers a unique way to engage with FPS games. The vertical mouse-like functionality aims to enhance accuracy and control, but in practice, it currently falls short of being a reliable accessory.

While FPS Mode indeed transforms the Legion Go into a makeshift mouse, the real-world usability is hindered by compatibility issues with certain games. A notable example is Starfield, where activating FPS Mode leads to a chaotic button assignment, rendering some buttons non-functional, but it isn't just starfield, it's most games. And and any game that doesn't allow you to custom map controls? You'd better be ready to spend 30 minutes tinkering in the Legion Space software.

As for the accuracy, it's okay, it's not quite to the same level of a mouse but it is most certainly better than we expected. It's a cool party trick and it's always wonderful to see true innovation in this space, but it's definitely not a defining feature that should lead you to the purchase of your Legion Go.