Lenovo Legion Go S stands out as a remarkable option among handheld gaming devices, promising a unique blend of comfort and performance that aims to rival the Steam Deck alternative. This review dives deep into the features and ergonomics of the Legion Go S, highlighting its impressive design that feels custom-fitted to the user’s hands. While it boasts a vibrant 8-inch display and adaptive controls, the gaming handheld comparison with other devices reveals some performance shortcomings that may affect its standing in the market. Despite its challenges, the Lenovo Legion Go S has the potential to become one of the best handheld gaming options available, especially when considering its upcoming models that are set to run on SteamOS.

      

 

Lenovo Legion Go S Review: A New Era in Handheld Comfort

Lenovo Legion Go S is truly a game changer in the realm of handheld gaming devices. The moment you pick it up, the ergonomic design immediately makes an impression. This device was crafted with comfort as a priority, fitting snugly in your hands and providing a firm grip through its ridged surface. Unlike many handheld gaming devices that often feel awkward or cumbersome during long play sessions, the Lenovo Legion Go S embraces its users, making marathon gaming sessions enjoyable without discomfort. This level of comfort sets it apart from competitors like the Steam Deck, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking the best handheld gaming experience.

      

Moreover, the design elements of the Lenovo Legion Go S enhance its comfort further. The adaptive triggers and high-quality joysticks are perfectly placed for easy access, which allows for seamless gameplay. As you navigate through intense gaming scenarios, you’ll appreciate the precision offered by these controls. The large 8-inch screen, while adding some weight, compensates for it with its vibrant display and slim bezels, making the device visually appealing. Overall, if you prioritize comfort in handheld gaming, the Lenovo Legion Go S should be at the top of your list.

Lenovo Legion Go S Review: Display Quality and Sound Experience

The Lenovo Legion Go S features an impressive 8-inch IPS LCD display that elevates the handheld gaming experience. This screen is capable of delivering resolutions up to 1920 by 1200, and its variable refresh rate (VRR) from 48 to 120 Hz ensures smooth visuals during gameplay. The brightness levels are particularly commendable, allowing for clear visibility even in well-lit environments. This makes the Lenovo Legion Go S stand out among its peers, including other handheld gaming devices that may falter in display performance. The vibrant colors and sharp details enhance the overall gaming experience, enabling players to immerse themselves fully in their virtual worlds.

However, the audio quality of the Lenovo Legion Go S leaves much to be desired. The dual 2W stereo speakers, while functional, lack the depth and richness needed for an immersive gaming experience. Playing games with significant soundtracks can feel underwhelming, akin to listening to music on low-quality speakers. For serious gamers, this shortcoming may necessitate the use of headphones or earbuds to fully appreciate the audio landscapes of their favorite games. While the display excels, the sound experience may require some adjustments to truly enjoy what the Lenovo Legion Go S has to offer.

Lenovo Legion Go S Review: Performance and Gaming Experience

Performance is a crucial aspect of any handheld gaming device, and the Lenovo Legion Go S does not disappoint in this regard. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, it delivers a solid performance that can handle a variety of games. However, when compared to competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X, the performance metrics can be a bit disappointing. The Lenovo Legion Go S scores well in less demanding titles, showcasing its capability in 2D games and less resource-intensive experiences. This makes it a good choice for casual gamers who may not be interested in the most graphically demanding titles.

Despite its strengths, the Lenovo Legion Go S struggles with more intensive games, particularly when it comes to CPU-heavy tasks. Benchmarks reveal that it does not perform as well as other handhelds in its price range, which may deter hardcore gamers looking for the best handheld gaming experience. For those willing to explore titles that do not push the hardware to its limits, the Lenovo Legion Go S can still provide a satisfying gaming experience. Overall, it is essential to weigh the performance capabilities of the Lenovo Legion Go S against your gaming preferences to determine if it is the right fit for you.

Lenovo Legion Go S Review: Battery Life and Software Functionality

Battery life is often a critical factor for handheld gaming devices, and the Lenovo Legion Go S presents a mixed bag. With a 55.5 Whr battery, it offers decent playtime, but not enough to sustain long gaming sessions without needing a recharge. During intensive gaming sessions, such as playing Cyberpunk 2077, users may find themselves reaching for the charger sooner than expected. However, the fast charging capability is a redeeming feature, allowing the device to reach nearly full charge in just over an hour. This aspect can be a lifesaver for gamers who want to minimize downtime between sessions, making the Lenovo Legion Go S a practical choice despite its limitations.

On the software side, the Lenovo Legion Go S operates on Windows 11, which can present its own set of challenges. While it offers versatility in accessing various gaming platforms, the user experience can sometimes feel cumbersome compared to more streamlined systems like SteamOS. Lagging performance in the Legion Space software can hinder quick access to games and settings, leading to frustration. For those who prioritize a seamless gaming experience, this could be a significant drawback. Ultimately, while the Lenovo Legion Go S showcases impressive hardware capabilities, its software performance may require further refinement to meet the expectations of modern gamers.