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2025-01-19
The handheld gaming market is heating up, and Lenovo’s Legion Go S is making waves as a serious contender to Valve’s Steam Deck. With its impressive specs, versatile models, and competitive pricing, the Legion Go S is shaping up to be the handheld gaming device many have been waiting for. But is it worth buying now, or should you hold out for something better? Let’s dive into the details.
A Closer Look at the Lenovo Legion Go S
Lenovo’s Legion Go S is a mid-generation upgrade that offers a compelling alternative to the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming devices like the Asus ROG Ally. It comes in multiple configurations, catering to different user preferences and budgets. The standout feature is its 8-inch LCD 1200p VRR display, which, while not as high-resolution as the original Legion Go’s 1600p screen, still delivers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
The device is powered by either the AMD Z2 Go or Z1 Extreme processor, paired with 32GB of RAM, ensuring robust performance for most modern games. The Z1 Extreme model, in particular, feels like a significant upgrade for those coming from devices like the ROG Ally, offering a larger screen, better battery life, and improved performance at 1200p resolution.
For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, the Z2 Go model with SteamOS starts at just $449, making it an attractive entry point into handheld gaming. Meanwhile, the Windows 11 version of the Z2 Go model is priced at $729, offering a premium experience for those who want the flexibility of a full-fledged operating system.
Should You Wait for the Legion Go 2?
Lenovo also teased the Legion Go 2 at CES, but it’s still in the prototype stage with no confirmed release date. The Legion Go 2 promises significant upgrades, including the AMD Z2 Extreme chip with 16 RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, a 74Wh battery, and an 8.8-inch OLED VRR display. However, these improvements come with a caveat: the resolution has been downgraded to 1920×1200, which might not sit well with those hoping for a higher-resolution display.
Given the uncertainty around the Legion Go 2’s release and final specs, the Legion Go S emerges as a more practical choice for gamers looking to upgrade now. It strikes a balance between performance, price, and availability, making it a solid option for both newcomers and seasoned handheld gamers.
Is the Legion Go S Worth It?
If you’re in the market for a handheld gaming device, the Legion Go S is undoubtedly worth considering. Its combination of a high-refresh-rate display, powerful hardware, and flexible operating system options makes it a versatile choice. While the Legion Go 2 might offer better performance down the line, the Legion Go S delivers excellent value for its price, especially for those who don’t want to wait for an uncertain future release.
For Steam Deck users or ROG Ally owners looking for an upgrade, the Legion Go S Z1 Extreme model is a particularly appealing option. It offers a bigger screen, more RAM, and better battery life, all while maintaining a competitive price point.
What Undercode Say:
The Lenovo Legion Go S is a fascinating addition to the handheld gaming landscape, and its arrival signals a shift in how we think about portable gaming devices. Here’s a deeper analysis of what makes the Legion Go S stand out and what it means for the future of handheld gaming.
The Rise of Mid-Generation Upgrades
The Legion Go S exemplifies a growing trend in the tech industry: mid-generation upgrades. Instead of waiting for a full product cycle to release a new device, companies like Lenovo are offering incremental improvements to keep their products relevant. This approach benefits consumers by providing more frequent updates and options, but it also raises questions about the longevity of these devices.
For example, the Legion Go S Z1 Extreme model is positioned as a mid-generation upgrade to the original Legion Go. While it doesn’t revolutionize the handheld gaming experience, it refines it with better performance, a larger screen, and improved battery life. This strategy allows Lenovo to cater to early adopters who want the latest tech without waiting for a completely new product.
The Battle of Operating Systems
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Legion Go S is its dual operating system options. The Z2 Go model with SteamOS is a direct competitor to the Steam Deck, offering a streamlined gaming experience at a lower price point. On the other hand, the Windows 11 version provides the flexibility of a full desktop operating system, making it a versatile choice for gamers who want to do more than just play games.
This dual approach highlights the ongoing debate in the handheld gaming community: should these devices be dedicated gaming machines or versatile PCs? The Legion Go S caters to both camps, giving users the freedom to choose based on their preferences.
Performance vs. Price
The Legion Go S Z1 Extreme model is a prime example of the performance vs. price dilemma. While it offers impressive specs, including 32GB of RAM and a 120Hz display, its price tag of over $900 raises questions about its value proposition. For that price, some gamers might consider building a desktop PC, which would offer better performance and upgradability.
However, the Legion Go S’s portability and convenience cannot be overlooked. For gamers who prioritize mobility and the ability to play anywhere, the Legion Go S represents a compelling option, even at a premium price.
The Future of Handheld Gaming
The Legion Go S and its upcoming successor, the Legion Go 2, are part of a broader trend in the gaming industry: the rise of handheld gaming devices. As technology continues to advance, we’re seeing more powerful and versatile handhelds that blur the line between consoles and PCs.
The Legion Go S is a testament to this evolution, offering a high-quality gaming experience in a portable form factor. While it may not be perfect, it represents a significant step forward for handheld gaming and sets the stage for even more impressive devices in the future.
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Go S is a worthy contender in the handheld gaming market, offering a mix of performance, versatility, and value. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Legion Go S is worth considering as your next handheld gaming device.
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