Lenovo Legion Go S Review: The Best Steam Deck Upgrade
With the upward trend of portable gaming devices, Lenovo has stepped up its game with the Legion Go S. Priced higher than your typical handheld console, does it qualify as the awaited “Steam Deck 2,” or is it only suited for the hardcore gaming community?
The transformation is evident immediately upon handling the device; this is arguably the most ergonomically advanced handheld gaming PC on the market today. Unlike the Steam Deck, which has stuck with relatively thin and linear grips, the Legion Go S introduces more substantial and strategically shaped handles that fit comfortably into your palms. This makes for a more comfortable gaming session, reducing strain even over extended play.
While the original Legion Go had detachable controllers, the Go S deviates by integrating them. This enhances its portability, eliminating unnecessary bulk and sharp edges. Additionally, the design features a more traditional button layout and includes larger face buttons, all while maintaining a sleek profile less comparable to its predecessor but more appealing to enthusiasts.
Although the Legion Go S marginally outweighs the Steam Deck, at 1.61 pounds compared to 1.47 pounds, this slight increase isn’t a deal breaker. The device remains lightweight enough for handheld enjoyment while providing superior screen time quality.
The standout enhancement is undoubtedly the Legion Go S’s display. An 8-inch screen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 and a fluid 120Hz refresh rate elevates the graphical experience beyond the Steam Deck’s capabilities. For example, its bigger display and more vibrant colors make navigating menus a joy instead of a chore — an area where previous competitors lacked finesse.
This model introduces trigger stops, allowing gamers to adjust trigger sensitivity according to game type, offering quicker button responses beneficial in FPS games. Gyro controls have been retained but lack the option of large dual touchpads, replaced by a less functional touch nub. This omission may impact your gaming based on personal preferences, particularly if you like to use desktop mode navigation via the Steam Deck.
Lenovo’s machine showcases an evident strength in its software too. Robust SteamOS support makes it a competitive option outside the actual Steam Deck. Designed specifically for handheld PC gaming, it enables an intuitive interface managed entirely with a controller, offering settings adjustments on-the-fly without requiring intricate desktop maneuvers.
Despite some limitations, like minimal native compatibility with games using anti-cheat software, SteamOS continues to deliver resonant gaming experiences effectively. Improved performance over Windows operating systems is consistently apparent, with proprietary quick settings that are straightforward to access during gameplay.
Under the hood, the Legion Go S boasts impressive specifications. Tested with an AMD Z1 Extreme chip, supported by 32GB of memory and 1TB storage, we subjected the device to rigorous performance tests. Fascinatingly, it surpassed the benchmark scores of comparable competitors, including running “Cyberpunk 2077” more seamlessly than on a Steam Deck, all while maintaining a higher screen resolution and frame rate.
Further game testing demonstrated similar results. The Legion Go S consistently outperformed benchmarks, particularly in scenarios where its upgraded specifications took advantage of demanding titles. Yet, some select games like “Red Dead Redemption II” were optimized better for Windows, offering slightly higher frame rates there.
Battery longevity is dictated by gaming intensity and wattage settings. When pushing the system hard with demanding titles, such as “Cyberpunk 2077,” an estimated two-hour runtime outshines the Steam Deck’s performance, delivering a rewarding experience for handheld enthusiasts.
In conclusion, Lenovo’s Legion Go S positions itself as a worthwhile successor to the Steam Deck, packing significant advancements in design, display, and performance. Higher price aside, for those valuing superior ergonomics and on-the-go gaming prowess, the Legion Go S proves to be a remarkable choice.
