Tag: handheld gaming

  • Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming Handhelds

    Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Gaming Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Market Competition: The handheld gaming market is crowded, with brands like Acer, Asus, Lenovo, and MSI entering later than competitors like OneX and Ayaneo.

    2. Essential Features: Key features for successful handhelds include a user-friendly operating system (preferably Windows), quality controls, good cooling systems, and a bright, high-resolution display.

    3. Durability and Repairability: Controls should be durable and easy to repair, with hall-effect sensors gaining popularity for their reliability.

    4. Power and Storage Requirements: Modern handhelds need sufficient power, with at least 16 GB of RAM and a quick NVMe SSD of 512 GB or more for optimal gaming performance.

    5. Performance vs. Battery Life: Balancing performance and battery longevity is crucial for a good handheld gaming experience, with high-capacity batteries and software optimizations being important for extended play.


    Acer, Asus, Lenovo, and MSI have entered the handheld gaming scene somewhat later than others. In contrast, Asian brands like OneX and Ayaneo were quick to capture some of the market share from Valve’s Steam Deck.

    A Crowded Market

    Today, the handheld gaming market is nearly filled with numerous ultra-compact devices. This variety can confuse buyers, particularly those who are new to gaming and unsure of what to seek. Moreover, companies are constantly on the lookout for new niches to cater to with their products.

    Key Features of Handhelds

    Our analysis of the Lenovo Legion Go S indicates that several aspects contribute to a successful gaming handheld. This raises the important question: What features are essential in a handheld console?

    Many handheld devices prefer Windows as their operating system due to its vast game library. On the other hand, Linux stands as a viable option, as demonstrated by Valve’s Steam Deck. A straightforward and easy-to-use interface is crucial, and the Steam Deck excels in this area. However, without extra software, the Steam Deck is limited to the offerings of Steam.

    Windows 11, while popular, is only somewhat tailored for touchscreens and game controllers. Many brands include additional software to enhance performance or add features. Moreover, launchers help optimize control schemes.

    Design and Comfort

    A handheld must not only be visually appealing but also comfortable to use. It should be lightweight and compact to allow for extended play without causing discomfort in the hands or wrists. Using high-quality materials and solid craftsmanship is vital here. Good cooling systems are essential too; nobody wants a device that overheats and feels like a hot plate.

    Controls form the core of any handheld device. They must provide accurate control and be easily accessible. Quality buttons with a satisfying click, precise analog sticks, and extra input options like touchpads or programmable buttons are crucial. Adequate haptic feedback, typically from vibration motors or specialized motors like those in the Steam Deck, is also important. There can be significant differences in this regard depending on the model.

    Durability and Repairability

    It is also critical for controls to be as durable as possible. In recent years, hall-effect sensors have gained attention for their reliability. While some controllers, such as those from PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, feature easily replaceable parts, repairing handheld devices can be a tedious process, often involving long wait times, especially when spare parts are scarce.

    A display that is merely adequate won’t do for gaming handhelds. Brightness and contrast are key for visibility during daylight. The resolution is also important—devices under 7 inches (approx. 18 cm) can work well with 720p or 1080p. While 2.5K displays offer quality, they also consume more power and need to be supported by the graphics chip. The response time of the display is another element to consider. A bright IPS screen is the baseline, while OLED displays are considered the best.

    Power and Storage Needs

    Of course, gaming performance is pointless without sufficient power. Even the 15-watt APU in the Steam Deck provides a capable experience. Modern integrated GPUs like the Intel Arc with 128 EUs or AMD Radeon 780M and higher are ideal for this purpose, allowing for decent frame rates in current games. It’s also essential to have at least 16 GB of RAM, as the integrated GPU shares RAM with the CPU, reserving at least 4 GB for graphics.

    A quick NVMe SSD with a minimum of 512 GB, ideally 1 TB, is essential. More space is better since Windows takes up around 30 GB. Large games can require an additional 60 to 90 GB, so smaller SSDs fill up fast. Additionally, Windows requires at least 10% of the SSD to be free for optimal performance, meaning users should limit their usage to about 75% of total storage space to avoid slowdowns.

    Balancing Performance and Battery Life

    An excellent handheld should not only deliver power but also boast long battery life. Striking a balance between performance and battery longevity is vital. A high-capacity battery is crucial for marathon gaming sessions, and software tweaks can further improve battery performance.

    Modern handhelds offer plenty of options for gamers. For instance, upscaling along with FPS limitations can help many AAA games run smoothly at lower power levels.

    Our examination of the Lenovo Legion Go S showed it to be an intriguing device with potential in certain areas. Nonetheless, it also comes with some drawbacks that buyers should weigh before making a purchase. Gamers are encouraged to conduct thorough research and clarify their needs ahead of time. Depending on budget and gaming preferences, various devices may be suitable.

    The Legion Go S, for instance, impresses with its comfortable design. However, the APU’s performance is less impressive. The Ryzen Z2 Go doesn’t exactly wow us, but it does offer some benefits, particularly when compared to the Steam Deck. Yet, other modern alternatives are significantly stronger in this aspect.

  • Miyoo Flip V2 Refresh Launching Sooner Than Expected

    Miyoo Flip V2 Refresh Launching Sooner Than Expected

    The Miyoo Flip has been in development for quite a while. Information about this device was first shared nearly a year ago. At that point, early leaks showed a prototype that had a similar operating system experience to the retail versions, which only began shipping last month.

    Development Timeline

    This long wait suggests that Miyoo had actually been working on its RG35XX SP competitor for an extended period, likely starting in 2023. In comparison, Anbernic launched the RG35XX SP just two months after the initial leak revealed the device.

    Future Updates

    While the Miyoo Flip took a substantial amount of time to reach consumers, Joey’s Retro Handhelds has reported that a V2 model is currently being developed. Unfortunately, the YouTuber hasn’t disclosed what specific improvements are expected for the Miyoo Flip V2. Some anticipated changes might include a better hinge design and a brighter screen, both of which have been noted as weaknesses in various early reviews.

    According to Joey’s Retro Handhelds, Miyoo aims to release the Flip V2 by next month. However, the YouTuber points out in the video linked below that the numerous delays of the original model’s launch could make a February release seem overly optimistic. At this point, there are no further details available, nor has Miyoo officially acknowledged that a new version is in progress.

    Source:
    Link

  • Ayaneo 3: World’s First Modular Windows Handheld Gaming PC

    Ayaneo 3: World’s First Modular Windows Handheld Gaming PC

    Ayaneo has introduced the Ayaneo 3, a customizable handheld gaming device that runs on Windows. It’s perfect for gamers and PC enthusiasts who prioritize both performance and personalization. With its modular build, customizable controls, and robust AMD processor choices, the Ayaneo 3 stands out in the crowded market of handheld devices. Let’s dive into the main specifications and pricing details.

    Specifications of Ayaneo 3

    This handheld offers two high-performance processor selections: the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U and the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. The AI 9 HX 370 includes 4 Zen 5 CPU cores, 8 Zen 5c cores, and 16 RDNA 3.5 GPU cores, delivering outstanding performance for both gaming and productivity tasks. Users can choose from configurations with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, all the way up to a remarkable 64GB of RAM and 4TB of storage.

    Display and Design Features

    It features a 7-inch display, which comes in both OLED and LCD versions. The OLED variant has a refresh rate of 144Hz, brightness of 800 nits, and covers 110% of the DCI-P3 color space. Meanwhile, the LCD model offers a 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, and VRR support. The Ayaneo 3 also showcases an innovative modular design with Magic Module detachable controllers, enabling gamers to tailor their gameplay experience. With swappable ABXY buttons and various controller configurations, users can choose from up to 56 different layout options. It also includes touchpad-enabled controllers and specialized setups for fighting games, all customizable via the new AYASpace 3.0 software.

    Advanced Control and Audio Features

    The handheld introduces advanced control features, such as dual-stage Hall-effect triggers with lock switches, dual six-axis gyroscopes, and customizable rear buttons. These combined with AYASpace 3.0 software allow gamers to create macros, scripts, and intricate input setups, blending console and portable PC gaming. For audio, it includes HyperSound 2.0 symmetrical dual speakers that provide powerful, clear sound. It operates on Windows 11, ensuring support for major gaming platforms like Steam, Epic Games, and Battle.net.

    Connectivity and Battery

    The device comes with dual USB4 ports, an OCulink interface for fast connections, and a microSD card slot. It also features a 49Wh battery with a 65W USB-C power adapter. Ayaneo has prioritized thermal management by incorporating triple copper pipes, a large turbo fan, and graphene patches for effective cooling.

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the entry-level model with a Ryzen 7 8840U, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage starts at 4,999 yuan, while the premium Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 version with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage begins at 8,699 yuan. For the global market, early-bird pricing starts at $699 for the base model on Indiegogo, with the highest configuration priced at $1,799. Retail prices are set to range from $899 to $2,099, and the Magic Module accessory kit is available for $139.

    The device is currently available for pre-order, with shipping anticipated in late March 2025. Customers in China can order through JD.com, while international buyers can use Indiegogo or Ayaneo’s official site.


  • Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld with SteamOS and Ryzen Z2 Prototype Unveiled

    Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld with SteamOS and Ryzen Z2 Prototype Unveiled

    Lenovo has shared news about three new handheld gaming devices in its Legion Go series at CES 2025. These include the Legion Go S, which comes in both Windows and SteamOS versions, along with a prototype for the next-gen Legion Go. With these models, Lenovo continues to push forward in the handheld gaming sector.

    Lenovo Legion Go S Windows Model

    The Legion Go S (8″, 1) is a Windows-based gaming gadget that boasts an 8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 PureSight touchscreen display with a refresh rate of 120Hz. Users can select between the unique AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor or the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. It supports up to 32GB of 7500MHz LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring strong performance for gamers.

    This device is equipped with a 55.5Whr battery and has a weight of 1.61 lbs (730g). For connectivity, it offers Wi-Fi 6e, two USB 4 ports, and a microSD card reader, which allows for extra storage or peripheral connections.

    Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS Version

    The SteamOS variant of the Legion Go S is Lenovo’s first officially licensed handheld gaming console running on Valve’s SteamOS. The hardware remains the same as the Windows model, but the operating system is specifically designed for gaming. With SteamOS, users can access the Steam Store, Steam Library, cloud saves, and use Remote Play for streaming PC games.

    This version is ideal for gamers who are deeply integrated into the Steam ecosystem. Additionally, it comes with the Legion Screen Protector, which features 9H hardness glass, protecting the screen while allowing for touch sensitivity.

    Lenovo Legion Go (8.8″, 2) Prototype

    Lenovo has also revealed a prototype of the upcoming Legion Go (8.8″, 2). It features an 8.8-inch OLED PureSight touch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, a refresh rate of 144Hz, brightness of 500 nits, and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support for a seamless gaming experience.

    This prototype runs on the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor with RDNA 3.5 graphics, paired with up to 32GB of 7500MHz LPDDR5X RAM. It suggests storage options of up to a 2TB SSD and comes with a larger 74Whr battery. The design has been refreshed with Lenovo’s TrueStrike controllers, which have a rounded design and a circular D-pad for better ergonomics.

    Key Specifications Across Models

    Lenovo Legion Go (Prototype)

    • Display: 8.8″ WUXGA (1920 x 1200) OLED 16:10 (144Hz / 97% DCI-P3 / 500 nits / 10 Point Touch)
    • Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Processor 3.3GHz
    • Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon 780M Series (Z2)
    • Memory: Up to 32GB 7500MHz LPDDR5X
    • Storage: Up to 1T PCIe SSD (Gen4)
    • Operating System: Windows 11
    • Battery: 74Whr / 4 Cells
    • Dimensions & Weight:
      Tablet Only: (mm): 206 x 136.7 x 22.95 / (inches): 8.11″ x 5.38″ x 0.90″ / 890g / 1.96 lbs.
      Tablet w/ Controllers: (mm): 295.6 x 136.7 x 42.25 / (inches): 11.64″ x 5.38″ x 1.66″ / 1079g / 2.38 lbs.

    Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS & Windows)

    • Display: 8″ WQXGA (1920 x 1200) LCD 16:10 (120Hz / 500 nits / 10 Point Touch Support / 100%sRGB)
    • Processor: Up to AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (3.3GHz, 8 Core, 16 Threads)
    • Graphics: Up to Integrated AMD Radeon 700M Series
    • Memory: Up to 32GB 6400MHz LPDDR5X
    • Storage: Up to 1T PCIe SSD (Gen4) (2242, 2280 compatible)
    • Operating System: SteamOS
    • Battery: 55.5Whr / 3 Cells
    • Dimensions & Weight: (mm): 299.0mm x 127.55mm x 22.6mm / (inches): 11.77″ x 5.02″ x 0.88″ / 740g / 1.63 lbs.

    Common Features:

    • 1X Micro SD card reader SD 3.0/UHS-I
    • 2X USB4 (without logo) 1.4/3.0/40Gbps
    • 1X Audio Jacks Combo
    • 2x2W Integrated Speakers
    • Wi-Fi 6E (2.4Gbps) 22AX
    • Bluetooth 5.3
    • 65W USB Type-C Power Adapter
    • Colors: Eclipse Black, Glacier White, Nebula Violet

    Pricing & Availability

    The Lenovo Legion Go S (8″, 1) is set to launch in January 2025, with a starting price of USD 729.99. Other configurations are predicted to be available in May 2025, beginning at USD 599.99. The SteamOS version of the Lenovo Legion Go S (8″, 1) is also scheduled for a May 2025 release, with a starting price of USD 499.99.

    Source: Link


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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leaked: New Joy-Cons, Dock, and Mario Kart 9

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leaked: New Joy-Cons, Dock, and Mario Kart 9

    Launched in March 2017, the Nintendo Switch marked a significant point for Nintendo in the world of handheld gaming. In July 2021, the introduction of the Switch OLED model brought some minor enhancements, but it wasn’t a full upgrade. Now, recent leaks hint that Nintendo is set to unveil its next-generation console, dubbed the Nintendo Switch 2, with some fascinating information surfacing online.

    Exciting Leaks About the Nintendo Switch 2

    A recent leak on Reddit has given fans a glimpse of what to expect from the eagerly awaited Nintendo Switch 2. A user named NextHandheld, who claims to have glimpsed the final version of the console, has shared a lot of details, covering design features, expected release timeframe, and possible launch games.

    Redesigned Features and Backward Compatibility

    The next Nintendo Switch is said to come with a revamped Joy-Con system that attaches magnetically and uses Hall effect technology. It is also expected to be compatible with existing game cartridges, ensuring that players can use their old favorites. Leaked images from @deckwizardyt reveal a new dock that boasts a larger, curved shape and more connection options. Moreover, the buttons on this console seem to be larger compared to the previous model.

    Anticipated Release and Specifications

    The leaks indicate that the console will initially come with an LCD screen, with an OLED version expected to be released later. There are exciting rumors that Mario Kart 9 will be the flagship game at launch, marking the series’ first significant release since Mario Kart 8 came out in 2014. Additionally, a special edition console for Mario Kart 9 is also rumored to be in the works.

    Reports suggest that the Nintendo Switch 2 might sport an 8-inch display, which is significantly bigger than the 6.2-inch screen of the original model. It is also being said that the new console will have 12GB of RAM—three times more than its predecessor—and a new CPU/GPU that can achieve 1080p resolution at 60fps while docked.

    While these details are not yet confirmed, the increasing number of leaks implies that the Nintendo Switch 2 might be close to its official reveal, which is speculated to happen in late March or early April.


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  • Pre-order AYANEO Pocket DMG Handheld Console for 1,599 Yuan

    Pre-order AYANEO Pocket DMG Handheld Console for 1,599 Yuan

    AYANEO recently introduced the Pocket DMG, a vertical screen handheld gaming console, in May. This device, now available for pre-order on their website with a 1,599 yuan down payment (final price to be announced), is designed to evoke nostalgia from the golden era of gaming.

    Design and Features

    The Pocket DMG sports a distinctive vertical layout and retro look, featuring a back button and a side scroll wheel for an authentic gaming experience. It is powered by the robust Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen2 processor and includes an active cooling system to ensure smooth performance. This is the same processor found in the AYANEO Pocket S.

    Display and Pricing

    The console boasts a 3.92-inch, 1240×1080 OLED screen with a high pixel density of 419 PPI, providing sharp and clear visuals in its compact form (75mm x 66.05mm). While the exact price has not been disclosed, AYANEO has indicated that it will range between 2,000 yuan and 3,000 yuan, making it a compelling option for fans of retro gaming.

  • Anbernic RG Cube Handheld with Unisoc T820 SoC Available Globally

    Anbernic RG Cube Handheld with Unisoc T820 SoC Available Globally

    The Anbernic RG Cube gaming handheld has become available worldwide. This compact, high-performance device can emulate games from systems like Dreamcast, PSP, N64, PS2, and Wii. It sports a 3.95-inch IPS screen and comes in four colors.

    Color Options and Display Features

    The RG Cube can be purchased in beige white, black, grey, and Radiant Purple. It features joysticks with RGB backlighting that offer multiple lighting modes, including breathing and rainbow effects. The display has a resolution of 720 x 720 pixels. Under the hood, it is equipped with a Unisoc Tiger T820 SoC, 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM, and 128GB of UFS 2.2 flash storage, with an option for additional storage via a MicroSD card slot.

    Emulation Capabilities and Battery Life

    This gaming handheld can emulate a variety of console games such as those from PlayStation 2, Dreamcast, and N64. It can run PS2 games at 1.5 times their native resolution for enhanced clarity. The device is powered by a 5,200mAh battery, offering up to 7 hours of use on a single charge. It runs on Android 13 and supports Bluetooth 5.0 along with 2.4/5 GHz WiFi. Additionally, it features a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and is used for charging.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Anbernic RG Cube is being offered with a $10 discount until June 11. Prices range from $159.99 for the model without a MicroSD card to $189.99 for the 256GB MicroSD variant. A 128GB MicroSD card model is also available for $174.99.

  • OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition: R7 8840U, 120Hz, Up to 4TB Storage

    OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition: R7 8840U, 120Hz, Up to 4TB Storage

    OnexPlayer has introduced a new version of its X1 gaming tablet/PC, the OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition. This latest edition features an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor and is priced starting at 6899 yuan (approximately $952). The original X1 was released earlier this year with Intel Core Ultra processors.

    OneXPlayer X1 Specifications

    Apart from the processor upgrade, the remaining specifications are nearly identical to the previous model. The X1 Ryzen Edition sports a 10.95-inch 2.5K display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. The display also offers a peak brightness of 540 nits and a 16:10 aspect ratio. To improve visual comfort, the tablet supports DC dimming technology, which helps reduce flickering.

    Unlike a typical two-in-one device, it includes a detachable controller with ergonomic grips and customizable buttons, transforming it into a handheld gaming console akin to the Nintendo Switch. The package also features a magnetic detachable backlit keyboard for productivity tasks.

    Under the hood, the OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor. It comes with LPDDR5X-7500 memory, available in 32GB or 64GB options. Storage choices include PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 2280 SSDs ranging from 1TB to 4TB, providing ample space for games and applications.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    The X1 is equipped with Harman-certified dual speakers that deliver rich, immersive sound. For connectivity, the device offers multiple options, including dual USB 4.0 ports, a TF card slot, a USB-A 3.2 port, two USB-C 4.0 ports, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an Oculink interface for connecting external graphics docks.

    The tablet/PC is powered by a substantial 16890mAh battery, offering up to 169 minutes of gameplay in Genshin Impact, 8 hours of office work, or 11 hours of video playback on a single charge. The included 100W gallium nitride charger ensures quick recharging, minimizing downtime.

    Pricing

    The OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition is available in three storage configurations at competitive prices. The base model, featuring 32GB of memory and 1TB of storage, starts at 6899 yuan (around $952). The 2TB version is priced at 7399 yuan ($1,022), while the top-tier model with 64GB of memory and 4TB of storage costs 9599 yuan ($1,325).


    OnexPlayer X1 Ryzen Edition: R7 8840U, 120Hz, Up to 4TB Storage
  • Anbernic RG35XX 2024 Handheld Gaming Console Leak: What We Know

    Anbernic RG35XX 2024 Handheld Gaming Console Leak: What We Know

    As per a recent leak, Anbernic is gearing up to introduce a fresh handheld gaming gadget dubbed the RG35XX 2024. For enthusiasts of portable gaming, this announcement holds significant importance. Anbernic has a reputation for frequently unveiling new devices, and this latest offering appears to amalgamate the finest features of their prior models, the RG35XX and the RG35XX Plus, creating a product that is both recognizable and innovative.

    Upgraded Features and Design

    The upcoming RG35XX 2024, as per Retro Handhelds, incorporates notable enhancements under its hood while retaining the familiar aesthetics of its predecessors. It is driven by the Allwinner H700 chipset and boasts 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM. This configuration facilitates seamless gameplay across a diverse array of titles from iconic consoles like the SEGA Dreamcast, PlayStation 1, and PlayStation Portable without any performance hiccups.

    Compact Build and Battery

    The device is designed to be compact, featuring a 3.5-inch IPS screen, all packed into a diminutive frame measuring 117 x 81 x 22 mm and weighing a mere 186 grams. Despite having a slightly smaller battery capacity compared to the RG35XX Plus at 2,600 mAh, it ensures ample power for extended gaming sessions.

    Pricing and Availability

    In terms of pricing, the RG35XX 2024 is reportedly set to be budget-friendly. Reports suggest that customers can acquire one for approximately $50 if purchased directly from Anbernic or for $61 via AliExpress. Additionally, it will be offered in four color variants: Grey, Black, White, and Purple, providing users with a range of choices to suit their preferences.


    Anbernic RG35XX 2024 Handheld Gaming Console Leak: What We Know
  • Lenovo Legion Go Review: Unparalleled Gaming Experience in a Handheld Console

    Lenovo Legion Go Review: Unparalleled Gaming Experience in a Handheld Console

    Lenovo Legion Go Handheld Gaming Console: A Powerful Device with Some Shortcomings

    As a game lover, I got my hands on many interesting devices, such as this new Lenovo Legion Go handheld gaming console. First of all, I am very happy that a big company like Lenovo is willing to launch such a niche product. Indeed, the Legion Go is a quite special but impressive handheld among all the newest candidates.

    Unboxing

    Let’s take a look at the packaging. The Legion Go’s outer box doesn’t have anything special, but the accessories are quite good. It comes with a pretty well-made carrying case that fits the device perfectly and protects it when on the go. The carrying case even has a magnetic hole for convenient charging. The power adapter that supports up to 65w is also included, along with a long power cable. Additionally, there’s a strange plastic piece that can merge with one of the joypads to turn it into a mouse, which is a thoughtful detail.

    Design

    In terms of design, the most attractive thing to me is the screen. This 8.8-inch LCD screen is the largest among the current handheld consoles with the Windows system. When you actually get your hands on the Legion Go, the screen is even bigger than what you see in the commercial. A bigger screen leads to a better gaming experience, and as far as graphics go, this device has no rivals. However, the weight of 860g should be carefully considered before buying, as it may strain your arms and wrists during long gaming sessions.

    The Legion Go’s exterior design is very much in line with my taste. The lines are full of energy, and the body looks sharp, like a muscle car. Combined with the RGB effect on the joystick, this is the coolest gaming handheld console as far as I’m concerned. It incorporates many features of handheld consoles on the market, such as removable controllers, touch pads on the controllers, and brackets on the back of the mainframe. The right controller can be removed and used as a mouse, which is a unique design choice by Lenovo.

    Performance

    The Legion Go comes with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which is one of the most powerful processors currently available for Windows handhelds. It has 8 zen4 cores, 16 threads, a Boosted clock of up to 5.1 GHz, and 16MB of L3 cache. In the test, it has a good performance at 30w power consumption. Even at 15w of power consumption, the performance is still strong. In terms of GPU performance, the Z1 Extreme is equipped with a Radom 780M core graphics card, which scored 2,782 points in the time spy, almost doubling the 96eu Intel XE graphics card.

    Game

    I tested several games on the Legion Go and was impressed with the performance. Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 ran smoothly at 1200p with low graphics presets. My favorite game, Ganshin Impact, performed well at 2560×1600 resolution with low graphics presets. Additionally, Tears of the Kingdom ran at 1080p 30fps, providing a better experience than on the Switch.

    Screen

    The Legion Go uses an 8.8-inch LCD display, which is the same screen as the Lenovo y700 tablet. It is a good screen in terms of display quality, but it has some drawbacks. First, it has high power consumption due to being an LCD display. Additionally, it does not support variable refresh rates, which impacts the battery life of the Legion Go.

    Battery

    Although the Legion Go has a large 49-watt-hour battery, the battery life performance is average. With a TDP setting of 15W, you can play games for 2 hours, and with a TDP setting of 30W, it can only run for 1 hour and 30 minutes. When playing games with lower performance requirements, setting TDP to 5-10W can make it run for 3-4 hours. The Legion Go supports bypass charging, which is a convenient feature.

    Software

    The software on the Legion Go has some room for improvement. The Legion Space, which is supposed to be a game launcher, feels more like an advertisement slot. The quick settings interface allows for adjustments to brightness, power consumption, and volume, but lacks features like locking the frame rate and convenient screen recording. The performance monitor data is also incorrect. Hopefully, Lenovo will address these issues in future updates.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the Legion Go has very good hardware, a powerful CPU, a good quality screen, and a controller full of highlights. However, it also has some shortcomings. It is more suitable for heavy gamers and geeks. If you are interested in having a new way to play on PC, the Legion Go handheld is worth checking out.

    Source: Gizmochina