Key Takeaways
1. The Legion Go 2 is priced at $1,100 for the base model and $1,350 for the Ryzen Z2 Extreme variant, which has upset many fans due to its high cost compared to other handhelds.
2. It features an 8-inch 2K OLED screen, 144 Hz refresh rate, and detachable controllers, making it a high-end gaming device.
3. Lenovo aims the Legion Go 2 at “enthusiast gamers” willing to invest in premium gaming experiences, despite the small target market.
4. Advanced components like the SoC and OLED technology contribute to the device’s elevated price, justifying it in Lenovo’s view.
5. The Legion Go 2 will support the Xbox full-screen experience (FSE) starting in spring 2026, enhancing gaming performance compared to other models.
Lenovo has just announced the Legion Go 2, which is the new version of its handheld gaming device that was launched nearly two years ago. This updated model comes with a much steeper price compared to its predecessor and even against some of the newer handhelds on the market. Many fans who were eagerly awaiting the Legion Go 2 are upset about the starting price of $1,100, but Lenovo seems confident about the value they’re offering with this device.
Models and Pricing
The Legion Go 2 features two different versions: one equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z2 and another with the Z2 Extreme SoC. Both versions include an 8-inch 2K OLED screen that refreshes at 144 Hz, along with detachable controllers. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme variant is set at $1,350 and includes 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. In contrast, the MSI Claw A8, which has the Z2 Extreme, 24 GB of RAM, and a non-OLED 1,200p display (with a lower refresh rate), retails for £850 (about $1,151 USD).
Justifying the Cost
Lenovo has defended the high price, which is comparable to gaming laptops. In a recent group interview with PC Watch in Japan, several Lenovo executives were questioned about the pricing and whether it might discourage potential buyers. They replied (translated by machines) that the Legion Go 2 is aimed at “enthusiast gamers who are prepared to invest in their hobbies.” Although this market segment may be small, they believe it holds significant importance.
Performance Features
The company pointed out that the advanced components, like the SoC and OLED technology, are the reasons behind the Legion Go 2’s high cost. For those who prefer a different handheld gaming experience, Lenovo recommends the Legion Go S (available on Amazon).
As per The Verge, the Legion Go 2 will be the first handheld, apart from the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, to support the Xbox full-screen experience (FSE). This feature won’t be available at launch but is expected to roll out in spring 2026. The FSE is designed to optimize resources, which could lead to better gaming performance. Nonetheless, other more affordable handhelds, like the ROG Ally X, are also expected to receive the Xbox FSE eventually.
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