TLDR Review: Legion Go S 8" Gaming Handheld
Verdict
The Lenovo Legion Go S offers a visually appealing experience with its vibrant display and ergonomic design. However, its performance is disappointing given the high price, struggling to keep up with competitors like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally X, particularly in demanding games. The battery life and noise issues further detract from its appeal. For serious gamers seeking more robust performance, considering alternatives such as the Steam Deck OLED or Asus ROG Ally X might be a wiser choice.
- Top pro:
- The 8-inch, 120Hz display is vibrant and visually impressive, with a bright output of 500 nits for an enjoyable gaming experience.
- Top con:
- The AMD Z2 Go processor struggles to compete with similar-priced competitors, delivering underwhelming performance in demanding titles.
Pros
- •The 8-inch, 120Hz display is vibrant and visually impressive, with a bright output of 500 nits for an enjoyable gaming experience.
- •Wide game and hardware compatibility allow for varied peripheral connections.
- •Game Pass for PC works effectively, providing access to a broad library of Xbox games.
- •Includes a dedicated face button for quick access to system settings and shortcuts.
- •Unibody design and rounded chassis ensure comfort during prolonged gaming periods.
- •Control options are varied and adaptable, featuring intuitive thumbsticks, buttons, and triggers.
- •Impressive audio quality with immersive stereo sound, making gaming without headphones enjoyable.
- •Commendable heat management, staying moderately warm even under intense usage.
Cons
- •The AMD Z2 Go processor struggles to compete with similar-priced competitors, delivering underwhelming performance in demanding titles.
- •Battery life is insufficient for extended play, especially compared to alternatives like the Steam Deck.
- •The touchscreen experience on Windows 11 is generally inconsistent and can be frustrating.
- •High price point of $729 does not reflect the expected performance, particularly when compared to the original Legion Go.
- •Noise from loud fans in performance mode can be distracting in quieter environments.
- •Windows 11's navigation can be cumbersome without a physical keyboard.
- •This device lacks a case, limiting its portability unlike the Steam Deck.
- •Overall performance lags behind competitors, struggling particularly with AAA titles which require significant settings adjustments.
- •Frequent fan activation contributes to noticeable heat output and reduced battery life.
- •Some popular games face performance issues, including poor frame rates and crashes.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from 2 retailers in ShopSavvy's price data, most recently seen Sep 10, 2025.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| $829.99 | Sep 10, 2025 may have changed | ||
| $1,100.00 | Sep 10, 2025 may have changed |
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