7 Must-Know Facts About the Lenovo Legion Go S and Legion Go 2 Gaming Handhelds

During a question-and-answer session specifically focusing on the Lenovo Legion Go S and Legion Go 2 in North America, representatives Ben Green (Senior Community Manager for Lenovo Legion) and Ben Meyers (Senior Product Manager for Lenovo Legion Devices) addressed queries about these forthcoming gaming devices designed for handheld use.

At CES 2025, Lenovo introduced the Legion Go S, and announced that it would come in two versions: one running Windows with a white exterior, and another running SteamOS in a dark purple nebula color. Both versions will offer different processor options, while Lenovo also showcased a prototype for the upcoming Legion Go 2, their next-generation gaming handheld.

During the Lenovo Legion Q&A, here are the key points emphasized regarding the Lenovo Legion Go S and Legion Go 2:

1. Performance enhancements in the new models
2. Improvements made to the battery life for longer gaming sessions
3. Upgraded display features for better visuals
4. Enhanced cooling system for optimal performance during intense gaming
5. New design elements and aesthetic updates
6. Introduction of advanced software capabilities
7. Price points and availability details for both devices.

1. Lenovo has added VRR, native landscape, and more based on customer feedback

At the outset of the Q&A session, Meyers shared that he’s been diligently gathering feedback on the initial Legion Go from various sources such as Reddit, Twitch, Lenovo community forums, and other platforms to ensure the backend team can make optimal improvements for these upcoming devices. Notably, the Legion Go 2 prototype includes a fingerprint reader on top, which was absent in the original handheld model.

According to Meyers, the native landscape design was a significant focus. All the latest devices being released are in native landscape mode and come with VRR technology. We slightly reduced the resolution, but this was mainly due to community suggestions and those seeking improved performance who questioned the necessity of QHD resolution. Therefore, I believe this will be an optimal balance.

In the original handheld, not having Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) was a significant letdown for me. Since competitors such as ASUS ROG Ally have VRR support, which enhances motion clarity and performance during gaming, I’m thrilled to learn that this feature has now been included.

2. The new Z2 Go chip offers some tradeoffs and the Z2 Extreme is far more powerful

During their discussion about the Legion Go S, Meyers pointed out that the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go custom silicon delivers improved energy efficiency compared to the Z1 Extreme alternative, yet it doesn’t match the power of the Z1 Extreme. It’s important to note that the Z1 Extreme is the processor utilized in both the original Legion Go and ROG Ally devices.

Currently, the Legion Go 2 prototype boasts the advanced AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip, implying that the Legion Go S may not match its power in terms of next-gen performance. However, it seems the battery life for the Legion Go S could be longer. As per Meyers, their intention was to unveil the budget-friendly custom Z2 Go Legion Go S, offering consumers a variety of handhelds and price points to suit their individual needs.

Speaking about the Legion Go 2, Meyers shared his anticipation for the Z2 Extreme to significantly outperform all other devices currently on the market, given its predecessor, the Z1 Extreme, was already quite remarkable. I’m eagerly looking forward to getting my hands on the Z2 Extreme handhelds once they are released.

3. The Legion Go 2 is expected to release this year

In response to your question about the launch of Legion Go 2, Green replied that they don’t have a specific release date at the moment but expect it to come out sometime this year. Meyers added that they aim to launch it as soon as feasible, ensuring the quality is also up to par.

It appears Lenovo plans to unveil these three gadgets at different points in the year. Assuming the Legion Go 2 is still set for a 2025 debut, it might become available as early as this summer or close to the holiday season.

4. Lenovo hopes to get Legion Go updates streamlined through AMD

If you’re a Legion Go owner, you’ve likely experienced that update processes haven’t always been seamless or regular. However, it seems Lenovo recognizes this issue and aims to enhance the experience for handheld users.

Meyers explained that he can’t reveal too many details about the situation, but he can assure you that they are fully aware of how crucial this matter is and are taking appropriate steps. Due to certain global social-political constraints, there are limitations on what we can and cannot do. Nevertheless, we are doing everything possible… We’ve held numerous discussions regarding driver support, among other things. The expectation is that with these newer devices, the process will become more straightforward… Ideally, AMD would be able to release driver updates directly. Additionally, the native landscape display will aid in this, making features like AMD Fluid Motion Frames easier to implement without special considerations for our panel and such, ultimately leading to more streamlined updates.

5. Legion Go 2 controllers are improved but also backwards compatible

Just like the initial Legion Go model, the latest versions, namely Legion Go S and Legion Go 2, incorporate Hall Effect joysticks. Additionally, they come with several enhancements. Notably, the Legion Go 2 controllers are also backward compatible, a point elaborated by Meyers.

…”If someone purchases a Go 1 and wishes to utilize Go 2 controllers, our goal is to provide a level of compatibility and ensure that the latest controller versions remain accessible for ongoing customers.

In his continued discussion, Meyers shared that the updated controllers underwent enhancements based on user feedback. The start/pause buttons have been made more accessible. They revamped the D-Pad and added additional macro keys. A notable feature is that each controller detaches to reveal its own USB-C port for independent charging outside of the device, though this could potentially change in the final product. The rail designs maintain their original look but have undergone various improvements.

The new Go 2 controllers are indeed larger; they have a longer design, yet they’ve been made more ergonomic by being flatter.

It might surprise you to know that the Legion Go 2 controllers are actually larger than their predecessors, the Go 1 controllers. Despite appearing smaller due to a more curved design, they offer a longer body. The buttons on these new controllers are also spread out, making them feel less bulky when in use. Additionally, the chamfered edges at the bottom are what most users seem to care about and were our main focus during development.

6. There’s a reason that an OLED panel is only offered for Legion Go 2 and not Legion Go S

The Legion Go S is designed as a budget-friendly gaming handheld, hence it lacks some features found in the upcoming Legion Go 2. Notably, it doesn’t include an OLED panel because it costs more to add this feature. This allows the Legion Go 2 and the Legion Go S to be priced differently in the market.

Regarding the OLED display on the Go 2 prototype, Meyers noted that its 8.8-inch touchscreen boasts an impressive color gamut covering approximately 97% of DCI-P3. It offers Full High Definition (FHD) resolution, can refresh at a speed of up to 144Hz, and can reach a brightness level of 500 nits. Additionally, this screen supports both landscape orientation and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). Later on, Meyers confirmed that it would also support High Dynamic Range (HDR) capabilities.

7. The SteamOS Legion Go S will not ship with dual boot for Windows

The Legion Go S comes in two variations, one for SteamOS and another for Windows, which are intentionally distinct from each other. As Meyers explained, it’s unlikely that a dual-boot option will be provided right out of the box. However, once you acquire your device, both Meyers and Green suggested that you have the freedom to customize it as you wish. In simpler terms, if you are comfortable modifying your Legion Go S, you can potentially enable dual-boot functionality between these two operating systems.

BONUS: Lenovo planned the Legion Go handhelds with upgradeability in mind

Many of us gaming handheld owners might hesitate, but I’ve certainly taken apart my device for upgrades like expanding storage, enhancing RAM, and more. When inquired about the potential for updating the Legion Go S and Legion Go 2, Meyers clarified that Lenovo has indeed considered this possibility.

Meyers stated, “Indeed, the storage can be swapped out. However, the memory will remain soldered, primarily to make the devices slimmer and enhance battery life. For instance, we’re using LPDDR 5X. It’s all about delivering the best user experience. And now, these models will also come in 32 Gig options, reducing the need for upgrading memory. These will be initially shipped with the 2242… but if you choose to upgrade, say to a two terabyte storage and wish to insert it, there’s room for both devices to accommodate the larger 2280.”

Legion Go S and Go 2 are looking fantastic

As a researcher immersed in the world of gaming, I’ve found myself gravitating towards portable PC gaming devices more frequently than my desktop gaming laptop or consoles. The upcoming generation of handhelds, equipped with the latest AMD Z2 processors, has me brimming with excitement to explore their capabilities.

According to the Lenovo Legion Q&A session, the upcoming models Legion Go S and Legion Go 2 promise numerous enhancements compared to their predecessor. It’s expected that games will operate more efficiently on these next-generation handhelds. Additionally, the redesign seems to make them more comfortable to hold and use the controls. Furthermore, the option to upgrade the devices as required is a significant advantage.

On February 14, 2025, the white Windows variant of the Legion Go S will be released and is now open for pre-orders at a price of $729.99. In contrast, the Nebula Violet SteamOS version of the Legion Go S is slated to debut in May 2025. Unfortunately, no launch date has been announced for the Legion Go 2 as of now, but it’s anticipated that it will hit the market later this year.

2025-01-29 15:10