Lenovo is reportedly preparing to launch a more affordable version of its popular Legion Go handheld gaming PC, tentatively named the Legion Go S. The move comes as part of the company’s effort to tap into the growing handheld gaming market, which has already been dominated by devices like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. While the original Legion Go is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a premium, high-performance gaming experience, the Legion Go S promises to offer a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing too much performance.
The news of the Legion Go S comes from Windows Central, which claims to have obtained realistic renders of the device, giving us an early look at what could be an exciting new addition to Lenovo’s gaming lineup. In terms of design, the Legion Go S is expected to be similar to the original Legion Go, which boasts a sleek and modern look with a large screen and controller-style handles on each side. However, it is expected to feature key hardware differences aimed at reducing costs while still offering a solid gaming experience.
AMD Ryzen Z2G: Powering the Legion Go S
One of the most notable changes in the Legion Go S will be the shift to AMD’s Ryzen Z2G platform. This processor is a scaled-back version of the more powerful Ryzen Z1 chip that powers the original Legion Go. The Z2G is expected to deliver lower processing power, which will make the device less expensive while still providing an acceptable level of performance for gaming. The Z2G processor is likely to feature fewer cores and a lower clock speed than the Z1, but it will still be capable of running most AAA titles, especially when paired with a well-optimized gaming interface and efficient software.
Despite these compromises, the Ryzen Z2G should still provide a smooth gaming experience for casual and mid-level gamers. The Legion Go S is expected to deliver smooth frame rates in many popular titles, making it an attractive option for gamers on a budget. The fact that it retains the Legion branding assures potential buyers that it will still maintain Lenovo’s reputation for high-quality devices, even in a more affordable form.
Design and Display
The Legion Go S will likely keep the same ergonomic design as the original model, which is one of the standout features of the Legion Go. The handheld’s size and weight are optimized for long gaming sessions, offering comfortable grips and well-placed control buttons. The device’s screen size is expected to be slightly smaller than the Legion Go’s 8-inch display, but this would be a minor trade-off to reduce costs.
As for the display quality, we can expect a high-resolution touchscreen with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz or more, keeping the gaming experience fluid and responsive. The device will likely continue to use IPS technology, ensuring vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, which is crucial for portable gaming. While it may not have the same high-end specs as its predecessor, the Legion Go S is expected to perform well for most gaming needs.
Affordability and Competition
One of the biggest selling points of the Legion Go S will be its price. Lenovo aims to make it a more accessible option for gamers who are looking for a capable gaming handheld without spending a fortune. With a reduced price, it will compete directly with other affordable handheld gaming devices on the market, like the Steam Deck’s base model and the ASUS ROG Ally.
If Lenovo can deliver solid performance with the Ryzen Z2G and a more affordable price tag, the Legion Go S could be a game-changer for the handheld market. It would allow budget-conscious gamers to enjoy a premium-like experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
While details are still sparse and no official announcement has been made yet, the Legion Go S has the potential to disrupt the handheld gaming market. By offering a more affordable alternative to the high-performance Legion Go, Lenovo could provide gamers with a balanced option that still delivers an enjoyable experience. With its AMD Ryzen Z2G processor and familiar design, the Legion Go S promises to be an appealing choice for gamers looking to enjoy PC gaming on the go without spending top dollar. If Lenovo can successfully execute this more budget-friendly approach, the Legion Go S could become a strong contender in the handheld gaming arena.
