The latest entrant into the portable gaming arena—the Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows version)—has garnered its fair share of attention. In a recent review by Engadget, the verdict was clear: while the Legion Go S champions a solid design and a host of intriguing features, its performance compromises and Windows 11 quirks may leave potential buyers asking if it’s truly worth the premium price. Let’s break down the key findings, explore the pros and cons in detail, and put this device in the broader context of the ever-evolving Windows ecosystem.
In today’s landscape—one that sees constant Windows 11 updates, security patches, and performance tweaks—this review couldn’t be timelier. For instance, discussions regarding troubleshooting and optimization on Windows 11 have been plentiful (see our previous deep-dive https://windowsforum.com/threads/352786). With that in mind, let’s explore what the Lenovo Legion Go S brings to the table.
As previously reported at https://windowsforum.com/threads/352786.
For those who rely on the flexibility of a desktop OS in a portable format—and who might already be immersed in the broader Windows 11 ecosystem—the device offers a curious blend of pros and cons. However, gamers seeking uncompromised performance may be better served by either sticking with more traditional gaming handhelds or waiting for Lenovo’s alternative configurations (such as the promising SteamOS variant) that promise better value.
Ultimately, the Legion Go S underscores the ongoing challenges in the Windows ecosystem, where innovation often comes with growing pains. With Windows 11 continuing to evolve amid a host of firmware and software updates, it remains to be seen whether Lenovo’s current missteps will be ironed out in future iterations.
So, the question for Windows gaming aficionados is this: Are you ready to embrace a portable Windows 11 experience with all its inherent quirks, or will you wait for a more refined—and possibly more performance-packed—iteration?
Stay tuned to Windows Forum for more in-depth analyses, troubleshooting guides, and the latest updates in the world of Windows 11 technologies.
Source: Engadget https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/lenovo-legion-go-s-review-windows-version-not-so-fast-140002828.html
Introduction
Lenovo’s storied Legion gaming brand has now ventured into the world of handheld PCs with the Legion Go S. Touted as a more compact and streamlined version of its predecessor, this Windows 11 device is aimed at gamers who crave portability without sacrificing everyday computing needs. However, as covered in the Engadget review, the Windows variant falls into a nuanced grey area—boasting a refined design while wrestling with performance limitations and software quirks.In today’s landscape—one that sees constant Windows 11 updates, security patches, and performance tweaks—this review couldn’t be timelier. For instance, discussions regarding troubleshooting and optimization on Windows 11 have been plentiful (see our previous deep-dive https://windowsforum.com/threads/352786). With that in mind, let’s explore what the Lenovo Legion Go S brings to the table.
Design and Display: Aesthetic Strengths with Notable Trade-Offs
What's on Offer?
Lenovo hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the Go S—rather, it’s refined an already capable design:- Build and Ergonomics:
- A sturdy, compact chassis available in two color variants: the Windows version comes in a crisp white, while the SteamOS variant sports a dark purple finish.
- Ergonomic triggers and precisely engineered Hall effect joysticks promise reliable control, which is indispensable for on-the-go gaming.
- Display Quality:
- An 8-inch screen delivering a 1,920 x 1,200 resolution combined with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate makes for crisp visuals.
- Although the screen is slightly smaller than the 8.8-inch display on the original Legion Go, it still offers ample real estate for gaming and productivity.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
Pros:
- High refresh rate 8-inch screen with 120Hz support
- Robust design with adjustable triggers and dual USB-C ports
- Integrated touchpad enhances navigation in Windows 11
Cons: - Absence of detachable controllers compared to its predecessor
- A noticeably smaller screen size
- Lacks an onboard fingerprint scanner, complicating quick Windows 11 unlocks
Performance and Hardware Specifications: More RAM, Not Always More Power
Under the Hood
The Windows version of the Legion Go S is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor paired with 32GB of RAM and a generous 1TB of storage. On paper, this combination seems enticing. Yet, the detailed benchmarks reveal a bit of a twist:- Comparative Performance:
- When pitted against its predecessor—the Legion Go equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU—the new model struggles. Despite having double the RAM, the Z2 Go clocking in at 3GHz with four cores and eight threads falls short of the 3.3GHz, eight-core performance of the older chip.
- In benchmark tests, gamers found that titles like Cyberpunk 2077 ran at about 45 fps on the Go S compared to 51 fps on the older model. Similarly, in Returnal, the Go S achieved only 23 fps on medium settings versus 34 fps on its forerunner.
The Paradox of Overkill RAM
One might wonder, “How could 32GB of RAM be excessive?” The answer lies in the performance bottleneck of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go chip. Although additional memory typically spells better multi-tasking and smoother operation, here it appears that the processor simply can’t leverage the surplus RAM into tangible performance gains. In effect, users are paying a premium for memory that isn’t fully put to work—a paradox that is sure to spark debate among Windows enthusiasts.Software and User Interface Considerations: Windows 11’s Double-Edged Sword
The Windows 11 Conundrum
Running Windows 11 on a handheld device is a bold venture, bridging the gap between portable gaming and a full desktop experience. However, the integration isn’t entirely seamless:- Touchpad & Navigation:
- The built-in touchpad—though smaller than on the original model—remains a crucial asset for navigating the Windows 11 environment. This is particularly important given the absence of a full keyboard.
- Authentication Woes:
- Without fingerprint authentication, every device pickup necessitates a switch from the comfortable joystick grip to manually input a PIN. For a device that prides itself on portability and ease-of-use, this is a clunky compromise.
- Software Integration:
- Lenovo’s Legion Space app, designed as a hub for game launching and settings adjustments, shows improvements over its earlier iterations. Still, its interaction with native Windows settings can feel disjointed. For example, attempts to install essential apps like Steam through the app have reportedly failed, forcing users to resort to direct downloads from the developer’s website.
Beyond the Handheld
These challenges are not entirely unique to the Legion Go S. Recent Windows 11 update discussions—ranging from insider patches addressing SSH bugs to guides on optimizing startup via MSConfig—highlight that Windows 11, even on traditional desktops, is very much a work in progress. If you’re grappling with Windows 11 quirks on your PC, our comprehensive guide on troubleshooting and optimizing Windows 11 startup might offer some useful insights.As previously reported at https://windowsforum.com/threads/352786.
Battery Life and Power Management: Balancing Act on the Go
Real-World Runtime
Battery performance is always a key metric for portable devices. The Legion Go S is outfitted with a 55.5WHr battery, and its operational longevity depends heavily on the power mode in use:- Balanced Mode:
- In a moderate 15-watt setting, typical gameplay (as demonstrated with Metal Slug Tactics) yielded roughly two and a half hours of runtime—a respectable figure for a compact gaming PC.
- High-Performance Mode:
- For more demanding titles or when ramping up to 30 watts for improved fps, the battery life can dip to around an hour and a half.
- Custom Mode:
- Lenovo also offers a custom power mode ranging from 5 watts to 40 watts. While this provides flexibility in thermal and performance management, it necessitates a trusty power outlet to fully exploit the upper spectrum of performance.
The Battery Trade-Off
Every increment in performance comes at the cost of battery life—a scenario familiar to any Windows user adjusting settings for balance. Whether gaming at home or on the move, the Legion Go S reinforces the tech world’s age-old adage: there’s no free lunch. The choice between enhanced framerates and extended playtime ultimately boils down to individual usage patterns and priorities.Price and Market Positioning: Is It Worth the Investment?
Price Tag vs. Value Proposition
The Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows version) carries a price of approximately $730—a premium that begs the question: what are you exactly paying for?- Cost Comparisons:
- The Windows variant not only sports a higher price relative to its predecessor (which was available for around $700) but also underdelivers in key performance areas.
- In contrast, the variant offering SteamOS is expected to be more competitively priced. Gamers with a penchant for Valve’s ecosystem might find waiting for that model far more appealing.
- What You Get (and What You Don't):
- In Favor:
- A modern, high-refresh display; dual USB-C ports; and a design that’s optimized for portability.
- Against:
- Reduced performance benchmarks, lack of detachable controllers, and the absence of a fingerprint scanner which disrupts the fluidity of the Windows 11 experience.
The Broader Implication
In an industry increasingly rife with discussions about Windows 11 performance—whether it’s troubleshooting system startup issues or addressing compatibility bugs—the Legion Go S’s shortcomings reflect a larger tension: the challenge of merging high-performance gaming with the traditional Windows desktop environment. The debate continues as to whether investing in such a device is a gamble worth taking for enthusiasts who demand both mobility and uncompromised performance.Conclusion: A Mixed Bag for the Mobile Windows Gamer
The Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows version) is a fascinating study in compromise. On one hand, it delivers a sleek, ergonomically designed handheld that doesn’t skimp on the essentials—be it the crisp 120Hz display, versatile connectivity options, or the inclusion of a touchpad that eases navigation in Windows 11. On the other hand, critical performance setbacks and a fragmented user experience may leave gamers questioning if paying a premium for a full Windows PC in handheld form is truly justified.For those who rely on the flexibility of a desktop OS in a portable format—and who might already be immersed in the broader Windows 11 ecosystem—the device offers a curious blend of pros and cons. However, gamers seeking uncompromised performance may be better served by either sticking with more traditional gaming handhelds or waiting for Lenovo’s alternative configurations (such as the promising SteamOS variant) that promise better value.
Ultimately, the Legion Go S underscores the ongoing challenges in the Windows ecosystem, where innovation often comes with growing pains. With Windows 11 continuing to evolve amid a host of firmware and software updates, it remains to be seen whether Lenovo’s current missteps will be ironed out in future iterations.
So, the question for Windows gaming aficionados is this: Are you ready to embrace a portable Windows 11 experience with all its inherent quirks, or will you wait for a more refined—and possibly more performance-packed—iteration?
Stay tuned to Windows Forum for more in-depth analyses, troubleshooting guides, and the latest updates in the world of Windows 11 technologies.
Source: Engadget https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/lenovo-legion-go-s-review-windows-version-not-so-fast-140002828.html
