Lenovo Legion Go S
Lenovo’s Legion Go made waves when it debuted as the company’s first Windows handheld gaming PC. Packed with impressive specifications like a 144Hz QHD+ display, AMD’s Ryzen Z1 series chipsets, and detachable controllers, the device offered a robust gaming experience on the go. Now, over a year after its release, Lenovo is preparing to introduce the second iteration of its gaming handheld: the Legion Go S.
A More Mainstream Design
Recently, Windows Central uncovered official renders of the upcoming Legion Go S, revealing a shift toward a more mainstream design. Unlike the original Legion Go, which featured detachable controllers, the Go S seems to adopt a more integrated, streamlined look akin to other popular devices in the handheld gaming space, such as the ROG Ally and Steam Deck. The detachable controllers appear to be replaced with a more traditional gaming layout, and it’s possible that the display size may be slightly smaller than that of the original model.
Controls and Features
One of the most notable features in the Legion Go S is its 18-button configuration, which includes the standard ABXY buttons on the right, dual joysticks with RGB lighting, a D-pad, and an additional nub, reminiscent of the TrackPoint found on Lenovo’s laptops. This nub could provide additional functionality or be used for precise control, offering gamers a fresh input method.
Additionally, the Legion Go S is expected to feature dual front-facing speakers for an enhanced audio experience, as well as rear-facing fans for improved cooling during long gaming sessions. The device will also come equipped with dual USB-C ports, both located on the top side for easy accessibility.
Performance and Pricing
Under the hood, the Legion Go S will be powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 chipset (Rembrandt), featuring Zen 3+ cores. This chipset is a step down from the Z1 Extreme found in the original Legion Go and the ROG Ally, which utilize Zen 4 cores. Despite this difference, the Ryzen Z2 should still provide a solid gaming experience for most titles, offering a balance of power and efficiency.
Leaked pricing information suggests that the Legion Go S will be more affordable than its predecessor, with an expected price range of $399–$449. This marks a significant price drop from the Legion Go’s starting price of $699 (or €799 in Europe), potentially making it a more accessible option for gamers looking for a premium handheld experience without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The Lenovo Legion Go S seems poised to be a strong contender in the handheld gaming market, offering a more refined and mainstream design while retaining the key features that made the original model so appealing. With its anticipated lower price point, this new device could attract a wider audience of gamers looking for a powerful yet portable gaming solution. Stay tuned for more official details as Lenovo gears up for the launch of the Legion Go S.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between the Lenovo Legion Go and Legion Go S?
The Legion Go S features a more traditional, integrated design compared to the original Legion Go, which had detachable controllers. The Go S adopts a streamlined look similar to other popular handhelds, like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. It also has a slightly smaller display and an 18-button configuration, including a unique control nub.
2. What chipset does the Legion Go S use?
The Legion Go S is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 chipset with Zen 3+ cores. While it’s a step down from the Z1 Extreme in the original Legion Go, the Ryzen Z2 should still offer solid gaming performance for most titles.
3. Will the Legion Go S be more affordable than the original model?
Yes, the Legion Go S is expected to be priced between $399 and $449, which is significantly more affordable than the original Legion Go’s starting price of $699. This price drop makes it a more accessible option for gamers.
4. Does the Legion Go S have additional features for improved gaming?
Yes, the Legion Go S features dual front-facing speakers for better audio quality and rear-facing fans for improved cooling during extended gaming sessions. It also has dual USB-C ports on the top for convenient connectivity.
5. When is the Legion Go S expected to launch?
The exact launch date for the Legion Go S has not been confirmed yet, but official details are expected to be released soon as Lenovo prepares to unveil the device.