Why the Lenovo Legion Go isn’t my go-to gaming handheld

There are a ton of handheld, PC-based gaming machines on the market now, and the Lenovo Legion Go is easily the most unique of the devices following in the wake of the Steam Deck. With a much larger screen, detachable Switch-style controls, and other little touches like dual USB-C ports, it’s certainly a lot more adventurous than its fellows in terms of design. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best of the bunch, and Adam Patrick Murray is going to tell us why in the latest PCWorld video on YouTube.

First of all, the Legion Go lacks a bit when it comes to the “Go” factor. Relatively heavy weight and a sharp edge on the top of the device make it noticeably less comfortable in the hand. The detachable controllers are also something of a detriment for Adam’s handheld-first play style. The mouse sensor embedded in the right side controller, which turns it into a quasi-gaming mouse in a unique and interesting way, is something he just never engages with.

The onboard audio on the Legion Go is also a bit lacking, well below the Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally, though you’ll usually want to be using headphones with them anyway. And Adam isn’t crazy about the Start and Select buttons on the left-hand controller beneath the D-pad, after years of controller design have trained us to reach for the middle of the device.

There are plenty of things to like about Lenovo’s take, including its sturdy kickstand and the heavy-duty case included without an upcharge. But the Legion Go might have benefited from a bit more focus on its portable experience, rather than the gee-whiz ability to break off its controllers and use one as a mouse just for shooters. For more takes on the latest in PC Hardware, be sure to subscribe to PCWorld’s YouTube channel!