Handheld Gaming PCs: The Legion Go’s Hidden Flaws
▼ Summary
– The Steam Deck’s success has popularized handheld gaming PCs, making them mainstream despite earlier niche models from companies like Ayaneo and GPD.
– While most handhelds allow storage expansion via microSD cards, upgrading to a faster SSD requires opening the device, a process that varies significantly in difficulty.
– General safety guidelines for upgrading include working in a static-free environment, disconnecting the battery, and keeping screws organized to avoid damage or loss.
– The MSI Claw 8 AI+ is highlighted for excellent serviceability, with its SSD easily accessible by simply removing the back panel without moving cables or extra screws.
– In contrast, devices like the Lenovo Legion Go 2 are much harder to upgrade, requiring near-complete disassembly to access the SSD, though they still allow user upgrades.
The world of handheld gaming PCs has transformed dramatically, moving from niche devices to mainstream gadgets embraced by a wide audience. While expanding storage with a microSD card is straightforward, upgrading to a faster, larger SSD requires opening the device, a task that varies significantly in difficulty across different models. For those comfortable with electronics, this upgrade can be worthwhile, but it’s not for everyone. We opened several popular handhelds to assess just how challenging the process really is.
A crucial first step is ensuring you work in a static-free environment and always disconnect the battery before beginning any internal work. Keeping screws and components organized is also vital to avoid confusion during reassembly. This isn’t a detailed guide for every device, but rather an overview of what to expect. For specific instructions, always consult a dedicated teardown guide for your particular model.
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ stands out for its exceptional serviceability. Gaining access is remarkably simple: just remove the screws on the back, pry off the panel, and the SSD is immediately visible. There are no cables to move or additional screws to remove. Simply unscrew the M.2 retention screw to swap the drive. It uses the compact M.2 2230 form factor, which is common for handhelds due to space constraints. While potentially slightly slower than larger drives, the difference is negligible for most gaming scenarios.
Both the Asus ROG Ally and its successor, the ROG Ally X, share a relatively user-friendly design. The original Ally requires removing six screws from the back (three are captive), while the Ally X needs five from the back and three along the bottom. A critical point of caution is a small ribbon cable connecting the motherboard to the back panel; care must be taken not to tear it when removing the cover. Inside, the full-sized 2280 SSD is located near the battery. The battery cable runs tightly above it, and the connector on the motherboard is delicate, so gentle handling is essential. Once the battery is safely disconnected, swapping the SSD is straightforward, and the 2280 size offers a wide selection of replacement drives.
The Lenovo Legion Go presents a more complicated experience. Its removable controllers make initial access easy, but the interior reveals a laptop-like design with a protective sticker covering the battery and SSD. This sticker must be carefully peeled back to access the wiring. After disconnecting the battery, you’ll find the 2230 M.2 SSD wrapped in a mylar tape, likely for insulation. It’s advisable to reuse this tape on a new drive. The process is more involved than on many competitors.
The Legion Go 2, while an improved device overall, is significantly more difficult to open. Beyond two extra screws hidden under the kickstand, the internal layout is complex. The SSD is nestled between the CPU fan and the large battery assembly. Upgrading requires removing the entire battery, then dealing with screws securing the fan and a heatsink attached with thermal pads. The device does support a full 2280 SSD, which is a plus, but you must nearly completely disassemble the unit to install it. The effort required is substantial, though the upgrade capability itself remains a valuable feature.
Valve’s Steam Deck is famously user-repairable and relatively simple to modify. The process involves removing several screws, including some under rubber footpads, and carefully prying the case open. Once inside, the battery must be disconnected, a crucial safety step. The SSD is then readily accessible for replacement. Valve’s design philosophy clearly prioritizes owner access, making it one of the more approachable handhelds for DIY upgrades, which has helped cement its reputation in the market.
(Source: IGN)
