Lenovo Legion Go 2 Launches at $1,099: New Flagship Handheld Revealed
▼ Summary
– The Legion Go 2 is Lenovo’s new handheld gaming PC, which is slightly larger, heavier, and starts at $1,099—$400 more than the original model.
– It features an 8.8-inch OLED screen with a 30–144Hz variable refresh rate, 50% more battery capacity, and improved comfort with newly sculpted controllers.
– The device includes detachable wireless controllers, a built-in kickstand, and a hidden optical mouse, maintaining unique features from its predecessor.
– It is powered by AMD Ryzen Z2 or Z2 Extreme chips, with configurations offering up to 32GB RAM and 2TB storage, and adds a fingerprint reader in the power button.
– Lenovo has not announced a SteamOS version, and it is unclear if the Legion Go 2 will receive Xbox-specific software enhancements like those planned for some other handhelds in 2026.
The Lenovo Legion Go 2 has officially arrived, bringing a mix of refinement and premium upgrades to the handheld gaming PC market. Priced starting at $1,099, this new model is slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor but introduces meaningful improvements in comfort, display quality, and battery life. With features like detachable controllers, a built-in kickstand, and a hidden optical mouse, it aims to deliver a versatile and high-end portable gaming experience when it launches this October.
One of the most significant upgrades is the 8.8-inch OLED display, which supports a variable refresh rate from 30 to 144Hz. This panel not only offers deep blacks and vibrant colors but also ensures smoother gameplay even when frame rates dip slightly above 30fps. The shift to a 1920 x 1200 resolution, down from the original’s 2560 x 1600, should help the new AMD Ryzen Z2 or Z2 Extreme chips deliver better performance without overworking the hardware.
Battery capacity sees a major boost, now offering 74 watt-hours compared to the previous 49.2 watt-hours. That’s a 50% increase, which should translate to noticeably longer gaming sessions away from an outlet. Storage options have also improved, with 1TB standard in North America and up to 2TB available in higher-tier models. Most configurations now include 32GB of RAM, and a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button adds a layer of convenience and security.
The redesigned controllers are another highlight. They feature a new pivot-point D-pad, replacing the original’s flat directional button, and retain Hall effect joysticks to prevent drift. The right controller’s mouse accessory now locks securely in place, preventing accidental slips during use. These new controllers are compatible with the first-generation Legion Go, offering an upgrade path for existing owners.
Pricing, however, reflects the device’s premium positioning. The base model with a Z2 chip, 16GB RAM, and 1TB storage starts at $1,099, while the top-tier version with a Z2 Extreme, 32GB RAM, and 2TB storage reaches $1,479. This places the Legion Go 2 above competitors like the MSI Claw 8 AI Plus, though performance comparisons with Intel’s Lunar Lake chips remain to be seen.
Lenovo is not currently planning a SteamOS version of the Legion Go 2, and it’s unclear if it will receive the same Xbox-focused software enhancements as the upcoming Asus Ally X. For budget-conscious gamers, the company continues to offer the $830 Legion Go S with SteamOS. Still, the Legion Go 2 appears tailored for those willing to pay a premium for what may be the most fully-featured Windows handheld on the market.
(Source: The Verge)
