Handheld PC gaming has exploded in recent years, largely thanks to Valve’s Steam Deck. But with competition heating up, Lenovo’s Legion Go has stepped in to challenge the Deck’s dominance.
On paper, the Legion Go packs more power, a sharper display, and a unique control scheme. But is it really the better buy?
I’ve spent hours digging into the specs, reviews, and real-world user feedback to see how these two devices stack up. If you’re debating between the Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck, here’s my verdict.
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Verdict
After looking at both devices in depth, I’d say this: the Steam Deck is the better all-around handheld console for most people, but the Legion Go has a few undeniable advantages if you’re willing to pay extra.
The Steam Deck wins on price, comfort, and ease of use, while the Legion Go flexes its muscle with a high-refresh QHD+ screen and extra processing power. Here’s how they break down:
Lenovo Legion Go ✅ More powerful hardware (AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip) ✅Larger, sharper display (8.8-inch) ✅ Windows 11 flexibility ✅ Detachable controllers ✅ More connectivity options ❌ Expensive (Starts at $699) ❌ Bulkier and heavier (at 854g) ❌ Shorter battery life (2–3 hours) in demanding games. | Steam Deck ✅ More affordable (Starts at $399) for the base model ✅ Comfortable design (Well-balanced, ergonomic layout) ✅ Better battery efficiency ✅Trackpads for precision (Great for strategy games and navigation) ❌ Weaker performance – Handles AAA games but often at lower settings and lower resolution. ❌ Lower-resolution display (7-inch 1280×800 screen at 60Hz) ❌ Limited out-of-the-box game access – (Works best with Steam) |
Best Overall: Steam Deck
For most people, the Steam Deck is the best choice. It’s well-priced, comfortable to hold, and optimized for gaming. The Legion Go might win on power and features, but the Steam Deck’s polished software and better battery life make it the more practical option.
Best Budget-Friendly: Steam Deck
If price is a major factor, Steam Deck wins easily. At $399, it’s nearly half the price of the Legion Go while still offering a great gaming experience. Even the upgraded Steam Deck OLED models cost less than the Legion Go.
Best for Performance: Lenovo Legion Go
Lenovo Legion Go wins here. The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip provides better frame rates and allows for higher graphical settings in demanding titles. The 144Hz screen also gives it an edge in fast-paced games. However, it does require tweaking Windows settings to get the best performance.
Best for Game Library & Software: Lenovo Legion Go
Lenovo Legion Go offers more flexibility because it runs Windows. You can install Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and anything else without workarounds. That said, Steam Deck provides a smoother gaming experience with its optimized SteamOS. If you mainly play Steam games, the Deck is easier to use right out of the box.
Best for Battery Life: Steam Deck
Steam Deck lasts longer in most gaming scenarios. While both devices struggle with battery life in demanding games, the Legion Go’s more powerful internals drain its battery even faster. In some cases, the Steam Deck can last up to twice as long on a single charge.
Best for Display & Controls: Lenovo Legion Go
The Lenovo Legion Go wins for display quality with its 8.8-inch QHD+ 144Hz screen. However, the Steam Deck has better controls, with trackpads that improve navigation and a more ergonomic grip.
Best for Portability: Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is smaller, lighter, and easier to carry. The Legion Go is bulkier and heavier, making it less convenient for travel. If you want a handheld that’s easier to take on the go, the Steam Deck is the better choice.
Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck: Detailed Breakdown
| Feature | Lenovo Legion Go | Steam Deck |
| Price | $699 | $399 |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme | Custom AMD APU (Aerith) |
| Graphics | RDNA 3 (better for demanding games) | RDNA 2 (still capable, but less powerful) |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5X | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB or 1TB SSD + microSD slot | 256GB, 512GB SSD + microSD slot |
| Display | 8.8-inch QHD+ 144Hz (sharp and smooth) | 7-inch 800p 60Hz (lower resolution, still good) |
| Battery Life | 2-5 hours (varies by settings) | 2-8 hours (more efficient usage) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 (supports all PC games) | SteamOS (optimized for Steam games) |
| Game Compatibility | Works with all launchers (Steam, Epic, Game Pass) | Best for Steam games, requires workarounds for others |
| Controls | Detachable controllers, FPS mode for mouse aiming | Fixed controls, includes trackpads for precision |
| Connectivity | 2x USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 | 1x USB-C, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 |
Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck: Performance and Gaming Experience
When I looked into real-world gaming tests, I expected the Legion Go’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip to dominate. While it does offer better performance, the difference isn’t always that noticeable.
The Steam Deck’s software optimizations help it hold its own, even in demanding games. For instance, in Cyberpunk 2077, users report that the Legion Go can hit higher settings, but the Deck maintains more stable performance at lower power consumption.
If you like to tinker, the Legion Go’s extra power gives you more flexibility, but if you prefer to jump in and play, the Steam Deck handles itself surprisingly well.
Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck: Display Quality and Refresh Rate
I’ve seen plenty of comparisons, and the Legion Go’s screen is the standout feature. At 8.8 inches, QHD+ resolution, and 144Hz refresh rate, it makes the Steam Deck’s 7-inch 800p 60Hz panel look dated.
But here’s the catch: most AAA games won’t run at 144Hz, and pushing that resolution drains the battery fast. The Steam Deck’s lower-resolution screen is easier on its hardware, which gives it a more consistent gaming experience without needing to lower settings.
Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck: Software and Ease of Use
The Steam Deck feels like a true console, while the Legion Go feels like a tiny Windows PC. If you’re comfortable with Windows and don’t mind occasional driver updates or tweaking settings, the Legion Go offers more freedom.
But if you want a device that just works, the Steam Deck’s SteamOS is hands down the better experience. I’d rather not deal with a tiny Windows interface while trying to launch a game—the Deck’s UI makes life easier.
Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck: Battery Life and Portability
The Legion Go’s extra power and bigger screen come at a cost—battery life. In most real-world cases, I found that the Steam Deck lasts longer by 30-50% depending on the game.
The Deck is also lighter and better balanced, which makes a huge difference during long gaming sessions. If I wanted a handheld that’s easy to carry and lasts longer, I’d pick the Steam Deck.
If power and display quality matter more, the Legion Go is the better choice.
🎮Bonus: For Console Fans – Top PS5 Accessories
If you’re someone who cherishes the classic feel of console gaming, here’s a little extra for you. For those enjoying the immersive experience of a modern setup, there’s a fresh accessory lineup that might just catch your eye.
Among the top picks, the Chroma Teal collection for the PS5 stands out with its unique console covers and a wireless controller that brings a stylish twist to your sessions.
PS5™ Console Covers (slim) – Chroma Teal
These official PlayStation console covers are simple to install. Just remove your old PS5 covers and snap the new ones into place for a stunningly vivid gaming experience.
- Price (Pre-order): $64.99
- Link to Product: PS5 Console Covers
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller – Chroma Teal
The PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller in Chroma Teal offers an eye-catching design with improved gaming features. The standout aspect is its immersive feedback, adjusting the feel of every action as you play. With its adaptive triggers and versatile connectivity, it’s built to elevate your gaming experience.
- Price: Pre-order and pay $80 instead of the regular $130
- Link to Product: PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller
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Conclusion
After researching Lenovo Legion Go vs Steam Deck, I see a clear trade-off. If you value power, display quality, and Windows flexibility, the Legion Go is the better pick. But if you want a more affordable, comfortable, and optimized experience, the Steam Deck wins.
For me, the Steam Deck is still the best choice. It’s cheaper, easier to use, and lasts longer. But if you don’t mind the extra weight, cost, and tweaking required, the Legion Go offers a more powerful alternative.
