The market for handheld gaming PCs has expanded rapidly, with two standout contenders leading the conversation: the Lenovo Legion Go and the ASUS ROG Ally X. Both devices promise high-performance PC gaming in a portable form, but they take slightly different approaches in design, functionality, and user experience. Choosing between them depends on what a player values most—flexibility, comfort, performance, or battery life.
TLDR: The Lenovo Legion Go offers a larger display, detachable controllers, and more versatility, making it ideal for gamers who want flexibility and a tablet-like experience. The ROG Ally X focuses on refined ergonomics, improved battery life, and optimized performance in a more traditional handheld design. Both deliver strong gaming performance, but the better option depends on whether portability and polish outweigh screen size and modularity. For most users seeking balance, the ROG Ally X edges ahead, while power users may prefer the Legion Go.
Design and Build Quality
The Lenovo Legion Go immediately stands out thanks to its bold design and detachable controllers. Inspired somewhat by hybrid gaming systems, it allows users to remove the side controllers for tabletop gaming or use a built-in kickstand for added versatility.
Its 8.8-inch display dominates the front, making it one of the largest screens available in the handheld PC space. While this creates a more immersive experience, it also results in a bulkier device. Weighing noticeably more than competitors, extended handheld use may cause fatigue for some players.
In contrast, the ROG Ally X embraces a more traditional handheld form factor. It refines the original Ally’s design with improved ergonomics, better weight distribution, and a more comfortable grip.
Image not found in postmetaThe Ally X feels more streamlined and polished. Despite lacking detachable controllers or a kickstand, its simplicity contributes to greater portability. It is easier to slip into a bag and more comfortable for long gaming sessions.
Verdict on Design: The Legion Go wins in innovation and flexibility, while the ROG Ally X excels in comfort and practicality.
Display Quality
Screen quality is a crucial factor for handheld gaming devices. The Legion Go features an 8.8-inch QHD+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The larger screen size enhances immersion, especially in RPGs, open-world titles, and strategy games where detail matters. The higher resolution also makes text and UI elements sharper.
However, a larger and higher-resolution screen consumes more power, which can impact battery life.
The ROG Ally X features a 7-inch Full HD display with a 120Hz refresh rate. While smaller, it still provides sharp visuals and smooth gameplay. The slightly lower resolution can actually benefit performance, as the hardware does not need to work as hard to push higher pixel counts.
Both screens deliver vivid colors and solid brightness levels, but the Legion Go clearly offers a more expansive visual experience. Players who prioritize screen size will likely prefer Lenovo’s offering.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, both devices feature powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processors (depending on configuration), making them capable of running modern AAA titles with respectable settings.
Where the ROG Ally X distinguishes itself is in refinement. ASUS improved thermal management and increased RAM capacity in the Ally X compared to earlier versions. This leads to:
- More stable frame rates
- Improved multitasking
- Better long-session reliability
The Legion Go delivers similar raw performance but focuses more on adaptability than thermal optimization. While still powerful, its larger frame and modular parts introduce slight inefficiencies compared to the streamlined build of the Ally X.
In real-world gaming tests, both devices handle titles like Cyberpunk 2077, Forza Horizon 5, and Baldur’s Gate 3 competently at adjusted settings. Competitive gamers may lean toward the Ally X for slightly more consistent sustained performance.
Battery Life
Battery life remains one of the biggest challenges for handheld gaming PCs. The ROG Ally X improves significantly in this area, offering a larger battery than its predecessor and better power optimization overall.
Under moderate usage, players can expect:
- ROG Ally X: Approximately 2 to 3 hours of AAA gaming
- Lenovo Legion Go: Roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on settings
The Legion Go’s larger screen and detachable features demand more power, which can shorten sessions. While both devices benefit from tweaking power settings, the Ally X edges ahead in endurance.
Controls and User Experience
The Legion Go’s detachable controllers are one of its most interesting features. One controller even includes a unique mode with a built-in trackpad-like functionality for precise pointing, making it especially useful for strategy or simulation games.
Image not found in postmetaThis flexibility adds tremendous value for certain gaming scenarios. Players can switch between handheld mode and tabletop mode with ease. However, the detachable design may feel less sturdy compared to fixed controls.
The ROG Ally X opts for solidity and comfort. Its fixed controls feel firm and stable, with responsive buttons and analog sticks. For traditional handheld gaming, the Ally X provides a more consistent and comfortable experience.
Windows 11 powers both devices, meaning users have access to the full PC ecosystem—including Steam, Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more. However, navigating Windows on a handheld remains imperfect. Both companies provide custom launcher software to simplify game access.
Storage and Expandability
The ROG Ally X typically comes with increased internal storage options and user-accessible SSD upgrades. This makes expanding storage relatively simple.
The Legion Go also supports expandable storage, including microSD card support, offering flexibility for gamers with large libraries.
Both devices function like compact PCs, meaning users can connect external displays, keyboards, and mice for a desktop-like experience.
Price and Value
Pricing varies by region and configuration, but both devices sit in the premium handheld category. The Legion Go often appeals to users who want maximum versatility per dollar. The large screen and detachable controllers can feel like added value.
The ROG Ally X, however, positions itself as a refined second-generation device. Buyers are paying for battery improvements, better thermal performance, and enhanced ergonomics.
In terms of pure cost-to-performance ratio, the Ally X may offer slightly better efficiency. But users seeking a hybrid device that can function almost like a small tablet-console combination may find the Legion Go more compelling.
Who Should Choose the Lenovo Legion Go?
- Gamers who prioritize large displays
- Players who want detachable controllers
- Users who enjoy tabletop or flexible setups
- Strategy or simulation gamers who benefit from pointer-style control
Who Should Choose the ROG Ally X?
- Gamers seeking better battery life
- Players who value comfort and ergonomics
- Users wanting optimized thermal performance
- Those who prefer a traditional handheld experience
Final Verdict
In the competition between the Lenovo Legion Go and the ROG Ally X, there is no universally perfect choice. Instead, the decision hinges on personal priorities.
The Legion Go stands out as a bold and versatile device. Its large screen and detachable controllers create a unique hybrid experience that few competitors offer. However, this innovation comes at the cost of added bulk and slightly weaker battery performance.
The ROG Ally X, meanwhile, represents refinement. It improves upon earlier handheld PC designs with better endurance, superior comfort, and consistent performance. While it lacks the Legion Go’s modular flair, it excels where it matters most for everyday gaming.
For most users seeking balance and reliability, the ROG Ally X may be the better all-around choice. For gamers craving flexibility and a larger display, the Lenovo Legion Go remains a compelling and innovative alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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1. Which device has better performance?
Both offer similar performance with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme configurations, but the ROG Ally X tends to maintain slightly more stable frame rates due to improved thermals and optimization. -
2. Is the Lenovo Legion Go screen significantly better?
It is larger and higher resolution, offering a more immersive experience. However, the ROG Ally X screen is still high quality and may help conserve battery life. -
3. Which has better battery life?
The ROG Ally X generally provides longer battery life thanks to a larger battery and improved power management. -
4. Are the detachable controllers on the Legion Go worth it?
For players who enjoy tabletop mode or strategy games requiring precise input, yes. For traditional handheld gaming, fixed controls like those on the Ally X may feel more solid. -
5. Can both devices run standard PC games?
Yes. Both run Windows 11 and support platforms like Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and Epic Games Store. -
6. Which is better for travel?
The ROG Ally X is generally more compact and comfortable for extended handheld use, making it slightly better suited for travel.