Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) hands-on review


4 min read 01-11-2024
Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) hands-on review

A Gaming Laptop That Packs a Punch

The Lenovo Legion 5 is a name synonymous with power and performance in the gaming laptop market. In 2024, the Legion 5 (15-inch) returns with a refreshed design, powerful hardware, and a slew of features that make it an incredibly compelling option for gamers of all levels. We recently got our hands on the latest iteration of this popular gaming machine and were impressed by its overall performance and value proposition.

Design and Build Quality:

First impressions matter, and the Legion 5 doesn't disappoint. Lenovo has taken a bold step with the design, opting for a more aggressive and sleek aesthetic. The lid now sports a sharp, angular design, a departure from the more rounded edges of previous models. The back panel features a distinct "X" pattern that screams "gaming." The overall feel is robust and premium, thanks to the sturdy aluminum chassis, offering a sense of durability.

Display:

The heart of any gaming laptop is its display, and the Legion 5 doesn't shy away from delivering a stellar visual experience. Lenovo offers a range of display options, including a vibrant 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a refresh rate of up to 165Hz and a response time of 3ms. This panel comes equipped with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, ensuring smooth and tear-free gameplay, essential for competitive gamers. The display delivers excellent color accuracy and a wide viewing angle, making it a joy to use for both gaming and everyday tasks.

Keyboard and Touchpad:

The Legion 5 boasts a full-sized keyboard that feels responsive and comfortable to type on. The keys have good travel and feedback, making them perfect for extended gaming sessions. The keyboard is backlit, providing ample illumination even in low-light conditions. The touchpad is spacious and smooth, offering a comfortable and precise tracking experience.

Performance:

Under the hood, the Legion 5 packs a punch. It's powered by the latest generation Intel Core i7 processor, coupled with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series graphics cards. This potent combination delivers exceptional performance, capable of handling the most demanding games at high frame rates. We ran several benchmarks and were consistently impressed with the Legion 5's ability to maintain smooth gameplay even at the highest settings.

Cooling:

Gaming laptops can run hot, but Lenovo has addressed this concern effectively. The Legion 5 features Lenovo's advanced Coldfront 4.0 thermal system, which includes dual fans, multiple heat pipes, and strategically placed air vents. This system keeps the laptop cool and quiet even under heavy load.

Ports and Connectivity:

The Legion 5 is well-equipped with a variety of ports and connectivity options. You'll find an HDMI 2.1 port, a Thunderbolt 4 port, a USB-C port, several USB-A ports, an RJ45 Ethernet port, and a headphone jack. This comprehensive selection ensures that you can connect all your peripherals without any hassle.

Battery Life:

Battery life is a crucial consideration for a gaming laptop, and the Legion 5 doesn't disappoint. Lenovo claims up to 8 hours of battery life on a single charge, although actual usage will vary depending on your workload and power settings. For casual browsing and light work, you can expect to get several hours of battery life, which is impressive for a gaming laptop.

Software:

The Legion 5 runs on Windows 11, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface. Lenovo also includes several software utilities that enhance the gaming experience, such as Lenovo Vantage, which allows you to monitor system performance and customize settings.

Price and Value:

The Lenovo Legion 5 is priced competitively, offering excellent value for money. It delivers a robust gaming experience at a price point that is appealing to a wide range of gamers.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Powerful hardware
  • Excellent display
  • Robust build quality
  • Effective cooling system
  • Competitive pricing

Cons:

  • Battery life could be better
  • The webcam isn't the best

The Verdict:

The Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) is a compelling gaming laptop that delivers exceptional performance, a stylish design, and impressive value for money. While the battery life could be better, it's a minor compromise for the overall power and features it offers. The Legion 5 is a fantastic option for gamers looking for a solid machine that can handle the latest games and provide a smooth and immersive experience.

FAQs:

Q: What is the starting price of the Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024)?

A: The starting price of the Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) varies depending on the configuration. However, you can expect to pay around $1,200 for the base model.

Q: What are the different display options available for the Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024)?

A: The Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) offers a range of display options, including a vibrant 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel with a refresh rate of up to 165Hz and a response time of 3ms.

Q: What is the maximum storage capacity available for the Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024)?

A: The Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) supports up to 2TB of SSD storage, allowing you to store a large library of games and other files.

Q: What is the weight of the Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024)?

A: The Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) weighs approximately 5.4 pounds, which is typical for a gaming laptop of this size.

Q: Is the Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) suitable for content creation tasks?

A: Yes, the Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) is well-suited for content creation tasks, thanks to its powerful hardware and a display that offers vibrant colors and accurate reproduction.

Conclusion:

The Lenovo Legion 5 (15-inch, 2024) is a solid contender in the gaming laptop market. Its powerful performance, vibrant display, and competitive pricing make it a compelling choice for gamers who demand a balance of power and value. Whether you're a casual gamer or a competitive esports enthusiast, the Legion 5 offers a fantastic gaming experience.