The Lenovo Legion Go stands out as a powerful and versatile contender in the realm of PC gaming handhelds. It’s often compared favorably to alternatives like the Steam Deck due to its impressive specs. However, a critical aspect to consider for any gaming device is the display technology, particularly the presence or absence of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).

The Absence of VRR in Lenovo Legion Go

Despite its many strengths, the Lenovo Legion Go does not include VRR technology. This omission might come as a surprise to some, given the device’s high-quality 8.8-inch 2560 x 1600 144Hz IPS display. The larger screen size and high refresh rate are definite positives, but without VRR, players might experience screen tearing under certain conditions.

Understanding Screen Tearing and VRR

Screen tearing occurs when the refresh rate of the display and the GPU’s frame rate are out of sync. This mismatch often leads to an incomplete frame being displayed, causing the image to appear jagged or “torn.” VRR technologies like AMD’s Freesync or Nvidia’s G-sync dynamically adjust the monitor’s refresh rate to match the game’s frame rate, mitigating screen tearing.

VRR’s Significance for Lenovo Legion Go

The absence of VRR in the Legion Go is notable, but it’s not unique to this device; even the latest Steam Deck OLED model lacks this feature. Considering that achieving 144fps on most games is unlikely with handhelds, the practicality of VRR on such devices can be debated. It seems that Lenovo prioritized a high refresh rate as a marketable feature over the functional benefits of VRR.

Frame Rate Capping as an Alternative

For a smoother gaming experience, players might consider capping their frame rate in games. This approach can reduce screen tearing and provide a more stable gaming experience. Additionally, it conserves battery life by reducing GPU power usage, which is especially beneficial for handheld devices.

Conclusion

While the absence of VRR on the Lenovo Legion Go might be seen as a drawback, it’s important to recognize that this is a common limitation among handheld gaming devices. The Legion Go’s 144Hz display still provides a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience, and through frame rate capping, players can optimize their gameplay to minimize screen tearing. Overall, the Lenovo Legion Go remains a strong option for those seeking a portable PC gaming experience.

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