Introduction :
When it comes to Ryzen gaming laptops, the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro is undeniably a standout contender. In this comprehensive review, we'll explore its strengths and uncover its minor imperfections. With an AMD Ryzen 7 5800H CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a dazzling 16-inch 165Hz display powered by Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics, the Legion 5 Pro promises an immersive gaming experience. Let's dive into the details and see if this gaming beast lives up to the hype.
Specifications :
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
Memory: 16GB RAM
Display: 16-inch, 165Hz refresh rate
Graphics: Nvidia RTX 3070
Storage: 1TB NVMe M.2 SSD
Weight: 2.6kg (5.7lb)
Dimensions: 16:10 aspect ratio
Webcam: 720p camera
Keyboard: White backlighting, 4-zone RGB (optional)
Touchpad: Precision touchpad
Ports:
Left: Air exhaust vent, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4, 3.5mm audio combo jack
Right: Camera disconnect switch, USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
Back: Gigabit ethernet, second USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C with charging, three USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, power input
Cooling: Standard heat pipes
Performance Modes: Quiet, Balance, Performance, Auto-tune
Battery Life: Over 2 hours while gaming (with optimus enabled)
Linux Support: Wi-Fi, keyboard, touchpad, speakers, camera (screen brightness adjustment may require firmware)
BIOS Features: GPU overclocking and customization options
Sleek Design and Optimal Dimensions:
The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro boasts an impressive build quality, featuring aluminum surfaces with a sophisticated grey finish. Its sleek design ensures a comfortable grip with no sharp edges or corners. Weighing in at 2.6kg (5.7lb), the laptop is portable, but the inclusion of a large 300-watt power brick and cables increases the weight to approximately 2.3lb (1kg) when you're on the move. Despite its larger display, the laptop maintains a form factor similar to most 15" models.
A Remarkable 16" Screen:
The Legion 5 Pro's 16-inch display is a standout feature. With a rapid 165Hz refresh rate and a 16:10 aspect ratio, it offers a higher resolution than the standard 1440p. This results in increased vertical screen real estate while retaining the 15" chassis size. The display reaches over 500 nits at full brightness, providing vivid visuals. Lenovo's Vantage software offers flexibility, allowing users to switch between FreeSync and G-Sync, enhancing your gaming experience. Additionally, panel overdrive options can be toggled for improved response time, typically around 4.5ms.
Camera and Keyboard Experience:
The Legion 5 Pro features a 720p camera situated above the screen. While it lacks Windows Hello support, it offers decent quality for video calls. The laptop's keyboard, with white backlighting, is tactile and comfortable for typing. Even if you opt for the 4-zone RGB keyboard variant, you won't have to worry about battery drain issues associated with certain software. The function plus L shortcut easily toggles the lid light on or off. The precision touchpad is responsive and works well, even when typing.
A Wealth of I/O Ports:
The laptop's I/O ports offer great connectivity options. On the left, you'll find an air exhaust vent, a USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port with DisplayPort 1.4 output, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack. The right side features a camera disconnect switch and a USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A port. The backside houses gigabit ethernet, a second USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port with charging capabilities, three USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, HDMI 2.1 output, and the power input. While the icons above the rear ports lack lighting, they remain informative.
Sturdy Build and Minimal Flex:
Hinge and chassis flex are well-contained in the Legion 5 Pro. The metal lid contributes to minimal screen flex, and the keyboard exhibits only slight flex when subjected to heavy pressure. While it may not match the sturdiness of the Legion 7, it remains robust in its own right.
Efficient Cooling and Performance Modes:
The laptop's standard heat pipes deliver efficient cooling, although the vapor chamber cooler is reserved for the Legion 7. The Legion 5 Pro offers various performance modes, including quiet, balance, and performance, with an option to automatically tune the system. While fan speed cannot be manually controlled, it adjusts dynamically based on workload. The laptop maintains relatively cool temperatures during idle and under load.
Impressive CPU and GPU Performance:
The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro excels in CPU and GPU performance. With its AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor, it delivers remarkable single and multi-core scores, outperforming many competitors. GPU performance, driven by the Nvidia RTX 3070, shines in gaming and demanding tasks. The laptop offers a seamless gaming experience at both 1080p and 1440p resolutions, and upgrading the memory can further enhance gaming performance.
Battery Life and Optimization:
Battery life on the Legion 5 Pro varies depending on usage. Enabling or disabling the integrated GPU (optimus) through Lenovo's Vantage software significantly impacts battery life. While gaming, the laptop lasts over two hours with optimus enabled, doubling the runtime compared to its disabled state. Adjusting the screen to a 60Hz refresh rate further extends battery life. Users can also enable conservation mode to preserve the battery's lifespan.
Linux Support and BIOS Features:
The Legion 5 Pro offers good support for Linux out of the box, with essential components functioning as expected. The BIOS provides a wealth of options, including GPU overclocking, offering customization for power users.
Pricing and Value:
The Legion 5 Pro offers exceptional value, especially if it starts at the planned $1000 USD price point. While this may apply to lower-spec configurations, it remains a strong contender in the gaming laptop market. For gaming and content creation, it competes favorably with other Ryzen-based laptops.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro stands as a solid choice in the realm of Ryzen gaming laptops. Its impressive performance, stunning display, and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment. While it may not be flawless, its overall value and capabilities make it a gaming laptop that deserves consideration. Stay tuned for upcoming comparisons with the Legion 7 and HP Omen 15 to further evaluate its performance in the competitive gaming laptop landscape.
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