Lenovo Legion Phone Duel

The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel (known as Legion Phone Pro in some regions) is Lenovo’s ambitious entry into the gaming smartphone market, under its well-regarded Legion gaming brand. Here’s an in-depth review of the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel is designed with the mobile gamer in mind. It boasts a unique design, top-tier specifications, and gaming-centric features that differentiate it from conventional smartphones.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Lenovo’s ZUI 12 (Legion OS) on top.
2. Display: 6.65-inch AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, boasting a 144Hz refresh rate.
3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865+.
4. Memory: Options of 8/12/16 GB RAM with 128/256/512 GB UFS 3.1 internal storage.
5. Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor and a 16 MP ultrawide lens. The standout feature is its 20 MP side-mounted pop-up selfie camera, designed for streamers.
6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery, split into two 2500 mAh cells, with 90W fast charging.
7. Other Features: Shoulder triggers for enhanced gaming, RGB lighting, side-mounted charging port for landscape-mode gaming, and a unique cooling system.

Pros:

1. Gaming Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 865+ and coupled with ample RAM, the device is tailored for high-end gaming.
2. Display: The 144Hz AMOLED display ensures ultra-smooth visuals, a boon for gamers.
3. Unique Design: The phone’s design, with its central “spine”, RGB lighting, and side-mounted pop-up camera, is distinct and unmistakably gamer-centric.
4. Fast Charging: The 90W fast charging can charge the phone incredibly quickly, thanks to the dual battery system.
5. Shoulder Triggers: These provide tactile feedback and can be customized for different games, enhancing the gaming experience.

Cons:

1. Bulk and Weight: The device is hefty and might not be comfortable for everyone, especially for prolonged use.
2. Camera Performance: While decent, the camera setup isn’t the best in its class, especially when compared to non-gaming flagships.
3. Software Experience: Some users found Legion OS/ZUI 12 to be less intuitive compared to other Android skins.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket and category, the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel faced competition from:

• Asus ROG Phone 3: Another gaming-centric phone with a 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865+, and AirTriggers.
• Xiaomi Black Shark 3 Pro: Featuring a 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and physical pop-up shoulder buttons.
• Nubia Red Magic 5S: With its 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 865, and built-in shoulder triggers.

Launch Date:

The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel was announced in July 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches or inconsistencies within Legion OS, especially with third-party apps.
2. Thermal Management: Despite its unique cooling system, the device could get warm during extended gaming sessions.
3. Durability Concerns: The mechanical side-mounted pop-up camera, while innovative, raised concerns about long-term durability.

Conclusion:

The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel is a bold statement in the gaming smartphone market. With its unique design, top-tier performance, and features tailored for gamers, it offers a distinct experience. While it might not be the best all-rounder, especially in areas like camera performance and software, it excels in its niche. For mobile gaming enthusiasts, especially those who stream their gameplay, the Legion Phone Duel is a compelling option.