Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 2

Technical Specifications

• Processor: Available with AMD Ryzen 5000 series (e.g., Ryzen 5 5600H, Ryzen 7 5800H) or Intel Core 11th Generation (e.g., i5-11400H, i7-11800H). Newer configurations may feature AMD Ryzen 6000 series (e.g., Ryzen 7 6800H).
• RAM: Configurable up to 32GB DDR4-3200MHz. Newer iterations offer 16GB DDR5-4800MHz, with support for up to 64GB. Features two SO-DIMM slots for dual-channel capability.
• Storage: Equipped with NVMe PCIe SSDs, with capacities typically ranging from 512GB to 1TB. Features two M.2 slots, supporting PCIe NVMe 4.0 x4 in newer models and PCIe x4 Gen3 in earlier ones.
• Graphics: Options include NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30-series GPUs (RTX 3050, RTX 3050 Ti, RTX 3060, RTX 3070). Some configurations may feature AMD Radeon RX 6600M.
• Display: Typically features a 15.6-inch IPS panel. Common resolutions include Full HD (1920x1080) with a 165Hz refresh rate, 3ms response time, 100% sRGB color coverage, and 300 nits brightness. QHD (2560x1440) 165Hz IPS panels are also available.
• Ports: Rear ports include Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (supporting DisplayPort and Power Delivery), HDMI, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports (some with always-on charging), and the AC adapter port. Side ports typically include a USB-C port and a headphone/microphone combo jack, with some models featuring an additional USB-A port and a physical microphone switch. Intel variants may include Thunderbolt 4.
• Battery: Commonly features an 80Wh 4-cell battery, with some configurations offering a 60Wh option.
• Dimensions & Weight: Approximately 358.8 x 262.35 x 19.99 mm, with a weight of around 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs).

Analysis of Technical Specifications

The Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 2 offers a versatile range of configurations, balancing performance and value for a mid-range gaming laptop. The choice between AMD Ryzen and Intel Core processors, coupled with NVIDIA RTX 30-series GPUs, provides strong computational and graphical power. The evolution to DDR5 RAM in later iterations significantly boosts memory bandwidth. The dual M.2 slots allow for ample and expandable storage. The display options, particularly the high refresh rate IPS and QHD panels, enhance the gaming and visual experience. The comprehensive port selection, with a strategic placement of most ports at the rear, contributes to a cleaner setup. The inclusion of a MUX switch on most models is a notable advantage for maximizing gaming performance.

Support & Compatibility

• Operating System Support: Fully supports Windows 10 (64-bit) and Windows 11 (64-bit).
• Drivers: All necessary drivers are available for download from the official Lenovo Support website. Users can search by product name or serial number, with updates available manually or through automated tools like Lenovo Service Bridge and Lenovo System Update.
• End of Support Date: Lenovo provides ongoing driver and BIOS updates for its products. Specific end-of-life dates are not universally published for all models, but vulnerability advisories indicate continued support through firmware updates for various Legion 5 models.
• Warranty: Standard warranty typically includes a 1-year courier or carry-in service, with options for extended warranty and premium support services.

Analysis of Support & Compatibility Status

Lenovo maintains robust support for the Legion 5 Gen 2, ensuring compatibility with current Windows operating systems. The availability of drivers and system updates through official channels is straightforward, allowing users to keep their systems optimized and secure. The presence of a MUX switch in most configurations further enhances compatibility with adaptive sync technologies, providing a smoother gaming experience.

Security Status

• Security Features: Incorporates Firmware TPM 2.0 for hardware-based security. BIOS security features include Administrator, User, Master hard disk, User hard disk, and Power-on passwords. A physical E-shutter is present for webcam privacy, and some models include a physical microphone switch.
• Vulnerabilities: Several BIOS/UEFI vulnerabilities (e.g., CVE-2021-3970, CVE-2021-3971, CVE-2021-3972, CVE-2022-1890, CVE-2022-1891, CVE-2022-1892, CVE-2022-3430–32) have been identified across various Lenovo notebooks, including Legion 5 models. These vulnerabilities could potentially allow local privilege escalation or the disabling of Secure Boot.
• Recommendations: Users are strongly advised to regularly update their system firmware (BIOS) and drivers directly from the official Lenovo support website to mitigate known vulnerabilities and ensure the latest security patches are applied.

Analysis on the Security Status

The Legion 5 Gen 2 integrates essential hardware security features like TPM 2.0 and comprehensive BIOS password options. The physical webcam shutter and microphone switch offer practical privacy controls. However, the series has been affected by historical UEFI firmware vulnerabilities. While Lenovo actively releases patches to address these issues, user vigilance in applying these updates is crucial for maintaining the asset's security posture against potential exploits.

Performance & Benchmarks

• Benchmark Scores:
  • 3DMark Time Spy (RTX 3060): Scores typically range from 9058 to 10753 (with 130W TGP).
  • 3DMark Time Spy (RTX 3050 Ti): Scores around 5741 to 6433.
  • Cinebench R15 (Ryzen 5 5600H): CPU score of approximately 2153 cb and Single Core score of 226 cb.
  • Cinebench R23: CPU score of around 12808 pts and Single Core score of 1396 pts.
• Real-World Performance: Capable of running modern gaming titles at 1440p with good graphics settings. Delivers excellent performance for daily tasks, work, and gaming. Handles popular games like Fortnite, Grand Theft Auto, and Forza Motorsport at high settings with frame rates often exceeding 100 FPS.
• Comparison with Similar Devices: Consistently ranks as one of the best-value mid-tier gaming laptops. Its performance is highly competitive within its class, often rivaling or exceeding similarly priced alternatives due to effective power management and cooling solutions.

Analysis of the Performance Status

The Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 2 consistently demonstrates strong performance, making it a formidable choice for gaming and demanding applications. Its robust cooling system allows the CPU and GPU to operate at higher thermal design power (TDP) limits, translating into impressive benchmark scores and smooth real-world gameplay. The inclusion of a MUX switch further optimizes gaming performance by enabling direct output from the discrete GPU, bypassing the integrated graphics. This combination of powerful components and efficient thermal management ensures a high-quality user experience across various workloads.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews generally praise the Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 2 for its sturdy build quality and durable materials. The input devices, including the keyboard and trackpad, receive positive feedback for their responsiveness and comfort. The display, particularly the IPS panels with high refresh rates and sRGB coverage, is well-regarded for its balanced quality, and the MUX switch is a highly appreciated feature for gamers. Performance is consistently highlighted as excellent across various demanding tasks and games. Users also value the ease of serviceability and upgradeability, with readily accessible RAM and SSD slots. The comprehensive and well-placed port selection, especially the rear ports, is a common positive.

Conversely, some feedback points to areas for improvement. Fan noise can be noticeable, particularly under heavy load, and some users report that fans remain active even during light use. Earlier models occasionally experienced buggy wireless connectivity with Realtek modules and inconsistent battery runtimes. The audio quality and webcam performance in some configurations have been noted as subpar. While newer OLED displays offer stunning visuals, some users note the lack of G-Sync/FreeSync or Advanced Optimus support on these specific panels. The placement of some side ports is occasionally criticized for being too far forward, potentially interfering with mouse movement.

Summary

The Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 2 emerges as a highly capable and well-regarded asset in the mid-range gaming laptop segment. It synthesizes powerful AMD Ryzen or Intel Core processors with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30-series graphics, delivering exceptional performance for both gaming and productivity. Its design prioritizes functionality with a robust build, effective cooling solutions that allow components to reach their full potential, and a comprehensive array of strategically placed ports. The display options, ranging from high-refresh-rate IPS to vibrant QHD panels, provide an immersive visual experience, further enhanced by the inclusion of a MUX switch for optimal gaming frame rates. User feedback consistently underscores its strong performance-to-price ratio and upgradeability.

However, the asset is not without its weaknesses. Historical UEFI firmware vulnerabilities across Lenovo's laptop lines, including the Legion 5, necessitate diligent firmware updates from the user. Some users report noticeable fan noise under load and occasional software or wireless connectivity quirks in older models. While newer OLED displays offer superior visual fidelity, they may lack certain adaptive sync features found in IPS counterparts. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Legion 5 Gen 2 remains a compelling choice. Its strengths in raw performance, build quality, and user-friendly design significantly outweigh its limitations, making it a highly recommended option for users seeking a powerful and versatile laptop for demanding tasks and immersive gaming experiences.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.