Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 Gaming Laptop Review (2024)
by Faraz Khan
Are you looking for a powerful yet affordable option for a gaming laptop? The next generation of Lenovo’s Legion Pro 5i gaming model, the Gen 8, boasts an impressive upgrade. The 13th Gen Intel Core processors and NVIDIA graphics power it. The best part? Depending on your needs, you can configure the Legion Pro 5i with different processors and graphics cards.
However, does it balance affordability and performance as it claims to? Are there any improvements after the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i, Gen 7? Keep reading this Lenovo Legion Pro 5i review to determine whether it is worth your investment.
Specifications and Features of Legion Pro 5i
- Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13500HX Processor (P-cores up to 4.70 GHz, E-cores up to 3.50 GHz)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU 6GB GDDR6
- Memory: 16 GB DDR5-4800MHz RAM (SODIMM) – (2 x 8 GB)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD M.2 2280 PCIe Gen4 TLC
- Display: 16″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS, Anti-Glare, 100% sRGB, 300 nits, 165Hz, 240Hz
- Camera: 1080p FHD with Dual Microphone and E-camera Shutter
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home 64
- Keyboard: 4-zone RGB Backlit Black
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, Headphone/mic combo, Ethernet (RJ45), USB-A, USB-C, HDMI
- Warranty: One Year Legion Ultimate Support
- Add-on: 3 Month Xbox Game Pass (check offer details)
We have glanced at the technical specifications and features of the Legion Pro 5i. Now, let’s have a look at what these features have to offer in terms of performance.
Performance of the Legion Pro 5i – Gaming & Productivity
Whether you are a serious gamer or a creative professional, the Legion Pro 5i has something in store for everyone. Let’s break down all the various features offered by this laptop, how to differentiate between them, and also how to choose the best option according to your needs. The following is an in-depth explanation of the features.
Processor Options
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i offers three processor options from Intel’s 13th Gen Core lineup. It comes with three options that you can choose from. The following is a breakdown of the processor options and how they handle productivity and gaming.
- 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13500HX Processor: This 14-core processor (6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores) has 20 threads. It is excellent for gaming at 1080p resolution with high settings and has 24 MB of cache. Moreover, it efficiently handles multitasking for productivity tasks like document editing, web browsing, and even light video editing.
- 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700HX Processor: The 16-core (8 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores) processor with 24 threads offers a significant performance boost. Upgrading to this processor gives you high-resolution gaming (WQXGA). Also, it tackles demanding productivity tasks like video editing or running multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously. The i7 has 30 MB of cache.
- 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900HX Processor: This is a cutting-edge option with a whopping 24 cores (8 Performance-cores and 16 Efficient-cores) with 32 threads. It is ideal for professional gamers, streamers, or content creators. Moreover, this is best for those who want to handle heavy multitasking alongside high-end games and other workflows. Lastly, it comes with a 36 MB cache, which makes a slight difference in responsiveness for gaming and productivity tasks.
All of the processors mentioned above feature two core types of clock speeds. Firstly, it has P-cores or performance cores. Secondly, it has E-Cores or efficient cores. P-cores handle demanding tasks such as gaming and video editing. They reach impressive clock speeds of up to 5.4 GHz with Turbo Boost. On the other hand, the E-cores are designed for background tasks and web browsing. These cores run at lower speeds of 3.50 – 3.90 GHz to conserve battery life.
Choosing the Right Processor
The following is a breakdown of the process for choosing the suitable processor according to your needs.
- For gamers prioritizing 1080p gaming and basic productivity: The i5-13500HX delivers smooth gameplay and handles everyday tasks efficiently.
- For gamers seeking WQXGA gaming and balanced productivity: The i7-13700HX offers excellent performance in both gaming and productivity.
- For power users who demand the absolute best: The i9-13900HX caters to professional gamers, streamers, and content creators. It tackles demanding workflows alongside high-end gaming.
Graphics Card Options
The Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 offers three options from NVIDIA’s latest GeForce RTX 40 series graphics cards: RTX 4050, RTX 4060, and RTX 4070. The following is a breakdown of their performance for gaming and productivity:
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050: This entry-level option delivers excellent frame rates at 1080p resolution with good to high graphical settings in games. It is also suitable for basic creativity tasks such as photo and video editing.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060: This mid-range GPU provides a significant performance boost. It is ideal for smooth gameplay with high WQXGA resolution settings. It also achieves high frame rates in 1080p with maxed-out settings. Additionally, it carries out tasks like video editing and 3D rendering.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070: This high-end option performs smoothly at WQXGA resolution with maxed-out settings and ray tracing enabled (realistic lighting effects) in games. It also tackles demanding professional design applications such as 3D modeling and complex video editing workflows.
All the cards above come with 8GB of GDDR6 memory. This is ample for most modern games and allows for smooth performance in professional design applications.
Choosing the Right Graphics Card
The following is a breakdown of choosing the right graphics card according to your needs.
- Assess your needs: Consider the resolution you plan to game at, the graphical settings you desire, and the types of productivity tasks you’ll handle.
- Focusing on 1080p gaming and basic productivity: The RTX 4050 offers a good balance.
- Prioritizing WQXGA gaming and balanced creative work: The RTX 4060 is a strong choice
Features of the Legion Pro 5i
The Legion Pro 5i is packed with impressive features suitable for gamers and professionals alike. The following is a breakdown of the features, along with the options available, if any.
Display
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i comes with two different display options. You can opt for the one that best suits your needs. The following are the specs of the two display options available:
- Display Option 1: 16.0″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600), IPS, Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, 100%sRGB, 300 nits, 165Hz, Narrow Bezel, Low Blue Light
- Display Option 2: 16.0″ WQXGA (2560 x 1600), IPS, Anti-Glare, Non-Touch, HDR 400, 100%sRGB, 500 nits, 240Hz
- Size and Resolution: It features a spacious 16-inch display with a WQXGA resolution (2560 x 1600 pixels). This provides ample screen real estate for detailed visuals and multitasking.
- Panel Technology: The Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 utilizes an IPS (In-Plane Switching) panel. IPS panels are recognised for their wide viewing angles, ensuring vibrant colors and clear visuals from almost any position or angle.
- Refresh Rate: A high refresh rate is crucial for smooth gameplay. The Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 offers two display options – 165Hz and 240Hz. The 165Hz refresh rate delivers smooth visuals for most games, especially fast-paced titles. At the same time, the 240Hz refresh rate provides exceptional smoothness and responsiveness. This is ideal for competitive esports gamers who demand the ultimate edge.
- Anti-Glare: It has a matte screen coating that reduces reflections and glare, improving visibility in bright environments.
- High Color Accuracy: This laptop targets 100% sRGB for high color accuracy and realistic and vibrant visuals.
- Narrow Bezel Design: The thin bezels around the display maximize the screen real estate and minimize distractions.
Choosing Between the Displays
- The refresh rate for competitive gaming: Go for the 240Hz option for the ultimate smoothness and responsiveness.
- Brightness for outdoor use: Choose the 500 nits display for better visibility in bright environments.
- Focus on value and well-rounded performance: The 165Hz option offers a good balance between features and price.
Design
The Lenovo Legion Pro has a design that is both eco-conscious and functional for gamers.
- Eco-Friendly: The Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 utilizes 30% post-consumer content on its top cover. This doesn’t affect its sleek and modern design aesthetic; it is also eco-friendly, making it a win-win situation.
- Onyx Grey Color: The single color option is Onyx Grey, offering a sophisticated and timeless look that complements the powerful hardware within.
- Portability: Despite the high-performance components, the Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 maintains a relatively thin profile. Its height ranges from 21.9mm to 26.75mm (0.86″-1.05″), making it surprisingly portable for a gaming laptop. This allows you to take your gaming power on the go with more ease.
- Spacious and Comfortable: The 16.3-inch display is well-supported by a comfortable base measuring 363.4mm x 260.35mm (14.3″ x 10.25″). This provides enough space for your hands and wrists during extended gaming sessions or multitasking.
- Strategic Ventilation: The prominent ventilation grilles on the chassis, on the bottom and back, facilitate efficient heat dissipation during intense gaming sessions.
- Full-Sized Backlit Keyboard: The Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 comes with a full-sized RGB TrueStrike keyboard. This is best for comfortable gaming and everyday use. Also, the 1.5mm key travel offers a satisfying tactile response and good typing accuracy. 100% anti-ghosting ensures all your keypresses register correctly during intense gaming sessions. Moreover, the keyboard features swappable keycaps and Legion Spectrum RGB software support, allowing for customization.
Cooling System
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 has a cutting-edge cooling system called Legion ColdFront 5.0. This system ensures optimal thermal performance during even the most intense gaming sessions. The following is a breakdown of its key features:
- AI Augmentation: Legion ColdFront 5.0 leverages artificial intelligence to dynamically adjust cooling based on system demands. This ensures the system isn’t over-cooled during less demanding tasks while efficiently ramping up when the graphics card and processor are under heavy load.
- Phase Change Thermal Compounds: These advanced materials absorb and dissipate heat more effectively than traditional thermal pastes. This keeps your critical components cooler.
- Fan System with 3D Fan Blades: A next-generation fan design that incorporates 3D fan blades. 3D fan blades improve airflow and heat dissipation compared to traditional fan designs.
- Massive Hybrid Heat Pipe Intake and Exhaust Systems: Large heat pipes efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU and GPU, and the exhaust system effectively vents that hot air out of the chassis. This dual approach ensures efficient heat removal to keep your system cool.
- 200W Total Power Support: The Legion ColdFront 5.0 system is designed to handle the heat generated by the laptop’s powerful 200W total power output. This allows you to explore the full potential of the processor and graphics card without thermal throttling.
Battery Life
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 offers a balance between decent battery life and powerful performance for a gaming laptop. The following is a breakdown of what to expect:
- 80 Wh Battery Capacity: This is a good capacity for a gaming laptop, but it won’t offer all-day unplugged use under heavy loads such as gaming.
- Usage Time: The usage time varies depending on tasks. Less demanding tasks such as web browsing or using productivity applications should provide several hours of unplugged use. However, the battery life may be shorter during intense gaming sessions where the powerful hardware draws more power.
- Fast Charging: The Super Rapid Charge technology allows you to charge from 0% to 80% in 30 minutes. Moreover, it completes a full charge from 0% to 100% in 60 minutes.
Connectivity Options
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 offers comprehensive connectivity options to accommodate various peripherals and external devices. The following is a breakdown of the ports and their functionalities:
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
- USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
- Headphone/Mic Combo Jack
- USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
- Webcam E-shutter Switch
- USB-C 3.2 Gen 2
- 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
- HDMI 2.1
- Ethernet (RJ45)
- Wi-Fi 6E
- Bluetooth 5.1
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Legion 5 Pro and 5i?
The processor is the main difference between the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro and Legion 5i. The Legion 5 Pro model usually features AMD Ryzen processors, which are often stronger in multi-core performance. It is better for tasks such as Video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking. Meanwhile, the Legion 5i comes equipped with Intel Core processors, often stronger in single-core performance. It is better for gaming and has high frame rates.
Is Lenovo Legion 5i Pro a gaming laptop?
Yes, it is. The Lenovo Legion 5i Pro combines powerful hardware, high refresh rate display, and gaming-focused features, making it a well-suited option for gamers.
In the Final Analysis
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 is a strong contender for gaming laptops. It has a powerful combination of 13th Gen Intel processors and NVIDIA RTX 40-series graphics, making it adept at handling demanding games and creative workloads. Therefore, with a blend of performance, portability, sustainable elements, and a feature-rich design, the Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 8 is an excellent option for gamers and creative professionals.