Lenovo continues to solidify its reputation as a reliable choice for gaming enthusiasts with the introduction of the Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10). This flagship model, while not vying for the title of sleekest or most luxurious laptop, has consistently delivered a commendable balance of performance, reliability, and features. With Intel and NVIDIA hardware aligning for the first time in years, Lenovo has seized the opportunity to refresh its flagship device, resulting in a significant upgrade.
What do I need to know about this laptop?
The new Lenovo Legion Pro 7i stands at the pinnacle of the Legion family, boasting the most powerful hardware available. It is equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) chipsets, specifically the Core Ultra 9 275HX, a formidable 24-core processor. This powerhouse is complemented by NVIDIA’s latest GeForce RTX 50-series GPUs, reaching up to the flagship RTX 5090, which features an impressive 24GB of VRAM. The laptop also supports upgradeable DDR5 RAM and ample SSD storage, with plans for a lightning-fast PCIe Gen5 option in the future.
Encased in a redesigned CNC-milled aluminum chassis, the Legion Pro 7i retains some familiar elements, such as the acclaimed TrueStrike keyboard. However, Lenovo has revamped the thermal shelf and venting to enhance airflow, resulting in a distinct silhouette. Upon lifting the metal lid, users are greeted with a remarkable upgrade: the previous IPS LCD has been replaced by a top-tier QHD+ OLED panel featuring a 240Hz refresh rate and a rapid 0.5ms response time. The configuration reviewed is available for ,599.99, positioning the Legion Pro 7i as a premium investment in the gaming laptop market.
Unboxing the brand-new Legion Pro 7i
The unboxing experience of the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i feels familiar, reminiscent of previous generations. While the packaging remains largely unchanged, it is straightforward and efficient, allowing users to dive straight into the experience. Inside, the box contains the laptop and a notably large charging adapter, which has increased from 330W to 400W, marking it as the most substantial adapter encountered thus far. This enhancement supports the laptop’s peak TDP of 250W, with the GPU capable of boosting up to 175W, promising significant performance gains.
What did Lenovo change with the new Legion Pro 7i?
Beyond the impressive hardware, the Legion Pro 7i has undergone several design changes. It is slightly larger in all dimensions—around 3% thicker, less than 1% wider, and approximately 5% longer—yet it feels more refined and substantial. The display now sits flush with the rear thermal shelf, contributing to a more polished appearance. Interestingly, despite the increased size, the new model is about 8% lighter than its predecessor, enhancing its portability without sacrificing performance.
Lenovo’s “Coldfront” thermal management solution has played a crucial role in these design updates, allowing for improved airflow through the system. However, this redesign has resulted in the removal of rear-mounted ports, which may be missed by some users. The laptop retains essential connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm audio, and USB Type-C, along with the addition of a Thunderbolt 4 port featuring DisplayPort 2.1 and 140W Power Delivery 3.0. The keyboard has also received a facelift, showcasing a cleaner font and an RGB-lit “Legion” logo, while RGB lighting now lines the rear ventilation, adding a touch of flair to the overall aesthetic.
Just how powerful is the latest Legion Pro 7i?
While a comprehensive performance review is forthcoming, initial gameplay tests reveal promising results. The new Legion Pro 7i, equipped with the Core Ultra 9 275HX and RTX 5080, outperforms its predecessor and competes closely with higher-priced models. In tests using Forza Horizon 5 and Gears 5 at maximum settings, the new Legion Pro 7i achieved 158 FPS and 134 FPS, respectively, showcasing a year-over-year improvement of 21% and 13%. These results position it as a formidable contender in the gaming laptop arena.
Should I buy the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i (Gen 10)?
Overall, the changes made to the Legion Pro 7i have been largely positive, enhancing both performance and aesthetics. The OLED display, improved thermals, and refined design contribute to a compelling package. However, the price point reflects the premium nature of the hardware, aligning it with the most expensive gaming laptops on the market. For those seeking peak performance with the latest Intel and NVIDIA technology, the Legion Pro 7i remains a top recommendation, albeit at a higher cost than previous generations. The initial configuration is available for purchase at Lenovo for ,599.99, making it a significant investment for serious gamers.
