The latest generation of gaming laptops often prioritizes expensive, top-tier configurations. The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 (2023) takes a different approach. While still a high-performance machine that outpaces most competitors, its exceptional build quality and reasonable price make it a compelling next-gen gaming upgrade. The RTX 4070 laptop GPU is the highlight, delivering impressive performance at native resolution and boasting next-gen features like DLSS 3. Although the processor isn’t as groundbreaking, the Legion Pro 5’s overall package makes it an easy recommendation for gamers.
Lenovo Legion Pro 5 (2023) Specifications
Lenovo Legion Pro 5 with the MaagX website.Image: Lenovo Legion Pro 5 showcased on MaagX.
Lenovo offers several Legion Pro 5 Gen 8 models, primarily featuring the Nvidia RTX 4070. This places it firmly in the midrange category, but Lenovo still equips it with premium features. The model reviewed here boasts 1TB of SSD storage and 32GB of DDR5 memory.
| Feature | Lenovo Legion Pro 5 (2023) |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 0.86 x 14.3 x 10.25 inches |
| Weight | 5.51 pounds |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 7745HX |
| Graphics | Nvidia RTX 4070 Laptop GPU |
| RAM | 32GB DDR5-5200 |
| Display | 16-inch 2560×1600 IPS, 165Hz |
| Storage | 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD |
| Touch | N/A |
| Ports | 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (2x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x 140W Power Delivery), 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x Ethernet |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Webcam | 1080p with E-Shutter |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Battery | 80 watt-hour |
| Price (Reviewed) | $1,600 |
Compared to the higher-end Legion Pro 7i, the Pro 5 offers less powerful CPU and GPU specifications, but retains other premium features like Wi-Fi 6E, a comprehensive port selection, ample storage, and a 1080p webcam. Impressively, the Pro 5 is also lighter than the 7i, despite having the same dimensions. More affordable configurations are available with a Ryzen 5 7645HX, an RTX 4050, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage, starting at $1,280. An Intel-based Legion Pro 5i is also available at a similar price point.
Understated Design and Premium Build
The lid on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: The subtle yet stylish lid of the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.
The Legion Pro 5 Gen 8 refines Lenovo’s already-impressive design language. Instead of flashy gaming aesthetics, the Pro 5 opts for a sleek, understated look. The smooth aluminum finish, rounded corners, and subtle branding create a premium feel without screaming “gaming laptop.” This might not appeal to everyone, but for those who prefer a more subtle design, the Pro 5 is a winner.
The Lenovo badge on the Legion Pro 5.Image: Close-up of the Lenovo badge on the Legion Pro 5.
The build quality is excellent, with minimal flex in the hinge and a sturdy keyboard deck. At 5.5 pounds, it’s heavier than some competitors, but this is a reasonable trade-off for the larger 16-inch screen and robust cooling solution. The included 300-watt power brick adds to the overall weight, but a smaller USB-C charger can be used for lighter tasks. Lenovo’s Legion ColdFront 5.0 cooling system, featuring a large fin array and dual fans, effectively keeps temperatures in check, even under heavy load.
Excellent Port Selection
Ports on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: The comprehensive port selection on the rear of the Legion Pro 5.
The Legion Pro 5 strategically places most of its ports on the back, including power, USB-A, Ethernet, HDMI 2.1, and a USB-C port with 140W power delivery. This keeps cables neatly tucked away and frees up space on the sides. Additional USB-A and USB-C ports are located on the sides for convenient access. The port selection is comprehensive and well-placed.
A Functional, if Not Exceptional, Display
Cyberpunk 2077 on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: Cyberpunk 2077 gameplay on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.
The Legion Pro 5’s display is the area where Lenovo made the most compromises. It’s a standard IPS panel with a 165Hz refresh rate, G-Sync and FreeSync support, and good color accuracy. However, it lacks the high brightness and HDR capabilities of more premium displays. While perfectly adequate for gaming, it’s not a standout feature.
Keyboard: Optimized for Gaming
Keyboard on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: The Lenovo TrueStrike keyboard on the Legion Pro 5.
The Legion Pro 5 features Lenovo’s TrueStrike keyboard with per-key RGB lighting and a numpad. While responsive and comfortable for gaming, the relatively low key travel might not be ideal for extended typing sessions. The offset layout to accommodate the number pad can also take some getting used to.
Performance: Ryzen 7 and RTX 4070 Deliver
The Ryzen 7 7745HX, while powerful, falls short of flagship CPUs in both multi-core and single-core performance.
lenovo legion pro 5 2023 review cinebench multiImage: Cinebench multi-core performance results.
lenovo legion pro 5 2023 review geekbench multiImage: Geekbench multi-core performance results.
lenovo legion pro 5 2023 review geekbench singleImage: Geekbench single-core performance results.
lenovo legion pro 5 2023 review cinebench singleImage: Cinebench single-core performance results.
Handbrake performance for the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: Handbrake encoding performance.
Lenovo Legion Pro 5 performance in PCMark 10.Image: PCMark 10 overall performance scores.
The RTX 4070, however, shines, delivering excellent gaming performance at 1600p.
3DMark performance for the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: 3DMark benchmark results.
1660p gaming performance on the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: Gaming performance at 1600p resolution.
1200p gaming performance for the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro.Image: Gaming performance at 1200p resolution.
While ray tracing performance is limited without DLSS 3, the feature significantly boosts frame rates in supported titles.
ray tracing performance for the Lenovo Legion Pro 5.Image: Ray tracing performance with and without DLSS 3.
Conclusion: A Compelling Next-Gen Gaming Option
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 (2023) strikes an excellent balance between performance, build quality, and price. While the display isn’t exceptional and the system is somewhat heavy, the powerful RTX 4070, robust build, and reasonable price make it a compelling option for gamers seeking a next-gen upgrade.
