Lenovo Legion 7i (2026)

Configs to buy / avoid: Buy the RTX 5070 12GB config with the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus if it is only ~$50-100 more than last year’s 8GB model. The extra VRAM should help it age better, but don't get ripped off. Avoid paying a big premium over the 2025 Legion 7i unless you specifically want the 12GB GPU, refreshed 290HX CPU (barely any different vs 275HX), and small cooling/noise improvements. Testing notes: The Legion 7i delivered a full-powered 115W RTX 5070 with 12GB VRAM, a bright 500 nit OLED screen with sub-0.5ms response times, Advanced Optimus, G-Sync, strong 1440p gaming results, good battery life for an Intel HX laptop, lower fan noise than last year, and useful BIOS tuning options. Trade-offs: The main compromises were no Thunderbolt 5, mediocre Realtek Wi-Fi, speakers that are only alright, harder bottom panel removal, a slightly sharp front edge, and performance that is only a modest step up from last year in many games (when not hitting 8GB VRAM limits). Alternatives: We prefer ASUS's Zephyrus G16, but it also costs more too. It's available with higher tier RTX 5070 Ti and 5080 GPU options and a more premium build, but it has other compromises such as soldered RAM.