For the past decade, I have been a dedicated Apple enthusiast, fully invested in the iPhone, MacBook, and iPad ecosystem. Yet, this allegiance has left me somewhat disconnected from advancements in Windows and Android. Experimenting with various technologies has expanded my viewpoint, leading me to value both iOS and Android. Recently, while assessing tablets for our guide, I encountered an Android tablet that challenged the belief that iPads reign supreme in the tablet market.
The Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3, mainly targeted at gamers, is striking even for those who don’t game, thanks to its impressive data-processing abilities in a compact design. Here’s why I keep the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 as a staple beyond the testing phase.
Compact yet powerful
The standout characteristic of the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 is its size. Prior to using e-readers, I lugged around a hefty iPad, which strained my wrist during extended reading periods. Measuring 0.31 inches by 8.21 inches by 5.1 inches with an 8.8-inch display, it’s just a bit larger than an iPad Mini.
Its small footprint makes it extremely portable. Weighing very little and easily fitting into a bag, it supports hours of enjoyable use. Equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform and operating on Android 15, its notable feature is 12GB of RAM, which is triple that found in budget tablets and on par with high-end devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra.
In the Geekbench 6 benchmark assessment, it achieved a score of 6674, outpacing the iPad 11th generation. Offering over 11 hours of battery life, it does fall slightly behind the latest M5 iPad Pro.
To sum up, the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 is a small device packed with sufficient power for entertainment while on the move.
Two ports beat one
After years of product testing for Mashable, only a few truly impress me. It’s often the minor details that make a product stand out. The Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 shines with two ports: one USB-C port on the longer side and another on the shorter side.
This arrangement, unusual among the tablets I’ve tested, allows for charging and usage from any direction or the simultaneous use of a controller while charging.
Ideal for entertainment on the move
I have a preference for smaller tablets, and the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3’s 8.8-inch display is just right. Its dimensions help avoid arm fatigue during prolonged reading sessions and fit perfectly on a kitchen counter or an airplane tray. Gamers will undoubtedly appreciate this Android gaming tablet for obvious reasons.
I discontinued using my iPad due to its cumbersome nature, but the compact design of the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 has made it my preferred travel tablet.
My sole complaint? The case
While I’ve commended the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3, its case is a drawback. It includes a case, which is uncommon among tablets, offering ventilation to prevent overheating. The front of the case features two magnetic hinges for versatility.
Nevertheless, the case feels flimsy and low-quality. Converting it into a stand is cumbersome, requiring multiple attempts despite prolonged usage.
As a lesser-known tablet, the availability of alternative cases from the brand is limited, but suitable options can be found on Amazon.
Why consider the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3?
If you are skeptical about the capabilities of Android in comparison to iOS, the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 will alter your perspective. With an impressive HDR10 display and 12GB of RAM, it’s perfect for gaming on the go. Even those who do not game will find it excellent for reading and streaming. Transitioning from iOS to Android may require some adjustment, but it’s manageable. This budget-friendly substitute for an iPad Mini persuaded me to look beyond iOS.