Lenovo is pushing the compact tablet segment harder with the Legion Tab 5, an 8.8-inch device that aims squarely at premium gaming users. At a price of $699, or around Rp11.4 million, it pairs that positioning with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 hardware.
The combination immediately makes it stand out among small tablets. While many compact models still play it safe, Lenovo is offering a 165Hz display, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of internal storage in a package that remains relatively affordable for its class.
Built for demanding games
Lenovo equips the Legion Tab 5 with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 12GB of RAM. The tablet also includes 256GB of storage, with microSD expansion available up to 2TB.
It runs Android 16 with Lenovo’s own interface, which is described as free of bloatware. In gaming tests such as Fortnite on Epic settings and Call of Duty Mobile at maximum graphics, the device is said to hold frame rates steadily without signs of throttling.
Lenovo also adds a dedicated Game Mode. The feature monitors CPU, GPU, and device temperatures in real time so players can track performance conditions while gaming.
A compact display with high-end speed
The Legion Tab 5 uses an 8.8-inch LCD panel. Although it is not OLED, the display offers 3K resolution, a 16:10 aspect ratio, a 165Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of up to 800 nits.
That combination makes visuals appear sharper and more fluid for both games and video playback. The aspect ratio also helps reduce black bars when viewing vertical or horizontal content.
Dual USB-C ports set it apart
One of the tablet’s most unusual features is its connectivity layout. Lenovo includes two USB-C ports, one at the bottom and another on the side of the body.
This setup adds flexibility when gaming while charging. The second port can also be used for accessories such as wired headphones, dongles, or display output to an external monitor.
Audio, accessories, and a few trade-offs
Lenovo says the Legion Tab 5’s speakers are among the loudest in the tablet segment, with strong bass adding to the experience for watching and gaming. The retail package is also generous, including a protective case and a magnetic folio stand inside the box.
Still, the bundled stand is reported to feel a little fragile for heavy use, while the stylus is sold separately. For security, Lenovo does not include a fingerprint sensor, so the tablet relies on Face Unlock and a traditional PIN instead.
Compact body, large battery
Despite its gaming focus, the Legion Tab 5 remains portable at just 360 grams. It also carries a 9,000 mAh battery, reinforcing its appeal as a compact tablet with serious performance ambitions.
With its mix of a small form factor, Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, 165Hz display, and Rp11 million-class pricing, the Legion Tab 5 enters 2026 as one of the most aggressive compact gaming tablets in its segment.
