Lenovo Legion Tab 3 Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Gamers and Content Lovers

The Lenovo Legion Tab 3, unveiled at CES, has finally landed in our hands — and it’s not your typical Android tablet. While the market is dominated by large-screen devices, Lenovo has decided to shake things up with an 8.8-inch gaming-focused tablet packed with premium specs. Let’s dive into why this tablet is generating so much excitement.

A Surprising Contender in the Tablet Space

In a world where Android tablets are often overlooked, the Legion Tab 3 stands out. Many of us fondly remember compact devices like the Nexus 7, which were perfect for content consumption without feeling like you’re carrying around a TV. The Legion Tab 3 taps into that nostalgia, but with a modern twist — powerful hardware, a premium display, and gaming-specific features.

While phones like the Pixel 9a are shrinking in size, they’re still not great for immersive gaming or long Netflix sessions. That’s where the Legion Tab 3 comes in. With its 8.8-inch Quad HD display, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and dual USB-C ports, it’s designed to deliver top-tier performance without the bulk of a full-sized tablet.

What’s Inside the Box?

Lenovo clearly wants you to hit the ground running. Along with the tablet, you get a stylish folio stand case, a screen protector kit (complete with microfiber cloth and dust removers), a USB-C cable, and a 68W fast charger. This level of included accessories is rare, and it shows Lenovo’s commitment to providing a premium experience right out of the box.

Premium Build and Gamer-Friendly Design

The tablet itself sports a sleek blacked-out design with an embossed Legion logo that’s subtle but striking. With two USB-C ports — one at the bottom and one on the side — you can charge the device while gaming without overheating, thanks to the tablet’s advanced cooling system.

On the back, you’ll find a 13MP camera and speaker grills housing the dual super-linear speakers, delivering powerful sound that’s surprisingly robust for a device of this size.

Display and Performance: Built for Action

The Legion Tab 3’s display is one of its standout features. You get:

• An 8.8-inch Quad HD display (2560 x 1600 resolution)

• 16:10 aspect ratio

• 165Hz refresh rate

• 98% DCI-P3 color gamut

• 500 nits of brightness (900 nits peak with HDR10)

This means buttery-smooth visuals, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles — perfect for everything from fast-paced gaming to high-res video streaming. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor paired with a massive battery ensures that you can push this tablet hard without worrying about lag or overheating.

Android 14 Experience

Running Android 14, the Legion Tab 3 offers a refined and responsive software experience. Unlike Chromebooks where the OS is consistent, Android tablets vary widely — and Lenovo has done a commendable job here. Expect smooth multitasking, intuitive settings, and plenty of room to customize your experience.

First Impressions

The Legion Tab 3 is clearly designed for gamers and media enthusiasts who want a portable device without compromises. From its high-end specs to thoughtful touches like the included case and screen protector, Lenovo is making a serious play in the compact tablet space.

While we’ll need to spend more time exploring all its features, the early signs are promising: an excellent display, strong audio, powerful internals, and a premium build. Whether you’re gaming, watching content, or just browsing, the Legion Tab 3 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Android tablets of the year.