We had an opportunity to put on the new Lenovo Legion Glasses 2, which are smart glasses that can replace a large monitor for entertainment purposes. In the past couple of years, this type of smart glasses virtual display technology has matured to the point where it is becoming really usable and comfortable to use.
If you have not tried one of these, you can connect them via USB-C to your device (smartphone, PC, tablet, etc.). They only work IF your device supports video output via USB-C, so check the user manual. If that’s the case, you should see a clone image of your device in the glasses as if you were looking at a screen at least a couple of yards away.
It looks like you’re watching a large TV, and that’s essentially it! The use case is very straightforward. The glasses block light coming from the other side of the lens, so the image looks like it’s on a dark background. Lenovo has an extra cover for bright environments.
The resolution is 1080p (FHD), so it’s great for watching movies and streaming programs, but it won’t match the image quality of an actual TV, even at the exact FHD resolution. However, it’s close and certainly good enough to enjoy the content without distraction.
When in flight, this easily beats every display option you might have on a plane, including the Business Class screens that are commonly available. I use this kind of devices even at home when I just want to chill out outside watching a show.
What’s new with the Legion Glasses 2 compared to the first generation?
- The weight went down to 65g, from 96g. This is hugely important because the weight defines how comfortable they feel on your head and nose. This is noticeably lighter than some high-profile competitors that weigh 75g or so.
- The brightness goes to 800 NITs, although I don’t expect anyone to use this high brightness. I mostly use all of them at almost minimum brightness, especially in the dark.
- The design is slicker and looks more like standard Aviator-style glasses.
- The refresh rate went to 120Hz, from 60 Hz previously.
- It now uses DisplayPort 1.4, from 1.2 previously.
Overall, this is a good upgrade that keeps Lenovo competitive in an otherwise busy industry.
When you use these, your original monitor or screen will remain “ON,” so keep that in mind. Also, when using a phone or tablet, your mobile device’s battery will also power the glasses, leading to faster battery depletion, but in my experience, it’s worth it. If needed, I get around that by using wireless charging while the USB-C port connects to the glasses.
Filed in . Read more about CES 2025, Displays, Lenovo, Monitors and Smartglasses.