Lenovo just refreshed its most powerful gaming laptop, but a CPU boost can't justify a $2,000 markup

The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i has always been an absolute unit of a machine, so it makes sense for the brand to pump as much power as it can into this 16-inch chassis. The mid-2026 refresh that hit the shelves this week only makes a minor change to its specs under the hood. Rather than the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX that previously headlined the best gaming laptops on the market, the 2026 iteration has opted for an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus. For the hefty MSRP of $5,478.99 (currently $4,463.99 at L