Lenovo's Legion Go S: The First Third-Party SteamOS Handheld
Lenovo has unveiled the Legion Go S, a significant handheld gaming PC marking the first third-party device to ship with Valve's SteamOS. This move expands SteamOS beyond its original home on the Steam Deck.
The Legion Go S, launching in May 2025 for $499, offers a compelling alternative to Windows-based handhelds. Unlike competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+, which utilize Windows, the Legion Go S leverages SteamOS's optimized Linux-based system for a smoother, more console-like experience. This has been a key advantage for the Steam Deck.
Valve's strategy to broaden SteamOS compatibility has been underway for some time, culminating in this partnership with Lenovo. Initially leaked, the announcement at CES 2025 confirmed the Legion Go S's SteamOS variant alongside a Windows 11 version. The Legion Go S offers a more compact and lightweight design compared to its predecessor, the Lenovo Legion Go.
Lenovo Legion Go S Specifications:
SteamOS Version:
- Operating System: Valve's Linux-based SteamOS
- Launch Date: May 2025
- Price: $499
- Configuration: 16GB RAM / 512GB storage
Windows 11 Version:
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Launch Date: January 2025
- Price: $599 (16GB RAM / 1TB storage), $729 (32GB RAM / 1TB storage)
Valve assures full feature parity between the SteamOS Legion Go S and the Steam Deck, ensuring identical software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). The Windows version provides an option for users preferring a familiar operating system. While the flagship Legion Go 2 currently lacks a SteamOS option, this could change depending on the Legion Go S's market reception.
Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive license for a SteamOS device. However, Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds in the coming months suggests broader accessibility for users of devices like the Asus ROG Ally.
