Introduction
The Lenovo Legion Go S has made significant waves in the handheld gaming PC market, especially after its native SteamOS launch. When the Legion Go initially debuted running Windows, it offered solid ergonomics, excellent inputs, and a vibrant 120Hz full HD display, but its AMD Ryzen performance left some gamers underwhelmed relative to the price. However, the arrival of the SteamOS variant quickly changed perspectives. As one of the first devices after the Steam Deck to ship with Valve’s tailored operating system, the Legion Go S opens new possibilities in performance and user experience. This review explores how SteamOS transforms the Legion Go S into what might just be the definitive OS for handheld gaming devices.
Hardware and Design Overview
The SteamOS version of the Legion Go S upgrades the base hardware compared to the earlier Windows model, doubling both RAM and storage. This upgrade directly benefits the AMD Ryzen chipset under the hood, preparing the device for smoother and more robust gaming sessions. The device sports a striking dark purple finish, distinguishing it visually from the Windows variant.
The 8-inch 120Hz Full HD screen remains a standout feature, providing vibrant colors, solid contrast, and excellent outdoor usability. Lenovo’s mastery in ergonomics shines through, with a comfortable grip, quality materials, and well-thought-out inputs, including two USB4 Type-C ports and a microSD card slot for expanded storage. These essentials create a handheld that’s not just powerful but pleasing to hold and use during extended gaming sessions.
Performance Gains with SteamOS
Switching from Windows to SteamOS brings a substantial leap in gaming performance. Benchmarks such as Geekbench reveal marked improvements in CPU scores, indicating the lightweight and gaming-focused nature of SteamOS better utilizes the same hardware. Real-world gaming tests in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and GTA V showcase notable increases in frame rates—sometimes closing the gap with more powerful competitors like the Intel-based ROG Ally.
Additionally, SteamOS manages power more efficiently, delivering consistent performance whether on battery or plugged in—a level of predictability critical for handheld gaming. Games like Shadow of the Tomb Raider become almost playable at higher settings, illustrating how the optimized OS can unlock the full potential of the AMD Ryzen silicon.
User Experience: Windows vs. SteamOS
Preferences between Windows and SteamOS come down to individual priorities. SteamOS offers a streamlined, console-like interface ideal for gamers deeply invested in the Steam ecosystem or those seeking a fuss-free, plug-and-play experience without dealing with Windows updates or launcher compatibility issues. It delivers better performance in most games and a polished, handheld-first experience.
On the other hand, Windows appeals to users desiring maximum flexibility, supporting a broad range of game launchers beyond Steam. The Windows version of the Legion Go has seen aggressive price reductions, making it an attractive option for players focused on casual or less demanding games and valuing versatility over raw performance.
Battery Life and Practical Considerations
The SteamOS version generally matches or slightly exceeds the Windows variant in battery longevity on Wi-Fi tests, though during active gaming Windows can eke out marginally longer playtime. The trade-off is clear: optimized performance versus battery conservation depends on your gaming style. The Legion Go S’s fan noise under load and roughly 2.5 hours of gaming battery life remain considerations, especially for portable, on-the-go scenarios.
Conclusion
Lenovo’s Legion Go S SteamOS variant represents a strong evolution in handheld gaming, marrying excellent hardware design with an OS tailored for gaming. It clearly outperforms its Windows counterpart in CPU and gaming performance while delivering a sleek, user-friendly interface perfect for Steam enthusiasts. While Windows still holds value for flexibility and lower price points, the SteamOS Legion Go S stands out as the better overall package for most gamers seeking performance and simplicity in a handheld form factor.
Whether you prioritize a vibrant display, refined ergonomics, or native SteamOS integration, the Legion Go S offers a compelling choice. Its unique color and officially supported SteamOS make it arguably the best handheld gaming device for those wanting a dedicated gaming OS experience outside of the Steam Deck line. As handheld PC gaming continues to grow, the Legion Go S SteamOS is poised to set new standards in the category.
What do you think of the Legion Go S SteamOS versus Windows debate? Share your thoughts and preferences in the comments section below!
