Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) Review

Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) Review

By StackSutra Editorial 6 min read Updated research-based

Quick Answer

The Bottom Line: Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS)

The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is a high-value handheld gaming PC that delivers near-top-tier performance with double the battery life of its Windows predecessor, thanks to SteamOS efficiency. It features an 8-inch 120Hz VRR screen, hall-effect triggers, and dual USB 4.0 ports, making it ideal for gamers seeking a Steam Deck alternative with a bigger display. However, it is bulkier than 7-inch handhelds, has imperfect SteamOS compatibility for some titles, and a tiny trackpad that limits non-gaming use.

The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is a high-value, console-like handheld gaming PC that delivers near-top-tier performance with significantly better battery efficiency than its Windows predecessor, thanks to Valve’s Linux-based SteamOS. It features a large 8-inch 120Hz VRR screen, hall-effect triggers, and dual USB 4.0 connectivity, making it ideal for gamers seeking a Steam Deck alternative with a bigger display and stronger specs. However, it is bulkier than 7-inch handhelds, has imperfect SteamOS compatibility for some titles, and includes a tiny trackpad that limits non-gaming use.

What is the Lenovo Legion Go S?

The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is a dedicated handheld gaming PC that ships natively with SteamOS, marking the first non-Valve device to run Valve’s operating system. Positioned as a premium alternative to the Steam Deck, it targets gamers who want a console-like experience with PC gaming power, featuring an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (or Z2 Go in entry models) SoC, up to 32GB of RAM, and an expansive 8-inch 1920×1200 IPS LCD with 120Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rate (VRR) support. Unlike the original Legion Go, which ran Windows and suffered from overhead, the SteamOS version strips away the desktop layer to prioritize gameplay efficiency, delivering faster menus, measurable frame-rate uplifts, and up to double the battery life in real-world tests compared to the Windows variant.

What are its standout strengths?

The Legion Go S excels in three key areas that consistently earn praise from expert reviewers: performance efficiency, display quality, and hardware ergonomics.

Efficiency and Performance

The shift to SteamOS is the device’s defining strength, transforming it from a capable but unfocused handheld into a purpose-built gaming machine. Independent testing confirms that the SteamOS version delivers a modest but reliable frame-rate uplift (often 5–15%) and significantly improved battery life compared to the same hardware on Windows. In custom battery tests using Elden Ring, the SteamOS Legion Go S lasted more than double the time of the original Windows-based Legion Go. The Ryzen Z1 Extreme, paired with 32GB of RAM, churns out frames comparable to top-tier handhelds, while SteamOS’s quick suspend/resume functionality drops only ~2% battery overnight—a major improvement over the Windows model.

Display Quality

The 8-inch 1920×1200 IPS LCD is a standout feature, offering a larger, higher-resolution, and brighter screen than the Steam Deck’s 7-inch 720p display. Games that run at playable frame rates on the Steam Deck at 720p achieve similar performance at 1080p on the Legion Go S, with the 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support enhancing smoothness in fast-paced titles. The screen is described as “vibrant,” “sharp,” and “phenomenal to game on,” making it ideal for gamers who prioritize visual fidelity.

Hardware and Ergonomics

The device features hall-effect triggers and adjustable sticks, eliminating analog drift and providing precise control. Its rounded edges and ergonomic design make it comfortable to hold despite its 741g weight. Dual USB 4.0 Type-C ports on the top support power, data, and video output, enabling versatile connectivity for docks, monitors, and external storage. The chassis feels solid, with a “soft-feel” texture that enhances grip.

What are the main trade-offs?

While the Legion Go S is a strong contender, expert reviews highlight several trade-offs that buyers should consider.

Bulk and Weight

The device is noticeably thicker and heavier than 7-inch handhelds, weighing 741 grams. This bulk can make it less comfortable for extended use with smaller hands or for portability in tight cases. While the ergonomic design mitigates some discomfort, the weight is a clear drawback compared to lighter alternatives like the Steam Deck.

SteamOS Compatibility Limitations

Despite its efficiency, SteamOS compatibility is not perfect. Some Windows-only titles or games with anti-cheat software may not run smoothly, requiring manual configuration or remaining unplayable. While GeForce Now is supported for cloud gaming, local streaming of video content is inefficient, and the tiny trackpad limits non-gaming navigation, making it less versatile for media consumption or productivity tasks.

Trackpad and Media Limitations

The integrated trackpad is small and less responsive than those on the Steam Deck, reducing its utility for non-gaming interfaces. Video streaming performance is also suboptimal, with reviewers noting inefficiencies in playback and menu navigation outside of games. This makes the device primarily a gaming-focused tool rather than a general-purpose media handheld.

What are the key specifications?

Specification Value
Processor AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (or Z2 Go in entry model)
RAM 32GB (Z1 Extreme) / 16GB (Z2 Go)
Storage 1TB SSD (Z1 Extreme) / 512GB SSD (Z2 Go)
Display 8-inch 1920×1200 IPS LCD, 120Hz, VRR
Battery 55.5Wh
Weight 741 grams
Ports 2 USB 4.0 Type-C (top)
Operating System SteamOS (Linux-based)
Triggers Hall-effect adjustable triggers
Quick Charge 30% in 10 min, 70% in 30 min

Who should buy the Lenovo Legion Go S?

The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is ideal for gamers who want a console-like handheld with PC gaming power, particularly those who prioritize a larger, higher-resolution screen and stronger performance than the Steam Deck. It’s perfect for players who value efficiency, quick suspend/resume, and dual USB 4.0 connectivity for versatile use. The device is especially suited for those who play Steam-native titles and want a streamlined, boot-to-game experience without Windows overhead.

However, it is not ideal for gamers with smaller hands who prefer lightweight, compact devices, or for users who need robust media streaming, video playback, or productivity features. If you primarily play Windows-only games with anti-cheat software, or if you want a more portable, lighter handheld, the Steam Deck or a Windows-based alternative like the ASUS ROG Ally may be better choices. For those seeking the latest chip, the Z2 Go model offers a budget-friendly entry point, but the Z1 Extreme version delivers superior performance for demanding titles.

Sources

Alternatives Worth Considering

Steam Deck OLED Better value for portability

Steam Deck OLED

The Steam Deck OLED is lighter (672g), more compact, and offers superior battery life for less demanding titles, with a 7-inch OLED screen that delivers better contrast and color. It’s ideal for gamers who prioritize portability and a more immersive visual experience, though it has a smaller screen and slightly lower performance than the Legion Go S.

It is significantly lighter and more portable while offering a superior OLED display for better visual quality.

Battery: 40Wh (30% larger than Steam Deck LCD) Display: 7-inch 1280×800 OLED, 90Hz Weight: 672 grams Processor: AMD Custom APU (Zen 2 + RDNA 2)
Where to buy: Best Buy → Walmart →

Read our Steam Deck OLED review →

ASUS ROG Ally X For Windows-only gamers

ASUS ROG Ally X

The ASUS ROG Ally X runs Windows 11, offering full compatibility with all PC games, including those with anti-cheat software, and features a 7-inch 120Hz IPS screen with 1080p resolution. It has a more powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip and 24GB RAM, making it ideal for gamers who need broad game support and higher performance, though it lacks SteamOS efficiency and is heavier (790g).

It runs Windows 11, enabling full compatibility with all PC games including anti-cheat titles.

Battery: 80Wh Display: 7-inch 1920×1080 IPS, 120Hz Weight: 790 grams Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, 24GB RAM
Where to buy: Best Buy → Walmart →

Read our ASUS ROG Ally X review →

Lenovo Legion Go S (Z2 Go, SteamOS) Budget alternative

Lenovo Legion Go S (Z2 Go, SteamOS)

The entry-level Lenovo Legion Go S with Z2 Go and SteamOS offers the same 8-inch 120Hz screen and SteamOS efficiency at a lower price (~$599), making it ideal for budget-conscious gamers who don’t need the top-tier Z1 Extreme performance. It has 16GB RAM and 512GB storage, but slightly lower frame rates in demanding titles compared to the Z1 Extreme model.

It delivers the same SteamOS efficiency and large screen at a significantly lower price point.

Battery: 55.5Wh Display: 8-inch 1920×1200 IPS, 120Hz RAM: 16GB soldered Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Go
Where to buy: Best Buy → Walmart →

Editorial Verdict

The Verdict

The Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) is the best value high-end handheld gaming PC for gamers who want a console-like experience with PC power, featuring a larger screen and stronger specs than the Steam Deck. Its standout strength is SteamOS-driven efficiency, delivering measurable frame-rate uplifts and double the battery life of the Windows variant. The key trade-off is its bulk (741g) and limited compatibility for Windows-only titles, making it less ideal for users prioritizing portability or broad game support.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Most Steam-native games run well, but some Windows-only titles with anti-cheat software may not be compatible or require manual configuration. GeForce Now is supported for cloud gaming as an alternative.
  • Battery life varies by game and settings, but real-world tests show 2–2.5 hours for demanding titles like Elden Ring, and up to 3–12 hours for less intensive games. The SteamOS version lasts more than double the original Windows-based Legion Go.
  • The trackpad is small and less responsive than the Steam Deck’s, limiting its utility for non-gaming navigation. It’s primarily designed for gaming, and video streaming performance is inefficient.
  • Yes, the dual USB 4.0 Type-C ports support video output, allowing you to connect to external monitors, docks, or displays for a desktop-like experience.
  • No, the Legion Go S weighs 741 grams, which is heavier than the Steam Deck OLED (672g) and the original Steam Deck LCD (640g). It is bulkier but offers a larger screen and stronger performance.
  • The Z1 Extreme model has 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and superior performance for demanding titles, while the Z2 Go entry model has 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and slightly lower frame rates. Both run SteamOS and share the same 8-inch screen.