Lenovo introduced the Legion Go S at CES 2025 in Las Vegas – a new handheld gaming device that uses Valve’s SteamOS. This device offers gamers more flexibility and options for cloud-based gaming, with native support for Steam games. The market for handheld gaming is growing quickly, and many different devices are available. This one stands out for both its power, performance, and game library.
Besides gaming, these handheld PCs can also be used for work, web browsing, or watching videos. Their versatility is a major advantage. As technology improves, these devices will likely become more powerful and useful.
Lenovo Legion Go S: A New Contender in Handheld Gaming
What is the Lenovo Legion Go S?
Lenovo is set to release a new handheld gaming device: the Legion Go S. It aims to be a lighter, more portable version of the original Legion Go. A key feature is the option for Valve’s SteamOS. This would make it the first major non-Valve device to use this operating system. This is big news for fans of PC gaming on the go.
Key Features and Specs
The Legion Go S focuses on portability. Unlike the original Legion Go with its detachable controllers, the ‘S’ model features a more traditional, fixed controller design, similar to the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally. This makes it easier to carry. While full specs aren’t public yet, it’s likely to use a powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 processor. It will also have a quality display for good visuals.
SteamOS: A Game Changer
The option for SteamOS is very interesting. SteamOS is designed for gaming and works well with the Steam platform. This means a smooth gaming experience. It gives users access to their existing Steam game library. This is a big advantage over other handhelds that use Windows or other operating systems.
Comparison with Other Handhelds
The handheld gaming market is getting crowded. Here’s how the Legion Go S might compare to other devices:
| Device | Operating System | Estimated Price | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenovo Legion Go S | SteamOS (Optional) | $499.99 (Expected) | Lightweight design, SteamOS option |
| Steam Deck | SteamOS | $399 – $649 | Established SteamOS device |
| ASUS ROG Ally | Windows 11 | $699.99 | Powerful hardware, Windows versatility |
Pros and Cons of SteamOS
SteamOS has some clear benefits:
Pros
- Optimized for gaming
- Easy access to Steam library
- User-friendly interface
Cons
- Limited to Steam games (mostly)
- Less versatile than Windows for non-gaming tasks
Release Date and Price
The Legion Go S is expected to launch in May 2025. The starting price is expected to be $499.99. This puts it in direct competition with other handhelds on the market.
Who is the Legion Go S For?
The Legion Go S is for gamers who want a portable PC gaming experience. If you use Steam a lot and want a device that works well with it, the Legion Go S with SteamOS could be a good choice. If you need a device for other tasks besides gaming, a Windows-based handheld like the ROG Ally might be better.
Other Handhelds on the Market
There are other handheld gaming PCs available. The Ayaneo and GPD Win devices are examples of these. They often run Windows and offer powerful hardware in a small package. These devices cater to a niche market that wants the full PC experience on the go. They often cost more than mainstream options like the Steam Deck or the upcoming Legion Go S. They also often have shorter battery life and less support than larger companies.
Short Summary:
- Introduction of the Lenovo Legion Go S, the first handheld powered by SteamOS.
- Features an 8-inch display, AMD Ryzen processors, and robust gaming capabilities.
- Sets a new standard in portable gaming with a focus on user experience and performance.
Lenovo has officially launched the Lenovo Legion Go S at CES 2025, capturing the attention of gamers and industry critics alike. This handheld console represents a strategic partnership with Valve, as it becomes the world’s first officially licensed handheld gaming device to be powered by SteamOS, the proprietary operating system designed specifically for gaming. This leap into handheld gaming comes as Lenovo expands its Legion ecosystem, emphasizing a commitment to providing versatile, innovative gaming devices that cater to varied gamer needs.
“Lenovo’s vision for gaming is to deliver the most powerful and innovative technology, empowering gamers to play their way at their best,” stated Jun Ouyang, Lenovo’s Senior Vice President and GM for the Consumer Segment, Intelligent Devices Group. “With groundbreaking devices like the Legion Go S, we’re redefining what gaming experiences can be.” Lenovo aims not just to provide superior hardware, but to integrate software-driven solutions that enable gamers, especially those pursuing STEM education, to excel both in and out of the gaming world.
Exploring the Features of the Lenovo Legion Go S
The Lenovo Legion Go S features an impressive 8-inch WUXGA touch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. This high-resolution screen ensures that gamers experience fluid graphics and enhanced gameplay. The handheld is powered by either the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor or the exclusive AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, catering to a range of performance needs while maintaining a lightweight design at just 1.61 lbs (730g).
The device also supports variable refresh rate (VRR) technology, which synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame rate to reduce tearing and stuttering. Furthermore, the Legion Go S boasts dual USB4 ports, a microSD card reader, and Wi-Fi 6E capabilities, allowing players to adapt their device for both home and mobile gaming experiences. The handheld also includes customizable back paddles and adjustable triggers that enhance gameplay precision.
SteamOS Integration: A Game-Changer
The partnership with Valve is one of the most exciting aspects of the Legion Go S. Valve CEO Gabe Newell has commented on this collaboration, stating,
“The compatibility work we are doing to support the Lenovo Legion Go S will improve our SteamOS on non-Steam Deck devices, making our ecosystem even more accessible to gamers.”
The integration of SteamOS enables features like seamless cloud saves and remote play, allowing users to transition between PC gaming and handheld gaming effortlessly.
Having direct access to the extensive Steam library opens the door for gamers to enjoy thousands of titles right at their fingertips. The SteamOS experience promises optimized performance, tailored to the unique demands of handheld gaming. In particular, the developers have focused on the user interface and cloud capabilities that appeal to modern gamers.
Comparative Analysis of Legion Go S and Competitors
The Legion Go S enters a competitive market currently dominated by devices like the Steam Deck and ASUS’s ROG Ally. While Lenovo has borrowed some design elements and controls from the Steam Deck, the Legion Go S distinguishes itself with updated hardware specifications, such as an 8-inch OLED display and the latest AMD processors. Unlike its competitors, the Legion Go S offers two distinct configurations: one running Windows 11 and the other the SteamOS version, allowing gamers to choose the operating system that best meets their needs.
This choice is crucial because many gamers have reported frustrations with Windows 11 on handheld devices, primarily due to inefficiencies in performance and battery use. In contrast, reviews suggest that SteamOS significantly optimizes both metrics. Given that the Legion Go S’s pricing starts at $499.99 for SteamOS, it provides a compelling option compared to the higher-priced Windows variant at $729.99.
Enhancements Across the Lenovo Legion Ecosystem
Beyond the handheld itself, Lenovo is refreshing its entire Legion lineup, including new iterations of its laptops and monitors. The Legion Pro series features redesigned models like the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i and Legion Pro 5i, equipped with advanced cooling technology and customizable RGB lighting. These laptops are tailored for high-performing competitive gamers, providing cutting-edge specifications that enable seamless performance in demanding game environments.
Lenovo has also introduced the Legion Space, a unified software platform that integrates all device settings within their ecosystem, including game libraries and RGB lighting controls. This software is designed to give users a streamlined experience across their devices and enhance personalization.
Availability and Pricing Details
As for the release schedule, the Legion Go S will be available starting in May 2025, with its SteamOS configuration retailing for $499.99. The Windows 11 variant will launch earlier in January 2025, priced at $729.99. The Legion Pro series laptops are also expected to hit the market, with the Pro 7i starting at $2,399.
This ambitious launch plan illustrates Lenovo’s intent to not only capture the handheld gaming market but to enhance the overall gaming experience across its Legion product lines.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Gaming with Lenovo
As Lenovo positions itself within the rapidly evolving gaming landscape, the introduction of the Legion Go S marks a pivotal moment in the shift toward gaming-focused handhelds backed by robust and innovative operating systems. By collaborating with Valve, Lenovo not only reinforces its commitment to gamers but also challenges the norms of traditional PC gaming that have long been dominated by Windows. As the industry evolves, Lenovo is poised to lead the charge, continually redefining how and where gamers can play.
With all these advancements, it is clear that Lenovo is committed to empowering the next generation of gaming enthusiasts. Thanks to the Legion Go S and the wider Legion family of devices, the concept of gaming ‘on-the-go’ is set to reach new heights in 2025 and beyond.
