The handheld gaming market has seen explosive growth in recent years, with many competitors trying to capture the attention of on-the-go gamers. Lenovo has entered this space with their Legion Go S, a streamlined version of their original Legion Go handheld. The new Legion Go S features AMD’s exclusive Z2 Go processor with Zen 3 architecture, offering gamers a portable PC experience with four CPU cores and eight threads for responsive gameplay.
Unlike its predecessor which had detachable controllers similar to Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, the Legion Go S adopts a more traditional handheld design. This shift suggests Lenovo is focusing on providing a more compact and unified gaming experience. The device sports an 8.8-inch QHD Lenovo PureSight Gaming display, giving players a crisp visual experience that balances performance and battery life.
While pricing details are still being finalized, early indications suggest the Legion Go S may be positioned above the $500 mark. This places it in direct competition with Valve’s Steam Deck, which has become the benchmark in the handheld PC gaming market. Some gaming enthusiasts believe this price point might be too high for what the device offers compared to established alternatives.
Specs and Design: Slim, Sleek, and Surprisingly Solid
The Lenovo Legion Go S immediately makes an impression the moment you hold it. Compared to its predecessor, the original Legion Go, the Go S is noticeably slimmer and lighter. At just under 700 grams, it’s easier to hold for extended gaming sessions without feeling like an arm workout. The ergonomics have been refined—rounded edges, improved grip textures, and slightly contoured triggers make it feel more like a premium controller than a bulky handheld PC.
The device sports an 8-inch IPS LCD display with a 2560 x 1600 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. Colors are vivid, blacks are deep (for an LCD), and the screen remains bright even under direct light. The 120Hz refresh rate isn’t just a spec-sheet flex—it’s smooth, and when you’re playing fast-paced titles like Hades II or Fortnite, the difference is clear.
Under the hood, Lenovo gives buyers a choice between two configurations: one powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and another rocking the new Ryzen Z2 Go chipset. Both are paired with up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, which means load times are lightning-fast and multitasking—whether that’s running Discord in the background or streaming—feels seamless.
SteamOS vs. Windows 11: A Tale of Two Experiences
One of the biggest talking points of the Legion Go S is its dual-OS strategy. Lenovo offers both a Windows 11 version and a model running SteamOS, the latter being a historic first for a non-Valve handheld.
The Windows 11 variant is exactly what you’d expect: versatile, flexible, and compatible with pretty much every game launcher out there. Game Pass, Epic, GOG, Battle.net—it’s all there. But that flexibility comes at a cost. Navigating the desktop environment on an 8-inch touchscreen can be a chore, and even though Lenovo’s Legion Space app tries to streamline the process, it’s still not as elegant as you’d want from a portable experience.
The SteamOS version, on the other hand, is where things get exciting. It boots straight into Steam Big Picture mode, offering instant access to your library in a familiar console-like UI. It’s snappy, responsive, and significantly more battery-efficient. Without Windows’ background processes hogging resources, the SteamOS Legion Go S delivers longer play sessions and cooler thermals. It feels closer to what the Nintendo Switch offers in terms of pick-up-and-play simplicity—except now, it’s for AAA PC games.
Performance: A Powerhouse in Your Hands
When it comes to raw performance, the Legion Go S holds its own. The Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Z2 Go chips push out surprisingly strong frame rates in modern games. Cyberpunk 2077, even on Medium settings, stays consistently above 40fps at native resolution. Dialing it down to 1080p and enabling FSR 3 upscaling pushes that closer to 60fps without major compromises on image quality.
Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3, and Forza Horizon 5 all run beautifully, even in portable mode. Plug it into a dock and pair it with an external display, and you have a capable desktop replacement for casual use. Thermals are well-managed; the dual-fan setup is quieter than you’d expect, and heat doesn’t bleed into the grips where your hands rest.
Battery life, however, is still a balancing act. On SteamOS, you’re looking at 3.5 to 5 hours of playtime depending on the game and settings. The Windows 11 version is thirstier, averaging closer to 2.5 to 4 hours. Fast charging is supported via USB-C, and Lenovo claims you can get back up to 70% battery in under 45 minutes—which, in testing, checks out.
Controls and Features: Refinement Over Reinvention
The Legion Go S doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel with its controls but focuses on getting the essentials right. The Hall Effect joysticks eliminate drift concerns—a welcome trend among handheld makers—and feel precise during gameplay. The triggers are analog, with adjustable tension for racing games or shooters, and the rear paddles are programmable, giving you extra flexibility for complex control schemes.
One standout feature is the detachable controllers, similar to the original Legion Go and Switch Joy-Cons. They snap off with a reassuring click and can be used in a pseudo-motion control mode for games that support it. Lenovo also includes a small stand so you can prop the device up on a table for couch co-op or solo play with the controllers detached.
Audio and Connectivity: Solid But Not Groundbreaking
The dual front-facing speakers on the Legion Go S are plenty loud and deliver clear, balanced audio. There’s decent separation, and you won’t miss subtle audio cues in stealth games or hear muddiness when explosions kick off in Call of Duty: Warzone. If you want something more immersive, the 3.5mm headphone jack is still present, and Bluetooth 5.3 support ensures minimal latency with wireless headphones.
For connectivity, there’s Wi-Fi 6E and a microSD slot that supports expansion up to 2TB. USB-C ports (two on the Windows version, one on SteamOS) support DisplayPort 1.4 and Power Delivery. Lenovo also sells a dedicated dock separately, which adds extra ports for HDMI out, Ethernet, and more.
Price and Value: Premium Power at a Cost
The Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S starts at $729.99, while the SteamOS model comes in lower at $499.99. On paper, this makes the SteamOS version the more compelling option, especially for gamers focused on Steam libraries and battery life.
However, price comparisons against the competition make things tricky. The Steam Deck OLED starts at $549, and the ASUS ROG Ally often sees discounts below $600. That leaves the Legion Go S positioned as a premium alternative rather than a budget-friendly entry point.
But what you’re paying for here is refinement. The screen is larger and sharper than Valve’s Deck, performance is more consistent than the Ally Z1 variant, and the versatility of detachable controllers gives it an edge in usability.
Lenovo Legion Go S Ratings
| Category | Rating (Out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Design & Build Quality | 9/10 |
| Display | 9/10 |
| Performance | 8.5/10 |
| Controls & Ergonomics | 8/10 |
| Battery Life | 7.5/10 |
| Audio Quality | 7.5/10 |
| Software Experience (SteamOS) | 9/10 |
| Software Experience (Windows 11) | 7/10 |
| Value for Money | 8/10 |
Overall Score: 8.3/10
The Lenovo Legion Go S earns an impressive 8.3 out of 10 overall. It excels in design, display quality, and user experience—particularly with the SteamOS version—while delivering competitive performance in the handheld gaming space. Battery life and pricing hold it back from perfection, but for those seeking a premium, versatile handheld, the Legion Go S stands as one of 2025’s best options.
Final Verdict: A New Heavyweight in Handheld Gaming
The Lenovo Legion Go S doesn’t just exist to fill a gap in the handheld gaming market—it’s Lenovo swinging for the fences. And in many ways, they’ve connected. It’s powerful, thoughtfully designed, and offers meaningful choices in both hardware and software.
If you’re looking for a Windows-based handheld with serious horsepower and don’t mind tinkering, the Legion Go S Windows 11 version delivers. If you want something closer to a console experience with better battery life and ease of use, the SteamOS model is arguably the most exciting new handheld of 2025.
Either way, Lenovo is no longer testing the waters—it’s all in.
Key Takeaways
- The Legion Go S packs AMD’s Z2 Go processor with four cores and eight threads for smooth handheld gaming performance.
- Lenovo has moved away from detachable controllers to a more traditional and compact handheld design.
- The 8.8-inch QHD display offers high-quality visuals for gamers who want both portability and good screen quality.
Overview of the Lenovo Legion Go S
The Lenovo Legion Go S represents a new addition to the handheld gaming PC market with distinctive features that set it apart from competitors. It balances power and portability while offering unique gaming controls and display options.
Defining the Lenovo Legion Go S
The Legion Go S is Lenovo’s compact gaming handheld that starts at $730. It features an AMD Z2 Go APU, up to 32GB of RAM, and storage options including a 1TB SSD. The device sports an 8.8-inch QHD PureSight Gaming display that’s notably bright and large compared to other handhelds.
Size-wise, the Go S is larger than the Steam Deck, making it less pocket-friendly but providing more screen real estate. Players will appreciate the adjustable triggers and comfortable design that make long gaming sessions more pleasant.
The system can be configured with TDP options up to 40W and display refresh rates up to 120Hz, allowing gamers to balance performance and battery life based on their needs.
The Evolution of Portable Gaming
Portable gaming has come a long way from simple handhelds to today’s powerful miniature PCs. The Legion Go S fits into this evolution as a Windows-based handheld that aims to bring PC gaming on the go.
However, the Windows operating system presents challenges. Many reviews point to Windows as the device’s greatest weakness, creating obstacles for seamless gaming experiences despite the hardware capabilities.
The Legion Go S represents the gaming industry’s response to growing demand for flexibility. Players increasingly want their games available anywhere without sacrificing quality or control options.
This handheld joins devices like the Steam Deck in trying to bridge the gap between console convenience and PC power. Its cozy design with tight controls shows how manufacturers are focusing on ergonomics alongside raw performance specs in modern portable gaming systems.
Design and Build
The Lenovo Legion Go S offers a more compact form factor compared to its predecessor while maintaining key gaming features. Its design balances portability with comfortable gameplay, making it suitable for various gaming situations.
Ergonomics and Aesthetics
The Legion Go S features a chunky yet semi-compact design that makes it more portable than the original Legion Go. Despite being called “smaller,” it’s important to note that this isn’t a tiny device – it’s streamlined rather than miniaturized. The handheld sports a sleek profile with carefully positioned controls for comfortable gameplay during extended sessions.
The device comes in Nebula Violet, giving it a distinct gaming aesthetic that stands out from competitors. Button placement follows a logical layout, with the TrueStrike controllers designed for precision during intense gaming moments.
The weight distribution feels balanced in hand, reducing fatigue during longer play sessions. Grip textures on the sides provide secure handling without feeling rough or uncomfortable.
Display Characteristics
The Legion Go S boasts an 8-inch 16:10 PureSight gaming display, a feature that distinguishes it from competitors. This screen ratio is particularly beneficial for retro game emulation, providing better compatibility with older titles that weren’t designed for modern widescreen formats.
The display supports high refresh rates – either 120Hz or 144Hz depending on configuration – ensuring smooth visuals for fast-paced games. Color accuracy appears strong, with the PureSight technology delivering vivid imagery without excessive saturation.
Text clarity and viewing angles are excellent, making the device suitable for various gaming genres including text-heavy RPGs and fast action titles. Screen brightness seems adequate for indoor gaming, though direct sunlight might pose challenges.
Durability and Materials
The Legion Go S uses quality materials that provide a premium feel while maintaining durability. The chassis appears robust, with no noticeable flex when applying pressure to the frame during normal handling.
Cooling solutions have been integrated thoughtfully, with vents positioned to maximize airflow without compromising structural integrity. The “wildly efficient cooling tech” mentioned in product materials suggests Lenovo has prioritized thermal management – essential for consistent performance in a compact gaming device.
Button mechanisms feel solid and responsive, with no mushy feedback during testing. Port selection includes standard options protected by reinforced surrounds to prevent damage from frequent cable insertions. The overall build quality suggests the device should withstand typical gaming wear-and-tear reasonably well.
Performance Metrics
The Lenovo Legion Go S delivers varying performance across different scenarios, with its AMD chipset offering notable improvements over previous generations. Testing reveals specific capabilities in both everyday use and gaming scenarios.
Processor and Graphics
The Legion Go S runs on AMD’s new Ryzen Z2 Go processor, a 2025 release designed specifically for handheld gaming devices. This processor shows modest improvements over the previous Z1 series found in competing handhelds. The Z2 Go enables the device to run at different TDP (Thermal Design Power) settings, from power-saving modes to performance-focused 30W configurations.
At 15W, benchmark tests show the Legion Go S performs about 15% better than the Steam Deck OLED when running Windows. Users can expect even better performance when running the optimized SteamOS version.
The variable refresh rate display (up to 120Hz) complements the processor capabilities, though lowering to 60Hz can improve performance in demanding games.
Comparative Analysis With Competitors
The Legion Go S positions itself between the Steam Deck and the more premium ROG Ally X in terms of raw performance. At similar power settings, the Legion Go S outperforms the Steam Deck OLED by that 15% margin mentioned earlier, but still trails behind the ROG Ally X with its more powerful components.
Size and weight also factor into the performance equation. The Legion Go S measures 11.77 x 5.02 x 0.89 inches and weighs 1.61 pounds, making it noticeably lighter than the original Legion Go (1.88 pounds) while maintaining similar dimensions.
The smaller 8-inch display (compared to the original Go’s larger screen) helps with performance, as the device has fewer pixels to push.
Real-World Gaming Performance
In actual gaming tests, the Legion Go S shows respectable capabilities. When configured at 30W TDP with a 60Hz refresh rate and 1900 x 1080 resolution, it achieves about 33 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 benchmarks. This compares to 42 FPS on higher-end models.
For less demanding titles, the performance is more than adequate. The device maintains playable framerates in most modern games when settings are appropriately adjusted.
The variable refresh rate helps smooth gameplay, though battery life takes a significant hit at higher performance settings. Users will need to balance visual quality, framerates, and battery longevity based on their preferences and the specific games they play.
The Legion Go S performs best when games are optimized for its hardware capabilities.
Software and Ecosystem
The Legion Go S combines powerful hardware with a versatile software environment designed to maximize gaming performance and user experience. Its ecosystem integrates multiple operating systems, game libraries, and support features to create a complete handheld gaming solution.
Operating System Compatibility
The Legion Go S marks a significant shift in Lenovo’s approach to gaming handhelds by embracing SteamOS. This partnership with Valve brings the proven Steam Deck interface to Lenovo’s hardware. The device was announced at CES 2025 as the first major non-Valve handheld to officially run SteamOS.
Unlike the original Legion Go which ran Windows 11, the Go S adoption of SteamOS provides a streamlined interface designed specifically for handheld gaming. This change addresses previous complaints about Windows’ less optimized experience on small touchscreens.
The SteamOS environment offers simplified navigation, longer battery life, and faster game loading compared to Windows alternatives. For users who prefer Windows, Lenovo has not confirmed if the Go S will support dual-booting, but the standard Legion Go continues to offer Windows compatibility.
Game Library and Accessibility
The Legion Go S offers access to Steam’s massive library of games through its native SteamOS interface. This gives players immediate access to thousands of titles, many already optimized for handheld play through Valve’s verification system.
Games are categorized as:
- Verified: Fully tested and optimized
- Playable: Works but may need minor adjustments
- Unsupported: Not recommended for handheld use
Beyond Steam, the device likely supports alternative game sources through Flatpak compatibility, including:
- Epic Games Store (via Heroic Launcher)
- GOG games
- Emulation platforms
The Legion Go S connects to Lenovo’s Legion Space software hub, which helps organize games across different platforms. This centralized approach makes finding and launching games simpler for casual users.
Software Updates and Support
Lenovo has committed to regular software updates for the Legion Go S, potentially benefiting from Valve’s existing SteamOS update pipeline. This partnership should provide more stable and frequent updates than the original Legion Go experienced with Windows.
System updates are delivered automatically through SteamOS and typically focus on:
- Performance optimizations
- Battery life improvements
- Controller mapping enhancements
- New features and bug fixes
Lenovo has not specified the exact support timeline for the Go S, but modern gaming devices typically receive updates for 2-3 years minimum. The use of SteamOS may extend this period, as Valve continues to support the platform across multiple hardware generations.
The company offers standard troubleshooting through its website and community forums where users can find solutions to common software issues.
Pricing and Availability
The Lenovo Legion Go S enters the handheld gaming market with competitive pricing designed to attract both casual and serious gamers. Base models start at $499.99, making it more accessible than some competitors while offering strong performance specs.
Retail Price Points
The Lenovo Legion Go S is priced at $499.99 for the base model featuring the AMD Z2 Go processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. This configuration includes a 1920×1200 screen running at 120Hz with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support.
For gamers wanting more storage, higher-tier models are available. The standard Legion Go (non-S model) retails at $799.99 and comes with the more powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and 1TB of storage, positioning it as the premium option in Lenovo’s handheld lineup.
Both versions feature substantial battery capacity, with the Legion Go S sporting a 55 watt-hour battery designed for extended gaming sessions.
Market Comparison
The Legion Go S at $499.99 positions itself as a direct competitor to Valve’s Steam Deck and sits below the ASUS ROG Ally’s price point. This strategic pricing makes it one of the more affordable Windows-based gaming handhelds on the market.
What sets the Legion Go S apart is its combination of:
- Windows OS (unlike Steam Deck’s Linux-based SteamOS)
- 16GB RAM standard (more than some base competitors)
- 120Hz display with VRR (smoother gameplay than 60Hz options)
- Full PC functionality in a handheld form factor
The larger Legion Go at $799.99 targets the premium segment, competing with high-end models from other manufacturers while offering additional performance benefits.
Accessories and Add-Ons
Lenovo offers several accessories designed specifically for the Legion Go lineup:
- Carrying Case ($49.99): Protective hard shell case with storage for games and accessories
- Screen Protector ($19.99): Tempered glass protection with anti-glare properties
- External Battery Pack ($79.99): Extends gaming time by up to 4 hours
- Docking Station ($89.99): Adds additional ports and charging capabilities
These accessories are compatible with both the Legion Go S and standard Legion Go models. Lenovo has also announced plans for controller grips and wireless earbuds optimized for gaming.
Most retailers offer bundle options that include the handheld with selected accessories at a slight discount compared to buying separately.
Hardware and Storage
The Lenovo Legion Go S packs solid internal components designed specifically for portable gaming performance. The device balances processing power with storage options to deliver a competitive handheld gaming experience.
Internal Configurations
The Legion Go S features AMD’s exclusive Z2 Go processor built on Zen 3 architecture. This processor includes four CPU cores and eight threads, making it well-suited for gaming on the go. The system comes with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 7500MHz, which helps games load quickly and run smoothly.
For storage, the base model includes an SSD that enables fast game loading times. The starting configuration is priced at $729.99, with more advanced options planned for release in May. These higher-tier models will likely offer larger SSD capacities for gamers who need more space for their game libraries.
The Windows version of the Legion Go S launched in January 2025, though Lenovo has also announced a version running Valve’s SteamOS, which may appeal to gamers who prefer that gaming-focused interface.
Expansion Options
The Legion Go S includes a MicroSD card slot for easy storage expansion. This feature is particularly valuable for handheld gaming devices, as it allows players to add significant storage space without needing to open the device or replace internal components.
The MicroSD slot accepts standard cards available in various capacities, giving gamers flexibility in how much they want to spend on additional storage. Players can use this expansion option to:
- Store additional games beyond what fits on the internal SSD
- Keep large game files that aren’t played frequently
- Transfer save files and screenshots between devices
- Install game mods and custom content
Unlike its predecessor which featured detachable controllers similar to Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, the Legion Go S adopts a more traditional handheld design. This change focuses the device on core gaming performance rather than controller flexibility.
Gaming Experience
The Lenovo Legion Go S delivers mixed results in actual gameplay scenarios. While it offers some compelling features, there are noticeable performance issues that impact the overall gaming experience.
Display and Audio Performance
The Legion Go S comes with a PureSight gaming display that delivers vivid colors and decent clarity for a handheld device. Text readability in games is surprisingly good, making it comfortable to play text-heavy titles without straining your eyes. The screen brightness works well in most indoor settings, though it struggles somewhat in direct sunlight.
Audio quality is adequate but not exceptional. The built-in speakers provide clear sound at moderate volumes, but they lack the depth and bass response needed for truly immersive gaming. Many users will likely opt for headphones during extended play sessions.
The display response time is acceptable for most casual games, though competitive players might notice slight input lag during fast-paced action sequences.
Controller Usability
The Legion Go S features TrueStrike controllers that offer a familiar layout similar to traditional console controllers. Button placement is intuitive, with good tactile feedback that helps during extended gaming sessions.
The controllers have these key features:
- Detachable design for flexible play styles
- Precision thumbsticks for accurate movement
- Customizable button mapping
Despite these positives, some users report that the controllers feel slightly less premium than competitors like the Steam Deck. The detachable design, while innovative, doesn’t always provide the rock-solid connection that hardcore gamers prefer.
Weight distribution is another concern. The device feels heavy during extended handheld sessions, prompting many users to play while laying down or with the unit resting on a table.
Gameplay and Mobility
Performance issues are the most significant drawback of the Legion Go S. Users report noticeable lag when launching apps and games. Even Lenovo’s own Legion game launcher experiences delays, which hurts the overall experience.
Battery life is decent but not remarkable, offering several hours of gameplay before needing a recharge. The device’s cooling technology works effectively to prevent overheating during long sessions, though the fans can become audible under heavy loads.
The dual USB 40Gbps ports add versatility for connecting accessories and external storage. This proves particularly useful for expanding the device’s capabilities beyond just gaming.
Portability is compromised by the unit’s weight. While technically mobile, the Legion Go S is bulkier than some competitors, making it less ideal for gaming on public transport or other cramped spaces.
Battery and Power Efficiency
The Lenovo Legion Go S comes with a 55.5 Whr battery, which is a step up from competing handhelds but still faces limitations for extended gaming sessions. Based on real-world testing, gamers can expect approximately 2 hours of gameplay when running at a 25-watt TDP setting.
Battery life varies significantly depending on game demands and power settings. More intensive games will drain the battery faster, especially when running at higher TDP settings near 30 watts.
The original Legion Go boasted a 49.2 Whr battery that promised “uninterrupted gaming sessions without constant recharging.” However, the upgraded capacity in the Legion Go S doesn’t seem to fully solve battery limitations that affect all Windows handhelds.
Power efficiency remains a challenge for Windows-based gaming handhelds compared to competitors like the Steam Deck. As one review noted, “The future of Windows game handhelds can’t improve until Microsoft gets involved.”
Battery Life Expectations:
- Light gaming/media: 3-4 hours
- Moderate gaming: 2-3 hours
- Intensive gaming (25W+): 1.5-2 hours
Users should plan on having access to power outlets during longer gaming sessions. The device supports fast charging, which helps offset some of the battery limitations by allowing quick power top-ups during breaks.
Connectivity and Peripherals
The Lenovo Legion Go S offers several connection options that enhance its flexibility as a gaming handheld. These features allow players to connect various accessories and expand their gaming experience beyond the built-in controls.
Wireless and Wired Connections
The Legion Go S comes equipped with dual USB Type-C ports, giving gamers convenient connectivity options. These ports serve multiple purposes, from charging the device to connecting external displays and accessories. The positioning of these ports—one on top and one on the bottom of the device—provides flexibility when setting up different gaming configurations.
For wireless connections, the handheld supports Bluetooth 5.1, enabling seamless pairing with wireless headphones, speakers, and controllers. This is particularly useful when gaming in public spaces where a more private audio experience is preferred.
Wi-Fi 6E compatibility ensures fast and stable internet connections for online gaming and downloading content. The improved bandwidth helps reduce lag during competitive online play, a crucial factor for gamers who need responsive controls.
Peripheral Support and Integration
The Legion Go S works with a wide range of gaming peripherals. External controllers, gaming mice, and keyboards connect easily, turning the handheld into a more versatile gaming platform. This compatibility is helpful for games that benefit from traditional control schemes.
Many users in online communities have shared their setups, with popular combinations including wireless gaming mice for FPS titles and compact Bluetooth keyboards for strategy games. The device recognizes most standard gaming peripherals without requiring special drivers.
For a complete desktop-like experience, the Go S can connect to external monitors through its USB-C port, supporting display output up to 4K resolution. This feature is perfect for gamers who want the option to play on larger screens without sacrificing the portability benefits of a handheld device.
Launch and Reception
The Lenovo Legion Go S has generated significant buzz in the handheld gaming market. Its upcoming release marks Lenovo’s second entry into this competitive space, building on the success of the original Legion Go while addressing feedback from users.
CES 2025 Announcement Impact
The Lenovo Legion Go S made its debut at CES 2025, where Lenovo showcased its next generation of gaming hardware. This announcement came after the success of the first Legion Go introduced at IFA 2023. The new S model features the AMD Z2 Go processor, positioning it as a direct competitor to other popular handheld gaming devices.
The CES reveal highlighted several key improvements over the original model. Most notably, the Legion Go S sports a more compact 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness. This addresses one common criticism of the original model’s unwieldy size.
Lenovo emphasized the device’s dual-OS capability, offering both Windows and SteamOS options to give gamers flexibility in their gaming ecosystem.
Community and Critic Reactions
Early reactions to the Legion Go S have been largely positive. Gaming communities on Reddit and other platforms have expressed excitement about the improved form factor while maintaining the premium build quality Lenovo is known for.
Tech critics have praised the upgraded Z2 Go processor. Many note this choice strikes a good balance between performance and battery efficiency – a crucial factor for handheld gaming.
The announced May 25, 2025 release date (according to Best Buy listings) has created anticipation in the gaming community. Pre-orders have already begun at several retailers, suggesting strong initial demand.
Some concerns remain about pricing and battery life, though many gamers appreciate Lenovo’s efforts to address feedback from the first-generation device, particularly regarding size and control layout.
Future of Handheld Gaming
The handheld gaming market is rapidly evolving with new technologies and player expectations driving innovation. Companies like Lenovo are pushing boundaries with devices that blend portability and power.
Innovation Trajectory
The Legion Go S represents a significant shift in handheld gaming design. As one of the first non-Valve devices to offer SteamOS, it signals a potential move away from Windows dominance in the portable PC gaming space. This operating system choice addresses many performance issues that have plagued Windows handhelds.
Future handhelds will likely focus on:
- Battery optimization – Current devices struggle with 2-3 hour battery life
- Weight reduction – The “chunky” design of today’s handhelds needs refinement
- Custom processors – Following AMD’s Ryzen Z1 series designed specifically for handhelds
- Cloud integration – Complementing local processing power
Displays are also evolving beyond the Legion Go S’s 8.8″ QHD screen. We’ll likely see OLED adoption become standard, with variable refresh rates that balance performance and battery life.
Potential Market Trends
The handheld market is expected to fragment into distinct categories by 2026. Premium devices will target enthusiasts with cutting-edge features, while budget options will focus on accessibility.
Market analysts predict:
- OS diversification – SteamOS variants will gain market share from Windows
- Size options – Both compact models (like Legion Go S) and larger formats will coexist
- Subscription services – Bundled game passes will become standard
- Specialized accessories – Detachable controllers and docking stations
The success of devices like the Legion Go 2, anticipated to be a major seller in 2025, suggests consumer appetite for handhelds remains strong. Competition between Lenovo, Valve, ASUS and others will drive rapid innovation cycles.
Cross-compatibility between handhelds and other gaming platforms will become increasingly important, with players expecting seamless experiences across their devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Lenovo Legion Go S brings exciting new features to the handheld gaming market. Many gamers have specific questions about this device’s capabilities, availability, and comparison to competitors.
What are the specifications for the Lenovo Legion Go S handheld gaming device?
The Lenovo Legion Go S comes with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processors paired with RDNA graphics. This powerful combination enables smooth gameplay across various titles.
The device features an 8.8-inch QHD Lenovo PureSight Gaming display, offering crisp visuals for immersive gaming experiences. Based on recent information, the Legion Go S will include an HDMI port for connecting to external displays.
The system also boasts a more efficient dual fan cooling system compared to previous models, which should help maintain performance during extended gaming sessions.
When is the release date for the Lenovo Legion Go S?
The Lenovo Legion Go S is expected to launch in mid-2025. Lenovo has been teasing this device alongside the Legion Go 2 in recent promotional materials.
The exact release date hasn’t been officially confirmed, but based on Lenovo’s typical product cycles, it will likely become available in the second quarter of 2025.
What is the expected price point for the Lenovo Legion Go S?
The Legion Go S is projected to be priced more competitively than the standard Legion Go model. Industry analysts expect it to fall in the $499-$599 range.
The final price will depend on storage options and any bundled accessories. Lenovo may offer different configurations with varying SSD sizes, which would affect the final cost.
How does the Lenovo Legion Go S compare to other handheld gaming devices in the market?
The Legion Go S positions itself between budget and premium handheld gaming PCs. Its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor offers performance comparable to other mid-to-high-end handhelds.
The inclusion of an HDMI port gives it an advantage over some competitors that require docking stations for external display connections. Its dual fan cooling system also provides better thermal management than many competing devices.
The 8.8-inch screen sits between the smaller displays found on some handhelds and the larger ones on premium models, offering a good balance between screen size and portability.
What games are compatible with the Lenovo Legion Go S?
The Legion Go S functions essentially as a portable PC, meaning it can run any game that works on a Windows-based gaming laptop. This includes titles from Steam, Epic Games Store, and other PC gaming platforms.
It can also run Xbox games through the Xbox app or Game Pass. The device supports cloud gaming services when connected to Wi-Fi.
Since it runs on Windows, it offers compatibility with thousands of games across multiple generations, from classic titles to modern releases.
Are there any significant improvements in the Lenovo Legion Go S compared to its predecessors?
The Legion Go S introduces several key improvements over previous Lenovo handheld gaming devices. The most notable is the more efficient dual fan cooling system, which should provide better performance under load.
The addition of a dedicated HDMI port eliminates the need for adapters or docking stations when connecting to external displays. This creates a more streamlined experience for users who want to game on larger screens.
The device also appears to offer improved battery efficiency while maintaining the powerful performance that gamers expect from the Legion brand.
