Lenovo Legion Go S Review: Power Meets Portability Challenges in Handheld Gaming

Lenovo’s latest attempt at a PC-like gaming handheld—the Legion Go S—has ignited a lively debate among gaming enthusiasts. On one hand, its impressive power and design speak to the future of portable PC gaming, while on the other, the inherently clunky Windows experience for handheld devices reminds us why a simpler, purpose-built console like the Nintendo Switch (and soon, Switch 2) remains so compelling.

A Closer Look at the Hardware​

At first glance, the Legion Go S boasts specs that would put many current handhelds to shame. It comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage (expandable via microSD), all housed in a sturdy package weighing in at 730g (1.6 lbs). The 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate promises smooth visuals and crisp gaming action. Although the design might not win a beauty pageant for portability, its bigger form factor translates into enhanced ergonomics—a factor that many gamers will appreciate when playing extended sessions.
Here’s a quick rundown of key features:

• 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD with 120Hz
• AMD Ryzen Z2 Go for robust performance
• Verified upgrade path with 32GB RAM and 1TB storage
• Windows 11 Home (customized with Legion Space) or the forthcoming SteamOS variant
• 55.5WHr battery paired with 65W charging

This hardware clearly aims to deliver a high-end desktop-like experience in your hands. For instance, in gameplay tests on titles like “Another Crab’s Treasure,” the device maintained smooth frame rates (90-120fps on medium settings), which is a significant improvement over older, less powerful handhelds like the original Steam Deck. The processing muscle stands out as a major plus for PC gaming on the go.
Key takeaways:

• The Legion Go S excels in performance, making modern PC titles playable even on the road.
• Its larger footprint and ergonomic design are trade-offs designed to boost gaming comfort, even though they affect portability.

Windows on a Handheld: A Double-Edged Sword​

Despite the formidable hardware, one glaring issue casts a long shadow over the Legion Go S: the software experience. Running Windows 11 Home on a handheld device was, in many ways, like trying to force a square peg into a round hole. The experience becomes noticeably cumbersome right from the lock screen. Entering a PIN to unlock the device feels out of place for a machine meant for on-the-go gaming. Once inside, you’re greeted with a full desktop environment that isn’t exactly optimized for controller navigation.
Take a moment to reflect: When was the last time you enjoyed scrolling through a traditional Windows desktop on a handheld device? The tiny touchpad—designed for mouse controls—accentuates this mismatch by being overly small and unwieldy in a gaming context. Although the Windows variant does come with access to platforms like Epic Games and Xbox Game Pass, the overall experience is nothing short of clunky. In contrast, many hardcore gamers believe that a dedicated gaming OS (for example, SteamOS) might resolve these issues, offering a more streamlined interface optimized for controller-based interaction.
In summary:

• Windows 11’s interface, while familiar, is not well-suited for handheld gaming.
• The lock screen and desktop environment disrupt the streamlined gaming experience that portable devices demand.
• There’s a strong argument for shifting to a custom OS (like SteamOS) which could harness the hardware's full potential.

Portability Versus Power: The Tug-of-War in Design​

The Legion Go S truly shines when it comes to raw performance, yet its larger form factor poses a challenge for portability. While the robust design enhances gaming comfort—the increased display size and ergonomic layout easily win points with gamers—the added dimensions detract from true portability. During a recent transatlantic trip, one reviewer found that the device wouldn’t fit in a standard backpack, forcing a transition to a duffel bag. This inconvenience could be a dealbreaker for those who value a pocket-sized, ready-to-play solution.
Points to ponder:

• The larger display and added weight enhance gaming immersion but are detrimental if you need a device that slips into a backpack with ease.
• A design that prioritizes a desktop-like experience in your hands might not always align with on-the-move portability needs.
• The physical size difference compared to devices like the Nintendo Switch marks a significant user-experience distinction.

Battery Life and Charging Woes​

The hardware prowess of the Legion Go S extends into power management—on paper, at least. With a 55.5WHr battery and 65W charging support, the device promises decent battery life. In actual gameplay, it comfortably lasts through several hours of intensive play. However, a notable downside emerges: charger compatibility. Many third-party chargers fail to deliver consistent power, leaving users reliant on the supplied adapter. For travelers or gamers without immediate access to the specific charger, this can be more than a minor inconvenience—it’s a critical flaw in the intended seamless experience.
Quick facts:

• Battery performance is strong, outlasting older competitors like the Steam Deck.
• Charging issues demand users either invest in the specific adapter or accept potential interruptions.
• Consistent power delivery remains essential for uninterrupted gaming on long trips.

Cooling, Controls, and the Overall Build Quality​

Standout features in the Legion Go S include its excellent cooling performance and thoughtful control layout. The device incorporates Hall Effect joysticks that offer remarkable precision, tactile buttons in optimal locations, and triggers that feel both responsive and adaptable. Lenovo even introduced a slider to switch between full press and “tap” modes—ideal for tailoring the experience to the game or even tweaking ergonomics for travel. Remarkably, the cooling system manages to keep the device running efficiently without the racket commonly associated with the likes of the Steam Deck. This is a major step forward for handheld design, where overheating and noisy fans have frequently marred the portable gaming experience.
User highlights:

• The controls, including joysticks and triggers, are well-calibrated and highly responsive.
• The innovative slider for trigger adjustment is a thoughtful addition for varied gaming requirements.
• The cooling system operates quietly, ensuring minimal disruption in different environments—be it on a quiet flight or at home.

The Price Tag and Market Positioning​

In the fiercely competitive handheld market, price is always a defining factor. The Legion Go S is available at approximately $729.99 (for the Windows model) through direct channels and select retailers. For gamers who can tolerate the quirks of the Windows interface—or who might eventually opt for the SteamOS variant—the price may seem justified given the hardware encountered. Interestingly, the SteamOS model launches “soon” at a lower price point starting at $549.99, which might prove to be a more attractive option for those prioritizing a refined gaming experience over raw performance potential.
Key points:

• The Windows model sits at a premium price that reflects the high-end hardware specifications.
• The SteamOS variant, when released, could capture a larger audience due to its potentially superior software experience and lower price.
• The pricing strategy positions Lenovo as a serious contender in the PC handheld market, despite the inherent software challenges.

Why the Nintendo Switch 2 Remains a Strong Contender​

Despite the Legion Go S's strengths, the allure of the Nintendo ecosystem is hard to ignore. Nintendo’s design philosophy for handheld gaming revolves around simplicity and ease of use—attributes that are glaringly absent in Windows-based devices. The Nintendo Switch has proven that a streamlined platform with a clear focus on gaming can provide a seamless, enjoyable experience without the distractions and complexities of a full-fledged desktop environment. With the Switch 2 on the horizon, many gamers are drawn to the promise of a compact, kid-friendly yet deeply engaging system engineered from the ground up for portable play.
Consider the following:

• The Switch 2 is rumored to feature substantial hardware upgrades while maintaining Nintendo’s signature ease of use.
• Its intuitive interface—directly optimized for controller-based interaction—eliminates the hurdles posed by a desktop operating system.
• Game development for the Switch typically centers around the device’s unique form factor, ensuring that every title “just works” out of the box, unlike the more generalized PC gaming ecosystem.

Broader Implications for Windows Gaming Handhelds​

The mixed experience offered by the Legion Go S speaks to a broader challenge for Windows as a platform for handheld gaming. While Microsoft has introduced numerous Windows 11 updates aimed at improving the overall experience on various devices, these updates often come with bug fixes and minor tweaks rather than a radical overhaul necessary for handheld optimization. Coupled with the weight of legacy software and a desktop-first approach, Windows continues to lag behind in this specific niche.
From a cybersecurity and system management perspective, running Windows on a handheld device poses additional considerations. Users must remain vigilant about Microsoft security patches and cybersecurity advisories, especially when accessing public networks or using non-standard chargers. The need for rigorous updates and maintenance adds another layer of complexity for a device that should be as plug-and-play as possible.
Points to note:

• Windows 11 updates and Microsoft security patches improve system security but can complicate the otherwise smooth gaming workflow.
• The desktop-centric design of Windows 11—optimized primarily for laptops and desktops—does not fully translate to the small, portable form factor of a gaming handheld.
• The tighter integration and streamlined updates seen in dedicated consoles like Nintendo’s may offer a glimpse of what could be improved within the Windows ecosystem.

The Future: A Call for Evolution in Handheld Gaming​

In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion Go S is a fascinating glimpse into the future of portable PC gaming. With hardware that pushes the envelope in terms of speed, graphics, and overall performance, it’s clear that the power is there to deliver next-generation gaming on the move. However, the software experience—hampered by an unoptimized version of Windows—serves as a reminder that raw power alone cannot guarantee user satisfaction. For many, the promise of a SteamOS-based variant, or even a refined version of Windows tailored for handheld use, might just bridge that gap.
Looking ahead, the market faces an intriguing crossroads:

• Developers and manufacturers must work together to redefine the software experience for handheld devices.
• Companies like Lenovo have a responsibility to either customize their OS further or partner with alternatives (such as SteamOS) to provide a truly portable and intuitive gaming platform.
• The challenge remains for Microsoft to consider how Windows can adapt to niches beyond the traditional laptop/desktop space, perhaps learning lessons from the successes of the Nintendo Switch lineup.

For now, the excitement around the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is palpable, fueled by its reputation for delivering a flawless portable gaming experience. Meanwhile, the Legion Go S stands as a testament to how far mobile PC gaming has come—and how much further it must go to meet the expectations of modern gamers.
Key takeaways:

• Performance and ergonomics are strong suits for the Legion Go S, marking significant progress for Windows-based handhelds.
• The shortcomings of Windows 11 in this form factor highlight the need for a specialized, streamlined operating system.
• Future improvements could come from hardware-software synergy, ensuring that both power and user experience meet the high standards demanded by today’s gamers.

The ongoing dialogue between PC gaming handhelds and dedicated consoles like the Nintendo Switch underlines a broader industry trend: the push for innovation in mobile gaming. As discussions about Windows 11 updates and Microsoft security patches continue to evolve, there’s hope that a more refined operating system for handhelds might emerge. Until then, discerning gamers are left weighing the merits of raw performance against the simplicity and reliability of established gaming ecosystems.
Ultimately, whether you lean towards the high-performing but complex Legion Go S or the ever-appealing Nintendo Switch 2, it’s an exciting era for portable gaming—a space where innovation continues to challenge traditional boundaries and redefine what’s possible in the palm of your hand.

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Source: 9to5Toys Tested: Lenovo Legion Go S with Windows just reminds me why I want Nintendo Switch 2