Lenovo Legion Go S vs. Legion Go 2: The Ultimate Handheld Gaming Showdown

The handheld gaming market continues to evolve, and Lenovo is making waves yet again. At CES 2025, the tech giant revealed two new contenders targeting seriously competitive gamers and those who love quality portable gaming: the Legion Go S and the prototype Legion Go 2. For those familiar with Lenovo’s gaming hardware, these devices expand the company’s lineup with elevated specs and new possibilities. But which one—on paper—takes the crown? Let’s break these gadgets out of their boxes (figuratively) and explore everything they bring to the table.

Key Details About the New Handhelds​

The main selling point for the Legion Go S is its immediate availability (as of January 2025). The Legion Go 2, on the other hand, remains in prototype limbo without a fixed launch date. Both handhelds promise their own unique advantages depending on your desired gaming experience, whether that’s having a portable powerhouse or a slimmer, ready-to-use device.

The Legion Go S Rundown​

The Legion Go S offers two base ecosystems:

• A Windows 11 model that effectively works like a portable PC, allowing full access to apps from Steam, Epic Games, Xbox Game Pass, and beyond.
• A SteamOS version, which uses the Linux-based operating system optimized for seamless navigation within Steam libraries. This creates an experience similar to Valve's Steam Deck.

The Legion Go S is launching with prices starting at:

• $499.99 for the SteamOS model.
• $599.99 and $729.99, depending on configurations, for the Windows 11 versions.

Key technical specs include:

• Display: 8-inch LCD touchscreen, WQXGA (1920x1200) resolution, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate with variable refresh rate (VRR) for smooth gameplay.
• Processor Options: AMD Ryzen Z2 Go or AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, depending on configurations.
• Memory & Storage: Up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB PCIe SSD (Gen 4) for lightning-fast performance.
• Battery: 55.5 Whr capacity.
• Weight: 740g (1.63 lbs), in a compact and slimmer design.
• Ports: Two Thunderbolt 4 ports, plus USB and audio input/output options.

Sneak Peek at the Legion Go 2 (Prototype)​

The Legion Go 2 prototype introduces some seriously upgraded specs:

• Display: A larger 8.8-inch OLED touchscreen with 144Hz refresh rate, higher resolution, and OLED’s signature true-black capability.
• Processor: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme with integrated RDNA 3.5 graphics for cutting-edge visual fidelity.
• Memory & Storage: Up to 32GB of ultra-fast LPDDR5X RAM (7500 MHz) and 2TB SSD.
• Controllers: Detachable controllers similar to the original Legion Go for versatile styles of play.
• Extra Features: A built-in kickstand and mouse-like FPS mode, catering specifically to FPS enthusiasts.

The Legion Go 2 isn’t just a performance beast—it’s arguably pushing into next-gen handheld territory with features like a more ergonomic design, customizable controls, and a larger battery (74 Whr) that provides improved endurance for resource-heavy games.

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Head-to-Head Comparison​

Here’s where the battle royale unfolds. Specs will tell you a lot about performance, design, and usability—but the value proposition is just as important for gamers looking to invest.	Category	Legion Go S	Legion Go 2 (Prototype)
Price	Starts at $499.99 (SteamOS) / $599.99+ (Windows 11). Affordable mid-gen refresh.	Unknown, but expect a premium cost due to advanced features like OLED, Z2 Extreme, and detachable controllers.
Display	8-inch LCD, WQXGA resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, VRR.	8.8-inch OLED, higher resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, VRR. Superior image quality for immersive gaming.
Performance	AMD Z2 Go or Z1 Extreme APU—solid but mid-range configuration for portable gaming.	AMD Z2 Extreme with RDNA 3.5: bleeding-edge power for intense workloads and futureproof gaming.
Battery Life	55.5 Whr battery, potentially more efficient given its smaller screen and slightly reduced power output.	74 Whr battery for the larger display; however, power consumption may offset the bigger capacity.
Portability	Slimmer and lighter at 740g, easy for long gaming sessions or casual use outside of your desk.	Heavier but offers more flexibility with detachable controllers and table-friendly kickstand.
Software Options	Windows 11 or SteamOS. Flexibility to run full-scale PC apps or lean into a streamlined Steam library experience.	Windows-based options are likely (no confirmation for SteamOS yet).
Controllers	Integrated controllers, trigger switches for enhanced tactile feedback.	Detachable controllers usable in FPS mode for mouse-like aiming dynamics.

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Breaking Down the Display Technologies​

The move to OLED with the Legion Go 2 is exciting. If you’ve ever experienced an OLED screen, you know what you’re getting: rich, vibrant colors, unmatched contrast, and "true black" pixels that turn off completely when not in use. Gamers playing dark atmospheric titles or vivid RPGs will adore the showcases OLED can provide. On the other hand, the LCD panel on the Legion Go S is no slouch, delivering crisp 120Hz gaming at a reduced cost.
OLED’s downside? Battery consumption. The 144Hz refresh rate promises amazing clarity but could drain the Legion Go 2 quicker than the LCD-equipped Go S. This means your choice may rely heavily on whether resolution trumps convenience in your gaming sessions.

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Controls: Battle of Versatility​

Where Lenovo truly flexes innovation is with the Legion Go 2’s detachable controllers. Borrowing notes from the Nintendo Switch playbook, the detachable right-side module doubles as a mouse-like input—perfect for first-person shooters. Add in a built-in kickstand, and the Go 2 transforms into a tabletop console.
In contrast, the Legion Go S sticks to the basics—a non-detachable setup that foregoes gaming flourishes like kickstands and modular joypads. This is perfect for gamers who prefer simplicity and portability without extra frills.

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Windows 11 vs. SteamOS: The Software Dilemma​

For those unfamiliar with these two operating systems, here’s a crash course:

• Windows 11: Think of this as a miniaturized gaming PC. You can install apps from a variety of platforms, run emulators, or perform general computing tasks on the fly.
• SteamOS: A Linux-based, plug-and-play solution for Steam games. While it’s user-friendly for gamers who live inside the Steam ecosystem, customization can be labor-intensive, with a steep learning curve for Linux novices.

The Legion Go S diversifies itself by offering both OS options, catering to PC tinkerers and casual gamers alike. Currently, there’s no word if the Legion Go 2 will also include a SteamOS model.

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Battery Life: Bigger Isn’t Always Better​

Battery life speculation pits the Legion Go S’s smaller 55.5 Whr battery against the Legion Go 2’s 74 Whr powerhouse. Here’s the catch—OLED panels are known battery chuggers. This could mean the Legion Go S, despite lesser capacity, could chew through more hours if used judiciously. Plus, AMD’s new Z2 Extreme chip boasts better energy efficiency, potentially leveling the playing field.

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Verdict: Which Should You Buy?​

Legion Go S: Best for Immediate Gaming​

If you’re looking for a straightforward purchase this year, the Legion Go S is the clear winner. Its price-to-performance ratio, combined with the choice between Windows 11 or SteamOS, makes it an excellent starting point for portable gaming enthusiasts.

Legion Go 2: Wait for the Future​

The Legion Go 2 edges out with pure specs and innovation. Detachable FPS controllers, OLED panels, and AMD’s best-in-class processor foreshadow a revolutionary handheld gaming experience—but patience is key as no release timeline or pricing is available.

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Still unsure? Hit the forums below! Are you Team Go S or holding out for the Go 2? Let’s discuss!

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Source: Windows Central Here's how the new Legion Go S compares to the original Legion Go gaming handheld

 

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It appears Lenovo is diving deeper into the handheld gaming market, and frankly, it’s about time they’ve upped the ante. Enter their latest offering, the Lenovo Legion Go S, a device that capitalizes on the growing demand for handheld gaming PCs. At CES 2025, Lenovo showcased this refined version of their previous Legion Go system, which attempts to bridge the gap between portable PC gaming and console-like versatility. With bold moves and smart refinements, Lenovo is throwing its hat into the arena dominated by the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally. But here's the kicker: you now have to choose between Windows 11 or SteamOS. Let’s break it down.

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What’s New with the Lenovo Legion Go S?​

The Legion Go S embodies a deliberate pivot toward a more console-pure experience. Unlike its predecessor, which tried to mash together Nintendo Switch features with portable PC gaming, the Legion Go S fully embraces its role as a traditional handheld console. Forget detachable controllers and hybrid designs; the S model is streamlined, lightweight, and built purely for gaming. Here’s the breakdown:

Hardware Highlights​

• Display: A slightly smaller 8-inch LCD touchscreen (down from 8.8 inches) with 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1920 x 1200.
• Processing Power: Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, catering specifically to handheld gaming demands.
• Memory and Storage: Equipped with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, ensuring plenty of room for your gaming library.
• Battery Life: Comes packed with a 55.5Wh battery, offering impressive fast-charging capabilities that snap 85% of the juice back in just one hour.
• Input Ports: Dual USB-C ports—always handy for peripherals or external displays—and a trackpad below the right joystick for nuanced cursor control.
• Weight: Slimmed down at under 750 grams, making it comparably lighter than holding a Steam Deck for extended sessions.

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OS Showdown: Windows 11 vs. SteamOS​

Now for the million-dollar question: Do you go the Windows 11 route or opt for SteamOS? Lenovo offers two distinct experiences with this device, and the difference is vast enough to warrant this extra decision-making layer. Let’s explore the pros and cons.

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Windows 11: The Powerhouse Multitasker​

Opting for the Legion Go S running Windows 11 provides the quintessential PC experience. While it does come at a premium price of $729, here’s what you’re really buying into:

Advantages​

• Versatility: Windows 11 is an open playground. Every PC game launcher—Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, Xbox Game Pass—is at your disposal.
• Productivity Bonus: Your “console” doubles as an ultra-compact PC. Launch Office 365, edit videos, or even code between gaming sessions.
• Game Compatibility: Whether you’re indulging in AAA titles or indie games, virtually every PC title works on Windows.
• External App Support: Windows lets you tinker with third-party applications like mods, emulators, or other software utilities. Fancy running PlayStation or Nintendo classics? It’s game on!

Potential Downsides​

• Performance Overhead: Windows 11 eats up more system resources when compared to a gaming-focused OS like SteamOS. Expect some compromises in battery life and optimization without diligent tweaking.
• UI Challenges: Unlike SteamOS, Windows doesn’t naturally cater to a touchscreen or controller-only interface. You might fumble navigating menus with a joystick.

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SteamOS: The Dedicated Gaming Machine​

On the flip side, Lenovo’s SteamOS option (priced lower at $499) transforms the Legion Go S into a pure, gaming-centric console. For fans of the Steam Deck, this might be the more appealing option.

Advantages​

• Optimized for Gaming: SteamOS is minimalist and laser-focused on delivering the best gaming experience.
• Minimal background processes mean improved performance and better battery efficiency.
• Steam Integration: With your Steam library directly baked into the OS, the ecosystem feels seamless. Throw in Steam’s Proton compatibility layer, and you’ve got the ability to run thousands of PC and Linux-based games without hassle.
• Controller-First Design: Every option, button, and menu is designed for effortless control via controllers or joysticks.
• Cheaper Price Point: At just $499, the SteamOS version is nearly 30% less expensive than its Windows counterpart.

Potential Downsides​

• Limited Versatility: SteamOS locks you into Valve’s ecosystem. Want to boot up non-Steam applications? It may require some technical fiddling.
• Third-Party Client Support: Although Proton has made stunning strides, some titles from other game launchers (like Epic, Origin, or Xbox) may still pose compatibility issues.

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How Does It Compete?​

The Legion Go S is clearly a rival to both the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, two devices that have already carved niches in the handheld gaming landscape. Here’s how it stacks up:

• Steam Deck vs. Legion Go S SteamOS:
• The Legion features premium hardware (AMD Ryzen Z1 vs. Steam Deck’s custom APU) and a higher-res screen.
• However, the price difference means the SteamOS-based Legion Go S is pricier than Valve’s entry-level Deck offering.
• ROG Ally vs. Legion Go S Windows 11:
• Both devices share Windows 11 experiences, but Lenovo’s superior build quality and dual operating system promises set it apart.
• Unlike the Ally, the Legion S embraces fast-charging tech and a more refined, console-friendly format.

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Color-Coded Console Wars​

To keep things visually distinct, Lenovo is cleverly splitting its console's OS configurations by color:

• Get the Legion Go S in white for the Windows 11 version.
• Choose the purple model if you're SteamOS-bound.

These colors not only personalize your console, but also immediately reflect platform allegiance. It’s small details like these that might just make Lenovo’s marketing department geniuses.

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Final Verdict: Who’s This For?​

So, is the Legion Go S worth your time? At its core, Lenovo has sculpted a device that caters to two very specific groups of players:

• The Windows Warrior: If you need a full-blown, portable PC that slides effortlessly between gaming and productivity, opt for the Windows 11 version. Fork over the extra cash, and don’t look back.
• The Steam-Savvy Gamer: Hardcore Steam Deck fans who live and breathe games in Valve’s extensive library will find the SteamOS edition more than sufficient. Plus, its lower price makes it a tempting alternative to the Deck itself.

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Your Move, Gamers​

With its dual-OS configuration and refined design, the Legion Go S might just be the best “PC-console hybrid” of 2025—if it plays its cards right. So, which camp are you in? The full-flex Windows multitasker, or the no-nonsense Steam gaming purist?
Let us know in the forum comments. After all, these tech wars thrive on your opinions!

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Source: gearrice Your Lenovo Legion Go S, with Windows 11 or with SteamOS? - GEARRICE