SteamOS Debuts on Non-Valve System

Lenovo's Legion Go S: The First Third-Party SteamOS Handheld

Lenovo has unveiled the Legion Go S, a groundbreaking handheld gaming PC, marking the first third-party device to ship with Valve's SteamOS. This collaboration expands SteamOS beyond its original home on the Steam Deck, offering consumers a new choice in the handheld gaming market.

The SteamOS version of the Legion Go S boasts a smooth, console-like experience, a key advantage over Windows-based competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+. Windows, while powerful, isn't always optimized for portable devices. SteamOS, built on Linux, provides a more streamlined user interface.

Initially rumored, the Legion Go S's SteamOS variant was officially confirmed at CES 2025. Lenovo also announced the Legion Go 2, a higher-end model, but only the Legion Go S will initially offer the SteamOS option. The Legion Go S itself provides a similar level of performance to its predecessor in a more compact and lightweight design.

Lenovo Legion Go S Specifications:

SteamOS Version:

• Operating System: Valve's SteamOS (Linux-based)
• Launch Date: May 2025
• Price: $499 (16GB RAM / 512GB storage)
• Feature Parity: Full feature parity with Steam Deck, including software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments).

Windows Version:

• Operating System: Windows 11
• Launch Date: January 2025
• Price: $599 (16GB RAM / 1TB storage), $729 (32GB RAM / 1TB storage)

The $499 price point for the SteamOS version makes it a compelling option. Valve has confirmed that all SteamOS devices will receive identical software updates, ensuring consistent performance across the board. For users preferring Windows, a Windows 11 version will be available at a higher price point. While the Legion Go 2 currently lacks a SteamOS option, this could change based on consumer demand for the Legion Go S's SteamOS version.

Lenovo's partnership with Valve is currently unique, but Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds in the coming months suggests broader compatibility is on the horizon. This opens exciting possibilities for owners of devices like the Asus ROG Ally.