Latest news with #LegionGoS
Geeky Gadgets
05-06-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Legion Go S Docked Mode : Can it Outperform Traditional Consoles?
What if your handheld gaming device could double as a full-fledged home console, delivering stunning visuals and seamless performance on your big screen? The Legion Go S, powered by the RYZEN Z1 Extreme processor, promises exactly that. In docked mode, this hybrid gaming powerhouse sheds the constraints of portability to unleash its full potential, offering a gaming experience that rivals traditional consoles. But does it truly live up to the hype? With claims of enhanced graphics, smoother gameplay, and reduced input lag, the Legion Go S positions itself as a fantastic option for those who demand versatility without sacrificing performance. ETA Prime explores the fantastic capabilities of docked mode gaming on the Legion Go S, diving into how the RYZEN Z1 Extreme processor improves performance when connected to an external display. From pushing higher resolutions and frame rates to delivering marathon gaming sessions with optimized cooling, we'll uncover what makes this device stand out in the hybrid gaming market. Whether you're curious about how it compares to handheld mode or intrigued by its promise of console-level immersion, this deep dive will leave you rethinking what's possible with portable gaming systems. Sometimes, the best gaming experiences aren't just about where you play—but how. Legion Go S Docked Performance Unleashing Performance: RYZEN Z1 Extreme in Docked Mode At the heart of the Legion Go S lies the RYZEN Z1 Extreme processor, a component designed to deliver exceptional gaming performance. In docked mode, the processor takes advantage of increased power and thermal headroom, allowing it to handle graphically demanding games effortlessly. This configuration ensures smooth frame rates and responsive gameplay, even for titles that push hardware to its limits. Docked mode allows the device to prioritize performance over power efficiency, unlike handheld mode, where battery conservation is key. This means higher graphical settings and resolutions are achievable, offering a more immersive experience. For instance, games that require reduced detail or frame rates in handheld mode can often be played at their full potential when docked, showcasing the device's versatility and power. Enhanced Gaming Experience and Visual Output Connecting the Legion Go S to an external display significantly enhances the gaming experience by using the advanced graphical capabilities of the RYZEN Z1 Extreme processor. The device supports high-definition resolutions, delivering sharp visuals and vibrant colors that bring game environments to life. This is particularly beneficial for games with intricate details or fast-paced action, where a larger screen amplifies immersion. Moreover, docked mode reduces input lag, making sure a responsive experience comparable to traditional gaming consoles. Whether exploring expansive open-world adventures or engaging in competitive multiplayer matches, the combination of crisp visuals and low latency creates a seamless and engaging gameplay experience. This makes the Legion Go S a compelling choice for gamers seeking both performance and immersion. Docked Mode Gaming On The Ryzen Z1 Extreme Legion Go S Watch this video on YouTube. Uncover more insights about Legion Go S performance in previous articles we have written. Efficiency and Usability in Docked Mode Efficiency is a cornerstone of the Legion Go S's docked performance. The device is engineered to balance power consumption and performance, making it ideal for extended gaming sessions. Its cooling system, optimized for stationary use, prevents overheating and ensures stable performance even during demanding gameplay. The docking setup enhances usability by providing a range of connectivity options. These include USB ports, HDMI outputs, and support for peripherals such as controllers, keyboards, and external storage. This versatility allows users to customize their gaming setup to suit their preferences, whether they prioritize comfort, functionality, or both. Built for Extended Gaming Sessions The Legion Go S excels in docked mode during long gaming sessions, thanks to its thoughtful design and robust performance. The cooling system ensures consistent operation, while compatibility with external controllers and ergonomic features reduces strain over time. Additionally, the ability to charge the device while docked eliminates interruptions, allowing marathon gaming without concerns about battery life. These features make the Legion Go S a reliable choice for gamers who value comfort and uninterrupted gameplay. Whether you're delving into a lengthy RPG or competing in extended multiplayer matches, the device is built to meet the demands of prolonged use. Docked Mode vs. Handheld Mode: A Comparison The Legion Go S offers distinct advantages in both docked and handheld modes, catering to a variety of gaming scenarios. In handheld mode, the device emphasizes portability and power efficiency, making it ideal for gaming on the go. However, this comes with limitations in graphical settings and processing power due to the need to conserve battery life. In contrast, docked mode unlocks the full potential of the RYZEN Z1 Extreme processor, using increased power and thermal capacity to deliver superior graphics, smoother gameplay, and enhanced usability. This dual functionality allows the Legion Go S to adapt to your needs, whether you're gaming at home or on the move. The ability to seamlessly transition between these modes highlights the device's versatility and appeal to a wide range of gamers. Versatility and Performance Redefined The Legion Go S, driven by the RYZEN Z1 Extreme, stands out as a versatile and capable gaming device that bridges the gap between handheld and home gaming. In docked mode, it delivers high performance, stunning visuals, and efficient usability, making it a strong contender for gamers seeking a hybrid solution. Whether you prioritize portability for gaming on the go or immersive gameplay on an external display, the Legion Go S adapts effortlessly to your preferences. By offering a seamless transition between handheld and docked modes, the Legion Go S proves itself as a flexible and innovative choice for gamers who demand performance without compromise. Its ability to cater to diverse gaming needs ensures it remains a standout option in the evolving landscape of hybrid gaming devices. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
04-06-2025
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Legion GO S vs Steam Deck OLED : Battle of the Handhelds
Is the handheld gaming market witnessing a new rivalry that could redefine portable play? With the rise of devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S and Valve's Steam Deck OLED, gamers are faced with a tantalizing choice between innovative performance and refined efficiency. The Legion Go S, Lenovo's bold entry into the scene, promises a powerhouse experience with customizable configurations and advanced display technology. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck OLED builds on its predecessor's legacy, offering a sleek, energy-efficient design paired with the vibrant visuals of an OLED screen. Both devices cater to distinct gaming priorities, but which one truly delivers the ultimate handheld experience? In this thorough comparison, ETA Prime explores the key differences that set these two contenders apart, from their performance benchmarks to battery life trade-offs and design philosophies. Whether you're drawn to the Legion Go S's premium features or intrigued by the Steam Deck OLED's balance of affordability and efficiency, this overview will help you uncover which device aligns with your gaming style. As we delve into their specs, pricing, and real-world performance, you might just find that the choice isn't as straightforward as it seems. Legion Go S vs Steam Deck Device Overview The Legion Go S represents Lenovo's ambitious entry into the handheld gaming sector. It offers two APU configurations: the AMD Z1 Extreme and the Z2 Go, providing flexibility for users seeking different levels of performance. Notably, it is the first third-party handheld device to ship with Steam OS, making sure seamless integration with Valve's gaming ecosystem. On the other hand, the Steam Deck OLED is an upgraded version of Valve's original Steam Deck. The inclusion of an OLED display enhances the visual experience while improving energy efficiency. This device builds on the success of its predecessor by offering a refined balance of performance and affordability, making it an appealing option for gamers seeking value. Specifications Comparison A detailed examination of the hardware reveals significant differences between the two devices, particularly in processing power, display technology, and refresh rates. Steam Deck OLED: Powered by an AMD Zen 2 APU with 4 cores and 8 threads clocked at 3.5 GHz, it features an RDNA 2 iGPU with 8 compute units running at 1600 MHz. The device includes 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6400 MT/s) and a 7.4-inch OLED display with a 90 Hz refresh rate. Priced at $549 for the 512 GB model, it offers a compelling mix of performance and affordability. Powered by an AMD Zen 2 APU with 4 cores and 8 threads clocked at 3.5 GHz, it features an RDNA 2 iGPU with 8 compute units running at 1600 MHz. The device includes 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6400 MT/s) and a 7.4-inch OLED display with a 90 Hz refresh rate. Priced at $549 for the 512 GB model, it offers a compelling mix of performance and affordability. Legion Go S (Z2 Go version): Equipped with an AMD Zen 3+ APU offering 4 cores and 8 threads at 4.3 GHz, it features an RDNA 2 iGPU with 12 compute units clocked at 2200 MHz. It also includes 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM (6400 MT/s) and an 8-inch IPS display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) support. The Z2 Go version is priced at $599 for the 512 GB model, reflecting its focus on premium performance. The Legion Go S stands out with its higher clock speeds and advanced display features, while the Steam Deck OLED prioritizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Which Handheld Console is Better? Watch this video on YouTube. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to Lenovo Legion Go S that you may find helpful. Performance Performance is a critical factor for any gaming device, and the Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED excel in different scenarios based on their TDP (Thermal Design Power) settings. Low TDP (15W): The Steam Deck OLED demonstrates superior efficiency in low-power scenarios. For example, in Forza Horizon 5 , it achieves 65 FPS, slightly outperforming the Legion Go S's 63 FPS. The Steam Deck OLED demonstrates superior efficiency in low-power scenarios. For example, in , it achieves 65 FPS, slightly outperforming the Legion Go S's 63 FPS. High TDP (20W): The Legion Go S takes the lead at higher power levels, delivering 72 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 and 56 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 , compared to the Steam Deck OLED's 47 FPS in the latter. These results highlight the Steam Deck OLED's strength in efficiency at lower power settings, while the Legion Go S excels in delivering higher performance when pushed to its limits. Battery Life Battery life is a crucial consideration for handheld gaming, and the two devices exhibit notable differences depending on their power consumption levels. Low TDP (6W): The Steam Deck OLED offers 5–7 hours of gameplay, compared to the Legion Go S's 4–6 hours. The Steam Deck OLED offers 5–7 hours of gameplay, compared to the Legion Go S's 4–6 hours. Moderate TDP (15W): Both devices achieve similar battery life, lasting approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Both devices achieve similar battery life, lasting approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. High TDP (20W): The Legion Go S's battery life drops to around 1 hour and 20 minutes, while the Steam Deck OLED maintains a slight edge in efficiency. For gamers prioritizing extended playtime, the Steam Deck OLED's optimization for lower TDP settings makes it a more reliable choice. Design and Features Both devices incorporate thoughtful design elements to enhance the gaming experience, but their approaches reflect different priorities. Legion Go S: Features hall-based triggers and analog sticks for improved precision, along with a larger 55.5Wh battery. Its 8-inch IPS display with VRR ensures smooth visuals, particularly in fast-paced games. Features hall-based triggers and analog sticks for improved precision, along with a larger 55.5Wh battery. Its 8-inch IPS display with VRR ensures smooth visuals, particularly in fast-paced games. Steam Deck OLED: Offers a more compact design, an energy-efficient OLED display, and versatile storage options, including microSD and M.2 compatibility. The Legion Go S leans toward delivering a premium gaming experience with advanced features, while the Steam Deck OLED focuses on practicality and portability. Pricing and Value Pricing plays a significant role in the decision-making process. The Steam Deck OLED is priced at $549 for the 512 GB version, making it $50 cheaper than the Legion Go S (Z2 Go version) with the same storage capacity. For users seeking even higher performance, the Legion Go S's Z1 Extreme version is available, though it comes at a higher cost. Ultimately, the choice between these two devices depends on your gaming priorities. The Steam Deck OLED is ideal for those who value efficiency, affordability, and strong performance at lower TDP settings. Conversely, the Legion Go S appeals to gamers willing to trade battery life for higher performance and advanced features, particularly in its Z1 Extreme configuration. Both devices offer unique strengths, making sure a suitable option for every type of gamer. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Tom's Guide
04-06-2025
- Business
- Tom's Guide
I lab tested the Legion Go S for a week — and now I want one for myself
As the New York-based lab tester at Future, I spend the bulk of my time benchmarking the latest gadgets. This includes the best laptops, the best monitors, and even the best phones. The newest thing to land at my desk? The Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS. My colleague, Tony Polanco, recently posted his Lenovo Legion Go S hands-on preview and will have a full review soon. As is routine for Tom's Guide testing, I run a series of benchmark tests on devices before reviews are published. Benchmarking the Legion Go S was an interesting experience, to say the least. Right now, it's the most unique device I've tested this year. Here's why. The Lenovo Legion Go S is the first non-Valve handheld utilizing SteamOS. As such, it's an easier machine to use than a Windows 11 handheld. This entry-level model has an 8-inch 120Hz display, 16GB of RAM, 512GB of storage and an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go chip. "Wow, that was fast!" That's what I said when I first started testing the Legion Go S. You know the drill with Windows 11: connect to Wi-Fi, log in to a Microsoft account, download updates, and skip ads. These are the lengthy steps I typically face with Windows systems in the lab. Post-setup tasks, like updating graphics drivers and installing our benchmark software, add even more time. Powered by Linux, the Legion Go S is a complete contrast. I just turned it on, selected my language and time zone, and applied a single update. It was ready in under three minutes! In my job, every minute counts, so such a quick setup was incredibly refreshing. I've never had such a seamless gaming handheld setup. The SteamOS game launcher is also neat and makes the system easy to navigate thanks to the system's controller setup. This isn't always the case with Windows handhelds. For instance, testing the Legion Go S with Windows 11 required me to connect a keyboard and mouse just to navigate Windows and the Steam app on a small screen. I had to do the same when navigating menus in games like Grand Theft Auto V. While SteamOS is certainly more user-friendly, it's not without its quirks. When testing the best gaming laptops and best handheld gaming consoles, Future Labs runs through a total of 14 games. We run them using their native launchers and services, including Steam, Ubisoft Connect, as well as Rockstar Games and Epic Games. Testing all of these services and games on the Legion Go S was a trip. For Steam, we try out Cyberpunk 2077, DiRT 5, F1 23, Grand Theft Auto V, Monster Hunter Wilds, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, and Total War: Warhammer III. Running these games on the Legion Go S was pretty seamless; just download through the standard game mode, then run the native benchmarks. The results were quite good for this type of system, too. For example, we saw 32 frames per second (fps) in DiRT 5 at full resolution and 39 fps in Shadow of the Tomb Raider. But the problem? SteamOS doesn't natively support the other gaming launchers we use. It is designed for running Steam games, in the same way that a Windows laptop doesn't run macOS. Ubisoft Connect, Rockstar Games, and Epic Games all need to be side-loaded. I had to add the .exe installer as a non-Steam game, launch the Linux desktop mode, and then change the compatibility layer for the game launcher to Proton (an emulation layer that mimics Windows). You can also use third-party programs like Lutris or Heroic Games, which utilize other layers like Wine, to help speed up this process, but I found that these can be hit or miss. Going that manual route, I then navigated through a series of 13 Linux folders to change the target and launch in folder options for said game launchers. Of the three services, only Ubisoft Games worked correctly, meaning I was able to test Assassin's Creed Mirage and Far Cry 6. When I tried Epic Games this way, nothing worked, and I resorted to using a third-party launcher. But when installing the games under that launcher, the system would just freeze or crash. Coming fresh off testing a gaming laptop, which can be priced close to the Legion Go S, I expected things to work better on SteamOS. You really shouldn't need technical Linux knowledge just to get non-Steam games working. In fact, I had to look up how to navigate Linux folders because a lot of these folders are hidden by default. My colleague suggested buying the Steam version of Red Dead Redemption 2 and Assassin's Creed: Shadows to benchmark them, but that shouldn't be an option if you already own these games, like we do. You'd be spending more money on games in addition to the handheld. Just know that with this handheld, you won't be able to easily play all the games in your library across services, and some you may not be able to play at all. Despite these problems, I really enjoyed the Legion Go S with SteamOS. It's a cool device, especially if you're used to Windows systems and handhelds. And while you might not be able to play all your games as you would on Windows, there are other uses for it outside of general gaming. After I finished benchmarking, I turned my Legion Go S review unit into a desktop PC, just like you can with the Windows-powered Legion Go. I hooked up a portable monitor, keyboard and mouse over a dock, and slid the handheld into a stand. Next, I switched the system into Desktop Mode by tapping on the power button. I then downloaded Google Chrome and Slack from the Software Center and logged in with my work account. All of the lab's spreadsheets from Google Drive were right at my fingertips, just like with Chrome on my MacBook. I was even able to download Telegram, so I could message my friends during my lunch break. Outside of work, I found another useful app from the Software Center that lets me play my PS5 over the internet, similar to how the PlayStation Portal works. I was able to log into my PSN account, connect to my PS5 remotely while it was in rest mode, and play Gran Turismo 7. There was no lag, and everything was smooth, almost as if I were sitting in front of my TV at home. As for the hardware, I loved the way the speakers output noises from the game. The Legion Go S has some powerful speakers. The haptics are great, too, with the handheld giving me some good feedback as I jumped over curbs in Gran Turismo 7. I only wish Sony would allow access to streaming PlayStation Plus games through the web. Then I'd ditch the PlayStation Portal entirely for a Legion Go S. I never thought the Legion Go S would be such a cool device. Going into my testing, I expected it to be yet another handheld, delivering the same boring experience as when I tested a similar product like the MSI Claw 8 AI+. Lenovo's device was anything but that. From the start, I learned how clean and efficient SteamOS is for gaming compared to Windows 11. And because of my issues with sideloading gaming launchers, I even learned how to use the Linux KDE desktop environment, which led me to a few cool ways to use my review unit for both work and play. There's no hiding it. I haven't had this much fun playing with a system in a long time. After I benchmarked the Legion Go S, I could barely put it down. I might just have to buy one for myself.
Geeky Gadgets
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld Games Console with Ryzen Z1 Extreme
What if you could carry the power of a high-end gaming PC in the palm of your hand? The Lenovo Legion Go S, featuring the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, promises to redefine handheld gaming with a bold blend of innovative performance and thoughtful design. Boasting an 8-core processor, a vibrant 8-inch display, and customizable TDP settings, this device is a clear contender in the fiercely competitive portable gaming market. But with its impressive specs comes an important question: can it truly balance raw power with the portability and endurance gamers demand? For enthusiasts who crave immersive experiences without compromise, the Legion Go S might just be the answer—or the start of a new debate. In the video below ETA Prime takes use through what sets the Legion Go S apart, from its high-performance hardware to its ergonomic design and gamer-focused features. You'll discover how it stacks up against rivals like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck OLED, and whether its strengths outweigh its limitations, such as battery life and weight. Whether you're a AAA title aficionado or an indie game devotee, the Legion Go S offers a mix of versatility and power that could reshape how you game on the go. As we dive into its capabilities, consider this: is it the ultimate handheld gaming device, or does it leave room for improvement? Lenovo Legion Go S Overview Hardware Specifications: Power Meets Precision At the heart of the Legion Go S lies the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, an 8-core, 16-thread processor with a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz and a boost clock reaching 5.1 GHz. This high-performance processor is paired with a 12-compute-unit RDNA 3-based integrated GPU, capable of operating at up to 2700 MHz. Together, these components ensure smooth performance for even the most demanding gaming titles. Supporting this powerhouse is 32 GB of high-speed RAM running at 7,500 MT/s, alongside a 1 TB M.2 SSD, which can be expanded to the 2280 form factor for additional storage. The device's 8-inch IPS display is another highlight, offering a 120 Hz variable refresh rate, 100% sRGB color accuracy, and a peak brightness of 500 nits. These features ensure vibrant visuals and fluid gameplay, making it ideal for both AAA games and indie titles. Connectivity is equally robust, with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 providing fast and stable wireless communication. However, the 55.5Wh battery, while supporting 65W fast charging, may struggle to sustain extended gaming sessions, particularly at higher performance settings. Design and Build: Comfort with a Few Compromises The Legion Go S is available in two color options: white and nebula blue. Its design emphasizes comfort and functionality, featuring hall-based analog sticks and triggers for precise input. Programmable macro buttons and dual front-facing stereo speakers further enhance the gaming experience. Additionally, RGB lighting adds a customizable aesthetic, appealing to gamers who value personalization. Despite its ergonomic focus, the device has some limitations. The compact trackpad, while functional, is hindered by its small size, which can reduce usability for certain tasks. Weighing 730 grams, the Legion Go S is heavier than competitors like the ROG Ally and Steam Deck OLED. However, its well-balanced weight distribution and comfortable grip make it suitable for extended gaming sessions, mitigating the impact of its heavier build. Legion GO with Ryzen Z1 Extreme Watch this video on YouTube. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to portable handheld consoles that you may find helpful. Performance and Gaming: Real-World Results The Legion Go S delivers impressive performance, comparable to other devices powered by the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, such as the ROG Ally. Its customizable TDP settings, ranging from 7W to 40W, allow users to optimize performance and battery life based on their preferences. Benchmark results highlight its capabilities, with scores of 2353 (single-core) and 12,029 (multi-core) in Geekbench 6, and 3,481 in 3DMark Time Spy. In practical gaming scenarios, the device excels. For example, 'Cyberpunk 2077' achieves over 70 FPS at 1200p resolution with FSR enabled and a 25W TDP, while 'Forza Horizon 5' runs at 90+ FPS on medium settings under similar conditions. For less demanding indie games, the device offers extended battery life when operating at lower TDP settings, making it versatile for a wide range of gaming experiences. Battery Life: A Performance Trade-Off Battery life is a critical consideration for handheld gaming devices, and the Legion Go S performs adequately but falls short of excellence in this area. At a 7W TDP, it can last approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes during light gaming. However, for more demanding AAA titles at a 25W TDP, battery life drops to around 1 hour and 30 minutes. While the 55.5Wh battery supports fast charging, a larger capacity would significantly enhance its usability for longer gaming sessions, particularly for users who prioritize high-performance gaming. Software and Features: Tailored for Gamers The Legion Go S runs on Windows 11, providing a familiar and versatile operating system for both gaming and productivity. For users who prefer a Linux-based environment, the device also supports Steam OS, offering flexibility in software choices. A standout feature is the Legion Space software, which allows users to adjust performance settings, resolution, and controller configurations. The quick menu further enhances usability by allowing on-the-fly customization, making sure optimal performance for any gaming scenario. Competitors and Market Position In the competitive handheld gaming market, the Legion Go S faces strong rivals such as the ROG Ally and Steam Deck OLED. It offers distinct advantages, including a larger screen and more RAM, which contribute to its appeal as a high-performance device. However, its heavier build and limited battery life may deter some users. Despite these drawbacks, the Legion Go S remains a compelling choice for gamers seeking a premium handheld experience, particularly those who prioritize power and customization. Areas for Improvement While the Legion Go S excels in many areas, there are clear opportunities for refinement. The small trackpad limits its usability for tasks requiring precise input, and the battery capacity restricts gaming time at higher performance levels. A slightly thicker design to accommodate a larger battery could address these issues without compromising the device's overall appeal. Additionally, further optimization of software features could enhance the user experience, making the device even more competitive in its market segment. A Balanced Contender in the Handheld Gaming Market The Lenovo Legion Go S, powered by the Ryzen Z1 Extreme, offers a powerful and versatile gaming experience. Its high-performance hardware, ergonomic design, and customizable features make it a strong contender in the handheld gaming market. While battery life and trackpad usability remain areas for improvement, the device's strengths in performance and flexibility ensure it stands out as a premium option for gamers. For those who value power, customization, and a high-quality gaming experience, the Legion Go S is a device worth considering. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Tom's Guide
31-05-2025
- Tom's Guide
I just tested the new Legion Go S — and it's the Steam Deck killer I've been waiting for
The Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS ($599 to start) is the gaming handheld I've been waiting for. While Windows 11 works well on the best gaming PCs and best gaming laptops, Microsoft's operating system hasn't really benefited the best handheld gaming consoles. We now finally have a non-Steam Deck handheld running on SteamOS, and it's better than I could have imagined. The main difference between this and the Lenovo Legion Go S I reviewed earlier this year is their respective operating systems. Besides that, this model has the same design but in a different color. It also has an 8-inch (1,920 x 1,200) 120Hz LCD, trigger locks for the L2 and R2 buttons, and a rounded D-pad. I'll need more time with the new Lenovo Legion Go S before rendering a final verdict, but based on my time so far, this device already crushes its Windows 11 counterparts on usability alone. If you've been waiting for a true Steam Deck rival, this is the handheld to get. My full review will go live soon, but for now, here's what I think and what you need to know about the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS. Lenovo Legion Go S (starting) Lenovo Legion Go S (tested) Price $599 $829 Display 8-inch WQXGA (1920 X 1200) LCD 16:10 8-inch WQXGA (1920 X 1200) LCD 16:10 Chipset AMD Ryzen Z2 Go AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Storage 512GB 1TB Memory 16GB 32GB OS SteamOS SteamOS Ports 1X Micro SD card slot, 2X USB-C, 1X headphone jack 1X Micro SD card slot, 2X USB-C, 1X headphone jack Dimensions 11.77 x 5.02 x 0.88 inches 11.77 x 5.02 x 0.88 inches Weight 1.63 pounds 1.63 pounds Colors Nebula Nebula Other than its Nebula (dark) color, the SteamOS Legion Go S has the same design as its Glacier White Windows 11 counterpart. As before, this handheld ditches the removable controllers of the Legion Go and instead has a uniform body design that's similar to the Asus ROG Ally X. It's comfortable to hold thanks to its ergonomic design, grippy corners and smart button placement. The asymmetrical Hall Effect analog sticks and the rounded D-Pad are as responsive as the face and shoulder buttons. Overall, this system is a joy to hold and play with. The 1,920 x 1,200-pixel 8-inch LCD is identical to the previous model. I had no trouble making out all the small details in games like Doom: The Dark Ages and Cyberpunk 2077 during my initial testing. Colors are nice and vibrant, and overall brightness is also pleasing to the eye. The 120Hz refresh rate also ensures everything runs buttery smooth. Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) Lenovo Legion Go S (Windows 11) Nits (brightness) 441 455 sRGB 116.3% 119.7% DCI-P3 82.4% 84.8% Delta-E 0.33 0.24 We ran the Legion Go S through our display benchmarks and can confirm its panel is virtually identical to the Windows 11 model. The new Legion Go S can get quite bright, and its color reproduction (sRGB and DCI-P3) isn't too oversaturated. Color accuracy (Delta-E) isn't as good as before (closer to 0 is best here), but it's not a stark difference. Our SteamOS Legion Go S review unit packs an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip and 32GB of RAM. Thanks to those factors, it offers stronger performance than the Windows 11 Legion Go S I reviewed. However, keep in mind that the latter runs on the weaker AMD Z2 Go chip and has 16GB of RAM. For my initial testing, I played Doom: The Dark Ages on the new Legion Go S. At 1200p resolution, medium graphical settings and FSR (frame generation) disabled, The Dark Ages can run at around 25 frames per second. With FSR enabled, the fps jumps to 35. I got a smooth 56-61 fps at 800p resolution with FSR, though the game doesn't look so good at this lower resolution. The Legion Go S with Windows 11 didn't do quite as well. Doom: The Dark Ages ran at an abysmal 15 fps at 1200p and medium settings. Enabling frame generation bumped the fps count to 27, which is better but still not great. I got a decent 45 fps at 800p resolution with FSR on and graphical settings at low. However, the image quality looked muddy at those settings. Legion Go S (SteamOS) Legion Go S (Windows 11) Assassin's Creed Mirage 32 21 Dirt 5 32 20 Shadow of the Tomb Raider 39 16 For our lab tests, we ran the in-game benchmark tool for a handful of titles at maximum graphical settings. As you can see in the table above, the SteamOS Legion Go S trounces its counterpart across the board. I once said I wanted a handheld with the ROG Ally X's specs that ran on SteamOS. I'm happy to say the Lenovo Legion Go S is literally what I've asked for. Though I still need a bit more time with this machine before finalizing my review, I'm already confident in saying this will be my favorite PC gaming handheld of the year. Stay tuned for my full review of the SteamOS Lenovo Legion Go S!
