Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS Review: Performance & Features
▼ Summary
– The Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS and AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme offers high performance and comfort, making it a standout handheld gaming PC.
– SteamOS improves performance and ease of use compared to Windows, though it has limitations like compatibility issues with some games and trackpad functionality.
– The device features a premium design, ergonomic grips, and an 8-inch 120Hz IPS screen, but its battery life is middling and fans can be noisy in Performance mode.
– It outperforms competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+ in value, combining powerful hardware with SteamOS at a lower price.
– While SteamOS provides a console-like experience, users may need workarounds for non-Steam games, and Windows alternatives remain necessary for full compatibility.
The Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS delivers a powerful handheld gaming experience that balances performance, comfort, and streamlined software. This device stands out by combining the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor with SteamOS, offering a smoother, more console-like experience compared to Windows-based alternatives. While not flawless, it represents a significant leap forward for portable gaming PCs.
One of the biggest advantages of this model is its optimized performance. Thanks to SteamOS, the system runs more efficiently than its Windows counterpart, squeezing extra frames out of the same hardware. The 8-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1920 x 1200 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate ensures sharp visuals, while VRR support keeps gameplay smooth.
Design-wise, the Legion Go S excels with ergonomic grips, responsive buttons, and back paddles, making it comfortable for extended play sessions. The Nebula Nocturne color scheme adds a premium aesthetic, reinforcing its high-end appeal. Despite weighing 735g (1.62 lbs), the device feels well-balanced and easy to handle.
Performance benchmarks show it competing favorably with pricier rivals like the MSI Claw 8 AI+ and OneXPlayer OneXFly F1 Pro, despite using older silicon. The 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB SSD provide ample power for modern titles, while SteamOS reduces system overhead, improving battery efficiency. In testing, it lasted over twice as long as the original Legion Go in demanding games like Elden Ring.
However, there are trade-offs. The fan noise can be noticeable in Performance mode, though lowering the TDP mitigates this. The trackpad is nearly unusable in SteamOS, and some non-Steam games require workarounds, Diablo IV and Battle.net needed manual tweaking. Additionally, not all Windows-compatible games run on SteamOS, so compatibility checks are essential before purchase.
Who should buy it? Gamers who prioritize performance-per-dollar and a console-like interface will appreciate the Legion Go S. Its SteamOS integration makes it ideal for those who prefer plug-and-play convenience. However, if absolute compatibility with all PC games is a must, a Windows handheld might still be the better choice.
For now, the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS and Ryzen Z1 Extreme is one of the best high-end handhelds available, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag of its closest competitors. While future models may bring improvements, this version sets a high bar for what a portable gaming PC can achieve.
(Images: Future)
(Source: PCGAMER)
