Lenovo’s Legion Go S Handheld Features AMD’s Z2 Go, Supports Both SteamOS and Windows

When Lenovo first introduced its Legion Go gaming handheld back in mid-2023, it didn’t exactly receive rave reviews. Fast forward to 2025, and Lenovo is making a comeback with three fresh models. These new devices are powered by either the well-known AMD Z1 Extreme processor or the innovative Z2.

Legion Go S: Available with SteamOS or Windows 11

The Legion Go S takes a different approach than its predecessor, forgoing the detachable controllers in favor of a sleeker and lighter design, weighing in at just 1.63 pounds. The device comes in two flavors: a white model running Windows 11, and a snazzy "Nebula Violet" version equipped with Valve’s SteamOS for a streamlined, console-like experience. However, the latter limits you to Valve’s ecosystem for game purchases and play.

Despite the different operating systems, both versions—the Legion Go S and the Legion Go S powered by SteamOS—boast identical hardware. They sport a choice between a Z2 or Z1 Extreme processor, an 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD touchscreen with a brightness of 500 nits and a refresh rate of 120Hz, a decent 55.5 WHr battery, and up to 32GB of 6400 DDR5 RAM and 1TB of available storage. Additionally, if you’re looking to expand storage, Lenovo notes that the standard-sized 2280 M.2 SSDs fit these models.

When it comes to connectivity, expect a MicroSD card slot, two USB 4.0 ports on top, and a headphone jack. Lenovo plans to launch the Windows-powered Legion Go S in January for around $729. The SteamOS version will follow in May, with a more budget-friendly starting price point of $499. There will be more configurations for the Windows model, set to debut in May 2025 starting at approximately $599. Lenovo’s rep mentioned that eventually, you can score a Legion Go S, regardless of the operating system, featuring the same AMD Z2 Go CPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB storage for about $599. The pricier $729 Windows model doubles the RAM to 32GB.

Legion Go 2 Prototype: The Detachable Mouse Controller Makes a Comeback

On the more premium side, Lenovo also teased a prototype for the next-gen Legion Go. This version returns to the detachable controller concept, including the quirky—if ergonomically cumbersome—mouse sensor that transforms the right control stick into a makeshift gaming mouse. The controllers have been redesigned with rounded edges and a circular D-pad. An upgraded battery, now 74 WHr instead of 49.2, keeps the device powered longer.

Notably, the display remains at 8.8 inches and features a 144Hz refresh rate. This time, Lenovo smartly opts for an OLED screen, reducing the resolution from 2560×1600 to a more sensible 1920×1200. The touch screen, which accommodates up to 500 nits of brightness, also supports variable refresh rates. The upcoming second-gen Legion Go will be equipped with a Ryzen Z2, up to 2TB of storage, and 32GB of super-fast 7500 MHz RAM, slated for release sometime in 2025. Details on port selection are still under wraps at this time.

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