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

When Lenovo first introduced the Legion Go handheld gaming device in the middle of 2023, it wasn’t exactly met with enthusiasm. Fast forward to 2025, and the company is making a comeback with three new models, each packing either the well-known AMD Z1 Extreme processor or the brand-new Z2.

### Legion Go S: Choose Between SteamOS or Windows 11

The Legion Go S has undergone a notable change. Gone are the detachable controllers from its predecessor, replaced with a more conventional layout that is pleasantly lightweight, weighing in at just 1.63 pounds. If you opt for the white variant, it comes with Windows 11, while the “Nebula Violet” model runs on Valve’s SteamOS, offering a straightforward, console-like experience. However, it does confine you to Valve’s gaming ecosystem, making it less flexible for acquiring games outside of it.

Despite their differing operating systems, both the Legion Go S and the Legion Go S – Powered by SteamOS share identical hardware components. Users can enjoy the jaw-dropping performance of a Z2 or Z1 Extreme processor, accompanied by an 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD touchscreen that dazzles with a brightness of 500 nits and a 120 Hz refresh rate. The device houses a substantial 55.5 WHr battery, along with up to 32GB of speedy 6400 DDR5 RAM, and offers storage of up to 1TB. Plus, there’s room for expansion, thanks to its support for standard-sized 2280 M.2 SSDs.

In terms of connectivity, you’ll find a MicroSD card slot, two USB 4.0 ports conveniently located at the top, and an audio jack. Lenovo plans to release the Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S in January, starting at $729. Meanwhile, the SteamOS variant will hit the market in May, starting at a more affordable $499. Additional configurations of the Windows model are expected to follow from May 2025, with prices starting around $599. According to a company representative, once both versions are available, you could snag a Legion Go S, whether running Windows or SteamOS, with the same impressive AMD Z2 Go CPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB of storage for $599. The $729 model will boost the RAM to an impressive 32GB.

### Legion Go 2 Prototype: The Return of the Detachable Mouse Controller

At the top end of Lenovo’s handheld lineup is a prototype of the Legion Go 2, a next-gen device that brings back the detachable controllers. Interestingly, it includes the unique mouse sensor, turning the right control stick into what’s arguably the least ergonomic gaming mouse. That said, the design has been streamlined with rounded controller edges and a circular D-pad, alongside a significant battery upgrade from 49.2 to 74 WHr.

The device maintains an impressive 8.8-inch display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, but this time it comes with OLED technology. Lenovo’s decision to reduce the resolution from 2560×1600 to a more practical 1920×1200 makes sense. The touchscreen is rated at 500 nits of brightness and supports variable refresh rates. Expected to launch in 2025, this second-gen Legion Go will offer a Ryzen Z2 processor, storage options up to 2TB, and a whopping 32GB of ultra-fast 7500 MHz RAM. As of now, the available port configurations remain undecided.

With these upgrades and fresh designs, Lenovo seems determined to make amends for their earlier lukewarm reception, hoping to secure a strong foothold in the handheld gaming market.