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

Lenovo’s first foray into the handheld gaming market with the Legion Go didn’t exactly win over gamers back in mid-2023. However, fast forward to 2025, and they’ve returned with three fresh models, all boasting either the reliable AMD Z1 Extreme processor or the brand spankin’ new Z2.

Let’s dive into the Legion Go S, which comes equipped with either SteamOS or Windows 11. It’s a departure from its predecessor, forgoing detachable controllers to offer a more streamlined and lighter design, weighing in at 1.63 pounds. The Windows version sports a sleek white design, while for those leaning towards a console-like vibe, the “Nebula Violet” version with SteamOS might be more appealing. Keep in mind, though, it restricts game purchases largely to Valve’s network.

Both versions, the Legion Go S and Legion Go S – Powered by SteamOS, pack the same impressive hardware. This includes a choice between the Z2 or Z1 Extreme processor, an 8-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1920×1200, 500 nits brightness, and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Under the hood, you’ll find a 55.5 WHr battery, 32GB of DDR5 RAM clocking in at 6400 MHz, and 1TB of storage. For those craving even more space, Lenovo’s documentation mentions you can slot in a standard-sized 2280 M.2 SSD.

Port-wise, you won’t be left wanting; there’s a MicroSD slot, a couple of USB 4.0 ports on top, and an audio jack. Lenovo will release the Windows model of the Legion Go S in January at around $729, while the SteamOS version is slated for May, starting at $499. May 2025 will also see additional Windows configurations starting at $599. According to a Lenovo representative, once both versions are available, you can snag a Legion Go S, whether it’s running Windows or SteamOS, with the same AMD Z2 CPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB of storage for $599. Want more? The $729 Windows version will boost the RAM to a whopping 32GB.

On the higher end of the spectrum, Lenovo is teasing us with a prototype of their next-gen Legion Go 2. It’s sticking with the detachable controllers, including that quirky mouse sensor which hilariously tries to transform the right stick into a gaming mouse, albeit not very comfortably. They’ve tweaked the controllers’ edges, made the D-pad circular, and cranked up the battery capacity from 49.2 to a hefty 74 WHr.

The display remains impressive, sticking to an 8.8-inch size and 144 Hz, but Lenovo has wisely switched to an OLED panel and reduced the resolution from 2560×1600 to a more manageable 1920×1200. The touch screen retains its 500 nits brightness rating and now includes variable refresh rates. When it drops sometime in 2025, it’ll come powered by a Ryzen Z2, packing up to 2TB of storage and a snappy 32GB of 7500 MHz RAM. As of writing, the specifics regarding port selection are still under wraps.