SteamOS Is Officially Launching on a System That\'s Not By Valve

Summary

• Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go S gaming handheld will feature Valve's SteamOS.
• This marks the first third-party device to utilize SteamOS, expanding its reach beyond the Steam Deck.
• The SteamOS-powered Lenovo Legion Go S launches in May 2025 for $499.

The Lenovo Legion Go S is a groundbreaking handheld gaming PC—the first from a third-party manufacturer to ship with Valve's SteamOS. Previously exclusive to the Steam Deck, SteamOS is now venturing into new territory.

While competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+ offer powerful hardware, the Steam Deck, and now the Legion Go S, boasts a significant advantage: SteamOS. Unlike the Windows-based alternatives, SteamOS's Linux foundation provides a smoother, more console-like experience optimized for portable gaming. This has been a key differentiator for the Steam Deck, and Valve's efforts to bring SteamOS to other devices are finally paying off.

Recent leaks hinting at a SteamOS version of the Lenovo Legion Go S were confirmed at CES 2025. Lenovo unveiled two new handhelds: the Legion Go 2 and the Legion Go S. The Legion Go 2 is a successor to the original Legion Go, while the Legion Go S offers similar power in a more compact design. Crucially, one version of the Legion Go S will run SteamOS, broadening consumer options in the handheld gaming market.

Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld Gaming PC Details

SteamOS Version

• Utilizes Valve's Linux-based SteamOS.
• Launches May 2025 at $499.
• Available in a single configuration: 16GB RAM / 512GB storage.

Windows Version

• Runs Windows 11.
• Launches January 2025.
• Pricing: $599 (16GB RAM / 1TB storage), $729 (32GB RAM / 1TB storage).

The SteamOS Lenovo Legion Go S will retail at $499 (16GB RAM / 512GB storage) upon its May 2025 release. Valve guarantees feature parity with the Steam Deck, ensuring identical software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). For Windows users, a Windows 11 variant will be available from January 2025, priced at $599 (16GB RAM / 1TB storage) and $729 (32GB RAM / 1TB storage). While the flagship Legion Go 2 currently lacks a SteamOS option, this could change based on the Legion Go S's success.

Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive partnership with Valve for licensed SteamOS devices. However, Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds (coming soon) suggests broader compatibility in the near future, potentially extending to devices like the Asus ROG Ally.