Valve's SteamOS Debuts on Non-Valve System

Lenovo's Legion Go S: The First Third-Party SteamOS Handheld

Lenovo has unveiled the Legion Go S, a groundbreaking handheld gaming PC, marking the first third-party device to ship with Valve's SteamOS. This collaboration expands SteamOS beyond its original home on the Steam Deck.

The Legion Go S, launching in May 2025 for $499, offers a compelling alternative to Windows-based handhelds. Unlike competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+, which utilize Windows, the Legion Go S leverages SteamOS's optimized Linux-based platform for a smoother, console-like experience. This was a key advantage of the Steam Deck, and now it's available on a different platform.

Initially rumored, the Legion Go S's SteamOS version was officially confirmed at CES 2025. Lenovo also announced the Legion Go 2, a higher-end model, but only the Legion Go S will initially offer the SteamOS option. The Legion Go S boasts a lighter, more compact design than its predecessor while maintaining comparable performance.

Lenovo Legion Go S Specifications:

SteamOS Version:

• Operating System: Valve's SteamOS
• Launch Date: May 2025
• Price: $499
• Specifications: 16GB RAM / 512GB storage

Windows Version:

• Operating System: Windows 11
• Launch Date: January 2025
• Price: $599 (16GB RAM / 1TB storage), $729 (32GB RAM / 1TB storage)

Valve assures full feature parity between the SteamOS versions on the Legion Go S and the Steam Deck, ensuring identical software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). A Windows 11 version is also available for those preferring a familiar operating system. While the Legion Go 2 currently lacks a SteamOS option, future availability depends on the Legion Go S's market reception.

Lenovo's partnership with Valve is currently exclusive, but Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds in the coming months opens the door for broader adoption. This development promises to significantly impact the handheld gaming PC market.