SteamOS Debuts on Non-Valve Hardware

Lenovo Legion Go S: SteamOS Arrives on a Third-Party Handheld

Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go S gaming handheld will be the first non-Valve device to launch with SteamOS pre-installed, marking a significant expansion for Valve's Linux-based operating system. Initially exclusive to the Steam Deck, SteamOS now offers a smoother, console-like experience to users beyond Valve's own hardware.

The Lenovo Legion Go S, priced at $499, will debut in May 2025 with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. This announcement, following earlier leaks, confirms Lenovo's CES 2025 reveal of two Legion Go models: the Legion Go 2 and the Legion Go S. While the Legion Go 2 is a direct successor to the original Legion Go, the Legion Go S provides a more compact and lighter design with equivalent power. The SteamOS version is a key differentiator, providing consumers with a wider choice in the handheld gaming market.

Lenovo Legion Go S Specifications:

SteamOS Version:

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

Windows 11 Version:

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

Valve has confirmed full feature parity for SteamOS on the Legion Go S, ensuring identical software updates to the Steam Deck (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). A Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S will also be available, offering a more familiar OS for users who prefer it. While the flagship Legion Go 2 currently lacks SteamOS support, this could change based on the success of the Legion Go S.

Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive license for a SteamOS-powered handheld. However, Valve's recent blog post hints at broader SteamOS accessibility. A public beta is planned for release in the coming months, allowing owners of other handheld gaming PCs, such as the Asus ROG Ally, to experience SteamOS firsthand.