Valve Releases SteamOS on Non-Valve System

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

Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go S gaming handheld will be the first non-Steam Deck device to launch with Valve's SteamOS pre-installed. This marks a significant expansion of SteamOS beyond Valve's own hardware.

The $499 Lenovo Legion Go S (16GB RAM/512GB storage) will debut in May 2025, offering a compelling alternative to Windows-based handhelds. While competitors like the Asus ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+ boast impressive specs, the Legion Go S leverages SteamOS's optimized Linux-based experience for a smoother, more console-like feel. This advantage, previously exclusive to the Steam Deck, is now available to a wider audience.

Initially leaked, the Legion Go S's SteamOS version was officially unveiled at CES 2025. Lenovo also announced the Legion Go 2, a direct successor to the original Legion Go, but only the Legion Go S will initially offer the SteamOS option. The Legion Go S itself provides a similar level of performance to its predecessor in a more compact and lightweight design.

Lenovo Legion Go S Specifications:

SteamOS Version:

• Operating System: Valve's SteamOS (Linux-based)
• Launch Date: May 2025
• Price: $499 (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 complete feature parity between the Legion Go S's SteamOS and the Steam Deck, guaranteeing identical software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). A Windows 11 version of the Legion Go S will also be available, starting at $599. While current plans don't include a SteamOS version of the Legion Go 2, this could change depending on the Legion Go S's market reception.

Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive license for a Valve-approved SteamOS handheld. However, Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds (like the Asus ROG Ally) in the coming months suggests broader adoption is on the horizon.