Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source. However, this one is special because it doesn’t run Windows 11 — it runs SteamOS. That single change in the operating system elevates the Legion Go S from a “just okay” gaming handheld to a great one — rivaling the Steam Deck is a lightweight operating system originally exclusive to the Steam Deck. It delivers a user-friendly interface that isn’t bloated with unwanted apps, and more importantly, it’s designed specifically for gaming.
It’s this streamlined OS is a big reason why the Steam Deck has been so popular — it’s no fuss, no muss. Back in January
A familiar design
Design-wise, it’s identical to the earlier model with the only discernable difference being the color. It is now in Nebula purple instead of Glacier White. The device itself is just as comfortable in my hands and doesn’t feel bulky. Textured grips on the side stop slipping, hall-effect analog sticks maintain accuracy and prevent drifting, and the switches on the back affect the travel distance for the rear triggers.
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However, the touchpad under the right analog stick has lost its purpose. In the previous model, it was used to control the cursor for various purposes, like navigating a web browser. But, this device doesn’t support any browser or apps for that matter — it’s just Steam.
The touchpad can be used in games as another button or to help aim weapons, although performing the latter doesn’t feel great. It’s so small that it’s difficult to get precise movements. Most of the time, I ended up aiming my character in a completely different direction when I meant to shoot the enemy in front of me.
Luckily, you can tweak the hardware’s performance on the fly. Pressing the button at the upper right corner of the screen launches the settings menu. Then, just click the lightning bolt icon to open the Performance page where you can tweak the game’s performance to best suit your needs.
If you don’t want to spend half an hour adjusting the settings like I did, you can just activate a title’s default profile. This feature is my absolute favorite. It automatically applies a game’s performance profile according to what Steam has for it, taking all of the guesswork out.
It’s close, but I like the Legion Go S more because of its touchscreen. Lenovo’s device has an 8-inch LCD that runs at a 120Hz refresh rate, while Valve’s Steam Deck has a 7.4-inch OLED touchscreen that runs at 90Hz max. I value higher refresh rates because they ensure smoother animations and faster response times, which can mean the difference between winning and losing.
On the other hand, the Steam Deck’s OLED screen does mean its color output is more impressive.
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There are other deciding factors to consider. The Steam Deck’s OLED display delivers a more vibrant color palette, and Valve’s device is lighter at 1.4 pounds, while the Legion Go S clocks in at 1.62 pounds. Also, the Steam Deck has significantly larger touchpads underneath the Deck’s analog sticks, which make controlling first-person shooters easier.
ZDNET’s buying advice
Lenovo’s Legion Go S, which retails for $549.