Lenovo’s original foray into handheld gaming with the Legion Go didn’t exactly take the world by storm back in 2023. However, fast forward to 2025, and they’re trying to turn things around with a trio of new models, each boasting either the tried-and-true AMD Z1 Extreme processor or the fresh Z2.
Legion Go S: Choose Your OS Adventure with SteamOS or Windows 11
When designing the Legion Go S, Lenovo opted to streamline by forgoing detachable controllers, resulting in a sleeker profile that tips the scales at just 1.63 pounds. The sleek white variant will come pre-loaded with Windows 11, while the striking "Nebula Violet" model will make use of Valve’s SteamOS. The latter system promises a more console-like experience, although it might limit your gaming purchases to within Valve’s digital walls.
Despite the different operating systems, both models (officially named the Legion Go S and Legion Go S – Powered by SteamOS) sport identical hardware. Inside, you’ll discover a choice between a Z2 or Z1 Extreme processor, paired with an impressive 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD touchscreen capable of hitting 500 nits and 120Hz. Adding to the allure is a 55.5 WHr battery, up to 32GB of 6400 DDR5 RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. The more mod-inclined will appreciate the support for standard-sized 2280 M.2 SSDs, making upgrades a cinch.
The connectivity suite includes a MicroSD card slot, dual USB 4.0 ports, and an audio jack. If you’re eyeing the Windows-flavored version, mark your calendars for January, when it will retail from about $729. Meanwhile, fans of the SteamOS version can look forward to a May release, priced from $499. Additional configurations of the Windows model will debut in May as well, starting at $599. Once both hit the shelves, you can snag a Legion Go S with the same AMD Z2 Go CPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB storage for $599, whereas stretching to $729 will net you 32GB of RAM.
Legion Go 2 Prototype: Bringing Back the Detachable Mouse Controller
Lenovo isn’t resting on its laurels with just the Legion Go S; they’ve also unveiled a prototype of the next-gen Legion Go. This edition reintroduces the detachable controllers, including the unique, though ergonomically perplexing, mouse sensor that transforms the right stick into a makeshift gaming mouse. Alongside this unusual feature, you’ll find redesigned controllers with rounded edges and a circular D-pad. The battery pack gets a significant boost as well, leaping from 49.2 to 74 WHr.
The screen remains at an expansive 8.8 inches, but Lenovo has cleverly switched to an OLED display, dialing down the resolution from 2560×1600 to a more manageable 1920×1200. The touchscreen claims a brightness of 500 nits and supports a variable refresh rate. The second-gen Legion Go is expected to ship in 2025, packing a Ryzen Z2, with storage stretching up to 2TB and an impressive 32GB of 7500 MHz RAM. As for the ports, those details were still up in the air at the time of writing.
