Lenovo's Legion Go S handheld gaming device just got a significant price cut, dropping $120 to $780 at Best Buy. The SteamOS-powered device positions itself as a direct competitor to Valve's aging Steam Deck, offering better specs and performance for gamers looking to upgrade their portable gaming setup without breaking the bank.
Lenovo's Legion Go S just became a lot more attractive for budget-conscious gamers. The handheld device, running Valve's SteamOS, dropped $120 to $780 at Best Buy, creating a compelling alternative for anyone looking to upgrade from the aging Steam Deck without splurging on premium competitors.
The timing couldn't be better for Lenovo. With handheld gaming exploding and devices like the Steam Deck OLED commanding premium prices, the Legion Go S fills a sweet spot between entry-level and high-end options. According to WIRED's hands-on testing, the SteamOS version significantly outperforms its Windows counterpart, making this deal even more appealing.
"Having spent time with both the SteamOS and Windows models, I prefer the one running Valve's custom handheld software," WIRED reviewer Julian Chokkattu noted. The difference comes down to user experience - while Windows struggles with controller-only navigation on handheld devices, SteamOS delivers the streamlined experience gamers actually want.
The technical specs tell a compelling story. This Legion Go S packs 1TB of storage and 32GB of memory, plus a MicroSD slot for expansion. The 8-inch display features a 120Hz refresh rate, though it sticks with IPS technology instead of the OLED panels appearing in premium handhelds. For the price point, that's a reasonable tradeoff.
Performance testing reveals where the Legion Go S shines. Chokkattu found it more powerful than his aging Steam Deck, with games like Vampire Survivors and Trackmania 2020 running smoothly with minimal tweaking. The SteamOS integration helps here - games automatically recognize the device's capabilities better than Windows typically does with custom hardware.
The physical design prioritizes comfort over portability. Unlike slimmer competitors, the Legion Go S embraces a bulkier form factor with built-in controller grips and spacious button layouts. The triggers and bumpers get particular praise for their premium feel and placement. For extended gaming sessions, this ergonomic approach makes sense.
