SteamOS Is Officially Launching on a System That\'s Not By Valve

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

Lenovo's upcoming Legion Go S gaming handheld marks a significant milestone: it's the first non-Valve device to launch with SteamOS pre-installed. This represents a major expansion for Valve's Linux-based operating system, previously exclusive to the Steam Deck.

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, SteamOS provides a smoother, more console-like experience optimized for portable gaming, a key advantage the Steam Deck has always held.

This move follows recent leaks correctly predicting a SteamOS variant of the Legion Go S. Lenovo unveiled the Legion Go S alongside the Legion Go 2 at CES 2025. The Go S prioritizes a lighter, more compact design while maintaining comparable performance to its predecessor, offering consumers a choice between SteamOS and Windows 11.

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 guarantees feature parity between the Legion Go S and the Steam Deck, ensuring identical software updates (excluding hardware-specific adjustments). The Windows 11 version, available earlier at a higher price point, caters to users preferring a familiar operating system. While the flagship Legion Go 2 currently lacks a SteamOS option, this could change depending on the Legion Go S's market reception.

Currently, Lenovo holds the exclusive license for a SteamOS-powered handheld from Valve. However, Valve's announcement of a public SteamOS beta for other handhelds in the coming months suggests broader accessibility is on the horizon for owners of devices like the Asus ROG Ally.