When Lenovo first introduced the Legion Go gaming handheld in mid-2023, it didn’t exactly take the world by storm. Fast forward to 2025, and Lenovo is back in action with three revamped models, all equipped with either the tried-and-true AMD Z1 Extreme processor or the shiny new Z2.
### Legion Go S: Your Choice of SteamOS or Windows 11
In this latest lineup, the Legion Go S ditches the detachable controllers of its predecessor in favor of a design that’s more traditional—and considerably lighter at 1.63 pounds. The model comes in two flavors: a Windows 11 version in white, and a dazzling “Nebula Violet” option running Valve’s SteamOS. The latter offers a streamlined, console-like gaming experience but does limit you to games within Valve’s own ecosystem.
Whether you choose the Legion Go S or the Legion Go S with SteamOS, both boast the same robust hardware. They feature the Z2 or Z1 Extreme processor, an 8-inch 1920×1200 LCD touchscreen capable of reaching 500 nits and 120 Hz, and a 55.5 WHr battery. Add in up to 32GB of speedy DDR5 RAM and 1TB of storage, and you’ve got a formidable handheld. For the storage-hungry, Lenovo has confirmed that the device supports standard-sized 2280 M.2 SSDs, making expansions a breeze.
Connectivity options include a MicroSD card slot, two USB 4.0 ports, and an audio jack. Lenovo indicates the Windows-touting Legion Go S will hit the shelves in January with a starting price around $729. Meanwhile, the SteamOS version is set to launch in May, priced at $499. However, May will also see additional configurations of the Windows model starting at $599. A Lenovo spokesperson mentioned that, once available, the Legion Go S running either Windows or SteamOS with the AMD Z2 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage will run for $599. The $729 Windows version will perk up the RAM to 32GB.
### Legion Go 2 Prototype: The Return of the Detachable Mouse Controller
On the premium side, Lenovo has teased a next-generation Legion Go prototype. This iteration sticks with the detachable controllers, along with the somewhat peculiar mouse sensor that transforms the right control stick into a gaming mouse, albeit not the most ergonomic one. They’ve rounded off the edges for a smoother feel and made the D-pad circular, all while the battery has been given a healthy boost from 49.2 to 74 WHr.
The display remains an 8.8-inch, 144 Hz OLED panel; Lenovo, in a smart move, downgraded the resolution to a more practical 1920×1200 from 2560×1600. The touchscreen boasts 500 nits of brightness and supports variable refresh rates. Anticipated to ship with a Ryzen Z2, up to 2TB of storage, and 32GB of blazing-fast 7500 MHz RAM, the second-gen model is set to debut sometime in 2025. As of writing, the final port options were still a bit of a mystery.
Want more insights and reviews? Subscribe to Tom’s Hardware for the latest news and reviews, delivered straight to your inbox.
