Image: Lenovo
SteamOS is better than Windows 11. At least, if you want to play games on a handheld, you’re looking for performance and efficiency, and you’re okay going without some anti-cheat games that still only run on Windows. That’s probably why people were so looking forward to the Legion Go S running SteamOS out of the box. Today, you can get one for just $449.99 (that’s $200 off the base price).
That’s the SteamOS version of the Legion Go S, which comes packed with a Ryzen Z2 Go processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage. And I think it’s worth serious consideration if you’ve been itching for a Steam Deck. While it’s still $50 more expensive than the base model Steam Deck from Valve, it’s using a bigger 8-inch screen with a better 1920×1200 resolution. It’s faster too, at 120Hz (and with a very slight power bump from the processor), and comes with double the storage, a bigger battery, and upgraded Wi-Fi 6E.
With all those improvements, I’d say that the Legion Go S competes more directly with the $550 Steam Deck OLED, a mild refresh of the design with a slightly bigger screen and better battery life. And with this deal, it’s $100 less. Though the Legion Go S doesn’t have OLED, I’d say its faster, bigger, and more high-res screen is a pretty even comparison. It’s a fantastic bargain if you’ve been waiting for a good deal on a handheld.
Best Buy is also discounting other models of the Legion Go S, with the more powerful Ryzen Z1 Extreme version of this SteamOS edition going for $650. Strangely, the Windows versions aren’t reduced… but since those models were poorly reviewed, I doubt anyone is upset.
Get a Legion Go S (SteamOS version) for just $450 right now
Author: Michael Crider, Staff Writer, PCWorld
Michael is a 10-year veteran of technology journalism, covering everything from Apple to ZTE. On PCWorld he’s the resident keyboard nut, always using a new one for a review and building a new mechanical board or expanding his desktop “battlestation” in his off hours. Michael’s previous bylines include Android Police, Digital Trends, Wired, Lifehacker, and How-To Geek, and he’s covered events like CES and Mobile World Congress live. Michael lives in Pennsylvania where he’s always looking forward to his next kayaking trip.
