Lenovo's Legion Go S is a fascinating pivot: the original Legion Go ran Windows, but the Go S launched a SteamOS version at $499 — directly targeting Valve's turf while undercutting ASUS's ROG Ally X by $300. It uses a less powerful Z1 (non-Extreme) APU variant but compensates with a bold value proposition and Lenovo's competitive build quality. ROG Ally X fights back with the Z1 Extreme's extra GPU compute and a more premium chassis.
ASUS ROG Ally X
ROG Ally X wins on performance; Legion Go S wins on value, especially the SteamOS model.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | Lenovo Legion Go S | ASUS ROG Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| APU | Ryzen Z1 Extreme | Ryzen Z1 (non-Extreme) |
| GPU CUs | 12 CU RDNA 3 | 4 CU RDNA 3 |
| Display | 7" 1080p IPS 120Hz | 8" 1200p IPS 60Hz |
| RAM | 24 GB LPDDR5X | 16 GB LPDDR5X |
| OS Options | Windows 11 | Windows 11 or SteamOS |
| Battery | 80 Wh | 55.5 Wh |
| Weight | 678g | ~640g |
| Price | $799 | $499 (SteamOS) / $599 (Win) |
Performance Comparison
ASUS ROG Ally X uses the Ryzen Z1 Extreme with 12 RDNA 3 compute units. Lenovo Legion Go S uses the Ryzen Z1 (non-Extreme) with 4 RDNA 3 compute units — a significant difference. In GPU-bound scenarios at high settings, the Ally X is roughly 2–2.5× faster in GPU throughput.
At lower settings and 720p–800p with FSR, the Legion Go S is surprisingly capable. It handles lighter titles like Hades II, Vampire Survivors, and older AAA games well. Demanding 2026 releases like Avowed at high settings will need FSR Quality to maintain 60 fps.
Both devices support up to 25W TDP, though the Legion Go S thermals are challenged at sustained high TDP — expect throttling under prolonged heavy load.
Design and Display
Legion Go S uses an 8-inch 1200p display — the largest and highest-resolution screen in this comparison. It's an IPS panel, not OLED, but the resolution bump over the Ally X's 1080p is visible in text and fine detail.
The Go S supports detachable controllers in the original Legion Go style, though the 'S' variant's detach mechanism is simpler. Ally X's integrated design is more rigid.
Legion Go S is notably lighter than the original Legion Go despite the larger screen. Build quality is solid Lenovo — not quite ROG premium, but close.
SteamOS vs Windows
The $499 Legion Go S SteamOS model is Lenovo's smartest play: it delivers the polish of Valve's OS on non-Valve hardware. SteamOS suspend/resume, the Big Picture interface, and Proton compatibility all work as they do on the Deck.
ROG Ally X runs Windows 11, which adds versatility but also friction. Windows updates, driver conflicts, and the less controller-optimized desktop environment are persistent irritants on a handheld.
If you exclusively play Steam games, the Legion Go S SteamOS model arguably wins the software experience despite the weaker GPU.
Lenovo Legion Go S Strengths
- Z1 Extreme GPU is ~2–2.5× faster for demanding titles
- 80 Wh battery with longer gaming sessions at high TDP
- Premium ROG build quality and better grip ergonomics
- Full Windows 11 for non-Steam launchers
ASUS ROG Ally X Strengths
- $499 SteamOS model — $300 cheaper than Ally X
- 8-inch 1200p display is the largest in the handheld PC segment
- SteamOS version delivers polished controller-first OS experience
- Detachable controller support for flexible play modes
Lenovo Legion Go S Weaknesses
- $799 is a steep premium over Legion Go S
- Windows 11 handheld UX requires more configuration
- Heavier at 678g than most handheld competitors
ASUS ROG Ally X Weaknesses
- Z1 non-Extreme GPU struggles with demanding 2026 titles at quality settings
- Sustained 25W TDP causes thermal throttling
- SteamOS model lacks native Epic/Xbox Game Pass access
Best For
- a: Gamers who want maximum handheld performance for demanding titles and need full Windows access
- b: Steam gamers on a budget who want the best value handheld with a polished SteamOS experience
FAQ
Does Legion Go S SteamOS support Xbox Game Pass?
Not natively — Game Pass requires Windows. There are workarounds but they're not plug-and-play.
Can I install Windows on the Legion Go S SteamOS model?
Yes — you can dual-boot or replace SteamOS with Windows, though Lenovo's warranty may have caveats.
Is the 8-inch display too big for portable gaming?
It's larger than the Switch 2 and Deck, which some love and others find unwieldy. It doesn't fit a jeans pocket.