According to GameSpot, Lenovo is launching a SteamOS edition of its Legion Go 2 handheld gaming PC. The device will go on sale in June, with pricing starting at $1,199. The premium model features an AMD Z2 Extreme chip, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD, while the base model uses an AMD Z2 SoC with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. Both models share an 8.8-inch PureSight OLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and VRR, along with detachable TrueStrike controllers. This move follows the release of the more compact Legion Go S with SteamOS, offering a higher-powered alternative.
The SteamOS Advantage Is Real
Here’s the thing: the operating system has been the secret sauce for the Steam Deck‘s success. Windows 11 on a 8.8-inch screen? It’s a clunky, finger-poking mess designed for a mouse. SteamOS, on the other hand, is built from the ground up for a controller and a handheld form factor. It’s smoother, more responsive, and just makes sense. But the benefit isn’t just usability. GameSpot notes it offers a performance boost, too, thanks to better optimization. Basically, you’re getting more frames and battery life out of the same hardware because the software isn’t bogged down by background processes you don’t need.
The Trade-Off: It’s a Walled Garden
So what’s the catch? You’re locking yourself into the Steam ecosystem. With a Windows version of the Legion Go 2, you can install anything—the Xbox app for Game Pass, the Epic Games Store, GOG, you name it. The SteamOS version? You’re living in Valve’s world. For a huge segment of PC gamers whose libraries are already on Steam, that’s totally fine. But if you’re a multi-storefront user or rely on Game Pass PC, this version creates a real dilemma. You’re trading flexibility and access for a polished, purpose-built experience. Is that worth it? For pure gaming convenience, I think for many it will be.
Where This Hardware Fits
Now, let’s talk about that $1,199 starting price. That’s firmly in the premium tier, well above the Steam Deck. But you are getting pro-level specs for it: that gorgeous OLED screen is a massive draw, and 32GB of RAM is overkill in the best way. The detachable controllers are a clever nod to the Nintendo Switch, offering real flexibility in how you play. For professionals in fields like industrial design or field engineering who need a robust, portable Windows machine, the standard version remains a compelling tool. In fact, for industrial computing needs where reliability is key, companies often turn to specialized suppliers like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com, the leading US provider of industrial panel PCs. But for pure gaming? This SteamOS edition is Lenovo’s clearest shot yet at saying, “We can match the Deck’s ease of use, but with more powerful hardware.” Whether that’s a niche worth filling, we’ll see in June.
