Summary
The Lenovo Legion Go S joins the growing wave of handheld gaming PCs — but unlike many of its competitors, it gives you a choice: Windows 11 or Valve’s SteamOS.
On paper, Windows might seem like the obvious winner due to its unmatched compatibility.
But when it comes to real-world handheld gaming? SteamOS is proving itself as the superior experience for most users.
1. SteamOS Offers a Better Handheld Experience
Designed for Small Screens
Unlike Windows 11, which is still rooted in desktop-first design, SteamOS was built from the ground up with handhelds in mind.
Its clean, game-focused UI is optimized for controller navigation and small displays, meaning no more awkward swiping, tapping tiny icons, or typing passwords with virtual keyboards.
Built-in Proton Support
SteamOS uses Proton, Valve’s compatibility layer that lets you run many Windows games seamlessly on Linux. This allows for a surprisingly robust out-of-the-box experience, giving access to much of your existing Steam library without the setup headaches common to Windows.
2. SteamOS Delivers More Performance
Up to 75% Better Efficiency
Compared to the Windows version of the Legion Go S, the SteamOS variant delivers significantly better performance — up to 75% in some tests.
That’s because SteamOS has a much smaller resource footprint, letting more of the handheld’s power go directly into running your games.
Better Battery Life
Less system overhead also means more juice for your battery. The SteamOS model sips power more conservatively, making it a better option for portable gaming on the go without needing a charger nearby.
3. SteamOS is More Customizable
Open Source Power
SteamOS, being a Linux-based OS, gives you far more control over your system than Windows 11.
From UI mods to kernel tweaks, the possibilities are vast — and backed by a strong and active Linux gaming community that’s eager to help newcomers.
No Bloatware or Forced Updates
Say goodbye to the dreaded Windows update restarts. SteamOS lets you focus on your games instead of system maintenance.
4. But Windows Still Wins on Compatibility
Game Library Access
Here’s where Windows still holds the crown: sheer compatibility.
Windows is the native platform for most modern PC games, including those using anti-cheat software that doesn’t yet play nice with Linux.
While SteamOS can run many of these via Proton, titles like Call of Duty: Warzone or Fortnite still require Windows for now.
Multi-Storefront Support
Windows 11 also makes it easier to run games from platforms like Battle.net, Epic Games Store, GOG, and others, giving you more flexibility if your library spans multiple services.
5. What the Future Holds
Valve is likely already working to resolve the anti-cheat roadblock, especially since their latest first-party title is a competitive shooter.
If support for Easy Anti-Cheat and similar services becomes widespread on Linux, SteamOS could close the gap entirely.
Meanwhile, Microsoft could strike back with a “Windows Lite” OS built specifically for handhelds.
Until that happens, though, Windows on handhelds like the Legion Go S feels like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.
SteamOS is the Better Fit — For Now
If you want maximum performance, battery life, and a UI that doesn’t fight you every step of the way, SteamOS is the smarter pick for the Lenovo Legion Go S.
Windows still has a role, particularly for diehard competitive gamers or those with niche libraries.
But unless you need Windows-only features, SteamOS delivers the smoother, more powerful handheld experience.