Introduction

Lenovo has officially raised the price of its highly anticipated SteamOS-powered Legion Go S handheld gaming PC, initially introduced at CES 2025 with a tantalizing price of $499.99.

This meant it was poised to compete directly with Valve’s Steam Deck, strategically positioned between the $399 Steam Deck LCD and the $549 OLED version. However, fans and gamers were left surprised when preorders launched at Best Buy, revealing a new price point of $549.99, with the device set to hit the shelves on May 25th.

Price Increase Confirmation

Jeff Witt, Lenovo’s communications director, confirmed this price increase to The Verge, stating that this is now the official asking price for the base model.

Many enthusiasts are left wondering how this affects the device's competitiveness in a market that has become increasingly saturated with handheld gaming options.

Features and Performance

While the $499.99 price seemed appropriate for the Legion Go S given its unique features, which include Hall effect joysticks for enhanced precision, a sprawling 8-inch screen with variable refresh rates, a notably comfortable design, and customizable triggers, the core performance aspect hasn't completely wowed critics.

Despite its impressive specifications, the Ryzen Z2 Go chip hasn't managed to outshine the Steam Deck in real-world tests, with early evaluations suggesting that the Windows-based Go S models lagged behind Valve’s device.

Operating System Shift and Market Dynamics

Swapping the operating system to SteamOS may address some of the deficiencies users experienced with Windows on handhelds, but it remains uncertain whether this shift will unleash the full potential of the Z2 Go chip.

The increased price tag may impede the initial excitement about Lenovo's entry into the handheld gaming scene, but it’s worth noting this isn't the only portable device set to support SteamOS this year.

Competition and Future Outlook

Valve is reportedly expanding SteamOS compatibility to the Asus ROG Ally as well, with Pierre-Loup Griffais, lead designer of SteamOS and the Steam Deck, indicating a beta version is expected to launch sometime after March.

As the handheld gaming arena heats up, gamers will have to carefully evaluate whether Lenovo's Legion Go S justifies its elevated price with performance that can truly rival its competitors. Will it deliver on its promises, or will it fall short?

Conclusion

Stay tuned for more updates as we delve deeper into what these new handhelds have to offer!