Best Buy's 4th of July sale features unprecedented discounts on both Lenovo Legion Go S SteamOS gaming handheld models. The premium AMD Z1 Extreme version drops to $779.99 (from $830), while the Ryzen Z2 Go model falls to $549.99 (originally $600). Without question, the Z1 Extreme edition stands as 2025's premier gaming handheld - its superior performance justifies the investment. Originally launching in February 2025 with Windows, Lenovo later introduced the SteamOS variant in May, marking Valve's first serious competitor in SteamOS handhelds.
Lenovo Legion Go S Steam OS Gaming Handheld PC
Lenovo Legion Go S 8" 120Hz AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme SteamOS Gaming Handheld PC (32GB/1TB)
Was $829.99 | Save 6% | Now $779.99 at Best Buy
Lenovo Legion Go S 8" 120Hz AMD Ryzen Z2 Go SteamOS Gaming Handheld PC (16GB/512GB)
Was $599.99 | Save 8% | Now $549.99 at Best Buy
The $230 premium for the Z1 Extreme model delivers exceptional value: doubling both RAM and storage while significantly outperforming both the Z2 Go model (which underperforms) and Valve's Steam Deck. Running SteamOS natively, it achieves higher frame rates on its vibrant 8" 120Hz display. While battery life matches competitors, the Legion Go S boasts superior fast-charging capabilities - crucial for portable gaming sessions.
From the Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS) Review by Jaqueline Thomas
Don't be misled by model numbering - the Z1 Extreme's Zen 4/RDNA 3 architecture outclasses the Z2 Go's older Zen 3/RDNA 2 technology. Compared to the Steam Deck, the Z1 Extreme model's 32GB LPDDR5X RAM (with 10GB GPU allocation versus Steam Deck's 6GB) enables smooth performance in demanding titles like Monster Hunter Wilds - games that challenge Valve's hardware.
The SteamOS model is better than the Windows model
A third Windows 11 variant exists with identical specs to the premium SteamOS model. However, SteamOS's controller-optimized interface and gaming-first design deliver superior user experience compared to Windows 11's general-purpose OS requiring additional configuration for controller gameplay.
From the Lenovo Legion Go S (Z1 Extreme, SteamOS) Review by Jaqueline Thomas
SteamOS delivers exceptional plug-and-play functionality - simply log into Steam Big Picture mode and begin gaming. The Windows version requires navigating Legion Space to install third-party launchers via finicky touch controls. While I'm comfortable with Windows configurations after years of hardware reviews, many consumers find this process frustrating and unintuitive.
Consider complementing your purchase with a high-capacity power bank and microSD card for extended gaming sessions. While our Steam Deck vs ROG Ally comparison doesn't feature the Legion Go S, it effectively illustrates the key distinctions between SteamOS and Windows handheld gaming experiences.
