Lenovo is reportedly preparing a SteamOS-powered version of the Legion Go 2 gaming handheld. According to Windows Latest, this machine would keep the same hardware configuration as its Windows counterpart, leveraging the same silicon and external design. The goal is to deliver a controller-optimised variant that gives users an easily navigable interface, all while reclaiming some of the performance lost by Windows.
If correct, this handheld would represent Lenovo’s second attempt at a SteamOS machine, following in the footsteps of the Ryzen Z2 Go-powered Legion Go S. Speaking of which, the new Go 2 will use the same Ryzen Z2 Extreme chip found inside the Windows Legion Go 2, offering eight Zen 5 cores and Radeon 890M graphics. It is also said to pack up to 32GB of LPDDR5x-8000 memory alongside up to 2TB of Gen 4 M.2 2242 SSD storage. The same goes for the 8.8in (1920×1200) 144Hz OLED screen and 74Wh battery.
Since the Windows version of this handheld has been praised for its greater performance compared to the Legion Go 1, switching to the SteamOS should further improve things. Add to that the same good OLED screen, customisable ergonomics, and a console-like UI, and you get one of the best handheld gaming experiences. Overall, this will make it a strong alternative to Valve’s Steam Deck OLED, which is starting to lag behind in terms of performance and battery capacity.
The software part is clearly the name of the game here. While Microsoft brought some nice improvements to Windows with the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally X, SteamOS is still better when it comes to gamepad navigation. Not surprising, actually, considering that Valve had years to refine its full-screen experience thanks to Steam Big Picture. So, if most of your games are on Steam or if you prefer your device to boot directly into a gaming environment, the Legion Go 2 is a great choice.
Windows Latest has also indicated that the Windows version will get Microsoft’s Full Screen Experience, i.e. the optimised version, to the original Go 2, giving both models a better interface and an optimised OS. Since both machines are identical hardware-wise, I wonder if both Windows and SteamOS will be available at some point, so users can choose the one they prefer. Better yet, a dual-boot option would be epic.
While pricing has yet to be revealed, we don’t see this model coming at any drastic discount. Even excluding any Windows royalties or what have you, the Legion Go 2 SteamOS will likely target at least $900/£800. Perhaps more considering the ongoing RAM and SSD shortages. In any case, it’s expected to be officially revealed next month at CES 2026.
