Lenovo
Legion Go 2 (SteamOS)
The SteamOS version of this handheld comes with up to an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, 32GB RAM, and 2TB SSD. It has the same OLED display, detachable controllers, kickstand, buttons, and overall layout as the Windows version, but with button icons that match the Steam Deck. Surprisingly, its starting price is higher than the Windows version.
Pros
- Linux-based SteamOS has far less bloat than Windows 11 and a console-like interface
- Casing uses the same button icons as the Steam Deck
- Features 8.8-inch OLED touchscreen that supports VRR and 144Hz
- Same powerful Z2 Extreme handheld processor as Windows version
- Might have better battery life
Cons
- More expensive starting price
- Requires a bit more work to access game services other than Steam
- Proton keeps getting better, but isn’t compatible with all games
- SteamOS doesn’t support fingerprint reader
- FPS mode might not work outside of games and Desktop Mode
- Hasn’t launched yet
Lenovo
Legion Go 2 (Windows)
This version of the Legion Go 2 runs Windows 11; its interface feels more like your average gaming laptop or desktop. A handy fingerprint reader on top facilitates fast login. Configurations include up to AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, 32GB RAM, and 2TB SSD. An impressive 8.8-inch OLED touchscreen comes with all versions of this handheld.
Pros
- Runs Windows 11, making it compatible with more PC games
- Fingerprint reader makes for easy login
- Offers up to a powerful Z2 Extreme handheld chip
- Features the same 8.8-inch OLED touchscreen that supports VRR and 144Hz
- Detachable controllers and FPS mode navigate Windows 11 and games
- Lower starting price
Cons
- Windows 11 is clunkier and doesn’t run as efficiently as SteamOS
- Interface can be daunting and feels more like a full PC than a gaming system
- Likely has shorter battery life
For those of you unsure of which of the operating systems to choose from when buying Legion Go 2, I’ve spent some time comparing these two devices and explaining their differences. Let’s dive in and discuss how they compare.
TL:DR: Look for the TL;DR sections to get the highlights for each category.
Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Specs
| Header Cell – Column 0 |
Legion Go 2 (SteamOS) |
Legion Go 2 (Windows) |
|---|---|---|
|
Starting price |
$1,199.00 |
$1,049.99 | $1,349.99 | $1,499.99 |
|
Release date |
June 2026 |
October 2025 |
|
OS |
SteamOS |
Windows 11 Home |
|
Processor |
AMD Ryzen Z2 8c/16t 4nm | Ryzen Z2 Extreme 8c/16t 4nm process |
AMD Ryzen Z2 8c/16t 4nm | Ryzen Z2 Extreme 8c/16t 4nm process |
|
Graphics |
Up to 16 GPU Cores (RDNA3.5) |
12 GPU Cores (RDNA3) | 16 GPU Cores RDNA3.5) |
|
Refresh rate / VRR |
144Hz / Yes |
144Hz / Yes |
|
Memory |
Up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM |
16GB | 32GB LPDDR5X-8000 MHz RAM |
|
Storage |
Up to 2TB SSD |
1TB | 2TB M.2 2242 SSD |
|
Display |
8.8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 OLED touchscreen, 144Hz, 500 nits, TrueBlack 1000 |
8.8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10 OLED touchscreen, 144Hz, 500 nits, TrueBlack 1000 |
|
Connectivity |
Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 |
Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 |
|
Ports |
2x USB4 Type-C (DisplayPort 1.4, Power Delivery 3.0), 1x microSD card reader (up to 2TB), 1x audio jack, |
2x USB4 Type-C (DisplayPort 1.4, Power Delivery 3.0), 1x microSD card reader (up to 2TB), 1x audio jack, |
|
Joysticks |
Offset Hall Effect sticks |
Offset Hall Effect sticks |
|
Fingerprint reader |
Yes (unsupported) |
Yes |
|
Touchpad |
Yes (one) |
Yes (one) |
|
Detachable controllers |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Color |
Black |
Black |
|
Dimensions |
295.6 x 136.7 x 42.25mm (11.64 x 5.38 x 1.66in) |
295.6 x 136.7 x 42.2mm (11.64 x 5.38 x 1.66in) |
|
Weight |
920g (2.2 lbs) |
920g (2.03 lbs) |
|
Battery |
74Whr |
74Whr |
Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Pricing
As of right now, we know that the Windows version of the Legion Go 2 has a lower $1,049.99 starting price compared to the SteamOS version’s $1,199.99 starting MSRP.
Outside of their operating systems, these handhelds are largely the same, with the same layouts, buttons, processor options, displays, and ports.
It’s honestly a bit surprising that the SteamOS version costs more, given that the Windows version of the Legion Go S has a higher price than the SteamOS version.
TL;DR: PRICE WINNER: Surprisingly, the Windows version of the Legion Go 2 has a lower starting price than the SteamOS version.
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Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Performance
NOTE: I will conduct performance benchmark testing on the Legion Go 2 (SteamOS) when I get my hands on it and will update this section as soon as possible. For now, this section utilizes official spec information for educated analysis.
Despite the Windows and SteamOS versions of the Legion Go 2 having the same Ryzen Z2 Series handheld processors and capacity options when it comes to memory and storage, it’s likely that the SteamOS versions will run more efficiently.
RELATED: All AMD handheld chips and how they compare
This is due to the fact that SteamOS is far more optimized for handhelds than Microsoft’s operating system. Where Windows 11 is bogged down by bloat and extra background processes, SteamOS is more focused, allowing it to take up less power.
As an example, previous benchmarks showed that the rival Xbox Ally X offered better performance running SteamOS than it did running the Windows 11 it ships with. As such, it stands to reason the Legion Go 2 will also perform better with SteamOS.
TL;DR: PERFORMANCE WINNER: I’ll have to run tests to know for sure, but it’s very likely that the SteamOS version of the Legion Go 2 will offer better performance.
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Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Display
Both the SteamOS and Windows versions of the Legion Go 2 feature an 8.8-inch OLED touchscreen that tops at a crisp 1920×1200 resolution, a high 144Hz refresh rate, and offers VRR (variable refresh rate) support.
Altogether, they offer a fantastic color range and contrast with detailed visuals and smooth motion clarity.
As I noted in my Legion Go 2 (Windows) review, this is the best handheld display to date.
TL;DR: DISPLAY WINNER: It’s a tie. Both the Windows and SteamOS versions have the same OLED display.
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Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Controls and ports
There is no difference in the general layout between the SteamOS and Windows versions of the Legion Go 2. However, the SteamOS version does show the same game icons for the buttons that the Steam Deck uses.
Both handhelds have offset Hall Effect joysticks that won’t develop stick drift, detachable controllers, and a touchpad under the right joystick. They both also have a right controller that has an FPS Mode, allowing the controller to act somewhat like a mouse when dragged around a surface.
I’ve personally used the FPS Mode for better control in certain games as well as to navigate my cursor around Windows 11 menus, programs, and Google Chrome. I’m guessing FPS Mode will work well in certain games on the SteamOS handheld and in the Desktop Mode. However, I’m not sure how well it will work in SteamOS’s handheld mode. I’ll be sure to check that out when I review the Legion Go 2 (SteamOS).
On top of the Legion Go 2 is an RGB circle, in the shape of the Legion logo, and at its center is a fingerprint reader that works very well on the Windows handheld. The thing is, this fingerprint reader is also located on the SteamOS version, but it cannot be used since SteamOS doesn’t natively support this biometric login technology.
What about ports?
Image 1 of 2
Port-wise, both Legion Go 2 versions offer an audio jack, a microSD card reader that supports up to 2TB, and two USB4 Type-C ports.
Thanks to DisplayPort support, both handhelds can be connected to a docking station and displayed on a TV or monitor. You’ll just need to make sure you get a 65W docking station or higher in order for it to be compatible.
TL;DR: CONTROLS & PORTS WINNER: While the buttons, joysticks, and ports are the same between these devices, it’s possible that FPS mode is limited on SteamOS and that the fingerprint reader is only supported on the Windows version, which makes Windows the winner here.
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Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Software and games
As the names imply, the biggest difference between the Legion Go 2 versions is that one runs the Linux-based SteamOS while the other runs Windows 11.
Out of the box, SteamOS’s handheld mode is intended to only access your Steam library of games, but as I explained in my Decky Loader guide, this plug-in makes it easier to access other game services like Battle.net, Epic Games, and more.
Meanwhile, the Windows version is far less optimized for handhelds; it literally operates like a Windows laptop or desktop, which has two main problems: First, many people find the Windows interface to be too convoluted for handhelds compared to the SteamOS interface’s console-like simplicity. Second, Windows has far more bloat, with unnecessary programs (for handhelds) and extra processes running in the background. This bloat can slow the handheld down and make it work less efficiently, so it’s good to uninstall unneeded programs.
These are some of the reasons why Windows handheld owners have opted to switch to SteamOS or the console-like experience of Bazzite.
It’s also easier to update the SteamOS version and its software by going between your game library and the SteamOS system settings. Meanwhile, you’ll need to move between Windows settings, your game services, specific games, AMD Software, and Lenovo Space to keep your Windows handheld and its games up to date.
However, there is a lot of good that comes with Windows as well. You can easily access a web browser, other gaming services, and download programs right out of the box if you know how to use Windows.
Then there’s the game compatibility issue.
It’s worth noting that the vast majority of PC games are specifically designed for Windows. SteamOS gets around this by using Proton, a compatibility layer, to make Windows games run on Linux. While Proton continues to get better every year, some games still aren’t compatible with Proton and thus don’t run well or don’t run at all on SteamOS handhelds unless you do a lot of tweaking. Even then, there isn’t always a guarantee that games will work on SteamOS.
As an example, many competitive multiplayer games require the use of an anti-cheat system to play, but most anti-cheat kernel-level drivers, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 7’s RICOCHET, aren’t supported on SteamOS. People have found workarounds, but it’s possible a game’s anti-cheat could incorrectly flag these fixes and ban your account. This being the case, it’s typically safer to play anti-cheat games on Windows devices.
In case you didn’t know, you can connect a mouse and keyboard to both the SteamOS and Windows versions and then use them like a typical Linux or Windows computer. I’ve specifically used my Legion Go 2 to access various non-gaming programs, type up articles for work, and browse the internet using my Artciety Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard with a built-in touchpad ($34.99 at Amazon).
You’ll really need to consider what games you intend to play on the Legion Go 2 and then determine whether SteamOS or Windows will do a better job of allowing you to play those titles.
TL;DR: SOFTWARE & GAMES WINNER: We’ve got a few tradeoffs here. SteamOS is better optimized for handhelds than Windows, and it offers a better console-like interface. However, certain games and most anti-cheat systems do not run well on SteamOS; more games are compatible with Windows.
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Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Battery life
Both the Windows and SteamOS versions of the Legion Go 2 offer a 74Wh battery. That said, the SteamOS version likely lasts longer on one charge since its operating system is more efficient, is better optimized for handhelds, and has less bloat (like we previously discussed).
I won’t know what Legion Go 2 (SteamOS) battery life is like until I do my own battery testing. That said, my previous Legion Go 2 (Windows) battery tests showed that it tends to run for 1.5 to slightly more than five hours, depending on settings.
Now, the SteamOS version has those same power-hungry Z2 processors, so it likely only runs a bit longer than the Windows version.
I’ll update this section as soon as I can run a Legion Go 2 (SteamOS) through battery testing.
TL;DR: BATTERY LIFE WINNER: I won’t know for sure until I can do testing, but it’s likely that the SteamOS version lasts longer.
Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Grip ergonomics and comfort
The same ergonomic design and shape are at play with both the SteamOS and Windows Legion Go 2.
They are 11.64 inches long, 5.38 inches tall, and 1.66 inches thick, making them some of the largest handhelds on the market. Unsurprisingly, they’re also some of the heaviest, ranging between 2.03 and 2.2 pounds depending on configurations.
But your hands and wrists shouldn’t cry out just yet. Remember, the detachable controllers are only 0.46 pounds, so you can put the controller in tabletop mode if you tend to experience wrist fatigue.
TL;DR: COMFORT WINNER: We have a tie. Both versions are the same when it comes to ergonomics, dimensions, and weight.
Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Comparison chart
|
Category |
Winner |
|---|---|
|
Price |
Windows. The handheld has a lower starting price, even if it isn’t by much. |
|
Performance |
Tie. Both handhelds offer the same configuration options. |
|
Display |
Tie. Both handhelds have the same 8.8-inch OLED. |
|
Controls & ports |
Windows. Some of the handhelds functions might work better (or only work) on Windows. |
|
Software & games |
Tradeoffs. SteamOS is more efficient and has a better interface, but more games are compatible with Windows. |
|
Battery life |
SteamOS. Both handhelds have the same battery capacity, but SteamOS tends to run more efficiently. |
|
Grip |
Tie. Ergonomics, dimensions, and weight are the same on both. |
|
Best overall |
Tradeoffs. Windows might be more bloated and have a worse interface, but more games can run on it. Meanwhile, SteamOS is better optimized for handhelds and likely offers better battery life. |
Legion Go 2: SteamOS vs Windows — Which should I buy?
In all honesty, both the Windows and the SteamOS versions of the Legion Go 2 could make for the perfect handheld, depending on what you want from your portable gaming device.
Generally, more people will likely prefer the SteamOS version due to its console-like interface and efficiency, but Windows can be a better fit for certain use cases.
Our Top Gaming Recommendations
In the end, choose the Legion Go 2 (SteamOS) if you want a handheld that feels more like a dedicated gaming system than a full-blown PC. SteamOS is also a preferred option thanks to how efficiently it runs without unnecessary bloat.
Meanwhile, choose the Legion Go 2 (Windows) if you tend to play games with anti-cheat systems or other titles that don’t run well on SteamOS. Alternatively, you might want to go with the Windows version if you want to use your handheld like a Windows gaming laptop or desktop, for school, work, or personal tasks.
NOTE: If you need a handheld right now, you’re kind of out of luck, unless you’re willing to give in to scalpers. The Windows Legion Go 2 has been out of stock at most retailers for a couple of months, and the SteamOS version doesn’t launch until June 2026.
Lenovo
Legion Go 2 (SteamOS)
Those who want the very best gaming experience on a handheld to date should consider getting the Legion Go 2 (SteamOS). Its processors are far more powerful than the Steam Deck’s and it has a much better OLED display and additional features too.
Lenovo
Legion Go 2 (Windows)
The Legion Go 2 is a fantastic handheld gaming PC with a relatively massive 8.8-inch OLED display that supports up to 144Hz and VRR. You can get it with up to 32GB RAM and up to 2TB SSD. Its detachable controllers and built-in kickstand make it a very versatile device.
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