Lenovo Legion Go S Struggles with Performance, Size, and Windows Compatibility Issues

The Lenovo Legion Go S, a successor to the original Legion Go, arrives with promising specifications, including a high-resolution 8-inch display and comfortable controls. However, despite the excitement surrounding its release, the device struggles to deliver a seamless gaming experience. Many games face performance issues, and the overall execution leaves much to be desired.

Starting at $730, the Legion Go S is positioned as a premium gaming handheld. However, its large size makes portability a challenge. While the display is sharp and the buttons feel sturdy, the overall bulk and lack of a built-in kickstand diminish its practicality for gaming on the go.

Windows Compatibility Issues and Hardware Limitations Undermine the Legion Go S Gaming Experience

Setting up the Legion Go S requires downloading games, often through Microsoft GamePass Ultimate. Unfortunately, many titles encounter issues—graphical errors prevent some from running, while others suffer from poor frame rates, making them unplayable. Lower-demand indie games tend to perform better, but that alone does not justify the device’s high price.

One of the biggest drawbacks of Windows gaming handhelds is the operating system itself. Unlike the streamlined experience offered by Steam Deck’s SteamOS, Windows remains riddled with compatibility issues, frequent software glitches, and an overall cumbersome interface. The Xbox app does not provide clear indications of which games will run well, leading to frustration and wasted time.

Despite being marketed as a more compact handheld, the Legion Go S remains surprisingly large. It lacks a kickstand and features fixed controls instead of detachable ones. While the analog sticks, buttons, and triggers feel solid, they do not surpass the quality of the Steam Deck. Additionally, it lacks the back paddle buttons and dual trackpads found on Valve’s handheld, making navigation more cumbersome.

Legion Go S Struggles with Performance, Overheating, and Windows 11 Optimization Issues

The Legion Go S is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor, which does not improve upon its predecessor’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme. Games like Elden Ring and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart run with frequent frame rate drops, even at lower graphics settings. The device also overheats frequently, requiring active cooling via its venting system, and the battery life struggles to last beyond a couple of hours.

Windows 11 has yet to be optimized for handheld gaming. The operating system feels cluttered, with unnecessary updates and notifications interrupting gameplay. The Xbox app does not provide clear information about game compatibility, forcing users to rely on trial and error. While Windows 11 allows access to multiple game stores and modding capabilities, the experience requires constant tinkering—something most gamers would rather avoid.

For those seeking a reliable PC gaming handheld, the Steam Deck remains the best option. A cheaper $500 version of the Legion Go S running SteamOS is expected later, which might improve the experience. However, as it stands, the Windows-based Legion Go S is too unreliable, making it difficult to recommend.

With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon and Microsoft promising improvements in Windows gaming handhelds, better options may soon be available. Until then, sticking with the Steam Deck or waiting for SteamOS alternatives is the better choice.