SteamOS makes a surprising comeback
Not long ago, SteamOS had a rocky start. Early tests showed it lagging behind Windows in gaming performance. However, things have changed significantly.
Recent Ars Technica tests on the Lenovo Legion Go S show SteamOS 3.7 runs high-end games faster than Windows 11, winning performance in four out of five titles and tying once (Borderlands 3), all on identical hardware and settings.
A gaming handheld that does both
The Lenovo Legion Go S is unique because it’s designed to handle either Windows 11 or SteamOS right out of the box. You don’t have to pick just one forever.
This freedom lets you test which system feels better for your games. Maybe you like Windows for certain apps, but SteamOS for faster gameplay. The best part is that the Legion Go S doesn’t force you into a corner. You can switch between operating systems and figure out what works best.
Real‑world testing proves a point
To see which system performed better, testers played five demanding 3D games on the Legion Go S. The same hardware, different software.
Games like Returnal and Cyberpunk 2077 ran noticeably faster on SteamOS. Even with updated drivers, Windows couldn’t quite catch up.
For people who care about every frame per second, this is big news. Faster frame rates mean smoother action and a better gaming experience, especially on a handheld where performance matters most.
Surprising wins for SteamOS
One of the biggest shocks was how consistently SteamOS performed across different games. Out of five tested titles, SteamOS won four times and tied once.
Even with a special Windows driver upgrade from Asus, SteamOS still came out ahead in most cases. The only exception was Borderlands 3, where Windows edged out a tiny lead. This shows that Valve has spent years quietly improving SteamOS, and now those efforts are paying off in real results.
What’s inside makes a difference
SteamOS uses a tool called Proton that translates Windows game code to run on Linux. You’d think this extra step would slow things down, but that’s not the case anymore.
Valve has refined Proton so much that it barely impacts speed. Plus, SteamOS has lighter system overhead compared to Windows. That means fewer background tasks eating up memory or power. For gamers, this adds up to better performance without needing fancy tweaks.
Windows isn’t going away
While SteamOS shines in some ways, Windows still has advantages. More games are fully compatible with Windows, and it’s easier to install other software.
Some popular titles won’t run on SteamOS yet, especially if they have strict anti-cheat tools. So, if you want to play everything without any workarounds, Windows might still be your go-to. But if you want simpler gaming with faster frame rates, SteamOS is worth a look.
Easier setup for everyone
Installing SteamOS on the Legion Go S is simpler than it sounds. Lenovo has worked with Valve to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Once you download the recovery image and plug in a USB stick, you just follow the instructions. In less than half an hour, you’re ready to game. SteamOS even gives you a tour of the buttons and features. For people worried about tech headaches, this is a friendly start.
The Legion Go S feels built for SteamOS
Many reviewers noticed that the Legion Go S feels even better with SteamOS than Windows. The interface is quicker and feels like it belongs on the device.
Menus respond faster, and games launch with fewer delays. Even the battery lasts longer because SteamOS uses less power for background tasks. All these little details make it feel like SteamOS was designed specifically for this handheld.
A lighter, simpler experience
One of the big frustrations with Windows on handheld PCs is all the extra clutter. Pop-ups, background updates, and unnecessary apps can slow things down.
SteamOS avoids this by focusing only on games. When you turn it on, you go straight into your library. No extra notifications or confusing settings. For people who want their device to feel more like a console and less like a PC, this is a huge advantage.
Smaller but still mighty
Compared to the older Legion Go, the Go S has a smaller 8-inch screen. But that doesn’t mean it’s weaker. The OLED display is bright and colorful, with a 120Hz refresh rate that makes motion look smooth.
Even without detachable controllers or a kickstand, it feels sturdy and ready for travel. And because it’s lighter, it’s easier to hold during long gaming sessions. If you’ve been waiting for a handheld that balances power and portability, this might be it.
The price makes a difference
According to BoilingSteam, the SteamOS version is priced around US $599, approximately US $130 less than the Windows variant, which is about US $730.
That $130 difference can go toward extra games or accessories. For gamers on a budget, this lower price makes the SteamOS version even more appealing. You get great performance and a smoother user experience without paying more.
Upgrading Windows drivers takes work
If you stick with Windows, you’ll probably need to upgrade drivers for the best performance. But this isn’t as simple as pressing a button.
Some testers had to download updated drivers from Asus and install them manually. Even then, SteamOS still came out ahead in most games. If you’d rather skip this hassle, SteamOS delivers great results right away, no extra tweaks required.
SteamOS keeps improving
Valve hasn’t stopped working on SteamOS. Every update adds more compatibility and smoother performance.
The latest version, SteamOS 3.7.8, finally made the Legion Go S the first non-Steam Deck device to get official support. This means more devices could join the list in the future. If you’ve been curious about Linux gaming, it’s becoming more practical every day.
Windows still wins for some tasks
While SteamOS is great for gaming, Windows still has strengths. If you need to browse the web, use work apps, or watch certain streaming services, Windows is more flexible.
For people who want their handheld to be an all-purpose PC, Windows might be the better pick. But if gaming is your main goal, SteamOS is quickly becoming the smarter option.
Curious how SteamOS performs on other devices? Take a look at why many say the Steam Deck is still the best around.
Is SteamOS right for you?
If you want a handheld that feels fast, clean, and ready to play without extra work, SteamOS is worth a look. It offers better frame rates, less clutter, and a simpler setup.
But if you still need all the apps and features of Windows, you can always switch back. With the Legion Go S, you don’t have to choose just one path. That’s what makes it such an exciting device for gamers everywhere.
Want to stay safe while you game? Check out what happened with the Steam two-factor leak that affected millions of accounts.
Read More From This Brand:
- These Gaming Handhelds Dominate 2025
- Is This the Ultimate $1K Gaming Setup?
- Is M2 Pro Good For Gaming? (Find Out)
Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN
This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
This is exclusive content for our subscribers.
Enter your email address to instantly unlock ALL of the content 100% FREE forever and join our growing community of smart home enthusiasts.
No spam, Unsubscribe at any time.
Lucky you! This thread is empty,
which means you've got dibs on the first comment.
Go for it!