The portable console sector with PC architecture is experiencing a revolution thanks to the opening the SteamOS operating system Beyond the Steam Deck. This evolution is driven by the demand for a smoother, more efficient, and exclusively gaming experience, without the complications of traditional systems like Windows. Manufacturers, aware of this trend, have begun to offer models like the Lenovo Legion Go S and the ASUS ROG Ally with increasing compatibility for SteamOS.
Valve has significantly expanded compatibility with SteamOS, its Linux distribution for gaming, allowing other portable devices with AMD hardware and NVMe storage to install it. Although integration is still being fine-tuned on some models, it is now possible to use SteamOS stably. on laptops like the Legion Go S, which represents a great step for those looking to get the most out of their hardware without the limitations and resource consumption of Windows.
SteamOS vs. Windows 11: Significant performance improvements: more FPS and lower power consumption
Tests conducted by various analysts and content creators have made clear the difference between running games on Windows and SteamOS on the new handheld consoles. The most striking leap is in raw performance: in titles like Cyberpunk 2077, The Witcher 3, or DOOM Eternal, the Legion Go S sees notable increases, achieving up to 28% more FPS than WindowsFor example, Cyberpunk 2077 goes from averaging 46 FPS under Windows to reaching 59 FPS under SteamOS, and similar cases are repeated in other modern and demanding games.
Not only does it improve graphical fluidity, but battery management also takes a significant leap forward.In high-power games like Cyberpunk 2077, users have found battery life improves by 20% to 25% when using SteamOS instead of Windows. If we move on to less demanding 2D titles like Hades or Dead Cells, the gain is even greater: battery life can double. This makes SteamOS a very attractive option for those who prioritize long portable experiences without constantly relying on a charger.
Installation and compatibility: increasingly accessible
Valve has made it easier to expand SteamOS through updates such as version 3.7.8, which brings with it important new features: an updated Linux kernel, a KDE Plasma 6.2 interface, and specific support for the Lenovo Legion Go S, as well as compatibility still in development for the ASUS ROG Ally. The Steam support team itself explains that to install SteamOS on these devices, simply disable secure boot and use an external USB drive, although they point out that there may be some minor errors or temporary incompatibilities, especially on devices that do not yet have definitive official support.
Users particularly appreciate that with SteamOS, The gaming experience is simplified by eliminating unnecessary background tasks, updates, and processes typical of Windows.. In addition, sleep mode management, smooth wake-up times, and reduced standby power consumption are areas where SteamOS clearly shows an advantage. While Windows offers access to services like Game Pass, emulators, and productivity tools, SteamOS is presented as the ideal system for those seeking a pure gaming experience and greater autonomy..
Improvements in battery, connectivity and quality of life
Another of the great advantages of SteamOS 3.7.8 is the Introduction of new features to manage battery and energy consumption. You can now set maximum load limits to extend battery life and adjust the frequency of AMD processors using advanced power controls. Additionally, support for external monitors and variable refresh rate (VRR) displays has also received significant improvements.
In the connectivity section, Bluetooth support has been improved., allowing you to view the battery level of peripherals and making it easier to use Bluetooth microphones from desktop mode. Bugs with gamepads and controllers have been fixed, and overall stability has improved thanks to system management adjustments and fixes for minor bugs that affected the daily experience.
However, not everything is perfect: the latest SteamOS revision has introduced some known issues, particularly with Wi-Fi connectivity on certain models and specific networks. Valve has reacted quickly, issuing patches that address these issues, although it's advisable to keep an eye out for future updates if you experience these issues.
But beware: not everything works perfectly in SteamOS
It's important to note that not everything works perfectly on SteamOS, at least not yet. Valve's system uses its own compatibility layer to run Windows games on Linux, its Proton. While many titles run perfectly, there are others that don't. For related information, it's worth searching for the titles on ProtonDB.