While the current generation of gaming consoles offers top-of-the line performance thanks to cutting edge specifications, improvements in technology have also allowed people to play games on the go by offering capable hardware in a compact form factor. So now, we’re bringing you a list of some of the best handheld gaming consoles in the market.
Asus ROG Ally
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Asus ROG Ally is a 7-inch handheld gaming console that runs on Windows 11 and offers some splendid features. It bundles 1080p resolution display with 120Hz refresh rate. The Ally offers full HD access to PC gaming marketplaces, irrespective of its low size display. Moreover, the Armoury Crate enable users to easily manage the games in the same place.
Specifications: It comes with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and RDNA 3 GPU while carrying 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. It features 7-inch IPS display 120Hz refresh rate, and carries 40WHr battery. Asus ROG Ally measures 28.0 x 11.1 x 2.12cm in size and weighs 608g.
PROS:
- Higher performance: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU for demanding games.
- Sharp display: 1080p resolution with 120Hz refresh rate and VRR support.
- Windows compatibility: Can play games from various gaming clients.
- Compact design: Shorter, lighter, and thinner than Steam Deck OLED. intuitive control.
CONS:
- Battery life: Typically lasts 2-4 hours, less in high-performance modes.
- Windows issues: UI scaling, graphics settings, and key bindings can be problematic.
- Complex setup: Requires adjustments and troubleshooting due to Windows OS.
- Quality control concerns: Reports of microSD card ejection and SSD issues.
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Steam Deck
As of right now, the Steam Deck is one of the only handheld gaming consoles that competes with Nintendo in the category. Despite having a rough launch, it has seen its fair share of popularity in the market. As you might have guessed already, this model is made by Valve and brings access to the majority of the Stream library, which is one of the biggest video games library for PCs.
This also means that you can buy games and play directly on the Steam Deck, with the console arriving with impressive optimizations for a number of major titles from the Windows platform. At the moment, it isn’t as well rounded in performance as industry veteran Nintendo and its consoles, but its still a step in the right direction by the company. The Steam Deck is typically priced around 399 US Dollars in the US.
PROS:
- Access to Steam Library: Carry your entire Steam library on the go.
- Smooth Performance: Handles even AAA games smoothly.
- Versatility: Appeals to both casual players and PC enthusiasts.
- Customization: Ideal for modding and tinkering enthusiasts.
- Console-Like Experience: Integrated controls and haptic feedback enhance gameplay.
CONS:
- Limited Battery Life: Lasts only 2-3 hours before needing a recharge.
- Compatibility Issues: Not all Steam games are compatible with SteamOS.
- Limited Storefronts: Only supports Steam; compatibility with other storefronts is limited.
- Not Full PC Compatibility: Limited compatibility with PC games due to SteamOS.
- Chunky Design: Weighing 669g, it’s one of the heavier handheld systems.
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Nintendo Switch OLED
To be completely fair, Nintendo is one of the very few companies that target the handheld gaming console market. So, you will be seeing some more Switch models that target different budgets. The Switch OLED model is the top end model in the series so far. Although, it doesn’t offer any major upgrades over the base model, except the inclusion of an OLED display.
But other improvements include, a 7 inch display, improved speakers, and a dock with built in Ethernet port. We might see more beefier Switch models in the future with the Switch Pro being in the rumors, but this is the go to model if you plan on buying a handheld console. Since its an improved model, it has a higher price tag of 349 US Dollars.
PROS:
- Extensive game library: Access to Nintendo’s renowned first-party titles.
- Portable prowess: Lightweight and versatile for gaming on the go.
- Plug and play: Simple setup without the need for extensive settings adjustment.
- Impressive OLED display: Enhanced contrast and colors for an immersive experience.
CONS:
- Limited performance: Lower specs may not meet the expectations of performance-focused gamers.
- Not compatible with PC library: Lacks integration with PC gaming libraries like Steam.
- Aging hardware: Hardware may struggle with demanding games at higher resolutions and frame rates.
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Nintendo Switch Lite
We promise this is the last Switch model in this list. The Nintendo Switch Lite is a smaller and more affordable variant of the base Switch. It is roughly around two thirds the size of the regular version, but still supports the robust gaming portfolio of the brand. It has a colorful design, comfortable controllers, and a bright display as well.
However, with a smaller size there are certain drawbacks. The primary issue being a more compact form factor translates to a smaller battery. In other words, its battery life is less than the regular Switch model. Furthermore, it also lacks the detachable Joy Con controllers as well, so you lose out on the versatility of the original Switch.
PROS:
- Portable: Its compact size makes it easy to carry.
- Durable: Constructed from thick plastic, it’s resilient to damage.
- Built-in Controllers: Joy-Cons are permanently attached, reducing the risk of loss.
- Color Options: Available in various bright colors for personalization.
CONS:
- No Docking: Can’t connect to a TV for larger screen gaming.
- Smaller Screen: Text and details may be harder to read.
- Handheld Only: Designed exclusively for handheld play.
- Limited Multiplayer: Fixed controllers restrict multiplayer options.
- Hand Fatigue: Prolonged use may cause discomfort due to size and layout.
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Nintendo Switch
Nintendo is easily the king of handheld gaming consoles right now and its Switch is by far one of its most popular console till date. It offers users two ways to play, with one being plug in and play when at home, or simply taking the Switch along with you anywhere you go. The handheld consoles’ controllers (Joy Con) are also detachable which adds to its functionality.
Although, its most highlighting aspect is undoubtedly the plethora of Nintendo titles that have made it so popular. This includes the like of the award winning The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Super Mario Odyssey, Splatoon 2, and Animal Crossing New Horizons. The handheld console from the company is one of more cheaper consoles in the market, with its price tag usually being around or even 299 US Dollars.
New Nintendo 2DS XL
To be fair, we did say we won’t include another Switch model and the Nintendo 2DS XL is a different series entirely. Its the revival of the original Nintendo 2DS but arrives with two large displays and is still quite portable. Add to this, the console still supports a large variety of Nintendo gaming library, including The Legend of Zelda, Mario, and Animal Crossing.
The only real issue with this console right now is its availability. Even in the US, the handheld is a bit hard to find, especially since the company has been shifting its focus on the Switch series more. The console can typically sell for around 150 US Dollars, making it one of the cheaper models in this list.
ASUS ROG Phone 6
While the ASUS ROG Phone 6 series is a pair of gaming smartphones, its entire design and functionality resemble the handheld console segment more. To put things simply, these are like portable consoles with smartphone functionalities. The gaming smartphone packs the latest and greatest Qualcomm chips, which allows them to run most mobile game titles at higher refresh rates.
Both the ROG Phone 6 and 6 Pro sport a 6.78 inch AMOLED display that has a FHD+ resolution and 165Hz refresh rate. While buyers are offered Air Triggers that mimic a controller design, the smartphones truly shine when paired with its dedicated accessories. With the Kunai 3, users can gain access to a dedicated gamepad that can be equipped directly to the smartphones, turning them into something akin to handheld consoles. Since these are also smartphones, they have a hefty price tag that starts from 999 US Dollars.
Apple iPad Air
The last entry in our list is more of an honorary mention. The Apple iPad Air has been a popular choice with mobile gamers and many others that play games competitively. The Cupertino based giant’s App Store is still one of the best and most diverse games marketplace in the world, with a plethora of shooter, adventure, and Indie titles.
The company’s robust specs and great software optimizations also ensure a smooth experience, with a big highlight being the Apple Arcade. This 5 US Dollars subscription offers users access to more than 100 games that are exclusive to this plan. So for many, this device is still an alternative to the true handheld consoles out there.
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