Here let’s discuss the finest handheld gaming consoles that bring a sense of portability and entertainment. These compact devices provide hours of delightful gameplay and conveniently fit into your pocket when you’re finished. Our selection spans from cloud-based gaming to options compatible with Android and Windows, catering to those who appreciate more unconventional choices. Having thoroughly tested and reviewed these top gaming handhelds, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your gaming preferences.
Note: In this story the product that we review is linked with affiliate links and when you purchase something, we earn a small commission.
1. Nintendo Switch OLED: The OG of Handheld Gaming
Nintendo, the pioneer of handheld gaming, presents the Nintendo Switch OLED (review). Launched a few years ago, this sleek and slender device boasts a beautiful 7-inch screen, ideal for enjoying Nintendo’s vibrant titles. While lacking the performance of some rivals, the extensive game catalog, including indie titles, makes it a solid choice for gaming pleasure on the go. The Switch OLED’s battery life, around four to five hours per charge, competes well with its counterparts.
2. Steam Deck: A Mighty Competitor
Challenging the Switch OLED is the Steam Deck (review), a powerful handheld offering seamless access to a vast catalog of Steam games. Despite its slightly dated design, the Steam Deck packs enough punch to handle most PC titles, making it a formidable choice for those with a substantial Steam library. One notable disappointment is its basic IPS screen, lacking the vibrant contrast seen in the Switch OLED. Although the HD resolution is comparable, the screen’s 60 Hz refresh rate falls short when compared to some other Windows-based rivals. This results in visuals that, while still competent, don’t quite match up.
3. Asus ROG Ally: Windows Gaming Delight
For Windows enthusiasts, the Asus ROG Ally (review) stands out.A significant improvement over the Steam Deck is the ROG Ally’s crisp 7-inch Full HD display. Utilizing IPS technology, it delivers even brighter and sharper visuals with a 120 Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support, it offers a satisfying gaming experience. While not the most portable, its design and integrated features, including a fingerprint sensor and Armory Crate app, make it a compelling option.
4. Ayaneo Air 1S and 2S: Customizable Options
Among the Ayaneos models I’ve tested, the Air 1S stands out as an ideal choice if you desire something pleasingly portable. It’s noticeably smaller than the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally, bearing a resemblance to the Nintendo Switch. Despite its compact size, it boasts an AMD Ryzen 7 processor and a stunning AMOLED screen.
The AYANEO 2S is a proper Steam Deck-style mega handheld gaming console, boasting upgraded performance that allows you to play even the most demanding PC games without compromising on frame rate. However, in addition to its larger size, the 2S also replaces the AMOLED screen with a more basic IPS panel.
5. OneXPlayer 2: Detachable Controllers for Versatility
The OneXPlayer 2, with detachable controllers, stands out for its ease of docking and playing on a big screen. Its performance competes with the best, providing a smooth gaming experience.
6. Lenovo Legion Go: A Remarkable Powerhouse
Recently hitting stores, the Lenovo Legion Go is an impressive handheld gaming console that pushes the boundaries of what such a Handheld gaming consoles can offer. While it’s teetering on the edge of being considered a handheld due to its substantial size and weight (8.8-inch Quad HD touchscreen, weighing 850g), it makes a bold statement in the gaming world. The dilemma arises for potential users when faced with the decision of bringing the Lenovo Legion Go.
However, the Lenovo Legion Go compensates for its size with exceptional features. The 144Hz IPS screen delivers crisp and remarkably smooth visuals, complemented by the dual 2-watt speakers that produce immersive audio. Under the hood, the device boasts the power of AMD’s Ryzen Zen 1 Extreme, the same processor found in the top-end ASUS ROG Ally. The combination of this processor and the Liquid Crystal Polymer 79-blade fan ensures seamless performance, allowing the console to handle demanding titles with an impressive frame rate.
One standout feature is the detachable TrueStrike controllers. Similar to the Xbox controllers, they can be removed and attached to a bundled base. Turning on the FPS mode transforms the controller into a makeshift freeform joystick, adding versatility to the gaming experience. A full hands-on tour of the Lenovo Legion Go, including detailed insights into its various settings and features, is available for those intrigued by its capabilities.
7. Razer Edge: Android Gaming Excellence
If Windows isn’t your preferred operating system for a handheld gaming console, or if you simply want to explore alternatives, Android presents itself as a viable option. One noteworthy Android gaming console is the Razor Edge, essentially a compact 6.8-inch tablet with a Kishi V2 controller seamlessly attached. Sporting a striking 144Hz AMOLED screen, the Razor Edge is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 1, ensuring robust performance comparable to a sack full of steaks.
The Razor Edge excels at handling demanding Android titles, such as Genshin Impact, even on higher graphic settings. The Kishi controller allows for the remapping of touch controls, significantly improving the gaming experience. Devices like the Razor Edge are often designed with cloud gaming in mind. Subscribers to services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or Nvidia’s GeForce Now can enjoy playing full-fledged PC titles wherever they go. This includes recently released games like Alan Wake 2 or Apex Legends Ignite. Notably, the Razor Edge is compatible with PS Remote Play, enabling users with a PS5 to stream games over home Wi-Fi to any location of their choosing, whether it’s the comfort of a throne or nestled under a cozy duvet.
8. Logitech G Cloud: Budget-Friendly Android Gaming Handheld
For a more budget-friendly gaming handheld console alternative, the Logitech G-Cloud stands out. However, it lacks a 5G option, confining online gaming to Wi-Fi connectivity. The 60Hz IPS display, while not as visually striking as the vibrant AMOLED on the Razor Edge, provides decent quality. The G-Cloud is equipped with a less powerful engine, housing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G, making it less adept for serious Android gaming. Moreover, the physical control mapping for Android titles leaves much to be desired, functioning about as well as a safety helmet made of marshmallow. In summary, the Logitech G-Cloud, while a cost-effective option, falls short in terms of power and performance for Android gaming.
So these are 8 best handheld game consoles supporting from cloud platform to windows and even android bosting power full processor to give smooth gaming experience on the go.
