The Best Handheld Gaming Consoles: Which One Should You Choose?
Top Picks for Handheld Gaming Consoles, According to Engadget Editors
Top gaming handhelds to watch in 2024
🎮 Handheld gaming systems are all the rage right now. From the iconic Game Boy to the Nintendo Switch, gaming on the go has never been more popular. With so many options available, choosing the right handheld can be overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve done the research, tested the contenders, and compiled a list of the best gaming handhelds for you. So, grab your snacks and buckle up for this epic gaming journey! 🕹️
What You Need to Know About the Gaming Handheld Market
Let’s start by breaking down the gaming handheld market into three tiers:
Tier 1: Portable Gaming PCs
At the top tier, we have x86-based portable gaming PCs such as the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally. These powerhouses offer the closest experience to a gaming desktop, allowing you to play modern PC games on the go. They also excel at emulating retro consoles, making them a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts. However, they can be bulky and pricey, ranging from $400 to over $1,000.
Tier 2: Mobile Handhelds
Moving down the price spectrum, we have “mobile handhelds” like the Logitech G Cloud and Retroid Pocket. These devices run Android or Linux and are more compact and budget-friendly. While they may not handle modern console or PC titles, they are perfect for mobile gaming and cloud streaming. Many gamers also use them for retro game emulation. Just remember to stay on the legal side of things when it comes to ROM files!
Tier 3: Handhelds That Do Their Own Thing
In the last tier, we have handhelds like the Switch and Playdate, which offer unique gaming experiences with their customized software. These devices may not have the broadest appeal, but they are incredibly user-friendly and have curated game libraries that cater to specific tastes.
Honorable Mentions: Gaming Handhelds That Deserve Recognition
While the handhelds mentioned above are our top picks, there are a few other noteworthy options worth mentioning:
Lenovo Legion Go
The Lenovo Legion Go is a capable Windows handheld that boasts a large and vibrant 8.8-inch display. With its detachable controllers and built-in kickstand, it offers a similar experience to the Switch. While it may lack the maturity of ASUS’ software, it’s still a solid choice for Windows gaming.
Miyoo Mini Plus
For retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget, the Miyoo Mini Plus is an affordable option. With its Game Boy-style form factor and extensive emulation capabilities, it’s a great choice for reliving classic gaming moments. Just keep in mind that availability can be a challenge.
Playdate
The Playdate, developed by Panic, is a unique and compact handheld with a monochrome display and a physical crank. Its curated game library focuses on smaller indie titles, making it a fun and low-key device. If you’re willing to splurge a bit, this tiny yellow box will bring some joy to your gaming collection.
Anbernic RG405M and Retroid Pocket 2S
The Anbernic RG405M and Retroid Pocket 2S are solid Android handhelds that offer different compromises to fit your preferences and budget. The RG405M has a 4-inch display and a more premium design, while the Retroid Pocket 2S is a budget-friendly option with a smaller 3.5-inch display. Choose the one that suits your needs best!
Other Notable Gaming Handhelds We Tested
Throughout our testing, we also came across a few notable handhelds that deserve a mention:
Ayaneo Kun
The Ayaneo Kun is a high-performance Windows handheld that offers powerful gaming capabilities. With its large display, impressive specs, and desktop PC replacement potential, it’s a beast of a device. However, with a starting price of $1,000, it’s quite extravagant for most users.
Ayaneo 2S
The Ayaneo 2S shares similar features to the Kun but comes with more configuration options. However, it comes at a higher price point and is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate.
Anbernic RG35XX Plus
For a more budget-friendly option, keep an eye out for the Anbernic RG35XX Plus. It offers a faster chipset, better build quality, and great customization options. While its software may need some improvement, it’s definitely a handheld worth considering.
Logitech G Cloud
The Logitech G Cloud is an impressive Android handheld with a vibrant display and long-lasting battery life. However, its higher price tag makes it less appealing compared to other options with similar performance capabilities.
PlayStation Portal
The PlayStation Portal, designed for PlayStation 5 game streaming, offers a secondary gaming screen. However, its limitations, reliance on home Wi-Fi, and lack of built-in apps may make it less appealing for most users.
The Impact and Future of Handheld Gaming Consoles
Handheld gaming consoles are continuously evolving, with new innovations and improvements constantly emerging in the market. As technology advances, we can expect even more powerful handhelds, increased battery life, and additional features tailored to gamers’ needs. The gaming industry is always pushing boundaries, and handhelds are no exception.
🙌 Now that you’re armed with all the information you need, it’s time to choose the gaming handheld that fits your style and preferences. Whether you opt for a portable gaming PC, a mobile handheld, or a unique gaming experience, remember to have fun and game on! And don’t forget to share your gaming adventures with us on social media using the hashtag #HandheldGamingMadness. Happy gaming! 🎮🔥
🔍 References: – Steam Deck: Common Problems and How to Fix Them – ASUS ROG Phone 8 Pro Review – Best Cloud Storage Services in 2024 – DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Review – Layoffs deepen AI’s role in cuts, but murky definitely one
