Today we’re going to help you take your gaming on the go trying to decide which is the best handheld game console. Let’s go!
The market for portable gaming systems is expanding now more than ever. In reality, it seems that we are witnessing the emergence of some of the best handheld gaming consoles in recent times. It’s hot stuff, whether it’s the Nintendo Switch’s meteoric rise since its 2017 release or the excitement around Valve’s brand-new handheld gaming console, the Steam Deck. Our target for today is to help you choose the best handheld game console.
The best portable game systems in the past forced you to pick between hardware limitations like the Nintendo Game Boy and high power consumption like the Sega Game Gear. However, our era of handheld gaming consoles doesn’t have these drawbacks. The devices in our list are compatible with high-end games with stunning visuals. On top of that, thanks to the actual battery technology, you may play for many hours without needing to recharge.
Here are the top portable gaming consoles available, whether you want to take your gaming on the go or relax and play from basically everywhere.
Nintendo Switch OLED
In 2023, one of the best portable gaming consoles has to be the Nintendo Switch OLED model. The brand new OLED screen makes all the difference while playing on the console, even if the hardware is the same as the base model from more than five years ago. The greatest Nintendo Switch games benefit from the OLED’s incredible sharpness and ability to make the colours shine like never before. Until the New Nintendo Switch hits the market, the OLED is the top pick from Nintendo.
The Nintendo Switch has different models, but we will only mention the OLED one. If you want to see them all, check our guide on what Switch model you should pick.
Steam Deck
The Steam Deck is considered to be the portable PC system that originally revolutionized the handheld gaming experience. The Steam Deck, from Valve, as its name implies, gives you native access to the majority of one’s Steam library. This means that you may play practically any PC game that you can purchase through Steam, and you can also try your luck with side-loaded games. Having a huge library on Steam, it appears that Valve has still done a fantastic job optimizing these games for a platform that is new.
However, people still complain about the battery life and its huge size. We consider it still earned its top on the best handheld game console list. If you already have one, check Raul’s list of Steam Deck games.
Ayaneo 2
If money is no problem, the Ayaneo 2 is the greatest portable gaming system you can get. Even while its expensive cost may come as a bit of sticker shock, its premium appearance, superb functionality, and ideal ergonomics make it an absolute need for anybody seeking something premium.
The console can run most of the latest generation of games even on medium settings. The controls are great and its only disadvantage is the battery life, which can be considered poor. If you’re looking for premium, this is the best handheld game console for you.
GPD Win Max 2
Okay, you probably didn’t see this coming. This is one of the best portable gaming systems that also functions as a mini laptop. The GPD Win Max 2 may appear unusual at first since it has a complete keyboard underneath your typical gaming controller arrangement, but appearances may be misleading because this device is actually a great gaming setup.
Some downsides would be the not-so-comfortable button positioning and its high price. But besides that, if you want something extra, is portable gaming system is for you.
Analogue Pocket
A highly specialized product, the Analogue Pocket is capable of playing games from vintage handhelds like the Game Boy. It may seem strange to dig through your closet for old Game Boy games to plug in, but the Analogue Pocket is one of the only major systems that gives vintage titles a second chance.
Asus ROG Ally
You might also want to keep an eye out for the ASUS ROG Ally, which has been recently announced. As our colleague Cristian calls it, the gaming console will be “a real powerhouse handheld” that will leave the Steam Deck compatibility issues and the Nintendo Switch hardware way behind.
How to choose the best handheld game console for you?
Before you buy a handheld gaming console, you should first know what are your needs and what suits you the best. To help you, we prepared the below points to make sure you understand what you need.
The games library is the most crucial aspect to take into account on any handheld. No matter how good the screen or controls are, the system won’t be enjoyable for you if it lacks the games you usually play. Gaming session length: if you prefer shorter gaming sessions, handhelds like the Nintendo Switch are suitable. The Valve Steam Deck includes more expansive games if your gaming sessions are longer.
Some consoles like the Switch can also be connected to a TV if you need that. Another considerable factor is the price. The last factor is the portable gaming system’s size, shape and controls. Do you want a small console that is easy to carry around or do you want a sturdy design for greater performance?
Now, knowing all this, you should be able to pick your own portable gaming system. We really hope our article helped you make an idea about handheld gaming consoles.
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