The world of portable game consoles is more exciting than ever. With the advancement of technology, gaming on the go has become an immersive and fun experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a die-hard enthusiast, there’s a portable console that’s perfect for you. But with so many options, you may be wondering what the best handheld gaming Consoles are on the market.
This is what this article is about. In this post, we will look at some of the best handheld gaming consoles you can buy in 2024. These consoles facilitate gaming on the go and often have a wide range of games available.
Cheap But Best Handheld/Portable Gaming Consoles
We’ll highlight their unique features, pros, cons, and pricing to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
But first, you may want to check the following:
1. Retroid Pocket 3 Plus
Screen Size: 4.7 inches | Screen resolution: 1334 x 750 at 60 fps
Weight: 235 grams | Battery: 4500 mAh
The Retroid Pocket 3 Plus is a great choice for gamers who want to play retro games. It is compatible with a wide range of classic consoles, along with the NES, SNES, Genesis, and GBA.
The most amazing feature of the Retroid Pocket 3 Plus is its extensive preloaded library of classic games. This console will take you back in time and introduce you to games from iconic consoles like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and others.
Also, since it is based on Android 11 with Google Play Store, you can also use it to play Android games.
As far as the display goes, the 4.7-inch screen may seem small, but it’s a good size for most older console-oriented games. Additionally, it has a touch panel, which allows you to play more modern touch games easily.
Additionally, the inclusion of two analog sticks is another welcome feature, providing precise control that was missing from older controllers.
What We Like
- Suitable with a wide range of retro consoles
- Works android games
- Superb battery life
- Two analog sticks for precise controls in retro games
What We Don’t Like
- Limited stock of modern games.
- The screen is a little bit less bright for outdoor use.
2. Nintendo Switch Lite
Screen Size: 5.5 inches | Screen resolution: 1280 x 720 at 60 fps
Weight: 276 grams | Battery: 3570 mAh
The Nintendo Switch changed the face of modern handheld gaming consoles. The Switch Lite, as the name says, is smaller and lightest than the original Nintendo Switch, but it still has the same maximum features.
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a compact, portable game console specifically designed for portable gaming. This means that, unlike the Nintendo Switch, the Switch Lite can’t be used with a dock.
As a result, you’ll save a few dollars while still getting excellent performance. One of the most important features of the Nintendo Switch Lite is its lightweight and portable design.
It is ideal for use while traveling. Plus, it’s incredibly comfortable to hold during extended gaming sessions.
The build quality of the Nintendo Switch Lite is another notable quality. It is strong and durable, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of mobile gaming.
In terms of games, the Switch Lite has an extensive library of popular Nintendo games, including beloved franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokemon.
As far as the battery is concerned, the 3570 mAh battery can easily last for four hours on a single charge, which is quite good.
What We Like
- Small and lightweight design
- Long life battery
- An extensive library of Nintendo games.
- Durable build quality
What We Don’t Like
- Can’t connect to TV
- Limited to mobile games
3. Logitech G Cloud
Screen Size: 7 Inch | Screen resolution: 1920 x 1080 at 60 fps
Weight: 463 grams | Battery: 6000 mAh
Logitech G Cloud is a cloud gaming console that harnesses the power of remote servers to deliver a luxurious gaming experience. It is designed for gamers who want to play AAA games without the need for a high-end PC.
In terms of hardware, the Logitech G Cloud features a 7-inch HD display, two analog sticks, buttons, triggers, speakers, and a headphone jack.
Although it is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G SoC, its most striking feature is its ability to provide access to a wide range of AAA games without the need for high-end gaming hardware.
Through cloud gaming services like GeForce Now or Xbox Game Pass, the console gives players access to a host of AAA titles.
This means you can enjoy graphically demanding games even if you don’t have a high-performance PC or gaming console. Additionally, all the heavy lifting is done on remote servers.
As a result, you will experience minimal latency, resulting in a smooth gaming experience. And with a 6000 mAh battery, you can easily enjoy gaming for 12 hours.
The only thing to remember is that the Logitech G Cloud relies heavily on a stable internet connection. You will get G Cloud as you like as long as you meet the above conditions.
What We Like
- Approach to an extensive range of AAA games
- No need for costly gaming hardware
- The game is fluid and lag-free.
- Great battery life
What We Don’t Like
- Requires a stable internet connection
- The game subscription fee is additional.
4. Nintendo Switch OLED
Screen Size: 7 Inch | Screen resolution: 1280 x 720 at 60 fps
Weight: 421 grams | Battery: 4310 mAh
The Nintendo Switch OLED is an upgraded version of the original Nintendo Switch and the device features a stunning OLED display. Needless to say, the screen offers vibrant colors and superior visual quality, which enhances your gaming experience.
The most striking feature of the Nintendo Switch OLED is undoubtedly its stunning OLED screen. With deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better contrast, games look more immersive and engaging than ever. The new OLED models also have longer battery life, up to nine hours, and better support.
As far as games go, they’re compatible with the extensive Nintendo Switch game library. Plus, you can easily switch from handheld to docked mode and enjoy your games on a bigger TV screen. This is possible with the help of the Nintendo Switch Dock.
This diversity is a huge advantage, allowing you to experience your favorite titles in different ways. It’s a little more expensive than the standard Nintendo Switch, but the OLED panel easily justifies the higher price. This is mostly people’s favorite portable game console.
What We Like
- Large OLED screen
- Support for an extensive game library
- The TV supports a gaming dock
- Excellent battery life
What We Don’t Like
- A little expensive
- There is no significant performance improvement compared to the original Nintendo Switch.
5. Valve Steam Deck
Screen Size: 7 Inch | Screen resolution: 1280 x 800 at 60 frames per second
Weight: 669 grams | Battery: 40 watt-hours
Valve Steam Deck is a powerful portable gaming console and the device is powered by a custom AMD processor. It provides access to Steam’s extensive library and provides a PC-like gaming experience on the go.
Steam Deck gives players access to their entire Steam library. Thus, you can play your favorite PC games on the go. If you’re a fan of action-packed shooters or immersive RPGs, the Steam Deck can run games with ease thanks to the dedicated AMD processor.
It also comes with dedicated controls like a joystick and trackpad. This means you’re not limited to touch controls, making it suitable for a wide range of games.
Steam Deck works on Steam OS, which is a Linux-based operating system. Since it is not pure Windows, there are some games that do not run on the Steam Deck. Luckily, Valve provides an easy way to check which games are compatible with Steam Deck.
Although the platform is a bit larger than other options on this list, it still provides a comfortable and sturdy grip.
But this is not all. One unique feature of Steam Deck is that it also comes with remote play support. As such, if you have a high-end gaming PC, you can also stream games from it to your Steam Deck.
Additionally, the Remote Play feature also works with Sony’s PlayStation 5, which is a plus. Ultimately, the Steam Deck is a great option for gamers who want a PC-like gaming experience on the go.
What We Like
- PC games in portable format.
- Powerful custom hardware
- Customizable controls
- Steam Library Support
- Supports remote play
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly heavy design
- Average battery life
- Not all computer games work
6. Asus Rog Ally
Screen Size: 7 Inch | Screen resolution: 1920 x 1080 at 120 fps
Weight: 608 grams | Battery: 40 watt-hours
As good as Steam Deck is, its reliability on Linux limits your gaming capabilities a bit. ASUS ROG Ally running Windows 11 resolves the issue. It also features a lighter design with more modern hardware at a slightly higher price.
One of the standout qualities of the ASUS ROG Ally is its high refresh rate display. With a 120Hz refresh rate, it delivers ultra-smooth visuals, reduces motion blur, and improves the overall gaming experience.
Whether you connect with fast-paced shooters or explore open-world RPGs, a high refresh rate adds a level of responsiveness that’s difficult to beat. Furthermore, the console is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which ensures that you can play tough games without compromising on performance.
Thanks to the fact that the ROG Ally runs Windows 11, it’s essentially an ultraportable gaming laptop. You can work as a Windows machine and install any games you want, as long as it runs on Windows.
Of course, Windows itself isn’t highly optimized for touch screens, so initial setup can be a bit tricky. However, ASUS offers great tools like Armory Crate and Command Center for easy controls when using Ally for gaming.
If you want more performance, you can check out AYANEO AIR Pro. However, higher SKUs cost significantly more for the same cost. Still, there are issues with availability and after-sales support. Put all this in context and the ASUS ROG Ally turns out to be one of the best gaming laptops ever.
What We Like
- Powerful processor
- Impressive and fluid screen
- Customizable controls
- Adjustable tdp
- An infinite game library thanks to Windows
What We Don’t Like
- Without touch panel
- Windows is not optimized for touch
Best Handheld Gaming Consoles/Devices FAQ
Can I play multiplayer games with friends on a portable console?
Yes, most portable consoles support local multiplayer by using built-in wireless features or by connecting additional controllers. Many also offer online multiplayer options.
Can I connect a portable gaming console for TV?
Not all portable consoles can be connected to a television. For example, the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck offer TV-out options, while others, like the Nintendo Switch Lite, are designed for portable use only.
What are the advantages of the best portable game consoles?
Portable gaming consoles offer portability and exclusive game libraries, allowing gamers to play on the go and access unique titles not available on other platforms.
What are the disadvantages of portable game consoles?
Handheld gaming consoles have limitations, such as low processing power and small screens, which can affect graphics and immersion. Additionally, prolonged use may also cause eye strain.
My Last Word
Well, that was our list of the best Handheld gaming consoles you can buy in 2024. Each of these consoles has its own unique qualities, strengths, and weaknesses. Whether you’re a lover of retro classics, Nintendo exclusives, cloud gaming, OLED displays, PC-like gaming, or high-end performance, there are the best handheld gaming consoles to suit your preferences. So which of these best handheld gaming consoles will you choose? Let us know in the comments below.
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The products discussed here were independently selected by our editors and given honest opinions. Review Mobile Point may get a share of the revenue if you purchase something offered on our site.
