What is the best handheld game console?
Aktie
The best handheld game console depends on your preferences—whether you prioritize performance, portability, or game library. Here’s a breakdown of the top handheld consoles as of 2024, based on what each offers:
1. Steam Deck (2024)
Best For:
- PC gamers who want to play their Steam library on the go.
- Gamers looking for a portable PC that can handle AAA games with ease.
Key Features:
- Performance: Powered by a custom AMD APU, the Steam Deck can run AAA PC games at decent settings. It’s available in multiple storage options (64GB eMMC, 256GB NVMe SSD, 512GB NVMe SSD).
- Steam Library: Full access to your Steam library, meaning you can play all your PC games on the go.
- Operating System: Runs SteamOS, a Linux-based OS, but you can install other software like Windows if you prefer a full PC experience.
- Customizable: With the open Linux environment, you can install other game stores (Epic Games, Xbox Game Pass, etc.) and even emulate other consoles.
Pros:
- Great performance for a handheld, running most games at high settings.
- Access to your full Steam library, including AAA and indie titles.
- Open system: You can install any software or emulator, making it incredibly versatile.
- Large, high-quality touchscreen (7-inch) and controls similar to a traditional console.
Cons:
- Battery life: Heavy-duty gaming can drain the battery in just a few hours (around 2-8 hours depending on the game).
- It’s bulkier and heavier than most handhelds, making it less portable than options like the Switch or GPD Win.
- Price: The Steam Deck can be pricey depending on the model, and its higher storage options may seem overkill for casual users.
2. Nintendo Switch (2024)
Best For:
- Casual gamers and those who want a hybrid gaming experience (handheld + home console).
- Nintendo-exclusive games like Zelda, Super Mario, Pokémon, and more.
Key Features:
- Versatile Design: The Switch is a hybrid console that can be used both as a portable handheld and docked to play on the TV.
- Exclusive Games: Nintendo’s exclusive titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Super Mario Odyssey are major selling points.
- Affordable: The standard Nintendo Switch is priced at around $299.99, while the Switch Lite is cheaper at $199.99, focusing only on handheld use.
Pros:
- The best hybrid console, making it perfect for people who want both home and portable gaming.
- Great exclusive games for all ages and interests.
- Affordable compared to other next-gen consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Cons:
- Lower performance compared to the Steam Deck or PS5. Graphics are not as powerful (it's a lower-tier portable console when it comes to raw specs).
- Battery life is good, but demanding games can drain it faster.
3. GPD Win 3 / GPD Win 4 (2024)
Best For:
- Gamers looking for a fully functional PC in a handheld form factor.
- Windows gaming on the go, including access to services like Steam, Epic Games, and Xbox Game Pass.
Key Features:
- PC-like performance: The GPD Win 3 and Win 4 run Windows 10/11, meaning you can download PC games, install apps, and access the full desktop environment.
- Intel Processors: The Win 3 is powered by an Intel Core i5/i7, while the Win 4 has AMD Ryzen chips, delivering powerful gaming performance in a small package.
- Built-in keyboard: The Win 3 has a slide-out keyboard, and the Win 4 features buttons and a touchscreen for convenient controls.
Pros:
- PC-level gaming on a portable device—play virtually any PC game.
- Runs Windows, so you can also use the device for general computing tasks.
- Compact design that packs serious power into a handheld form.
Cons:
- Expensive—the GPD Win series can be pricey, especially the Win 4.
- Battery life: Like the Steam Deck, expect around 3-6 hours of playtime depending on the game.
- Less ergonomic—the handheld design can feel bulky compared to other more compact systems like the Switch or Steam Deck.
4. PlayStation Vita (Used / Collectible)
Best For:
- Fans of PlayStation who want to play older titles on the go.
- Collectors who appreciate the PS Vita's legacy.
Key Features:
- OLED screen: The PS Vita boasts a sharp, vibrant OLED display (in the original model).
- Exclusive games: It had some fantastic titles like Persona 4 Golden, Uncharted: Golden Abyss, and Gravity Rush.
- Remote Play: The Vita can stream games from your PS4, allowing you to play PS4 titles on the go.
Pros:
- Excellent display and build quality.
- Great exclusive games that are only available on the Vita.
- Compact and lightweight.
Cons:
- The PS Vita is discontinued, so it’s harder to find brand-new, and support has largely faded.
- Limited game library compared to newer consoles.
- Outdated hardware compared to modern options like the Switch and Steam Deck.
5. AYN Odin (2024)
Best For:
- Gamers looking for a retro or Android-based handheld console that can emulate older games (like PS1, PSP, N64, etc.).
- Those who want a customizable handheld device that can handle a wide range of emulators.
Key Features:
- Android OS: Runs on Android, so you can download and install any Android games, emulators, and apps.
- Powerful hardware: Equipped with an octa-core Snapdragon 845, it can emulate older consoles and run Android games smoothly.
- Customizable controls: Physical controls are integrated, making it a more traditional handheld console experience.
Pros:
- Affordable compared to Steam Deck and Switch.
- Excellent for emulation, supporting older systems and classic games.
- Customizable with a variety of emulators and Android apps.
Cons:
- Not as powerful for AAA gaming compared to the Steam Deck or GPD Win series.
- Android-based means you won’t have access to the same ecosystem as consoles like the Switch or PlayStation.
6. Logitech G Cloud (2024)
Best For:
- Cloud gaming enthusiasts who want a dedicated handheld device to play games from services like Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly Project xCloud) or NVIDIA GeForce Now.
- People who want a gaming tablet experience without relying on a traditional console.
Key Features:
- Cloud-based gaming: The G Cloud is designed for services like Xbox Game Pass and GeForce Now, so you can play games streamed from the cloud without needing to download them.
- Lightweight: With a 7-inch display, it’s very portable.
- Affordable: Compared to other handheld consoles, it’s priced lower, especially for cloud gaming.
Pros:
- Great for cloud gaming and streaming games from Xbox Game Pass or other services.
- Affordable for those just looking to stream games.
- Good battery life for extended sessions of cloud gaming.
Cons:
- Needs a strong internet connection to function well, which can be a limitation for some users.
- Lacks the local gaming power of systems like the Steam Deck or Switch.
Conclusion:
- If you’re looking for PC-level performance and a wide game library, the Steam Deck or GPD Win 4 is the best option.
- For a hybrid console experience with Nintendo-exclusive games, the Nintendo Switch is perfect.
- If you want an Android-based handheld for emulation and retro gaming, AYN Odin is an excellent choice.
- The Logitech G Cloud is perfect for cloud gaming enthusiasts, especially if you have a fast internet connection.
Let me know which features matter most to you, and I can help narrow it down further!
