The world of handheld gaming is experiencing a resurgence. While portable gaming has existed since the era of the Game Boy, advancements in technology and the overwhelming success of the Nintendo Switch have sparked a new wave of devices designed to bring gaming to your fingertips, no matter where you are. The diversity of options is wider than ever before, ranging from compact emulation devices to full-fledged portable PCs. However, with new models frequently being introduced, deciding which handheld console is the best fit for you can be overwhelming. Below, we explore some of the top contenders, breaking down their key features and helping you make an informed decision.
Steam Deck: A Powerhouse with Options
Valve’s Steam Deck has made waves since its release, offering gamers a robust, portable platform for PC gaming. The latest iteration, featuring an OLED display, brings richer colors and improved brightness to an already impressive device.
-
Steam Deck OLED: The upgraded OLED model boasts a 7.4-inch HDR display with a resolution of 1,280 x 800, delivering up to 1,000 nits of peak HDR brightness. It operates on a custom AMD processor and includes 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth gameplay across a range of titles. Storage options go up to 1TB, and the device is powered by a 50Whr battery. Weighing in at 1.41 pounds, it’s portable yet substantial, with wireless connectivity supported by Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
-
Steam Deck LCD: If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the LCD version of the Steam Deck offers similar features with slight reductions. It has a 7-inch IPS display and operates at a standard brightness of 400 nits. Though not as bright or vibrant as the OLED, it still provides a solid gaming experience with 16GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. Its battery is slightly smaller at 40Whr, and it weighs 1.48 pounds, offering good performance for its price.
ASUS ROG Ally X: The Windows-Based Contender
For those seeking even more power and flexibility, the ASUS ROG Ally X presents itself as a strong alternative to the Steam Deck. This Windows-based handheld allows for greater customization and access to the full suite of PC gaming options, making it a viable choice for serious gamers on the go.
- The Ally X is equipped with a 7-inch 1080p IPS display, offering a bright 500 nits and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, it comes with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, making it the most powerful option for gamers who want to play graphically intensive games without compromise. Its 80Whr battery provides extended gaming sessions, and while it’s slightly heavier at 1.49 pounds, it remains a top-tier choice for those who want a portable gaming PC experience.
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro: For Retro Gaming Enthusiasts
If your primary interest lies in emulation and retro gaming, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is an excellent budget-friendly option. It doesn’t have the raw power of the Steam Deck or the Ally X, but it excels at running older games, making it perfect for fans of classic titles.
- With a compact 4.7-inch IPS display and a 750 x 1,334 resolution, it’s small but efficient. The device runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 processor and comes with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, more than enough for retro games. It features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for modern connectivity, and the Android 11 operating system allows for easy customization and emulation software.
AYN Odin 2: The All-Round Android Gaming Device
For gamers who want a versatile Android-based handheld that offers both modern and retro gaming experiences, the AYN Odin 2 is a solid choice. It’s built to handle mobile games, cloud gaming, and emulation, all while being relatively affordable.
- The Odin 2 sports a 6-inch 1080p display and runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Depending on your needs, you can choose between 8GB, 12GB, or 16GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB. Its large 8,000mAh battery ensures long playtime, and with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, it’s future-proofed for fast wireless connections. Weighing under a pound, it’s portable without sacrificing performance.
Analogue Pocket: A Niche Choice for Cartridge Collectors
For those who prefer the authenticity of playing physical cartridges, the Analogue Pocket is a premium option that combines modern technology with a nostalgic gaming experience. It’s designed for retro gamers who still have a collection of old cartridges but want to experience them on a modern device.
- The Analogue Pocket’s 3.5-inch LCD screen has an impressive resolution of 1,600 x 1,440, offering sharp visuals for retro games. It uses custom FPGA technology to ensure accurate game emulation, and while its chipset and RAM might seem modest compared to other options, its 4,300mAh battery provides sufficient playtime. This handheld is also relatively lightweight at 0.61 pounds, making it a great choice for gamers who value the tactile experience of playing on real hardware.
Which Handheld Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best gaming handheld for 2024 depends on your specific needs. The Steam Deck offers a perfect balance of power and portability, while the ASUS ROG Ally X provides more performance at a higher price. For retro gamers, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and Analogue Pocket are excellent options, each catering to different aspects of nostalgic gaming. Meanwhile, the AYN Odin 2 delivers flexibility for those who want a blend of modern and retro gaming on a versatile Android platform.
As the market for handheld gaming devices continues to evolve, the choices are becoming broader and more diverse, ensuring there’s something for every type of gamer, whether you’re looking for a casual emulation device or a powerful portable PC
