Embark on a journey through the dynamic world of portable gaming with our expertly crafted guide to the best handheld game consoles for gamers in 2024. As the gaming industry continues to innovate and expand, the allure of gaming on the go has never been stronger. Whether you're a dedicated enthusiast looking to enhance your collection or a casual player seeking entertainment during your commute, our guide is designed to steer you towards the ultimate gaming companion. With a plethora of options saturating the market, our mission is to simplify your decision-making process, ensuring that you invest in a console that resonates with your gaming style and meets your expectations.
In the realm of handheld gaming, the key to unlocking a world of immersive experiences lies in the palm of your hands. But before you set your sights on a new device, it's crucial to arm yourself with knowledge. From the depth of game libraries to the longevity of battery life, and from the raw performance power to the comfort of the controls, every aspect contributes to your overall satisfaction. Our guide will delve into these essential considerations, offering insights that cater to both the discerning gamer who demands cutting-edge technology and the budget-conscious player seeking value without compromise.
As we prepare to unveil the cream of the crop in handheld gaming for 2024, remember that the perfect console isn't just about the specs—it's about how it aligns with your personal gaming journey. Whether you're chasing high-octane action, strategic gameplay, or the simple joy of nostalgic titles, our curated selection promises to guide you to a device that not only fits your budget but also elevates your gaming to new heights. Stay with us as we explore the diverse landscape of handheld consoles, tailored to empower gamers with the freedom to play whenever and wherever they choose.
Nintendo Switch Pro: Best Handheld Gaming Powerhouse
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller -- 69(Amazon)
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller - Monster Hunter Rise Edition -- 36.65(eBay - lanjintechnology)
Why We Picked It
The Nintendo Switch Pro is anticipated to elevate the gaming experience with its rumored advanced graphics and performance capabilities. It's designed to cater to gamers who desire a more robust handheld gaming device that doesn't compromise on power or visual quality.
Who It's For
This console is ideal for avid gamers who are fans of the Nintendo ecosystem and are looking to upgrade from the original Switch or Switch Lite for a more immersive gaming experience. It's also suitable for those who prioritize gaming on-the-go with the convenience of a handheld device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Enhanced graphics and performance for a superior handheld experience | ❌ Higher price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers |
| ✅ Backward compatibility with existing Switch games | ❌ Possible scarcity at launch could make it difficult to purchase |
| ✅ Potential for new features and improved gameplay mechanics | ❌ May require additional investment in accessories for the full experience |
Steam Deck: Portable PC Gaming Powerhouse
Valve Steam Deck 256 GB -- 227(frantili)
Valve Steam Deck,HDMI, 64 GB, Black -- 421.99(Amazon)
Valve's Steam Deck 512 GB (EU Plug) V004288-10 / V004288-20 / V004288-30 -- 119(ewrqwerqwerewfqew)
Valve Steam Deck 1TB Handheld Gaming Console with Carring case, 1280 x 8... -- 599.99(Amazon)
Steam Deck 256 GB -- 461(Walmart - SNF INC)
Valve Steam Deck 512GB Handheld Console -- 535(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Valve's Steam Deck revolutionizes the gaming industry by offering the power and versatility of PC gaming in a portable, handheld device. With its impressive hardware specs, it can run a vast library of games from the Steam platform, ensuring that users have access to their favorite titles on the go. The inclusion of models with varying storage capacities and additional accessories like carrying cases and screen protectors makes it a flexible choice for different types of gamers.
Who It's For
The Steam Deck is perfect for PC gamers looking to take their gaming experience on the road without compromising on performance. It's also ideal for those who appreciate the vast library of games available on Steam but want the convenience of a portable device. However, it might not be the best fit for gamers who prioritize long battery life or a smaller, more compact device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Impressive hardware specs for a handheld device | ❌ Larger size may not appeal to all users |
| ✅ Access to Steam's vast library of games | ❌ Battery life may be limited depending on usage |
| ✅ Variety of models with different storage capacities | ❌ Availability might still be limited |
Nintendo Switch OLED: Top Choice for Handheld Gaming
Nintendo Switch OLED (SW OLED) Model w/ White Joy-Con, Size: Large -- 279(Walmart - Nationwide Distributor)
Nintendo Switch OLED Model w/White Joy-Con (Renewed) -- 303(Amazon)
Nintendo Switch - OLED Model: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom ... -- 349.99(Amazon)
Nintendo Switch OLED Model: Pokemon Scarlet & Violet Edition (Renewed) -- 339(Amazon)
Nintendo Switch OLED The Legend of Zelda Tears of The Kingdom Edition -- 318.88(eBay - re_tech_deals)
Nintendo Switch™ – OLED Model: Pokémon™ Scarlet & Violet Edition -- 382.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Nintendo Switch OLED model stands out for its vibrant OLED screen, enhancing the visual experience for gamers with deeper blacks and more vivid colors compared to its predecessors. Its extensive library of games, including exclusive titles and indie gems, ensures that there's something for everyone, from casual players to hardcore gamers. The availability of special editions like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Pokémon Scarlet & Violet makes it even more appealing for fans of these franchises.
Who It's For
This console is perfect for gamers who prioritize portability and versatility in their gaming experience. It's ideal for those who enjoy gaming on the go, as well as for families looking for a console that supports multiplayer gaming both at home and away. Collectors and fans of specific franchises will also appreciate the special edition models. However, it might not be the best fit for gamers seeking the latest hardware advancements or those who prefer gaming on more powerful, stationary consoles.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vibrant OLED screen for enhanced visuals | ❌ Lacks hardware improvements of newer models |
| ✅ Established library of games with exclusive titles | ❌ Price may be higher for special editions |
| ✅ Special edition models for franchise fans | ❌ Limited by the performance capabilities of the Switch platform |
AYA Neo: Ultimate Handheld Gaming Powerhouse
Aya Neo 2 - B.Duck,16GB LPDDR5 / 1TB PCIe 4.0 2280 -- 721.95(DroiX Global)
AYA NEO Geek 1S Handheld Gaming with AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU, Radeon 780M ... -- 1456.95(Amazon)
AYA Neo 2021 (Black Star)- 7 Inches Handheld PC Game Console Win 10 Home... -- 799.99(Amazon)
AYA NEO 2S Ultimate Handheld Gaming PC. with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU & ... -- 1619.95(Amazon)
AYANEO Air PRO (AMD R5-5560U)- 5.5 Inches OLED Handheld PC Game Console ... -- 699.99(Amazon)
AYANEO Slide 7840U Handheld Game Console Full-keyboard 6inch 1080P IPS S... -- 999(Minixpc)
Why We Picked It
The AYA Neo series represents a leap forward in handheld gaming, offering a powerful Windows-based platform that can effortlessly run a wide range of PC titles. From the high-performance AMD Ryzen CPUs and Radeon GPUs to the stunning display options and expansive memory and storage, these devices are designed to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience on the go. Their ergonomic design and next-gen connectivity features further enhance their appeal, making them a top choice for gamers seeking portability without compromising on performance.
Who It's For
The AYA Neo series is best suited for serious gamers who desire the flexibility to play AAA titles anywhere, without being tethered to a traditional gaming setup. It's also ideal for tech enthusiasts looking for a powerful, portable PC that can handle both gaming and productivity tasks. However, due to its price and size, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a more compact, budget-friendly gaming device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance AMD Ryzen CPUs and Radeon GPUs for smooth, immersive gaming | ❌ Higher price point compared to other handheld gaming devices |
| ✅ Stunning display options with high brightness and resolution flexibility | ❌ Bulkier design may not appeal to those seeking a more compact device |
| ✅ Expansive memory and storage, with up to 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD, expandable up to 8TB | ❌ Battery life may be limited during intensive gaming sessions |
GPD Win 3: Ultimate Handheld Gaming PC
GPD Win 3-[11th Core CPU I7-1195G7-1TB] 5.5 Inch Mini Handheld Video Gam... -- 749.99(Amazon)
GPD Win 3-[11th Core CPU I7-1195G7-1TB] 5.5 Inch Mini Handheld Video Gam... -- 749.99(Amazon)
Official GPD Win 3 Grip Silicone Sleeve Grip for GPD Win 3 PC Game Conso... -- 25.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The GPD Win 3 combines the portability of a handheld gaming console with the power of a full-fledged PC, making it an exceptional choice for gamers on the go. It features an 11th Core CPU I7-1195G7, 16GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, ensuring smooth gameplay and ample storage for games. The unique slide-up screen design reveals a keyboard, adding versatility for both gaming and productivity tasks. Its compact size and robust performance make it a standout device for portable gaming.
Who It's For
Ideal for gamers looking for a portable solution without compromising on performance. The GPD Win 3 is perfect for those who travel frequently or have limited space but still want the capability to play AAA games anywhere. It might not be the best fit for gamers who prefer larger screens or have concerns about the price.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and Iris Xe Graphics for high-performance gaming | ❌ Small 5.5-inch screen may not suit all gamers |
| ✅ Compact and portable design with a unique slide-up screen revealing a keyboard | ❌ High price point compared to traditional handheld gaming devices |
| ✅ Versatile connectivity options including USB 4, USB Type-A, and MicroSD card slot | ❌ Limited battery life under heavy gaming use |
OneXPlayer: Best Handheld Gaming PC for AAA Titles
OneXPlayer 2 PRO [AMD Ryzen 7 7840U] 8.4 Inches 5 in 1 Handheld PC Video... -- 1299(Amazon)
OneXPlayer MiniPro AMD Ryzen7 6800U LPDDR5 High Frequency Win11 7inch 19... -- 1369(Newegg.com - OneXPlayer official store)
OneXPlayer 2 PRO [AMD Ryzen 7 7840U] 8.4 Inches 5 in 1 Handheld PC Video... -- 949.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The OneXPlayer stands out as a versatile and powerful handheld gaming PC, offering a large 8.4-inch screen with a high resolution of 2560x1600, providing an immersive gaming experience. Its AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor and Radeon 780M graphics card deliver the performance needed to handle AAA games, while its 5-in-1 usage modes cater to various user preferences, from gaming to productivity.
Who It's For
The OneXPlayer is ideal for gamers who desire the portability of a handheld console without sacrificing the power and performance of a gaming PC. It's also suitable for those who appreciate the flexibility of switching between different modes, such as laptop, tablet, and console. However, due to its size and price, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a more compact and budget-friendly gaming device.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance CPU and GPU suitable for AAA gaming | ❌ Premium price point may be prohibitive for some buyers |
| ✅ Large, high-resolution 8.4-inch display with touch support | ❌ Bulky size compared to traditional handheld consoles |
| ✅ Versatile 5-in-1 usage modes and large capacity battery with fast charging | ❌ May require resolution downscaling for optimal performance in some games |
Anbernic RG351P: Budget-Friendly Retro Gaming Powerhouse
RG351P Handheld Game Console, Retro Game Console Open Linux Tony System ... -- 89.99(Amazon)
RG351P Handheld Game Console with 64G TF Card 2500 Classic Games 3.5 Inc... -- 99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Anbernic RG351P is a compact and versatile handheld gaming console that offers retro gaming enthusiasts the ability to play a wide array of classic games on the go. With its open-source Linux system and support for over 20 emulators, it's a treasure trove of nostalgia that fits in your pocket. Its affordability and extensive game library make it an attractive option for those looking to revisit the games of their childhood without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
The RG351P is ideal for retro gaming fans who prioritize portability and a vast selection of classic titles. It's perfect for those who enjoy gaming on the move, such as during commutes or while traveling. However, it's not designed for gamers looking to play modern, high-performance games.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 3.5-inch high-definition IPS screen for clear and vibrant visuals | ❌ Not suitable for modern gaming titles with more demanding graphics and performance requirements |
| ✅ Long battery life with a 3500mAh battery, supporting up to 8 hours of gameplay | ❌ Limited performance due to the RK3326 chip, which is tailored for retro games |
| ✅ Pre-installed with over 2500 classic games and the ability to add more | ❌ The maximum storage expansion is 256GB, which may limit the number of games and emulators you can install |
Nintendo 3DS XL: Best for Nintendo Enthusiasts and Collectors
Nintendo 3DS XL - Black [Old Model] (Renewed) -- 249.99(Amazon)
Nintendo 3DS XL - Red/Black (Renewed) -- 234.99(Amazon)
Nintendo 3DS XL - Blue/Black [Old Model] (Renewed) -- 227.41(Amazon)
Nintendo 3DS XL Handheld System - Black/Black (Renewed) -- 238.99(Amazon)
Nintendo New 3DS XL, Galaxy Style Premium Bundle (Renewed) -- 344.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Nintendo 3DS XL is a classic handheld gaming console known for its extensive library of exclusive games and the unique 3D gaming experience without the need for special glasses. Its dual-screen design and backward compatibility with DS titles make it a versatile choice for gaming enthusiasts looking to explore Nintendo's rich history of handheld games.
Who It's For
The Nintendo 3DS XL is ideal for gamers who appreciate a vast selection of exclusive titles and enjoy the novelty of 3D gaming. It's also great for collectors and those who prefer physical copies of games. However, it may not be the best fit for those seeking the latest technology or who prioritize online multiplayer experiences.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Large library of exclusive titles | ❌ Outdated compared to modern handhelds |
| ✅ Unique 3D gaming feature without glasses | ❌ No longer in production, which may affect availability |
| ✅ Backward compatibility with Nintendo DS games | ❌ Lacks some modern features like HD graphics and robust online play |
Playdate: Best Indie Gaming Handheld
TinyCircuits Thumby (Clear), Tiny Game Console, Playable Programmable Ke... -- 29.95(Amazon)
BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible with Panic Playdate - ClearTouch Ant... -- 12.95(Amazon)
Playdate Material Toddler Tee Kelly / 2 -- 29(BabyDoopy)
Pat The Bunny - Playdates -- 16.79(Walmart - Staci19)
Why We Picked It
The Playdate is a fresh take on handheld gaming, combining nostalgia with innovation through its unique crank control mechanism and a focus on indie games. It's a device that's designed to deliver a different type of gaming experience, one that is more intimate and creatively stimulating, with games that often push the boundaries of traditional gameplay.
Who It's For
The Playdate is best suited for gamers looking for something out of the ordinary, collectors who appreciate unique gaming hardware, and indie game enthusiasts eager to explore new titles and gameplay mechanics. It may not be the right choice for those who prefer mainstream gaming experiences or a vast library of well-known titles.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Unique crank control adds a new dimension to gameplay | ❌ Niche appeal may not resonate with all gamers |
| ✅ Focus on indie games supports smaller developers and fresh experiences | ❌ Limited game library compared to mainstream consoles |
| ✅ Portable and distinctive design makes it a conversation piece | ❌ Lack of mainstream titles could deter some potential users |
Thanks for checking out the best handheld game consoles for 2024! If you need more recommendations or have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy gaming!