In the ever-evolving world of gaming, portable consoles continue to gain popularity as they offer the flexibility to play your favorite games on-the-go. As we approach 2024, the market is filled with innovative handheld devices that cater to various preferences and budgets. When shopping for the best portable consoles in 2024, consider factors such as game library, performance, battery life, and ergonomics to ensure a satisfying gaming experience. To help you make an informed decision, we have researched and tested an array of handheld gaming consoles, compiling a list of the top performers in this article.
Continue reading for our recommendations and expert shopping tips to find the perfect portable console that suits your gaming needs in 2024.
Nintendo Switch Pro: Best Accessory for Enhanced Switch Gaming
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 Controller is a premium accessory that elevates the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch console. It offers improved ergonomics, precision controls, and additional features like motion controls, HD rumble, and amiibo functionality. Its compatibility with popular accessories like KontrolFreek Thumbsticks further enhances its appeal to serious gamers looking for a more traditional gaming experience on the Switch.
Who It's For
The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is ideal for gamers who spend extended periods playing on their Nintendo Switch and prefer the comfort and accuracy of a full-sized controller. It's also great for those who appreciate the enhanced gameplay experience provided by the additional features like HD rumble and motion controls. However, it may not be necessary for casual players who are satisfied with the Joy-Con controllers that come with the console.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ergonomic design for comfortable extended gameplay | ❌ More expensive than standard Joy-Con controllers |
| ✅ Additional features like motion controls and HD rumble | ❌ May not be necessary for casual gamers |
| ✅ High customer satisfaction with a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating | ❌ Limited edition versions like the Monster Hunter Rise Edition may be harder to find |
Steam Deck: Ultimate Handheld PC Gaming
Valve Steam Deck,HDMI, 64 GB, Black -- 421.99(Amazon)
Valve Steam Deck 256 GB -- 227(frantili)
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
The Valve Steam Deck stands out as a revolutionary device in the realm of handheld gaming, offering the power and versatility of PC gaming in a portable format. With access to the vast Steam library, players can enjoy their favorite PC games on the go without compromise. Its range of storage options, from 64 GB to a hefty 1TB, ensures that there's a model for every type of gamer, from casual to hardcore. The inclusion of a carrying case and protective accessories in certain models further enhances its portability and durability, making it an excellent choice for gaming anywhere, anytime.
Who It's For
The Steam Deck is perfect for PC gamers looking to take their favorite games on the go, without being tethered to a desktop setup. It's also ideal for those who appreciate the flexibility of a handheld device but don't want to sacrifice the performance and game library available on PC. However, it might not be the best fit for gamers who prioritize long battery life over performance, as intensive games can drain the battery quickly.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Access to the full Steam library for a vast selection of games | ❌ Battery life can be limited for demanding games |
| ✅ Flexible storage options ranging from 64 GB to 1TB | ❌ Higher storage models can be pricey |
| ✅ Portable and durable design with carrying case and protective accessories | ❌ May require additional accessories for optimal experience |
Sony PlayStation Vita 2: Best Anticipated Handheld Gaming Experience
Sony Playstation Vita WiFi 1000 Series OLED Console with 2 Silicon Thumb... -- 201.45(Amazon)
Sony PlayStation Vita Wi-Fi (Renewed) -- 255(Amazon)
Sony Playstation Vita WiFi 1000 Series OLED Console with 2 Silicon Thumb... -- 229(Amazon)
Sony Playstation Vita WiFi 1000 Series OLED Console with 2 Silicon Thumb... -- 214(Amazon)
Sony Playstation Vita Wi-Fi 2000 Series with Silicone Joystick Covers an... -- 214.54(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Sony PlayStation Vita 2 is a highly anticipated handheld gaming device, rumored to be the successor to the original Vita. It's expected to offer PS5 remote play capabilities and a strong lineup of exclusive titles, which could make it a must-have for dedicated Sony fans and handheld gaming enthusiasts looking for a premium portable gaming experience.
Who It's For
This device would be ideal for gamers who are already invested in the PlayStation ecosystem and are looking for a portable gaming solution that seamlessly integrates with their PS5 console. It would also appeal to those who enjoyed the original Vita and are looking for an upgraded experience with new features and improved hardware.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Potential for PS5 remote play, expanding gaming possibilities | ❌ Unconfirmed existence, leaving potential features and release date unknown |
| ✅ Exclusive title lineup, offering unique gaming experiences | ❌ Possible high price point, considering the advanced features and technology |
| ✅ Advanced hardware, likely improving upon the original Vita's OLED screen and controls | ❌ Risk of limited third-party support, which was a concern with the original Vita |
AYA Neo 2: Ultimate Portable Gaming Powerhouse
Aya Neo Slide - Sunrise White,32GB LPDDR5X / 2TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 2280 -- 970.95(DroiX Global)
AYA NEO 2S Ultimate Handheld Gaming PC. with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU & ... -- 1619.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The AYA NEO 2S Ultimate Handheld Gaming PC is a marvel of modern gaming technology, designed to bring the full AAA gaming experience into the palm of your hands. With its cutting-edge AMD Ryzen 7 7840U CPU & 780M GPU, combined with a substantial 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD, it offers unparalleled performance for on-the-go gaming. The device's immersive visuals, precise controls, and portable design make it a standout choice for gamers looking to enjoy high-quality gaming anywhere.
Who It's For
The AYA NEO 2S is perfect for serious gamers who demand the best performance and portability in their gaming devices. It's also ideal for tech enthusiasts who appreciate the latest in hardware advancements. However, its high price point may be a barrier for the average consumer or casual gamers who might find more value in less expensive alternatives.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor and Radeon 780M graphics for top-tier gaming performance | ❌ High price point may deter average consumers |
| ✅ Stunning 7" IPS display with high resolution, brightness, and color accuracy for immersive visuals | ❌ Battery life limited to around 3 hours, which may not suffice for extended gaming sessions |
| ✅ Compact and lightweight design with advanced control features and versatile connectivity options | ❌ Requires access to Windows-based games, potentially limiting for users with a preference for console exclusives |
GPD Win 4: Best Compact Gaming and Productivity Handheld
GPD Win 4 [AMD Ryzen 7 7840U-32GB+2TB] 6 Inches Mini Handheld Win 11 PC ... -- 1149.99(Amazon)
New! GPD WIN 4 WIN4 2023 AMD 7840U 6Inch Handheld GamePad Tablet Pocket ... -- 735(AliExpress.com)
Win 4 2023, Portable Handheld Game Console 6" Touchscreen 1920X1080 Mini... -- 949.95(Amazon)
GPD Win 4 Handheld Game Laptop 7640U 16GB LPDDR5 512GB SSD EU -- 779(Geekbuying.com)
Win 4 2023 Handheld Gaming PC with AMD Ryzen 5 7640U, Radeon 760M, 16GB ... -- 825.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The GPD Win 4 is a versatile handheld device that combines the power of a gaming console with the functionality of a mini laptop, making it an excellent choice for gamers and productivity users who need a compact and portable solution. With its AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor and Radeon 780M graphics, it delivers impressive performance for its size. The inclusion of a physical keyboard adds to its versatility, allowing for easier typing and control compared to touch-only devices.
Who It's For
The GPD Win 4 is ideal for gamers who are looking for a portable gaming experience without sacrificing performance. It's also suitable for professionals or students who need a lightweight, compact device for productivity tasks on the go. However, it may not be the best fit for those who prefer larger screens for extended gaming sessions or multitasking.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor for high-end gaming and multitasking | ❌ Smaller screen size may not be ideal for all users |
| ✅ Physical keyboard for enhanced productivity and gaming controls | ❌ Battery life varies greatly with usage, from 2 to 10 hours |
| ✅ High-resolution 6-inch touchscreen with Gorilla Glass protection | ❌ Higher price point compared to some other handheld gaming devices |
OneXPlayer Mini: 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 Mini [11th Core Tiger Lake I7-1195G7-1TB] 7 Inches Handheld P... -- 649.99(Amazon)
QUJUSO OnexPlayer Mini Pro 7" Handheld Game Console Portable PC Mini Lap... -- 649.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The OneXPlayer Mini is a compact and versatile handheld gaming PC that offers a unique blend of high-performance hardware and portability, making it an ideal choice for gamers who want to enjoy AAA titles on the go. With its powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and a crisp 7-inch display, it delivers a robust gaming experience that rivals traditional consoles and gaming laptops, all in a form factor that fits in your hands.
Who It's For
The OneXPlayer Mini is best suited for serious gamers who prioritize the ability to play high-end games anywhere without being tethered to a stationary console or a bulky laptop. It's also a great fit for tech enthusiasts looking for a portable Windows 11 device that can double as a mini laptop for productivity tasks.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance Intel Core i7 processor for demanding games | ❌ May experience shorter battery life due to powerful components |
| ✅ Portable and versatile with multiple usage modes | ❌ Higher price point compared to traditional handheld gaming consoles |
| ✅ Crisp 7-inch display with a high pixel density for immersive gaming | ❌ Some AAA games may require resolution downscaling for optimal performance |
Nintendo Switch Lite 2: Enhanced Portable Gaming Powerhouse
Nintendo Switch Lite - Blue -- 193(Amazon)
Nintendo Switch Lite - Teal -- 99(Strategon)
Nintendo Switch Lite (Gray) -- 139.99(Max Level Video Games)
Why We Picked It
The Nintendo Switch Lite 2 represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, focusing on enhanced portability and extended playtime. With improved hardware and battery life, it's designed to cater to gamers who prioritize gaming on the go without compromising on performance. Its compact and lightweight design, combined with a range of fun colors, makes it an attractive option for those looking for a dedicated handheld gaming experience.
Who It's For
Ideal for gamers who are always on the move and prefer the convenience of handheld play. It's perfect for those who enjoy the vast library of Nintendo Switch games but do not require the functionality to dock and play on a TV. This device is especially suited for individuals who prioritize longer battery life and improved performance in a portable gaming console.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Improved hardware for a smoother gaming experience | ❌ Lacks the ability to dock and play on a TV |
| ✅ Extended battery life for longer play sessions | ❌ May not be suitable for gamers who prefer a larger screen |
| ✅ Compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable | ❌ Limited to handheld mode, reducing multiplayer versatility |
Anbernic RG552: Retro Gaming Powerhouse
ANBERNIC RG552 Android Handheld Console SS DC 4200+ Retro Games 5.36" IP... -- 188.99(AliExpress.com)
ANBERNIC RG552 Game Console, LPDDR4 4GB, Android 64GB eMMC 5.1, Linux 16... -- 216.3(Geekbuying.com)
ANBERNIC RG552 Dual System Handheld Console 4200 Retro Games 5.36" IPS T... -- 188.99(AliExpress.com)
RG552 Handheld Game Console , RK3399 Chip Dual OS Linux , Android System... -- 199.99(Amazon)
RG552 Handheld Android System Game Console High Speed EMMC 5.1 and 16G L... -- 199(Amazon)
Original RG552 Handheld Game Console Dual Systems Android+ Linux 5.36 IN... -- 173.72(AliExpress.com)
Why We Picked It
The Anbernic RG552 is a versatile handheld gaming console that stands out for its dual-system capability, supporting both Android and Linux platforms. It's equipped with a powerful RK3399 processor and a high-definition 5.36-inch IPS touch screen, making it an excellent choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. Its ability to emulate a wide range of classic games, combined with modern features like WiFi connectivity and fast charging, positions it as a top pick for gamers looking to relive the glory days of gaming in a portable format.
Who It's For
This console is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the flexibility of playing a vast library of classic games across multiple emulators. It's also suitable for those who value portability and long battery life in their gaming devices. However, it may not meet the needs of gamers looking to play the latest, most graphically intensive modern titles due to its hardware limitations.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports a wide range of emulators for retro gaming | ❌ Not optimized for the latest modern gaming titles |
| ✅ High-definition 5.36-inch IPS touch screen for enhanced visuals | ❌ Limited by hardware capabilities for more demanding games |
| ✅ Dual-system capability with Android and Linux for versatility | ❌ May require additional investment in memory cards for extensive game libraries |
Odroid-Go Super: Best Budget Emulation Handheld for DIYers
ODROID-GO Super -- 99.95(CorpShadow Bizstore)
ODROID-GO Super game console with RK3326 1GB DDR3L 4 core A35 processor ... -- 177.62(AliExpress.com)
Why We Picked It
The Odroid-Go Super is an affordable handheld gaming device that offers a versatile emulation experience for classic games. Its appeal lies in its ability to cater to DIY enthusiasts who enjoy customizing and tinkering with their gadgets. The device's accessible price point makes it an attractive option for those looking to dive into the world of retro gaming without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
The Odroid-Go Super is best suited for retro gaming fans and DIY hobbyists who are looking for a cost-effective way to play a wide range of classic games from various consoles. It's also a good fit for those who appreciate open-source software and are comfortable with potentially modifying or programming the device to suit their needs. However, it may not be the best choice for users expecting the build quality and performance of more premium, mainstream gaming handhelds.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Affordable price for emulation enthusiasts | ❌ Build quality may not be as robust as premium devices |
| ✅ Versatile with a quad-core A35 processor | ❌ Performance may vary depending on the emulated system |
| ✅ Large 4000mAh battery for extended playtime | ❌ May require technical knowledge for customization |
Alienware UFO Concept: Revolutionary Portable PC Gaming
AW610M Wired/Wireless Gaming Mouse - 16000 DPI Optical Sensor, 350 Hour ... -- 79(Amazon)
Pro Wireless Gaming Mouse - Dark Side of The Moon -- 149.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Alienware UFO Concept, if released, promises to revolutionize the portable PC gaming experience by combining Alienware's renowned design and performance capabilities in a handheld format. This concept aims to bridge the gap between traditional gaming laptops and handheld gaming devices, offering the power and versatility of PC gaming with the convenience and portability of a handheld device. Its unique proposition lies in delivering a high-performance gaming experience that can be taken anywhere, making it an exciting prospect for gamers looking for the ultimate in gaming flexibility.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for gamers who desire the performance of a gaming PC with the portability of a handheld device. It's perfect for those who travel frequently but do not want to compromise on their gaming experience, as well as for gamers who appreciate cutting-edge technology and design. However, it may not be the best fit for those looking for a traditional gaming laptop or desktop due to its unique form factor and the fact that it is still a concept that may not come to market.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Unique take on portable PC gaming combining power with portability | ❌ Still a concept and may not come to market |
| ✅ Alienware's design and performance pedigree | ❌ Uncertainty about final specifications and performance |
| ✅ Potential to offer a versatile gaming experience on the go | ❌ Potential high cost due to cutting-edge technology and design |
Thanks for checking out the best portable consoles of 2024! If you need more help or recommendations, feel free to reach out. Happy gaming!