With the release of so many new consoles, it’s only natural that you’re still on the fence. After all, the Nintendo Switch 2 and PlayStation 5 (PS5) are great contenders to think about before you make the big decision. To help you learn more about the newest up-and-coming gaming systems, we’ve compiled a list of the best handheld consoles for you to enjoy all your favourite games, top-notch graphics and exhilarating gameplay!
Our Recommendations
Editor’s Choice: The handheld console I’d like to get
I’d go for the Retroid Pocket Flip 2! As the handheld console with the largest battery capacity, it’s ideal for people who often forget to charge their devices, like I do. This portable gaming device is also lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to pack into my bag or use on the go. At the same time, I also love the unique colours that this handheld console comes in (green and purple, apart from the usual black and white). My only issue is that it’s slightly pricey, but I believe it’s a worthwhile investment!
Best handheld gaming devices for 2025
1. ASUS ROG Ally X
Brainchild of Xbox and ASUS
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If you’re looking for an unparalleled gaming experience, the ASUS ROG Ally X might be for you. This handheld console features a high-performance processor, accompanied by cutting-edge hardware like the Zergo Gravity Thermal System and dual front-firing Smart Amp speakers. It’s also powered by an ultra-efficient AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, so your games will load even faster than you’re used to. Despite all these improvements, I love how the ASUS ROG Ally X retains its iconic ABXY buttons and contoured grips. With numerous upgrades, die-hard fans of Xbox consoles will love this collaboration between the gaming company and electronics powerhouse ASUS.
Specifications
Battery capacity: 80Whr
Display: 7” screen with 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
Dimensions: 290.8mm x 121.5mm x 50.7mm
Network: Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4
OS: Windows 11 Home
Processor: AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor
Storage: 1TB
Weight: 715g
2. Lenovo Legion Go S
Beautiful graphics and a proficient heat regulation system
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This is one of the best handheld consoles if you love to hunt for in-game easter eggs like I do, but can’t sacrifice crisp graphics! With a giant 8-inch screen, this game system offers a 37% larger viewing area than most handheld gaming devices, so every moment you spend gaming is more immersive and exciting. Apart from amazing graphics, the Lenovo Legion Go S is equipped with vivid colour accuracy that’s sure to amaze.
Worried about your system overheating? Fret not, as the Legion ColdFront technology ensures that your system stays cool, even during those marathon gaming sessions. The innovative 3D fans and large heat sinks work efficiently to whisk heat away, so you can play to your heart’s content!
Specifications
Battery capacity: 55.5Whr
Display: 8” screen with 1920 x 1200 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
Dimensions: 298.5mm x 127.5mm x 22.6mm
Network: AMD Wi-Fi 6E RZ616, 802.11ax 2×2 Wi-Fi + Bluetooth 5.3
OS: SteamOS, Windows 11
Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor
Storage: 1TB
Weight: 740g
3. Retroid Pocket Flip 2
All-rounder device for an immersive experience
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Feeling nostalgic? The Retroid Pocket Flip 2 features a nostalgic clamshell design that I haven’t seen in a while, but better! With a reinforced design, concerns of loose hinges or screen breakages are eliminated. It’s hence much more resilient towards knocks and bumps. Choose between two processors to optimise power consumption – casual gamers can go for the Snapdragon SD865, and hardcore gamers will enjoy the higher-end Dimensity D1100.
Founded in 2020, Retroid Pocket aims to create great products at competitive prices. That’s exactly what the Flip 2 embodies, as it doesn’t scrimp on impressive features despite the reasonable price (slightly higher than $500)! As such, this is one of the best handheld consoles if you’ve just started gaming and aren’t ready to spend a ton on gaming supplies.
Specifications
Battery capacity: 5000mAh
Display: 5.5” AMOLED screen with 1080p resolution
Dimensions: 140.5mm x 89.5mm x 24.4mm
Network: Wi-Fi 6 + Bluetooth 5.1
OS: Android 13
Processor: Snapdragon SD865, or Dimensity D1 100
Storage: 128GB
Weight: 306g
4. Nintendo Switch 2
Family-friendly handheld console
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Drumroll, please – introducing the long-awaited Nintendo Switch 2! As if the first version wasn’t exciting enough, Nintendo left many gaming enthusiasts raring to go with the latest edition of the popular portable game console. Switch 2 comes with an array of new features, including the GameChat function and Mouse Mode, which allows for cursor movement and even rotation of objects on-screen. That’s also on top of the Switch 2’s exclusive games, which include Mario Kart World and Hyrule Warriors.
Considering whether to upgrade? If you’re a proud owner of existing Nintendo Switch games, you’ll be glad to enjoy improved graphics and shorter loading durations on the new system. On top of that, the Switch 2 offers three modes (TV, Tabletop and Handheld), making it one of the best handheld consoles for gaming with friends and family!
Specifications
Battery capacity: 5220mAh
Display: 7.9” Gamut LCD screen with 1080p resolution
Dimensions: 114.3mm x 271.8mm x 14mm
Network: Wi-Fi 6 + Bluetooth 5.2
OS: Horizon
Processor: Custom-made by NVIDIA
Storage: 256GB
Weight: 399g
5. Anbernic RG35XX Plus
Retro handheld console
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Owning a retro handheld console is never a bad idea, especially if you’ve never had a go at one before. This is a great option as it fits in the palm of your hand, making it ideal for playing on the go without the hassle of lugging around a large device. It’s also small but mighty, supporting more than 30 kinds of emulators on a battery life that lasts up to seven hours.
The simple design reminds me of an improved Gameboy, so this also makes for a great gift if your parents were into portable game consoles back in the day! The Anbernic RG35XX Plus also has the option of connecting it to a larger screen, making it an excellent handheld console for enjoying multiplayer games or showcasing gameplay on a bigger display.
Specifications
Battery capacity: 3300mAh
Display: 3.5” IPS screen
Dimensions: 117mm x 81mm x 22mm
Network: Wi-Fi 5
OS: Linux
Processor: ARM Cortex-A9 with 4 cores
Storage: 64GB
Weight: 186g
6. PlayStation Portal
To play PS5 games away from the television
(Credit: Qisahn)
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If you already own a PlayStation 5 (PS5), the PlayStation Portal is a great console that complements it and upgrades your gaming experience. As someone who grew up with PlayStation games, I appreciate how Sony has retained its distinctive controller design with this portable game console! The PlayStation Portal works by streaming games that you already own on your PS5 system to this handheld device via an Internet connection, so there’s no need to repurchase your favourite games.
Unfortunately for my fellow earbud users, this game console doesn’t support Bluetooth audio connections, so you’ll have to rely on the good old wired headphones. Nonetheless, it’s one of the best handheld consoles for gamers who want to play PS5 games away from the television.
Specifications
Battery capacity: 4370mAh
Display: 8” LCD screen with 1080p resolution
Dimensions: 355.7mm x 98.5mm x 152.4mm
Network: Wi-Fi 5
OS: Android
Processor: Snapdragon 680
Storage: 256GB
Weight: 529g
7. Super Pocket
For arcade classics when you’re on the go
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Another retro handheld console that’s been making waves in the gaming industry is the Super Pocket. Small and compact, this handheld gaming console is perfect if you’re always on the go. With a battery life of four hours and a variety of preloaded arcade games, you’re bound to have a great time gaming away! It’s also compatible with Evercade cartridges for those of us who miss physical games of the past. This handheld game console comes in a variety of designs (including Taito and Capcom versions), so hardcore fans are sure to find one that they like.
Specifications
Battery capacity: Uses a lithium-ion battery that’s rechargeable by USB-C
Display: 2.8” IPS screen
Dimensions: 78mm x 125 mm x 25mm
Network: –
OS: Custom operating system
Processor: 1.2 GHz quad-core processor
Storage: 64GB
Weight: 186g
8. Ayaneo Flip DS 6.25
Nostalgic double screen design
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Fans of the Nintendo DS back in the day will enjoy the Ayaeneo Flip DS for its dual-screen design. If you’re like me and rely on gaming guides to maximise your experience, this handheld console allows you to play games on the main screen while checking walkthroughs on the secondary screen. Afraid of your arms hurting during a long gaming session? The Ayaneo Flip DS counters this with its sleek and ergonomic design that reduces unnecessary movements and arm strain.
This portable game console comes in a stunning Milky White or Shadow Black. The screws are also well hidden below the hinges, making it one of the best handheld consoles for those who seek one that’s visually appealing.
Specifications
Battery capacity: 45Wh
Display: 7” IPS screen with 1080p resolution
Dimensions: 180mm x 102mm x 29.8mm
Network: Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.2
OS: Windows 11
Processor: MAD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
Storage: 512GB / 2TB
Weight: 650g
9. MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM
Popular gaming company MSI’s latest launch
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In line with MSI’s commitment to producing top-notch products with intuitive user interfaces (UI), the acclaimed gaming company launched the Claw 8 AI+ earlier this year. This handheld console combines the capabilities of the latest Core Ultra 200V and XeSS Artificial Intelligence (AI), delivering sharp visuals and smooth gameplay. On top of the beautiful graphics, MSI’s revolutionary intraflow thermal design regulates device temperatures, allowing you to game for longer without the risk of device overheating. If you’re already a diehard MSI fan, this is one of the best handheld consoles of the year that you can’t miss out on!
Specifications
Battery capacity: 80Wh
Display: 8” 120Hz Touch screen
Dimensions: 180mm x 102mm x 29.8mm
Network: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
OS: Windows 11 Home
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 258V
Storage: 1TB
Weight: 795g
SteamOS vs Windows: Which is the better handheld operating system?
Avid gamers will prefer SteamOS due to its larger number of more proficient features.
SteamOS provides a more optimised UI and better performance overall. It’s also designed with the gaming needs of users in mind, so it’s more game-centric and user-friendly. Many users of the SteamOS feedback that it feels like a console without the typical drawbacks, and the function that’s most appreciated by gamers is the instant suspend and resume function.
On the other hand, a Windows OS is better for those who are already familiar with Windows and want a less steep learning curve for their handheld gaming devices. While it’s compatible with more games and apps (including non-Steam titles), SteamOS is catching up in this aspect.
Should you buy a handheld console or a gaming laptop?
A handheld gaming console is better if you intend to play your favourite games on the go, as it’s designed to be more ergonomic and portable. It also offers better battery life and thermal control, so you’ll have more hours of game time on a full charge. If you’re looking for a more versatile device to use for both work and fun, a gaming PC may be the way to go. Just note that it’ll be heavier and bulkier, making it challenging to use when you’re out. Gaming PCs cost upwards of $800 and may even exceed $2000, so it’s the more expensive option of the two.
Game on with the best handheld consoles for your various gaming needs!
Whether you’re looking for a retro portable gaming console or one that has state-of-the-art features, you’re bound to enjoy one of the many options available in the market. Thinking of upgrading your home gaming setup while you’re at it? Check out our recommendations on the best gaming mice or the best ultrawide monitors to elevate your gaming experience! Or, take it a step further and enhance your home connection with the best mesh WiFi routers. Regardless of whether you’re streaming a show or joining a Zoom call, you’re guaranteed top-notch connectivity. After all, you deserve only the best!
This article was updated on 4 July 2025. Additional research done by Chloe Gee.
