The Best Handheld Gaming Consoles In 2024

In today’s fast-paced world, the demand for portable gaming consoles has skyrocketed. Gamers want the flexibility to play their favorite titles wherever they are, whether it’s during a commute, on a flight, or simply lounging at home. Here, we explore the best portable gaming consoles of 2024, each offering unique features to enhance your gaming experience on the go.

1. Valve Steam Deck OLED

Best Overall Portable Gaming Console

Valve’s Steam Deck OLED stands out as the top choice for portable gaming. With its powerful AMD Zen 2 CPU and a stunning 7.4-inch HDR OLED touchscreen, this console delivers a premium gaming experience. The Steam Deck OLED supports a massive library of Steam games, making it a versatile option for gamers. Its improved battery life, enhanced cooling system, and increased storage options make it a must-have for serious gamers on the move.

Pros:

High-performance hardware
Extensive game library
Improved battery life and cooling

Cons:

Lacks native Windows support

2. Nintendo Switch OLED

Best Budget Portable Gaming Console

The Nintendo Switch OLED continues to be a favorite among gamers for its affordability and versatility. The 7-inch OLED screen provides vibrant colors and sharp visuals, enhancing the gaming experience. With a vast library of exclusive titles like “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” and “Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” the Switch OLED offers endless entertainment.

Pros:

Affordable
Extensive game library
Vibrant OLED display

Cons:

Limited to 720p resolution in handheld mode

3. Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme

Best Windows-Based Portable Gaming Console

For those who prefer a Windows-based system, the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is an excellent choice. This console features a powerful AMD Ryzen processor and a 7-inch Full HD display. It supports a wide range of PC games and offers seamless integration with Windows 11. The ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is perfect for gamers who want the flexibility of a portable console with the power of a gaming PC.

Pros:

Powerful AMD Ryzen processor
Full HD display
Windows 11 integration

Cons:

Higher price point

4. Lenovo Legion Go

Best Big-Screen Portable Gaming Console

The Lenovo Legion Go is designed for gamers who crave a larger display. With an 8-inch QHD+ screen, this console offers an immersive gaming experience. It is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and features a robust cooling system to handle demanding games. The Legion Go is ideal for those who prioritize screen size and performance.

Pros:

Large QHD+ display
Powerful Intel Core i7 processor
Effective cooling system

Cons:

Bulky design

5. MSI Claw A1M

Best Sounding Portable Gaming Console

The MSI Claw A1M is perfect for gamers who value audio quality. This console features high-fidelity speakers and advanced audio technology to deliver an exceptional sound experience. With a 7-inch Full HD display and a powerful AMD processor, the Claw A1M ensures that both visuals and audio are top-notch.

Pros:

High-fidelity speakers
Advanced audio technology
Full HD display

Cons:

Limited game library compared to competitors

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable gaming console depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize performance, display quality, or audio experience, there’s a console on this list that will meet your requirements. The Valve Steam Deck OLED, Nintendo Switch OLED, Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw A1M each offer unique features that make them stand out in the crowded market of portable gaming devices.