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In recent years, the realm of handheld gaming consoles has undergone significant transformation. The nostalgic appeal of devices like the Game Boy has paved the way for numerous modern options, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite titles on the go. However, this surge in innovation presents the challenge of navigating an overwhelming array of choices. From budget-friendly emulators to high-performance portable PCs, selecting the right handheld gaming system can be a daunting task.
To assist in making informed decisions, extensive research and testing have been conducted to identify the standout handheld consoles available. Below, we present our top picks for 2025, along with insights into their features and performance.
Leading handheld gaming consoles for 2025
The Steam Deck OLED
The Steam Deck OLED remains a favorite in the handheld gaming landscape, striking an impressive balance between price, performance, and user experience. Priced starting at $549 for the 512GB variant, this upgraded version features a vibrant 7.4-inch HDR OLED display with a resolution of 1,280 x 800 pixels. The enhanced brightness and contrast of the OLED screen elevate the gaming experience, making visuals pop with stunning clarity.
One of the key advantages of the Steam Deck OLED is its efficiency. With a more powerful yet power-efficient AMD APU, this model offers a battery life ranging from three to twelve hours, depending on the game being played. This improvement over its predecessor, which had a shorter battery lifespan, enhances its appeal. Although the Steam Deck may struggle with some demanding titles, it remains capable of running a diverse selection of games, making it a versatile choice for gamers.
Lenovo Legion Go S
Another strong contender in the handheld market is the Lenovo Legion Go S, which emerges as a worthy alternative to the Steam Deck. This device operates on the latest AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and features a spacious 8-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels. With a focus on performance, the Legion Go S excels in running resource-intensive games at impressive frame rates.
What sets the Legion Go S apart is its user-friendly design and robust features, including a maximum power draw of 33W in handheld mode. Additionally, it supports a 120Hz refresh rate and variable refresh rates (VRR), ensuring smooth gameplay during intense action sequences. However, the device is bulkier than the Steam Deck, which may affect comfort during prolonged gaming sessions.
Emerging handheld contenders
ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X
For those seeking a handheld that offers superior flexibility, the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X is an excellent choice. Unlike other devices that limit users to a specific gaming ecosystem, this handheld runs on Windows 11, allowing access to a wide range of games across various platforms. Its 7-inch LCD screen with a 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate ensures a visually appealing gaming experience.
The Xbox Ally X is equipped with a powerful Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor and 24GB of RAM, making it capable of handling demanding AAA games with ease. While it may not feature a dedicated gaming interface like SteamOS, the new Xbox full-screen experience simplifies navigation and enhances performance across different game storefronts, making it a compelling option for gamers.
Market trends and insights
The handheld gaming market is evolving rapidly, with new devices emerging regularly. As 2025 progresses, staying informed about the latest releases and technological advancements is essential. The recent influx of dual-screen models and emulation-focused devices highlights the industry’s growth and diversification. Whether one is a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, there is likely a handheld console that meets specific needs.
As handheld gaming continues to thrive, players now enjoy more options than ever. By considering factors such as performance, display quality, and game compatibility, it is possible to find the perfect handheld device to enhance the gaming experience.