The Best Handheld Game Consoles
Ever since the early days of video games, gamers have enjoyed playing games on the go. If you're looking to get into handheld gaming, you've come to the right place. Here, we've collected a list of the best handheld game consoles on the market today. With the affordable computing power available these days, many of your favorite classic game systems are able to be emulated with these handheld systems. Whether you're a gaming veteran or looking to start your journey into the world of portable gaming, these handheld systems are sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Ksasmile Handheld Game Console
Some of the best games come from the 8-bit era. All-time greats such as Super Mario Bros, Pacman, and ExciteBike have delighted gamers for generations. Now you can play all your favorite classics on the go. This compact handheld system comes with 400 classic games pre-installed for a bargain price. Want to get some multiplayer action going? Plug the device into your TV and attach the included gamepad for good old-fashioned two-player fun. Make sure your TV has the older RCA inputs (yellow and red circles). Otherwise, you can use an RCA adapter to HDMI or whatever format your TV uses. As far as batteries go, you won’t have to worry about replacing them constantly with this handheld device. A rechargeable 800mAh battery gives you about five hours of charge.
Pros:
- Large game library
- Includes carrying case, gamepad, and cables
- Rechargeable battery lasts for five hours
Cons:
- Only has 8-bit Nintendo games
TrophyRak Retro Mini Game Console
Classic 8-bit adventures in your pocket
Have you ever wanted to hold all of your favorite classic games in the palm of your hand? This small, affordable handheld game console fits the bill perfectly. For lovers of Mario, Street Fighter, Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, and much more, this device has it all. Relive your favorite 8-bit titles in a wave of nostalgia or pass on the love of classic games to a younger generation. Either way, this handheld system is sure to delight. A lengthy 9.8′ output cable allows you to connect the device to your TV from the comfort of your sofa. Attach the second controller for some two-player fun on the big screen. Or, take it with you on the go and enjoy up to five hours of classic video games. This handheld is modeled after the original Gameboy design, harkening back to a time when games were simpler.
Pros:
- Five hours of battery life, rechargeable by USB
- 500 classic games
- Includes carrying case, AV and recharging cables, and extra game controller
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Only plays 8-bit titles
CredevZone Retro Handheld Game Console
Revive the golden era
Modeled after the Playstation Portable design, with a color scheme similar to the Nintendo Switch, this stylish handheld has one of the best collections of classic video games we’ve seen on the market. This game console includes over 600 games from consoles such as NES/SNES, Gameboy, Sega Genesis, arcade cabinets, and the original Playstation. We love that you can also use the device as an e-reader and MP3 player. It’s perfect for when you want to unplug from social media and the Internet.
Pros:
- Large 4.3″ IPS screen and 4- to 6-hour battery life
- Plays 8-bit to 64-bit systems
- Comfortable landscape design
Cons:
- Playstation games are limited to earlier PS games
Nintendo Switch Lite
No handheld gaming article would be complete without the current king of modern handhelds, the Nintendo Switch. Originally designed as a hybrid console for either TV or portable use, Nintendo followed the original Switch with this handheld-only version, the Switch Lite. Like its big brother, the Switch Lite can play all Nintendo Switch games via small cartridges and pre-loaded micro-SD cards. While it won’t connect to a TV, the Switch Lite’s smaller size makes for the perfect travel game system. We love the bright, soothing color and smooth feel of the case, the stunning 5.5″ screen, and the ergonomic controls. While on the pricier side, this tried-and-tested system remains a top seller for good reason.
Pros:
- Top handheld graphics and battery life
- Large game library with modern titles
- Beautiful 5.5-inch LCD screen
- Up to 7 hours battery life
Cons:
- Higher-priced option for handhelds
- Unable to connect to external displays
RG351V Handheld Game Console
Multi-console superstar
Those familiar with retro gaming will remember a time when clear plastic game consoles were all the rage. That’s why we were thrilled to find this retro game system with modern features. While it may look like a Gameboy, it’s capable of so much more. For the sheer volume of included games, this handheld can’t be beaten. The included 64GB micro-SD card holds over 2,500 games from the 8-bit NES era up to 64-bit systems such as the N64 and Playstation. An extra micro-SD slot allows for another card filled with games (extra games must be downloaded yourself). The device’s capacity goes up to 256GB, more than enough to store a treasure trove of classic games that will last you for years to come.
Pros:
- Classic retro look with clear black plastic
- Over 2,500 games included, with an expansion slot for more games
- Features a 3.5 inch IPS screen and 6 hours of battery life
Cons:
- On the pricier side
- No sleep function
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of handheld game console should I buy?
First, determine which types of games you prefer. Do you prefer older games or modern games, and which systems are you trying to play? The answer to this will help guide you to the right choice.
Do these handheld gaming consoles include batteries?
Most modern portable game consoles include rechargeable batteries that will last for at least three hours. That way, you don’t have to keep replacing them with disposable batteries.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.