The Best Handheld Game Consoles
Ever since the first Game Boy, we've loved portable gaming. Today, the options for handheld gaming consoles are staggering. To help you sift through the ocean of products and find true gold standard handhelds, we made this list of the top models on the market. Everything from modern to retro gaming is represented here, so there's bound to be something for you. Read on below as we get into the nitty gritty of these top-tier gaming handhelds.
What to Look For
We love gaming handhelds and want to share the best models available with you. In our search, we looked at their price-to-performance ratio, portability, and the size of their game library. For example, the best performance and game library goes to the Nintendo Switch OLED edition. It’s a bit pricey, but the number of quality games can’t be beaten. Best yet, the quality of the screen speaks for itself, with inky blacks and rich colors. If you want something cheaper that can still play a bunch of great games, we recommend the Retroid Pocket 2 Plus with its great form factor to processing power ratio. Keep reading and we’ll go into further detail on these awesome handhelds.
Nintendo Switch OLED Edition
The reigning champion
The best handheld on the market just got even better. This update to the Nintendo Switch features an absolutely gorgeous OLED screen that puts the old one to shame. The image pops with deep blacks and sharp contrast — and there’s practically no light bleed. Also, this Switch is brighter at about 343 nits and the screen is much larger with thinner bezels. And did we mention the incredible library of games? Because Nintendo’s flagship console already has a huge collection of highly-rated games in every genre. It may be a bit pricey, but this console is worth every last penny.
Pros:
- A longer kickstand that’s much more usable
- Better performance in daylight with reduced glare
- All JoyCons are compatible with this Switch
Cons:
- Internals are still the same and this version still doesn’t have a 4K output
Ruixiao RG351V Retro Handheld Game Console
Old-school fun in your pocket
If you’re looking to play emulated retro games, it’s hard to go wrong with this Anbernic RG351V from Ruixiao. Anbernic consoles are well-established in the handheld market, having been in the game for many years and being trusted by gamers worldwide. This device runs on a custom build of EmuElec, configured so all you have to do is drop in ROMs in the right folders and you’re ready to play. It’s powerful enough to even play consoles like the N64, which is where the joystick comes in handy. With the slim and ergonomic vertical layout, this is a top-notch emulator handheld for anyone who loves the feel of the original Gameboy.
Pros:
- Built-in rumble motor that can be used when emulating N64 or PlayStation games
- Easy to use, no need for technical software knowledge
- WiFi multiplayer works like a dream, even with older emulated games on fan-made servers
Cons:
- Joystick positioning could be more ergonomic
My Arcade Pocket Player Handheld Pac-Man Console
Long live the king
One of the oldest video games in the world, Pac-Man is going to be around forever. This handheld device is perfect for lovers of this iconic game. In fact, its only purpose is to play one of three Pac-Man games. So if you’re gearing up to beat some records, this is the perfect handheld to practice on the go. It’s suitable for all ages and is affordable enough to warrant giving this little device a try.
Pros:
- Great for younger kids since it’s small and simple
- Ergonomic construction that’s still easily pocketable
- You can add credits to extend your playtime
Cons:
- The D-pad and buttons could be a bit better, but they’re definitely serviceable
Nintendo New 3DS XL Console
Twice the screens, twice the fun
Before the Switch, Nintendo’s 3DS was the king of handhelds. It’s still an amazing console today, with a vast library of delightful games. One of the last iterations is this new XL version. One of the key differences is the addition of a small nub that acts as a right joystick. It’s not the same as having a full-sized stick, but it still makes quite a difference in 3D games and shooters. Games can be played either digitally or via a physical cartridge. And if you’re into modding, the possibilities are endless with this device, as it can play old DS and Gameboy Advanced games with ease.
Pros:
- Large screen makes games especially immersive on this console
- Smooth left joystick controls
- Responsive touchscreen that works with a finger or stylus
- Incredible library of beloved games
Cons:
- The eShop for DS will close in March of next year, so now is the best time to get a console and download your favorite games
Retroid Pocket 2 Plus Retro Game Handheld Console
Portablility done right
Retro gaming enthusiasts, this is the handheld you’ve been waiting for. At a super affordable price, this small console packs enough power to play PSP, N64, and even some Gamecube and PS2 games with ease. And for whatever games it can’t run, you can always stream them from your PC or a cloud gaming service. And since it has a mini-HDMI port, you can hook it up to your TV and play games with a Bluetooth controller.
Pros:
- Runs Android, so you can install Google Play apps and sync with your account
- Most powerful Android gaming console at this price
- The L and R buttons are easily accessible
- 4:3 screen ratio is perfect for retro games as they were made in this format
Cons:
- The screen is a bit small for modern games, especially with text
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ROMs and ISOs?
If you’re going to play retro games, you might need to use the game file from the cartridge or disc. When ripped from a game cartridge, like a SNES or N64 game, it’s called a ROM. Game files ripped from discs, like Playstation or Gamecube, are usually ISO files.
What is the battery life on most gaming handhelds?
It really depends on the device, but you can usually expect a minimum of two or three hours of playtime. Advanced PC gaming handhelds like the Steam Deck or Aya Neo Air will consume more power and therefore have less battery life. But something like the Nintendo Switch or emulating devices like the Retroid Pocket 2 plus use less power and have much better battery life.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
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.