Handheld consoles offer portable gaming experiences with built-in screens and batteries, allowing users to play anywhere. For 2024, several top models are highlighted, including the Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite, Razer Edge, Asus Rog Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go. These devices range from budget-friendly options to powerful gaming machines, catering to various preferences and gaming needs, while providing access to a wide library of games and enhanced features for an immersive experience.
Handheld consoles, unlike traditional home consoles that require a TV connection, come equipped with their own screens and batteries, enabling you to enjoy gaming on the go. This means you can dive into your favorite video games anytime, anywhere. Curious about which handheld console to invest in for 2024? Explore our curated guide to find the perfect match for your gaming needs.
Top Handheld Consoles to Consider in 2024
The allure of handheld consoles continues to grow, thanks primarily to their exceptional portability. These devices allow gamers to enjoy their favorite titles while commuting or traveling. Some models offer complete independence, while others, like the Steam Deck OLED or Nintendo Switch OLED, provide hybrid functionality, letting you connect to a TV when desired.
Today’s handheld consoles are not only compact and lightweight but also powerful enough to deliver an immersive gaming experience. Retro gaming enthusiasts will also find a variety of options that cater specifically to nostalgic gaming experiences.
If you’re a die-hard gamer eager to stay updated with new releases or yearning to revisit classic games from your childhood, this guide will present you with a diverse selection of the top handheld consoles available in 2024.
Exploring Next-Generation Handheld Consoles
Nintendo Switch OLED
The Nintendo Switch OLED represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Featuring a stunning 7-inch OLED display, this console provides vibrant colors and sharp contrasts. With enhanced stereo speakers, the audio experience is also improved. It retains the same processor as the original model but doubles the storage capacity to 64 GB, compared to the previous 32 GB.
Along with two USB ports, the Nintendo Switch OLED includes an HDMI port for seamless TV connectivity and an Ethernet port for a stable online gaming experience. This console grants access to a vast library of beloved games, including classics like The Legend of Zelda, Pokémon, and Super Mario, along with popular titles such as Final Fantasy and Minecraft.
Nintendo Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch Lite is a more affordable, lightweight, and compact alternative to the standard Switch. Its small size makes it easy to carry around, allowing you to play during commutes or breaks. However, with a 5.5-inch screen, it lacks the capability to connect to a TV, making it a purely portable option. Available in five vibrant colors—blue, yellow, gray, turquoise, and coral—it’s designed for on-the-go gaming.
While compatible with most Switch games, it’s important to note that the Switch Lite cannot support games that require docked mode, such as Super Mario Party. Be sure to check the compatibility icons on game boxes for portable mode support.
Razer Edge
The Razer Edge takes a unique approach as it operates on the Android platform. This handheld device features a tablet with a detachable controller, available in both WiFi and 5G models. Powered by the Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 processor, optimized for gaming, and equipped with 8 GB of RAM, the Razer Edge 5G functions like a pocket-sized gaming computer.
Its 6.8-inch AMOLED touchscreen boasts a remarkable refresh rate of 144 Hz, providing a smooth gaming experience. With access to a broad array of games from the Google Play Store as well as PC and Xbox titles, the Razer Edge is a versatile gaming option.
Asus Rog Ally
The Asus Rog Ally Z1 and Z1 Extreme are open handheld consoles that allow gamers to access a range of platforms, including Steam and Epic Games. Both models feature a 7-inch IPS display with Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080 pixels) and a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
The primary distinction between the two is their processors, with the first model featuring an AMD Ryzen Z1 chip, while the Z1 Extreme boasts a more powerful processor. Both devices come equipped with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB of NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. For further insights, be sure to check our detailed review of the Asus Rog Ally.
Lenovo Legion Go
The Lenovo Legion Go stands as a key competitor to both the Rog Ally and the Steam Deck, running on Windows 11 to host all your favorite games. Featuring an impressive 8.8-inch QHD+ LCD screen (2560 x 1600 pixels) with a 144 Hz refresh rate, it combines performance with visual quality. It is powered by an AMD Phoenix processor and offers options for both the AMD Ryzen Z1 and Z1 Extreme chip.
This console not only impresses with its specs but also includes detachable controllers similar to the Nintendo Switch. These controllers can even function as a mouse for enhanced precision in FPS games. A standout feature is the ability to connect to Legion Glasses, which simulate a large-screen experience, though this accessory comes at a hefty price of 500 euros.