The best portable consoles in 2024

Because portable game consoles are back in style, the gaming industry is undergoing a new Renaissance at the moment. A while back, everyone was chasing the Nintendo Game & Watch. Later, gamers dreamed of handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo 3DS, PSP, and PS Vita, and then there were several iterations of the Game Boy. The best portable consoles in 2024

Naturally, gaming PCs, laptops, and desktop consoles have been and will remain a popular choice for those who want to play video games at home. You can curl up with one of these devices and spend a few hours gaming on the sofa or in a gaming chair. Furthermore, mobile gaming has advanced to the point that certain phones can now match computers in terms of power. On the other hand, since the Big N released the Nintendo Switch into the market in March 2017, portable gaming consoles have become increasingly popular again. And a lot of businesses wished to duplicate this achievement.

This article aims to determine which portable consoles are now worth examining. It will compile a list of the 11 (we chose 11 because it’s better than 10) most intriguing consoles and provide a quick synopsis for each. Additionally, you are free to select the best solution for you.

Steam Deck OLED

• OS : Steam OS, Linux
• Memory capacity : 16/512, 16/1000 GB
• Processor : AMD APU 4 cores, 3500 MHz
• Video card : AMD RDNA 2
• Screen : OLED 7.4 inches, 1280 x 800, 90 Hz
• Price : 57,000–105,000 rubles depending on the version
• Where to buy : DNS , OZON , Yandex.Market

Yes, there are several reasons why we are starting the list with this console. The fact that the Steam Deck can run the same games you play on your computer is one reason why gamers are now selecting it. Imagine wanting to lie down after spending a lot of time running around in the same computer-generated Palworld or Baldur’s Gate, but finding it difficult to put the game down. The identical game was launched as soon as you picked up the Steam Deck, but you were already lying on the couch. or, as the manufacturer recommends on the box, sitting on the toilet.

And when Steam Deck OLED was released, people responded more favorably than when the original version of the system was still constantly lambasted for being poorly constructed and not worth the money. The console truly entered the “worth taking” category thanks to the upgraded screen, controller, chip, battery, and other bells and whistles. Take the OLED version immediately, if money permits.

A 7.4-inch touchscreen, a monolithic body with extra trackpad controls, support for HDR, 12 hours of battery life, and 4 hours of active gaming are all included in one compact console. The only drawback is that because the Steam Deck weighs up to 640 grams, it could seem too heavy for some people to play while they are lying down. However, the option is clear if you have a large collection of games in your Steam library and want to play them anytime you want.

Nintendo Switch

• OS : Nintendo Switch system software
• Memory capacity : 4/32, 4/64 GB (OLED)
• Processor : NVIDIA Tegra X1 8 cores, 1.02 GHz
• Video card : GeForce 6 ULP
• Screen : IPS 1280 x 720 6.2 / 5.5 inches or OLED 1280 x 720 7 inches, 60 Hz
• Price : 14,000–40,000 rubles depending on the version
• Where to buy : DNS , OZON , Yandex.Market

The culprit responsible for the surge in portable console sales is here. The Nintendo Switch has been shattering sales records for the past seven years; to date, it has sold 139 million units, more than both the Nintendo 3DS (154 million) and the PlayStation 2 (155 million). Big N went berserk in 2017 and unveiled something entirely novel to the game industry. Simultaneously, a new generation of detachable joysticks with an accelerometer and gyroscope, a stationary console, and a host of exclusives.

A second edition of the console was later obtained, which included an update to the processing chip, new materials for the joycons, and longer battery life. Subsequently, a Nintendo Switch OLED with an upgraded screen and a monolithic, smaller Nintendo Switch Lite were revealed. Since you can run ports and exclusives on any version of the system, there isn’t much of a difference between the generations in terms of hardware. Decide which format you prefer by trying it out for yourself.

You will not get PC-level graphics from AAA titles like The Witcher 3 or Hogwarts Legacy on the Nintendo Switch, as it can’t offer any amazing features. Nintendo’s family motif is mostly carried over into the platform, which is why a ton of games for friends and family were launched, and a long list of exclusives and independent projects continues to draw players in even after seven years.

The Nintendo Switch’s replacement is reportedly scheduled for delivery in 2025, while details about the device are yet unknown. However, you may use any console version to get the exclusives right now and have fun.

ASUS ROG Ally

• OS : Windows 11Memory capacity : 16/512 GB
• Processor : AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme 8 cores, 5100 MHz
• Video card : AMD Radeon Graphics
• Screen : IPS 1920 x 1080 7 inches, 120 Hz
• Price : 65000–93000 depending on color
• Where to buy : DNS , OZON , Yandex.Market

Not wanting to miss out on the portable gaming system trend, ASUS introduced ASUS ROG Ally, a new addition to their gaming lineup, to the market in June 2023. In essence, this console functions on the same idea as the Steam Deck: it is a monolithic console with support for PC games and extra controls (in this case, the buttons on the rear serve this purpose).

In addition to working with Xbox gaming Pass, ASUS ROG Ally is compatible with online gaming shops like Steam, Epic Games, and GOG. All of this is possible because of the Windows 11 operating system, which lets you install any launcher you like or an emulator if you want to play classic games in bed. Because of the console’s power, you can run AAA projects with high-quality visuals.

Undoubtedly, there is a drawback to all of this: ASUS ROG Ally can only run in active gaming mode for a few hours at most. To play for longer, you must have an outlet near your couch or bed, and you must adjust the gaming settings to be less demanding. Because the console weighs 608 grams, it will be too difficult for someone to play while lying down, just like with the Steam Deck.

Lenovo Legion Go

• OS : Windows 11
• Memory capacity : 16/512, 16/1024 GB
• Processor : AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, 8 cores, 3300 MHz
• Video card : AMD RDNA 3
• Screen : IPS QHD+ 2560 x 1600, 8.8 inches, 144 Hz
• Price : 62000–107000 depending on configuration
• Where to buy : DNS , OZON , Yandex.Market

Consider the Lenovo Legion Go if you truly appreciate the Nintendo Switch’s design but aren’t drawn to the device’s exclusive features. It’s the same portable computer as the ASUS ROG Ally, except it has detachable joysticks that have extra buttons on them. The right joystick can even be used as a mouse.

The console is most suited for people who frequently use the rocking chair because it weighs up to 854 grams of pure plastic, which is more than any of its rivals. However, there are other significant features as well. First off, it’s an 8.8-inch QHD+ screen with a 144 Hz refresh rate. Second, by simply connecting a keyboard and utilizing the right joystick as a mouse, you can utilize the console in place of a PC or laptop.

There are a few drawbacks as well. The weight of the console was already discussed above. The system language is another issue. Windows 11 will only be available in Chinese right out of the box. Using PowerShell commands, an activation key, or a manual system reinstallation to the required version are the three methods to resolve the issue. Once more, we have to pay for the system’s power usage during operation, which takes an average of 2.5 hours when playing games actively.

On the other hand, the benefits are also rather good. When it comes to portable gadgets, this console offers the biggest screen. Playing shooter games with the right stick like a mouse is comfortable. In intensive games, the processor maintains a steady 45–60 frames per second. Similar to a Nintendo Switch, the system can be connected to a monitor. Additionally, it features a pixel-combining mode that allows you to play the game at a reduced resolution of 800p while still getting a visual that is almost 1600p.

AYANEO 2S

• OS : Windows 11
• Memory capacity : 16-64 GB RAM, 512 GB – 4 TB built-in
• Processor : AMD Ryzen 7 7840U, 8 cores, 5.1 GHz
• Video card : AMD Radeon 780M
• Screen : IPS 1920 x 1200, 7 inches
• Price : 88,000 rubles
• Where to buy : SDEK

Obtaining this console can be among the most challenging. If only because ordering from overseas requires going through middlemen to obtain it in Russia. Furthermore, the AYANEO brand is not very well-known. primarily due to the console’s high price, with the 2S model starting at $1,100. In contrast, $549 is the cost of the identical Steam Deck OLED. In a word, it’s already evident that AYANEO is a brand for the wealthy.

On the other hand, the qualities and money are suitable. The FHD+ IPS screen on the AYANEO 2S has a resolution of 1920 x 1200. It has a 7-inch diagonal and looks great. Pre-installed on the console is a unique launcher called Space 2.0. It starts up right away and gathers all installed games, saving you the trouble of navigating between launchers. If you’d like, you can replace the SSD in the console with your own; replacement instructions are included with the package.

And with games, everything is good; AMD Ryzen 7 7840U and AMD Radeon 780M work together to launch them. Smooth functioning is ensured by the LPDDR5 RAM, the processor, and the visual card. At 720p and 1080p, the identical Witcher 3 running in maximum performance mode may easily achieve 45–50 FPS and 30-35 FPS, respectively.

There are multiple color choices for the console. Apart from the traditional white and black variations, there’s also a Retro Power colorway that has a pleasant beige tone and two color choices featuring B.Duck ducks: Joyful Black and Pink & Blue. You won’t be disappointed if you choose to get a console, but getting one will cost you.

MSI Claw A1M

• OS : Windows 11
• Memory capacity : 16/512, 16/1024 GB
• Processor : Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
• Video card : Intel Arc Graphics
• Screen : IPS FHD 1920 x 1080, 7 inches, 120 Hz
• Price : 80,000–94,000 rubles depending on the version
• Where to buy : SDEK

Everyone knows MSI as a manufacturer of gaming laptops and PC components, but in 2024 they also decided to enter the portable console market. The MSI Claw A1M runs on Windows 11 and is most similar in form factor to the ASUS Rog Ally. The design is classic for devices from MSI – RGB backlighting of buttons and sticks, many slanting slots for ventilation and futuristic design elements.

Although MSI is well known for producing gaming laptops and PC parts, they have decided to join the portable console industry in 2024. About the form factor, the MSI Claw A1M is most like the ASUS Rog Ally and operates on Windows 11. The design is typical of MSI devices: a lot of slanting ventilation slots, futuristic design elements, and RGB backlighting on buttons and sticks.

We get an Intel Arc Graphics graphics core and an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor under the hood. Any project may be executed at high settings with a consistent 45–50 frames per second with this combination and RAM. Even lighter and independent games can easily reach 120 frames per second. One remarkable feature of this console is that connecting the cord causes multiple frame drops in addition to unplanned overheating (the processor typically reaches 80 degrees when charging is attached).

There are multiple game types, screen recording capability, and a fast menu with a ton of settings and choices. Among the drawbacks include overheating while charging is connected, Windows 11’s Chinese language (which can be resolved similarly to the Lenovo Legion Go), and subpar speaker sound. However, if you play through headphones, this becomes less significant.

PlayStation Portal

• Screen : LCD 1920 x 1080, 8 inches
• Price : 25000–39000
• Where to buy : DNS , OZON , Yandex.Market

Let’s now address the topic of the elephant in the room. More specifically, about a portable gadget that needs an “older” console to function on its own. We are discussing the PlayStation Portal, as the headline should make it clear. You may spend $200 for a tablet that has had the gamepad sawed off. Naturally, only if you already own a PlayStation 5 at home. And why would you require a PlayStation Portal if you don’t?

If we abandon the idea of a portable console, the PlayStation Portal can still be a viable choice for people who want to be able to play their favorite games from a curling iron anywhere in the house—not just in front of the TV in the living room or bedroom. How it works: You can easily start your favorite games by connecting PlayStation Portal to PlayStation 5 via Wi-Fi (you don’t even need to be on the same network). The primary need is a minimum Internet speed of 5 to 15 Mbit/sec.

Naturally, you can use any PlayStation tablet and gamepad to set up your system using PS Remote Play. The issue here is that you have to figure out where to put the screen and how to set it up so that you can comfortably look at it and use the controls. And you get a pre-made answer here, saving you from having to come up with anything new. Therefore, if you own a PlayStation 5 and want a portable curling iron, you may carry it with you; it will be handy. PlayStation Portal is not necessary if you don’t own a console.

OneXPlayer 2Pro

• OS : Windows 11
• Memory capacity : 32/64 GB RAM, 512 GB/1 TB/2 TB built-in
• Processor : AMD Ryzen 7 7840U, 8 cores, 5.1 GHz
• Video card : AMD Radeon 780M
• Screen : IPS QHD+ 2560 x 1600, 8.4 inches
• Price : 95,000–169,000 depending on configuration
• Where to buy : OZON , AliExpress

We’ll also talk about the Chinese game console market. The OneXPlayer 2Pro model from the same-named Chinese developer will be showcasing it. In addition to netbooks, OneXPlayer manufactures consoles other than the 2Pro. However, we chose to add it because it is this brand’s most recent laptop and is available in Russia.

The Lenovo Legion Go’s closest rival is this console. In contrast to other portables, however, one of the OneXPlayer 2Pro packages comes with a unique holder that you may use to attach detached joysticks and obtain a gamepad. You can utilize the magnetic keyboard and stylus that the manufacturer provides for work purposes. Operating on Windows 11, the console functions as a complete portable computer.

Remarkably, unlike other competitors, the system here instantly transitions to Russian instead of staying in Chinese. There’s no need to be concerned about reflashing. Furthermore, even AAA projects work flawlessly on the combination of a strong processor and graphics card. Cyberpunk 2077 “flies” at medium settings, according to user reviews. Excellent speakers and a sizable battery were added by OneXPlayer to the setup; in active gaming mode, the battery lasts for an average of 5.5 hours.

The difficulty in placing an order is a drawback. Customs duty must be paid if you purchase a console from AliExpress, and not many merchants on OZON have at least one rating. Well, some people could find the console’s 709 grams of weight to be a drawback.

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro

• OS : Android 13
• Memory capacity : 8/128 GB
• Processor : Mediatek Dimensity 1100
• Video card : Mali G77
• Screen : IPS 1334×750, 4.7 inches
• Price : 21000–29000 depending on the scope of delivery
• Where to buy : OZON , AliExpress , SDEK

And this is the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, which is the first Android-based gaming console in our lineup. Its focus is on simulating mobile games and consoles, like the PlayStation 1 and 2, Nintendo GameBoy, Wii, DS, and 3DS, PSP, Sega, and others, as the name should make clear.

And this is the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, which is the first Android-based gaming console in our lineup. Its focus is on simulating mobile games and consoles, like the PlayStation 1 and 2, Nintendo GameBoy, Wii, DS, and 3DS, PSP, Sega, and others, as the name should make clear.

The Retroid Launcher, which is integrated, can be used to start emulation. Additionally, you can install mobile games through Google Play if you’d like to play them. The console is powered by stock Android 13, so you can watch YouTube and browse articles on Google Chrome if you’d like. But the games are what bring us here. Using the included connector, you may load them onto the console. Alternatively, you can use the launcher to create storage on any microSD card and move games from your PC to it.

Freezing is a common side effect of emulating large projects like Shadow of the Colossus, but it is easily fixed by setting the console to the highest performance mode. Overall though, it manages any game flawlessly. Therefore, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is a safe option to consider if you’ve been seeking a portable emulator for classic video games.

AYN Odin 2

• OS : Android 13
• Memory capacity : 8/12/16 GB RAM, 128/256/512 built-in depending on version
• Processor : Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• Video card : Adreno 740
• Screen : IPS 1920×1080, 6 inches
• Price : 45000–55000 depending on the version and delivery set
• Where to buy : OZON , AliExpress

AYN Odin 2 is another Android console that we have listed. It comes in Pro and Max versions in addition to the standard edition, where the only differences are in RAM and internal memory capacity. It is intended mainly for simulating demanding mobile games and has a higher processing capacity than Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, its nearest rival. In this instance, you can use a Wi-Fi connection to play both solitary and cooperative games.

In addition to a classic Rainbow color with colored buttons, the console is available in a variety of colors, including transparent blue, purple, white, black, and gray. With dimensions of 22.5 cm in length and 9.8 in width, it is already bigger than a phone. With the Full HD quality supported by the huge screen, you may play your favorite mobile phones with ease.

A powerful processor and graphics core can run not only demanding mobile games, but also emulate projects from the Nintendo Switch and other consoles if you install mobile emulators. For example, Yuzu or Ryujinx.

Miyoo Mini+

• OS : Linux
• Memory capacity : 64 GB internal memory
• Processor : ARM Cortex-A7, 2 cores
• Screen : IPS 640×480, 3.5 inches
• Price : 4500-7000 rubles
• Where to buy : OZON , AliExpress

The Miyoo Mini+ is the last retro pocket device we have chosen. You will also enjoy this baby if you have nostalgic feelings for the days when the GameBoy and other tiny consoles were popular. Its tiny 10.8-centimeter length and 7.8-centimeter width are its only measurements. The 3.5-inch built-in screen of the monolithic console is sufficient for running older games.

Although games are typically pre-installed on the Miyoo Mini+, you may always insert your SD card into the device. Supported cards have a maximum capacity of 128 GB, which is sufficient for classic gaming.

The Miyoo Mini+ is capable of simulating games from arcade machines, the PlayStation 1, Game Boy, and other gaming systems. For more comfortable operation, you can “roll” the Onion firmware onto the console. Additionally, you can play over the network with a friend by connecting via Wi-Fi to another console that is comparable to yours. Take the Miyoo Mini+ and be happy if you want to reminisce about how great it was to always have a Gameboy with you.

This brings an end to our list of portable gaming consoles. We anticipate many more fascinating new products among these gadgets as well as a ton of awesome games for them.

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