The Best Handheld Gaming Devices of 2025

Portable gaming has come a long way since its original inception decades ago. From the pioneering Merlin gaming device and Nintendo’s original Game Boy to the newest Switch 2 model or the powerful Legion Go S, handheld gaming has always pushed the boundaries of innovation.

The newest handheld consoles available continue to redefine the gaming experience. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a casual player new to handheld gaming, we will explore the latest and greatest in portable gaming consoles. Keep reading as we assess the features and performance of the best handheld video game consoles of the year.

The Nintendo Switch 2 features many upgrades over the original Nintendo Switch while still staying true to its hybrid design, beloved game library and signature portability.

• Display and refresh rates. The Switch 2’s 7.9-inch LCD screen is larger than previous Switch models’ screens. It also supports up to 120Hz and HDR for most games and can output 1080p in handheld mode and up to 4K when docked.
• Memory and storage capacity. With 256GB of storage space, the Switch 2 offers ample room for storing digital games, downloadable content and game saves without the immediate need for a microSD Express card.
• Processing power. Offering a versatile and immersive gaming experience, the Switch 2 delivers significantly improved processing power compared to its predecessors.
• Ergonomics and controls. Held in place by strong magnets, the Switch 2’s detachable Joy-Cons can also double as mouse-like controllers, letting you navigate menus and interact with games more precisely.
• Gaming options. With a USB-C port supporting a clip-on camera along with a built-in microphone and a C button that activates chat mode, the Switch 2 allows you to easily communicate with other gamers while enjoying exclusive Nintendo titles, third-party games and cloud gaming.

Available in both Midnight Black and White, the PlayStation Portal Remote Player is a gaming device from PlayStation, which allows you to stream PS5 games directly from your PS5 console to the portable device.

• Display and refresh rates. The PlayStation Portal has an 8-inch LCD display with a 1080p resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate.
• Memory and storage capacity. There is no internal storage or memory on a PlayStation Portal. Instead, it functions solely as a remote player for your PS5 console.
• Processing power. Instead of having independent processing power, the PS Portal relies on Remote Play technology to stream games from your PS5 over Wi-Fi.
• Ergonomics and controls. The PlayStation Portal Remote Player mirrors the design of a standard PS5 DualSense controller, with the same button layout, grip feel, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers and touchpad functionality.
• Gaming options. You can stream any games that you have installed on your PS5. If you have a physical PS5 game, the disc must be in the console to stream on the PS Portal.

The Backbone Pro turns your phone into a console-grade gaming device. With ergonomic upgrades, wireless support and deep software integration, the latest Backbone is perfect for serious mobile and cloud gamers.

• Display and refresh rates. The Backbone Pro works seamlessly with your phone’s screen, so the refresh rate and resolution depends on your connected device.
• Memory and storage capacity. Instead of featuring internal storage, the Backbone Pro gives you access to games stored on your phone, console or the cloud through Remote Play or game streaming services.
• Processing power. The Backbone Pro doesn’t contain its own processor but leverages the power of your connected smartphone, making it ideal for cloud and remote gaming.
• Ergonomics and controls. The Backbone Pro features full-sized ALPS joysticks, programmable rear buttons and a 30% larger frame for comfort during long gaming sessions.
• Gaming Options. Whether you’re playing Xbox or PlayStation titles remotely, streaming from the cloud or diving into mobile games, the Backbone Pro gives you one unified interface through the Backbone App.

Developed by Lenovo, the Legion Go S is a great handheld PC gaming option that’s designed for both Windows and SteamOS gamers who crave portability without sacrificing performance.

• Display and refresh rates. The Legion Go S has an 8-inch LCD display with a refresh rate up to 120Hz, similar to the Nintendo Switch 2 and ASUS ROG Ally.
• Memory and storage capacity. The Lenovo Legion Go S has 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of PCIe SSD Gen4 storage, ensuring fast performance, smooth multitasking and quick load times.
• Processing power. Delivering smooth execution for demanding games and multitasking, the Legion Go S features powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme series processors.
• Ergonomics and controls. Boasting RGB joysticks along with a large Pivot D-pad and adjustable trigger switches, Legion TrueStrike controllers are designed to be comfortable and precise, with an anti-slip texture and mappable controls.
• Gaming options. With this handheld device’s Legion Space, you can bring together games from your favorite platforms, which eliminates the need to juggle multiple launchers and interfaces.

The latest portable gaming device from the Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand from ASUS, the ROG Ally’s sleek design combines the portability of a handheld device with the power of a high-performance, portable gaming PC.

• Display and refresh rates. With its 7-inch LED screen with a Full HD 120Hz display, the ROG Ally also has the ability to connect directly to your TV or computer monitor.
• Memory and storage capacity. Depending on the model, the ROG Ally has 512GB or 1TB of storage space, but you can also store games and other content on an external SSD.
• Processing power. The ROG Ally has advanced performance processors built for Windows 11-based PC handheld gaming, like the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and the AMD Ryzen Z1.
• Ergonomics and controls. The ROG Ally has built-in joysticks and buttons, and, you can also use separate ROG Raikiri controllers that offer even more precise control.
• Gaming options. You can play a vast array of AAA titles spanning genres and eras with a ROG Ally. You also get three months of free access to Xbox Game Pass, allowing you to download and play your favorite Xbox titles. 

If you’re seeking cutting-edge performance and versatility, handheld PC gaming options like the Lenovo Legion Go S or ASUS ROG Ally deliver PC-level gaming on the go. If you’re a fan of exclusive Nintendo titles, stunning visuals and the ability to easily chat with friends and other gamers, the Nintendo Switch 2 offers enhanced graphics, performance and smooth multiplayer connectivity.

PlayStation enthusiasts who want seamless integration with their PS5 should look no further than the PlayStation Portal. You can also easily turn your device into a handheld gaming console with a Backbone Pro controller. Simply snap in your smartphone, find the Remote Play function and play Xbox, PlayStation and PC titles.

Whether you're a casual gamer looking to pass the time or a dedicated enthusiast seeking console-quality gaming on the go, the latest in handheld gaming devices has something for everyone.