Handheld Consoles: Reviews and Rankings

Aug 19, 2024

Handheld Consoles Review and Tier List

Introduction

  • Since the release of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, many companies have produced handheld consoles.
  • The Switch and Steam Deck dominate the market, but the effectiveness of other handhelds is questioned.

Original Nintendo Switch

  • Model: Original Nintendo Switch.
    • Not in use anymore; has been upgraded to the OLED model.
    • Features: Good but overshadowed by later models.

Nintendo Switch OLED

  • Model: Nintendo Switch OLED.
    • Preferred for its superior screen quality and color fidelity.
    • Revitalized a passion for handheld gaming.
    • Play more hours in portable mode than docked.

Steam Deck

  • Model: Original Steam Deck.
    • Initially gathered dust; not used frequently due to the Switch's dominance.
    • Recently gained appreciation; plays many games smoothly.

ROG Ally

  • Model: ROG Ally.
    • User-friendly setup compared to other handheld PCs.
    • Inbuilt UI for game tracking, but less preferred than Steam Deck for overall use.

Lenovo Legion Go

  • Model: Lenovo Legion Go.
    • Large screen, heavy but comfortable to grip.
    • Preferred over ROG Ally for its size and comfort.

Retro Handhelds

  • Model: Analog Pocket.
    • Inspired a resurgence in retro gaming handhelds.
    • Considered fantastic but hard to purchase.
  • Model: Ambic RG35XX.
    • Impressive with thousands of games pre-installed.

Game Boy SP

  • Model: An old-school Game Boy SP.
    • Nostalgic and enjoyable, but not used much due to lack of retro gaming interest.

Nintendo Switch Lite

  • Model: Nintendo Switch Lite.
    • Played only one game (Link's Awakening); considered too small for preference.

GP Devices

  • Model: GP Devices.
    • Lacks a clear market; generally not favored.

AYN Odin

  • Model: AYN Odin.
    • Primarily for emulation; similar issues with setup as ROG Ally.

PlayStation Portal

  • Model: PlayStation Portal.
    • Initial issues with connectivity, later improved with a router upgrade.
    • Currently facing problems after an update; conflicted feelings about usage.

Conclusion

  • Overall preference is subject to personal use and comfort.
  • Handhelds have become numerous, making it challenging to keep up with new releases.
  • A tier list was created reflecting personal experiences with each device.