In the fast-paced world of gaming, mobility is more important than ever. As technology continues to evolve, so too does the gaming experience. Handheld consoles have become a staple for gamers who want the flexibility of playing anywhere, anytime, without compromising on quality. From nostalgic classics to cutting-edge devices, 2024 brings an impressive lineup of handheld consoles that cater to every type of gamer. In this article, we’ll explore the best handheld consoles of 2024, analyzing their features, game libraries, and what sets them apart in an ever-growing market.
1. Nintendo Switch 2: A Sequel to the Revolution
When the original Nintendo Switch was released in 2017, it changed the landscape of gaming forever. Its hybrid design—allowing players to dock it for home console play or undock it for handheld gaming—was a game-changer. In 2024, Nintendo has taken this concept further with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Key Features:
- 4K Display: The most notable upgrade is the Switch 2’s stunning 4K display. While docked, it outputs in 4K UHD, and even in handheld mode, it supports an impressive 1080p resolution. This means sharper visuals and a more immersive gaming experience on the go.
- Improved Battery Life: The Switch 2 comes with a larger battery, offering up to 10 hours of continuous playtime, perfect for extended gaming sessions.
- Backward Compatibility: One of the standout features is its backward compatibility with all original Switch games, allowing gamers to keep playing their existing library without missing a beat.
- Advanced Joy-Cons: The updated Joy-Cons feature improved ergonomics and enhanced motion controls, adding depth to games that utilize these features.
With a vast library of games, including The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime 4, the Nintendo Switch 2 is an obvious choice for both casual and hardcore gamers. Its versatility makes it one of the best handheld consoles for 2024.
2. Steam Deck 2: Portable PC Powerhouse
Valve’s original Steam Deck was a revelation for gamers who wanted to take their extensive PC libraries on the go. In 2024, the Steam Deck 2 builds on this concept, offering even more power and portability for PC gaming enthusiasts.
Eco-Friendly Gadgets: How Green Tech is Saving the Environment
Key Features:
- AMD Zen 4 CPU and RDNA 3 GPU: These new chipsets offer incredible power, capable of running AAA PC games at high settings in handheld mode. This makes the Steam Deck 2 the most powerful handheld gaming console on the market.
- 1TB Storage: With storage always being a concern for PC gamers, the Steam Deck 2 now offers up to 1TB of SSD storage, giving players ample space for their favourite games.
- 7-inch OLED Display: An OLED screen provides richer colours and deeper contrasts, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
- Customizable Controls: Gamers can personalize their experience with customizable control layouts and programmable buttons.
For those who love their Steam libraries and want to experience the full breadth of PC gaming on the go, the Steam Deck 2 is an unmatched option. Whether you’re into high-performance shooters or indie gems, this device has you covered.
3. Sony PlayStation Portable Pro (PSP Pro): Sony’s Handheld Comeback
Sony is back in the handheld console market with the PlayStation Portable Pro (PSP Pro). This new device blends the best features of the PlayStation ecosystem with modern portability, offering a fresh take on handheld gaming.
Key Features:
- PlayStation 5 Integration: The PSP Pro has seamless integration with the PS5, allowing players to stream and play their PS5 games remotely with minimal lag via the PlayStation Remote Play feature.
- DualSense Features: Much like the PS5’s DualSense controller, the PSP Pro offers adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, giving players a more immersive experience in supported games.
- OLED Screen with 120Hz Refresh Rate: The 6.5-inch OLED display delivers sharp visuals, while the 120Hz refresh rate ensures buttery-smooth gameplay.
- Exclusive Titles: Sony has committed to developing exclusive titles for the PSP Pro, including some from their major franchises like Uncharted and Ratchet & Clank, which have been optimized for the handheld experience.
The PSP Pro is a great option for PlayStation fans who want to take their favourite franchises on the go. With its superior integration with PS5 games, it offers a comprehensive gaming experience that appeals to both portable and console gamers.
4. ASUS ROG Ally 2: For the Hardcore Gamer
The ASUS ROG Ally made waves when it was first released as a gaming handheld aimed at the high-end market. The ROG Ally 2 will continue this tradition in 2024, bringing cutting-edge technology to the hardcore gaming audience.
Key Features:
- 16GB RAM and Intel 13th Gen Processor: The ROG Ally 2 is essentially a portable gaming PC, boasting hardware that can rival some desktops. With 16GB of RAM and an Intel 13th Gen processor, it’s more than capable of running even the most demanding games.
- 240Hz Display: One of the standout features of the ROG Ally 2 is its 240Hz refresh rate display, which offers an unparalleled experience in fast-paced action and competitive games.
- RGB Lighting: For the style-conscious gamer, the ROG Ally 2 features customizable RGB lighting around its edges, giving it a sleek, futuristic look.
- Windows OS: Unlike many handheld consoles that run on proprietary operating systems, the ROG Ally 2 runs on Windows, giving players access to their entire library of PC games, as well as other applications.
The ASUS ROG Ally 2 is designed for gamers who crave power and customization. With specs that rival full-fledged gaming laptops, it offers an uncompromised gaming experience that’s perfect for those who need the most out of their handheld device.
5. Logitech G Cloud 2: Cloud Gaming on the Go
Cloud gaming continues to grow, and the Logitech G Cloud 2 is at the forefront of this movement. Building on the success of its predecessor, the G Cloud 2 focuses on cloud-based gaming experiences, giving players access to a vast array of titles without the need for powerful local hardware.
Key Features:
- Cloud-Centric Design: The G Cloud 2 is specifically designed for cloud gaming services such as Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and Google Stadia. This allows gamers to stream high-quality games without the need for powerful internal hardware.
- 5G Connectivity: The addition of 5G ensures that players can enjoy a smooth and lag-free gaming experience, even when they’re away from Wi-Fi networks.
- 12-hour Battery Life: Cloud gaming typically consumes less power than running games locally, and the G Cloud 2 takes advantage of this, offering an incredible 12-hour battery life.
- Lightweight Design: Weighing in at just 300 grams, the G Cloud 2 is one of the lightest handheld consoles on the market, making it comfortable for long gaming sessions.
Best Noise-Canceling Headphones to Elevate Your Music Experience
While the G Cloud 2 may not have the raw power of other handheld consoles, its focus on cloud gaming makes it a unique offering in the market. It’s perfect for players who prioritize game selection and portability over cutting-edge graphics.
6. Analogue Pocket V2: For the Retro Enthusiasts
Retro gaming has made a huge comeback, and the Analogue Pocket V2 is a dream come true for those who love classic games. This console offers modern takes on old favourites while preserving the nostalgia of vintage gaming.
Key Features:
- FPGA Technology: The Analogue Pocket V2 uses FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) to run original game cartridges from the Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance, among others. This means authentic gameplay without emulation.
- HD Display: The 3.5-inch HD display offers a pixel-perfect experience, allowing retro games to shine like never before.
- Modular Design: The Analogue Pocket V2 features a modular design, enabling it to play games from various other classic consoles, including the Sega Game Gear, Neo Geo Pocket, and Atari Lynx, with the use of adapters.
- Music Creation Tools: It also includes Nanoloop, a built-in synthesizer and sequencer, allowing users to create and mix their music—an interesting addition for creative retro gamers.
For those who love retro games and want to relive the glory days of handheld gaming, the Analogue Pocket V2 is an excellent choice. It combines modern technology with respect for the past, making it one of the most unique handheld consoles on the market.
A Bright Future for Handheld Gaming
2024 is shaping up to be a golden year for handheld gaming. Whether you’re looking for raw power, cloud-based gaming, or nostalgic fun, there’s a handheld console that fits your needs. The Nintendo Switch 2 leads the charge with its versatility, while the Steam Deck 2 brings the power of PC gaming to your fingertips. The PSP Pro provides PlayStation fans with a portable experience, and the ROG Ally 2 caters to those who demand top-tier performance. Meanwhile, the Logitech G Cloud 2 showcases the future of cloud gaming, and the Analogue Pocket V2 delivers retro gaming in modern form.
Each of these consoles represents the best of what handheld gaming has to offer, and with so many options, the only challenge is deciding which one fits your gaming style the best.
