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The best handheld game consoles

Sofia11 JANUARY 2026
The image shows a white handheld gaming console being held outdoors. The background includes green trees and a glass barrier.

Game anytime, anywhere: a handheld game console makes it possible. Want to add a handheld game console to your set-up or gift one to a gaming enthusiast? Naturally, you’ll want to make the right choice. In this article, discover the best handheld game consoles and their unique features. That way, you can choose the handheld game console that truly suits you.

What are the best handheld game consoles?

Hands hold a handheld video game console with a white screen and black controls, against a blurred background.

There are various handheld game consoles available, each with its own advantages. To make an informed choice, it’s important to get to know them so you can compare them. We analyse each well-known model from Sony (PlayStation), Lenovo, Asus, MSI, Nintendo and Qware.

More about game consoles

PlayStation Portal

A brown wooden table features a phone attached to a white game controller, a white rectangular object, and wireless earphones.

The PlayStation Portal Remote Player combines advanced technology with ultimate ease of use, designed especially for PS5 gamers. This ultra-light portable console, weighing just 540 grams, offers an unparalleled gaming experience wherever you are. With an 8-inch Full HD display that renders games in razor-sharp 1080p resolution at 60 fps, you’ll see every detail. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers and integrated stereo speakers deliver an immersive experience, while the DualSense controllers enable intuitive and comfortable control. Simple connection via Wi‑Fi and Remote Play gives you direct access to your PS5 game library without needing the TV. Thanks to USB‑C charging and compatibility with wireless earbuds, the Portal offers hours of play. Be sure to check out our PS5 games.

More about the PlayStation Portal

Lenovo Legion Go S

The Lenovo Legion Go S brings the power of a full gaming PC to a portable format. With the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and Radeon graphics, you can play the latest titles from the comfort of your sofa, on the train or wherever you like. With 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, you have space for all your favourite games. The sharp display and detachable controllers provide a console experience with the same precision as gaming on your PC. Via the Legion Space hub, you can link platforms such as Steam and Xbox Game Pass to your Legion Go, giving you access to your entire game library wherever you are.

Discover the Lenovo Legion Go S

ASUS ROG Xbox Ally

The ASUS ROG Xbox Ally brings the full Xbox experience to a handheld console. You’ll recognise the familiar Xbox start screen straight away and use the physical Xbox button to jump to your favourite Xbox and PC games. Log in easily to your usual launchers, from Xbox Game Pass to Steam and Epic Games, and pick up right where you left off. The AMD Ryzen AI Z2 processor, RDNA 3 graphics and 16 GB RAM run even current-generation games smoothly. With 512 GB of storage, you have ample room for larger titles too. Expand storage easily via the microSD card slot, and use the 2 USB‑C ports to charge or connect an extra screen or your gaming headset.

Discover the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally

Nintendo Switch Lite

A yellow handheld console displays a video game. Light grey denim jeans and a patterned pillow are in the background.

The Nintendo Switch Lite combines portability with endless gaming fun, ideal both at home and on the go. With 32 GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD, you can easily store your favourite games and media. The powerful Li-ion battery offers up to 6 hours of uninterrupted playtime and charges quickly via the included USB‑C cable. For a more immersive audio experience, simply connect headphones via the 3.5 mm jack. Thanks to an impressive game catalogue, you can enjoy iconic titles such as Zelda, Mario Kart and Smash Bros., while a Nintendo Switch Online membership provides access to classic games and cloud saves. The 5.5-inch LCD display with NVIDIA Tegra graphics support delivers smooth performance and immersive visuals. With an intuitive design, touchscreen functionality and comfortable controls, the console sits nicely in the hand, making every session a pleasure. Be sure to check out our Nintendo Switch games.

Qware Retro

Two handheld game consoles, one blue and one pink, show pixelated 'You Win!' screens against a starry background.

The Qware retro game console brings back the magic of 8-bit gaming with a contemporary twist. This compact console offers nostalgic fun with no fewer than 240 classic games across various genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Test your reflexes in action-packed titles, challenge friends in races, solve complex puzzles or enter the fray in fighting games. Show off your marksmanship in challenging shooters or prove your skills in engaging sports games. With this wide selection, you’re guaranteed hours of entertainment, whether you play solo or with friends, while enjoying the charm of retro gaming. The Qware Retro is available in various colours and is budget-friendly too.

Our advice on the best handheld game consoles

Close-up shot of person holding a black smartphone with game controller attachments, wearing a white t-shirt against a dark background.

The best handheld game console is the one that fully meets your needs. For example, choose the Nintendo Switch Lite if you love playing Mario Kart, while the PlayStation Portal is the better choice if you have a PS5.

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