Hardware: Handhelds
Handhelds
While many of those into retro gaming use a dedicated PC or Raspberry Pi, handheld devices have become popular for mobile use in recent times.
Handheld gaming devices are portable electronic devices specifically designed for playing video games on the go. They typically feature built-in screens, controls (buttons, joysticks, touchscreens), and internal hardware to support gaming software. These devices have evolved over time to offer increasingly sophisticated graphics, multiplayer capabilities and connectivity options to provide users with a diverse range of gaming experiences in a compact form factor.
Below are some devices which are used by our members.
ROG Ally
The Asus ROG Ally is an impressive handheld gaming PC with solid performance and built-in Windows 11 for easy compatibility with most titles.
ROG Ally
Odin
Odin is an Android-powered handheld game console from AYN with built-in game controllers.
Odin
Legion Go
Experience handheld gaming with console-level performance, a super vivid touchscreen display and controls that will keep you at the top of the leaderboards.
Legion Go
Claw
The Claw A1M marks a new era in portable gaming with Intel® Core™ Ultra processors to ensure a smooth and immersive gameplay experience on a super vivid touchscreen display.
Claw
Vita
The PlayStation Vita is a (discontinued) handheld game console developed by Sony and first released in 2011.
Vita
Steam Deck
Steam Decks (both LCD and OLED) are powerful, portable, PC gaming devices made for comfort and a console-like experience.
Steam Deck
Other Handheld Options
While the above handhelds are full-featured gaming devices, there are also some other options for those of you on a budget.
Android
Most modern Android phones can run demanding, graphically impressive titles so ports of popular PC and console games are increasingly common.
Android Phone
Budget Handhelds
There is a wide selection of `cheap` devices that can run arcade titles with differing results.