Whilst you are out on your travels this summer exploring the world, there is no reason for you not to be able to still play your favourite video games on the go. And what better way to do this than with a portable console? In 2023, we gave our top options for the best handheld consoles, and we are back this year with our updated list.
Let’s take a look at the top consoles you need to be getting your hands on this year whilst also keeping you updated on the possible upcoming portable game console choices we may be seeing soon.
Related blog: Best Handheld Gaming Consoles Of 2023
Nintendo Switch OLED:
To begin with, our top option for the best handheld gaming console of 2024 is the Nintendo Switch OLED. Released in October 2021 and developed by Nintendo, although not the most recent console this Switch is certainly the one to look out for. With an OLED state-of-the-art display technology, this console self-illuminates with a pixel-by-pixel technique offering gorgeous results when it comes to colour and contrast. Using the console's touchscreen you can play on the go, game multiplayer using the Nintendo Switch controller, or you can connect to the TV for the ultimate gaming experience.
The Nintendo Switch OLED was released 4 years after the original Switch came out. And as we are about to hit the 4-year mark of the OLED model, could we see a Nintendo Switch 2 in sight? There has been lots of talk about a possible Switch 2 coming soon, why not check out our blog on the Nintendo Switch 2 Updates?
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Sony PS5 Portal:
Next up, a very recent release developed by the big name themselves, the PlayStation Sony PS5 Portal. Released in November 2023, this device is a purpose-built console which is dedicated to delivering remote play. When connected to strong Wi-Fi, play your PS5 games on the go. All PS5 video games work on the console, so it will feel no different when playing.
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Related blog: What Is The PS5 Portable?
Valve Steam Deck:
Another highly recommended portable handset is the Valve Steam Deck, developed by Valve Corporation and released in February 2022. It is a powerful, portable PC device which is made for comfort offering a console-like experience. This device is also considered our budget option, as it is significantly cheaper compared to any of the other gaming consoles. Still working like the top competitors, this option is ideal for anyone trying to conserve their cash.
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Steam Deck OLED:
Released 1 year after its previous model in November 2023, the Steam Deck OLED is the second edition of the Steam Deck handsets developed by Valve. Bringing portability and power together, this console is designed specifically for gaming in mind, with a screen that delivers stunning contrasts, great clarity and a much larger picture. This OLED is very similar to the Nintendo OLED, with unmatched graphics with a 1,000 nits screen.
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iPad Air:
It may come as a shock to you when we mention the iPad Air on our list of top portable gaming consoles. The iPad isn’t only good for making work calls and watching movies on a larger screen, but it also offers plenty of incredible gaming opportunities on the app store for free! Top video games like Assassin's Creed Mirage and Resident Evil 4 Remake can be found on the app store. What’s better is that there are plenty of iPad options, with the most recent release in May 2024. So if you want to splash out for the ultimate experience you can but if you’d rather keep the money but still game hard, a slightly older model would also be great.
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Delta Emulator App:
Again, a smartphone option for those who don’t want to break the bank with a new console. The Delta Emulator App is an iPhone-only app free which mirrors a variety of old Nintendo consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System, Nintendo Game Boy, and Nintendo N64. This concept is still very new, having only been put onto the app store in April 2024 but it has much potential. Many different video games can be played on the app for free. For further information on this app and how to work it, check out our blog on the Delta Emulator App Explained.
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Related blog: The Delta Emulator App for iPhones Explained
ASUS ROG Ally:
The ASUS ROG Ally was released in June 2023 and developed by ASUS. It’s a console that offers all the benefits of gaming on Windows whilst having an impressive performance on Xbox Game Pass Gamers. As mentioned, the console runs on Windows which is the software which powers other gaming PC’s around the world meaning this console is the best handheld option for those who want to play their existing games. Although not as popular as other options, the console's power and performance certainly are unmatched.
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Super Pocket:
And finally, our last option for the best handheld gaming consoles of 2024 is Super Pocket. Taking on the role of the portable retro game console, the Super Pockets are a selection of miniature handheld game machines that play iconic games like Space Invaders, Bubble Bobble, Legend of Kage and Volfied. The consoles were released in November 2023 by a company called Hyper Mega Tech! and come in a selection of colours like green, blue and yellow and give off a stunning nostalgic feel to them.
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Honourable Mentions:
- Nintendo Switch Lite
- Nintendo Switch
- Lenovo Legion Go4
- OneXPLayer OneXFly
Conclusion:
Have we ever given these consoles a try? We want to know what your thoughts are, we have plenty of other consoles available on our website too, so make sure to check them out!
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