Portable gaming has come a long way, evolving from classic handheld consoles to powerful devices like the Steam Deck that let you carry your entire game library wherever you go. This is especially handy for travel, whether you’re heading abroad or attending a gaming conference.
If you’re visiting Qatar, a hotspot for gaming events that draw players from around the world, having a versatile handheld device is a game-changer. While you gear up for your trip, don’t forget to secure medical insurance in Qatar for visitors to ensure peace of mind and safety during your stay. With that sorted, you can focus on gaming and exploring new experiences worry-free.
To help you find the perfect portable companion, we’ve compiled a list of the top handheld devices. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, we’ve got you covered.
1. Steam Deck OLED
The Steam Deck OLED sets a new standard for price, performance, and gaming experience. Starting at $549, this handheld features a vibrant OLED display with deeper blacks, richer colors, and better contrast than the original LCD model. Improved ergonomics ensure a comfortable grip during long gaming sessions, making it a great choice for most gamers.
While it’s not as powerful as AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme-based devices, it handles most games in your Steam library with ease. The streamlined SteamOS interface is optimized for handheld use, providing quick, simple access to your games. For gamers invested in Steam’s ecosystem, it’s an unbeatable option.
2. Asus ROG Ally X
For those who prefer Windows, the Asus ROG Ally X is a premium pick. Priced at $799.99, it offers a full Windows experience in a portable handheld. With 24GB of RAM and a powerful Radeon GPU, it easily handles graphically demanding games and other Windows applications. Its screen, while not OLED, is vibrant and sharp.
The upgraded battery life, offering up to double the playtime of its predecessor, makes it ideal for longer sessions. Perfect for Windows users seeking power and versatility, the ROG Ally X stands out, though it comes with a higher price tag.
3. Steam Deck (LCD)
For budget-conscious gamers, the original Steam Deck with its LCD screen remains a solid choice. Starting at a lower price point, it delivers much of the performance and build quality of the OLED model. While the LCD screen isn’t as vivid, it offers reliable visuals with a 60Hz refresh rate, sufficient for most games. The battery life is slightly shorter than the OLED version, but its value and seamless integration with the Steam library make it a great entry-level option for PC gaming on the go.
4. Asus ROG Ally
If the ROG Ally X’s price is too steep, the original Asus ROG Ally offers a more affordable alternative with impressive performance. Powered by the same AMD Z1 Extreme chip, its display handles modern games well. However, the build quality feels less refined, and the ergonomics are less comfortable for long sessions. The controls are functional but lack the premium feel of the Ally X. Avoid the baseline Z1 model, as it struggles with demanding games. For a Windows gaming handheld at a lower price, the original ROG Ally balances performance and affordability.
5. Lenovo Legion Go
The Lenovo Legion Go blends features from gaming laptops and handheld consoles. With its high-resolution 2560 x 1600 screen, USB-C ports, kickstand, and detachable controllers, it offers a Switch-like experience. However, its 8.8-inch display makes it bulkier and less portable than competitors.
The high resolution, while stunning, often feels unnecessary for the AMD Z1 Extreme chip, as many games run better at lower resolutions. Despite its size and some over-the-top features, the Legion Go is a strong option for gamers looking for a hybrid device with unique design and premium add-ons.