The Best Handheld Gaming PCs in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Portable PC Gaming

Remember when “portable gaming” meant squinting at a Game Boy’s tiny screen? Fast forward to 2025, and you’re holding desktop-class gaming performance in your hands.

The handheld gaming PC market has exploded with options that can run AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring at respectable frame rates—all while fitting in your backpack.

Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a commuter looking to maximize your gaming time, or someone who simply prefers the freedom of handheld gaming, this guide will help you find the perfect portable powerhouse.

We’ll dive deep into each device’s strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases, so you can make an informed decision that fits your gaming style and budget.

1. Steam Deck OLED / Steam Deck (LCD)

The Steam Deck remains the gold standard for handheld gaming PCs, and for good reason. The Steam Deck is the Nintendo Switch of PC gaming handhelds, offering an ecosystem that “just works” in ways that many competitors still struggle to match.

Why the Steam Deck Still Dominates

Steam Deck OLED Advantages:

• Stunning Visual Quality: The OLED display delivers deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and better contrast than any LCD competitor
• Improved Battery Life: Enhanced 90Wh battery provides 3-8 hours of gameplay depending on title complexity
• Seamless Integration: SteamOS is specifically designed for handheld gaming, eliminating Windows’ notorious touch interface struggles
• Verified Game Library: Thousands of Steam Deck Verified games ensure compatibility

Steam Deck LCD Benefits:

• Budget-Friendly: Starting at $399, it’s the most affordable entry point into handheld PC gaming
• Proven Track Record: Mature software ecosystem with regular updates and community support
• Excellent Ergonomics: Comfortable for extended gaming sessions despite its larger size

Performance Breakdown

Pro Tip: The Steam Deck’s custom AMD APU may seem outdated on paper, but Valve’s optimization work means it often outperforms technically superior hardware in real-world gaming scenarios.

The Steam Deck’s biggest advantage isn’t just its hardware—it’s the complete gaming experience. You won’t spend hours tweaking Windows settings or dealing with incompatible games.

For most users, especially those new to handheld PC gaming, the Steam Deck offers the most polished experience available.

Best For: First-time handheld PC buyers, Steam library enthusiasts, and anyone who prioritizes ease of use over raw performance.

2. ASUS ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme / Z1)

When the Ally X came along and promised to resolve every complaint we had with the original recipe, we immediately fell in love.

The ROG Ally series represents ASUS’s ambitious entry into handheld gaming, and they’ve made significant strides with each iteration.

The ROG Ally Experience

ROG Ally X Highlights:

• Raw Performance: The Z1 Extreme delivers superior performance to the Steam Deck in demanding titles
• Windows Flexibility: Full Windows 11 means access to Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and any PC application
• Premium Build Quality: Sleek white design with excellent button tactility and ergonomics
• VRR Display: 120Hz variable refresh rate for smoother gameplay

Standard ROG Ally Considerations:

• Better Value: The Z1 version offers good performance at a lower price point
• Lighter Weight: More portable than the X variant
• Adequate for Most Games: Handles 1080p gaming well in most scenarios

Performance Comparison

The Z1 Extreme consistently outperforms the Steam Deck’s APU by 15-25% in most games, particularly those that can utilize the additional GPU cores.

However, this performance advantage comes with trade-offs in battery life and software optimization.

Real-World Gaming Examples:

• Cyberpunk 2077: Medium settings, 30-35 FPS vs Steam Deck’s 25-30 FPS
• Elden Ring: High settings, 40-50 FPS vs Steam Deck’s 35-40 FPS
• Hogwarts Legacy: Medium-High settings, 30-40 FPS vs Steam Deck’s 25-35 FPS

Windows: Blessing or Curse?

The ROG Ally’s Windows 11 implementation is both its greatest strength and biggest weakness. You get unlimited compatibility and access to every PC gaming platform, but you also inherit Windows’ mobile interface limitations and potential stability issues.

Did You Know? ASUS has developed Armoury Crate SE specifically for handheld gaming, which provides a console-like interface that launches automatically. While it’s improved significantly since launch, it still occasionally requires manual intervention that SteamOS handles seamlessly.

Best For: Enthusiasts who want maximum performance and flexibility, Xbox Game Pass subscribers, and users comfortable with Windows troubleshooting.

3. Lenovo Legion Go

The Legion Go takes a unique approach to handheld gaming with its massive 8.8-inch display and detachable controllers.

Lenovo Legion Go has unique controls like a mouse wheel, a right and left click button, and an FPS mode button, making it feel more like a portable gaming laptop than a traditional handheld.

Legion Go’s Unique Selling Points

Standout Features:

• Massive Display: 8.8″ QHD+ screen provides more screen real estate than any competitor
• Detachable Controllers: Joy-Con style controllers can be removed for tabletop gaming
• Mouse Mode: Right controller transforms into a wireless mouse for FPS games
• Kickstand Design: Built-in kickstand for comfortable tabletop gaming

The Big Screen Advantage

The Legion Go’s display is genuinely impressive for gaming that benefits from screen real estate. Strategy games, RPGs with detailed UIs, and racing games all shine on the larger canvas.

However, the increased size does impact portability—this isn’t a device you’ll casually slip into a pocket.

Gaming Performance Highlights:

• 2560×1600 Resolution: Higher pixel density than competitors, but demands more from the GPU
• 165Hz Refresh Rate: Smoothest display in the handheld gaming space
• Excellent Color Accuracy: 97% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant gaming visuals

Legion Go S: The SteamOS Alternative

The Legion Go S SteamOS brings Valve’s lightweight gaming OS to a handheld with some serious hardware, resulting in a handheld that offers the best of both worlds—Legion Go’s superior hardware with SteamOS’s gaming-focused interface.

A Lenovo Legion Go S offers more screen real estate than the Steam Deck, but OLED will always beat IPS LCD.

This new variant addresses many of the original Legion Go’s software concerns while maintaining its hardware advantages.

Best For: Users who want a larger screen for gaming, those who prefer detachable controllers, and anyone seeking a premium Windows handheld experience.

4. AYANEO 2S

AYANEO has established itself as the premium boutique option in the handheld gaming PC space. The 2S represents their latest refinement of the formula, offering high-end components in a carefully crafted package.

Premium Design Philosophy

AYANEO 2S Highlights:

• Premium Materials: CNC-machined aluminum construction with premium fit and finish
• Powerful Hardware: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U delivers excellent performance efficiency
• Customizable RGB: Hall effect joysticks with customizable lighting
• Multiple Color Options: Various aesthetic choices to match personal preferences

Performance Excellence

If you are looking for a handheld PC for AAA Windows gaming then the AYANEO 2 is the perfect choice.

Play all the latest games as well as high end emulators such as Xbox 360 and PS3. The 2S builds upon this foundation with improved thermals and battery optimization.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U (Zen 4 architecture)
• GPU: Radeon 780M (RDNA 3)
• RAM: 16GB/32GB LPDDR5X
• Display: 7″ IPS LCD (1920×1200)
• Storage: 512GB/1TB/2TB NVMe SSD options

The Boutique Experience

AYANEO devices feel like artisanal gaming handhelds. Every aspect, from the packaging to the button feel, reflects attention to detail that mass-market manufacturers often overlook.

However, this premium experience comes with a premium price tag and limited availability.

Did You Know? AYANEO frequently releases limited edition variants with unique colorways and special packaging, making their devices collectible items for enthusiasts.

Best For: Enthusiasts who prioritize build quality and unique design, users seeking maximum performance, and collectors who appreciate limited edition devices.

5. AYANEO KUN

The AYANEO KUN represents the company’s flagship offering, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a handheld gaming PC.

So very close to being the ultimate premium handheld gaming PC. It looks beautiful, feels great in the hand, and has a killer spec.

But a persistently sticky D-pad, faintly frustrating screen, and a flaky extreme mode make it a tough unreserved recommendation.

Flagship Features

AYANEO KUN Specifications:

• Massive Display: 8.4″ IPS LCD (2560×1600) for immersive gaming
• Top-Tier Performance: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U with enhanced cooling
• Premium Audio: High-quality speakers with spatial audio support
• Extensive Connectivity: Multiple USB-C ports, microSD expansion

Performance Powerhouse

The KUN’s larger form factor allows for more aggressive cooling solutions and higher sustained performance.

In extended gaming sessions, it maintains higher clock speeds than smaller competitors, translating to more consistent frame rates.

Gaming Performance Examples:

• Red Dead Redemption 2: High settings, 35-40 FPS sustained
• Control: High settings with ray tracing, 30-35 FPS
• Forza Horizon 5: Ultra settings, 45-55 FPS

The Premium Price Point

At $1,399 and up, the KUN sits at the high end of the handheld gaming market. You’re paying for bleeding-edge performance, premium materials, and exclusive features that aren’t available in mass-market devices.

Best For: Performance enthusiasts, users who want the absolute best handheld gaming experience, and those willing to pay premium prices for premium features.

6. OneXPlayer 2 Pro

OneXPlayer has carved out a niche in the handheld gaming space with devices that blur the line between handheld and mini-laptop.

The 2 Pro continues this tradition with impressive specifications and unique features.

Distinctive Design Elements

OneXPlayer 2 Pro Features:

• Unique Aspect Ratio: 10.95″ display with 2560×1600 resolution
• Detachable Keyboard: Optional keyboard attachment for productivity work
• Powerful Cooling: Advanced thermal management for sustained performance
• Multiple Connectivity Options: Comprehensive port selection for peripherals

Performance Characteristics

The 2 Pro’s larger chassis allows for more aggressive cooling and higher TDP limits, resulting in sustained performance that rivals desktop replacement laptops. However, this comes at the cost of portability and battery life.

Technical Deep Dive:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U (configurable TDP up to 54W)
• GPU: Radeon 780M with enhanced cooling
• RAM: Up to 64GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: Dual NVMe SSD slots for extensive storage

The Laptop-Handheld Hybrid

OneXPlayer’s devices excel when you need both gaming performance and productivity capabilities.

The optional keyboard transforms the 2 Pro into a capable ultrabook, making it ideal for users who want one device for both work and play.

Best For: Digital nomads, users who need both gaming and productivity capabilities, and those who don’t mind sacrificing some portability for performance.

7. GPD Win 4 (2023/2024 editions)

GPD pioneered the handheld gaming PC market, and the Win 4 represents their latest evolution. The 2024 edition brings significant improvements over the original 2023 model.

Slider Design Innovation

GPD Win 4 Unique Features:

• Sliding Keyboard: Hidden QWERTY keyboard slides out for typing
• Compact Form Factor: Smallest device in its performance class
• Modular Design: Replaceable components for serviceability
• Active Cooling: Sophisticated thermal management despite compact size

2024 Edition Improvements

The 2024 refresh addresses many of the original Win 4’s shortcomings:

Key Upgrades:

• Improved Thermals: Better heat dissipation for sustained performance
• Enhanced Battery Life: Optimized power management extends gaming sessions
• Refined Build Quality: Tighter tolerances and improved materials
• Software Optimization: Better Windows handheld experience out of the box

Performance in a Compact Package

The MAX 2 has been consistently great not just for gaming, but also for your day to day workload. While this quote refers to the MAX 2, it captures GPD’s philosophy of creating devices that excel beyond gaming.

Real-World Performance:

• Excellent for Indies: Perfect for lighter games that don’t stress the cooling system
• Good for AAA: Handles demanding titles with appropriate settings adjustments
• Productivity Ready: The keyboard makes it suitable for work tasks

Best For: Users who prioritize portability, those who need occasional typing capabilities, and fans of unique design approaches.

8. AYANEO Flip DS / Flip KB

AYANEO’s Flip series takes inspiration from Nintendo’s DS family, creating a unique dual-screen handheld gaming PC experience.

The DS variant features two screens, while the KB model includes a physical keyboard.

Dual-Screen Innovation

AYANEO Flip DS Features:

• Dual 7″ Displays: Two identical screens for enhanced gaming experiences
• Flexible Usage Modes: Clamshell, tent, and tablet configurations
• Touchscreen Support: Both screens support touch input for enhanced interactivity
• Unique Gaming Experiences: Games can utilize both screens simultaneously

Keyboard Variant Benefits

The Flip KB replaces the bottom screen with a physical keyboard, creating a laptop-like experience in a compact clamshell design.

Flip KB Advantages:

• Full QWERTY Keyboard: Tactile typing experience for productivity
• Compact Laptop Alternative: Folds into a small laptop form factor
• Versatile Input Options: Combines gaming controls with traditional keyboard
• Professional Appearance: Looks like a mini laptop in professional settings

Gaming Performance

Both Flip variants use the same AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor found in other AYANEO devices, ensuring consistent performance across the lineup.

Gaming Considerations:

• Unique Experiences: Some games benefit from dual-screen setups
• Cooling Challenges: Clamshell design can limit thermal performance
• Battery Life: Dual screens impact battery performance in DS variant

Best For: Users seeking unique gaming experiences, those who want a compact laptop alternative, and anyone interested in innovative form factors.

9. OneXFly

The OneXFly represents OneXPlayer’s attempt to create a more traditional handheld gaming experience while maintaining their performance standards. It’s their answer to the Steam Deck’s form factor.

Streamlined Design

OneXFly Characteristics:

• Traditional Handheld Form: More conventional gaming handheld layout
• Premium Build Quality: High-end materials and construction
• Optimized Ergonomics: Comfortable for extended gaming sessions
• Competitive Performance: Strong gaming performance in a refined package

Market Positioning

The OneXFly sits between the mass-market devices like the Steam Deck and the premium offerings like the AYANEO KUN. It offers a balance of performance, features, and pricing.

Performance Highlights:

• Solid Gaming Performance: Handles modern games at appropriate settings
• Good Battery Life: Optimized power management for extended sessions
• Thermal Management: Effective cooling for sustained performance
• Build Quality: Premium materials and construction

Best For: Users who want OneXPlayer’s build quality in a traditional handheld form factor, those seeking a premium alternative to mainstream options.

10. MSI Claw A1M

MSI’s entry into the handheld gaming market brings their gaming laptop expertise to the portable space.

The MSI Claw AI+ will provide you with an extra performance punch, representing their commitment to high-performance handheld gaming.

MSI’s Gaming Heritage

MSI Claw Features:

• Intel Integration: Intel Arc graphics for unique performance characteristics
• MSI Center Integration: Familiar software ecosystem for MSI users
• Gaming Laptop DNA: Design elements borrowed from MSI’s successful laptop line
• Competitive Pricing: Aggressive pricing for the performance offered

Intel Arc Graphics

The Claw’s use of Intel Arc graphics sets it apart from the AMD-dominated handheld market. While Intel’s graphics have improved significantly, they still face optimization challenges with older games.

Arc Graphics Considerations:

• Modern Game Performance: Excellent with recent titles that support Arc
• Driver Optimization: Ongoing improvements but still behind AMD and NVIDIA
• Power Efficiency: Competitive efficiency in supported games
• Unique Features: Intel-specific technologies like XeSS upscaling

Value Proposition

MSI positions the Claw as a performance-oriented option at a competitive price point, appealing to users who want good performance without premium pricing.

Best For: MSI ecosystem users, those interested in Intel Arc graphics, and users seeking good performance at competitive prices.

11. AYANEO Air 1S

The Air 1S represents AYANEO’s focus on creating an ultra-portable gaming experience. It’s designed for users who prioritize portability over maximum performance.

Ultra-Portable Design

AYANEO Air 1S Features:

• Lightweight Construction: Significantly lighter than competing devices
• Compact Form Factor: Smallest device in AYANEO’s lineup
• Efficient Performance: Balanced performance and battery life
• Premium Materials: High-quality construction despite compact size

Performance Efficiency

This new processor retains the robust 8-core Zen 4 CPU and 12CU RDNA 3 core display architecture but offers significantly improved performance.

Notably, the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) performance sees a substantial increase of 60%, now reaching 16 TOPS.

Efficiency Highlights:

• Extended Battery Life: Optimized for longer gaming sessions
• Thermal Management: Effective cooling in compact design
• Performance Scaling: Intelligent performance scaling based on game requirements
• Quiet Operation: Minimal fan noise during most gaming scenarios

Target Market

The Air 1S appeals to users who want a premium handheld gaming experience without the bulk of larger devices. It’s ideal for frequent travelers and commuters.

Best For: Frequent travelers, users who prioritize portability, and those who prefer smaller form factors.

12. GPD Win Max 2 (mini-laptop hybrid)

For gaming you have the latest HX 370 & 890M which vastly overshadows the original 6800U model. If you have this and are considering upgrading, it is a no brainer. The Win Max 2 bridges the gap between handheld gaming and ultrabook productivity.

Laptop-Handheld Hybrid

GPD Win Max 2 Features:

• 10.1″ Display: Large screen for both gaming and productivity
• Full Keyboard: Integrated QWERTY keyboard for typing
• Trackpad Support: Mouse replacement for desktop applications
• Laptop-like Experience: Familiar interface for productivity work

2025 Edition Improvements

GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 stands out slightly in these 3DMark tests, but all devices demonstrate competitive performance for their form factor. The 2025 refresh brings significant performance improvements.

Performance Upgrades:

• AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370: Latest processor technology
• Radeon 890M Graphics: Substantial GPU performance improvement
• Enhanced Cooling: Better thermal management for sustained performance
• Improved Battery Life: More efficient power consumption

Productivity Gaming

The Win Max 2 excels when you need both gaming performance and laptop-like productivity capabilities. It’s genuinely capable of serving as your primary computing device.

Use Case Examples:

• Gaming: Handles AAA titles at medium-high settings
• Productivity: Full Windows applications with comfortable keyboard
• Content Creation: Capable of light video editing and content creation
• Travel Computing: Single device for both work and entertainment

Best For: Digital nomads, users who need both gaming and productivity in one device, and those who prefer laptop-like interfaces.

13. AYANEO Slide

The AYANEO Slide represents another unique approach to handheld gaming, featuring a sliding mechanism that reveals additional controls or features.

Sliding Design Innovation

AYANEO Slide Features:

• Sliding Mechanism: Reveals additional controls or keyboard
• Compact Closed Form: Minimal size when closed
• Expanded Functionality: Additional features when opened
• Unique Market Position: Distinctive design in crowded market

Design Philosophy

AYANEO’s Slide continues their tradition of creating unique, premium devices that offer features not available from mainstream manufacturers.

Innovation Highlights:

• Space Efficiency: Maximizes functionality in minimal space
• Build Quality: Premium materials and construction
• User Experience: Intuitive sliding mechanism
• Market Differentiation: Unique features set it apart from competitors

Best For: Users who want unique design elements, those seeking compact devices with expanded functionality, and AYANEO enthusiasts.

Making Your Choice: Which Handheld Gaming PC Is Right for You?

After exploring all these options, the choice might seem overwhelming. Here’s a practical framework to help you decide:

Budget-Conscious Buyers ($300-$500)

• Steam Deck LCD: Best overall value and ecosystem
• ROG Ally (Z1): Windows flexibility at competitive pricing

Performance Enthusiasts ($500-$800)

• Steam Deck OLED: Premium Steam experience
• ROG Ally X: Maximum Windows gaming performance
• Legion Go: Largest screen with unique features

Premium Seekers ($800-$1,500)

• AYANEO 2S/KUN: Boutique quality and premium features
• OneXPlayer 2 Pro: Laptop-hybrid capabilities
• GPD Win Max 2: Ultimate productivity-gaming balance

Specific Use Cases

For Travel: Steam Deck OLED or AYANEO Air 1S For Productivity: GPD Win Max 2 or OneXPlayer 2 Pro For Performance: ROG Ally X or AYANEO KUN For Unique Features: Legion Go or AYANEO Flip series

Final Recommendations

The handheld gaming PC market in 2025 offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking the polished experience of the Steam Deck, the raw performance of the ROG Ally X, or the unique features of boutique manufacturers, there’s a device that matches your needs.

Remember that the “best” handheld gaming PC depends entirely on your specific requirements, budget, and preferences. Consider not just the hardware specifications, but also the software ecosystem, build quality, and long-term support when making your decision.

The future of portable gaming is here, and it’s more exciting than ever. Whichever device you choose, you’ll be joining a growing community of gamers who refuse to compromise on their gaming experience, no matter where they are.

Ready to dive into handheld PC gaming? Start with the Steam Deck if you’re new to the space, or explore the premium options if you want cutting-edge performance. The perfect portable gaming companion is waiting for you.