Top 5 Best Retro Handhelds of 2024

For decades, gamers who are constantly on the go have been delighted by the top gaming handheld options. While newcomers like the Steam Deck have altered the way we play, the basics of what makes a great device haven’t changed in the decades that I’ve been enjoying virtual adventures on portable PCs and consoles.

The Nintendo Switch OLED is currently the greatest gaming handheld, in large part because of its fantastic library of exclusive adventures, bright OLED screen, and affordable price. Naturally, the Steam Deck OLED and Asus ROG Ally are at the top of the list when it comes to portable PCs, but there are a ton of other gadgets that will appeal to fans of the retro style, emulation, and even gamers who enjoy streaming their adventures via the cloud.

It’s a good idea to consider the games you want to play before selecting any old portable. You can play more games on a PC or portable console than ever before, regardless of whether your backlog is on Steam, Xbox Game Pass, the Epic Game Store, or Nintendo’s eShop. I’ve been diligently testing the top gaming handhelds, including the newest portable PCs, thin Android devices, and retro-inspired Gameboy substitutes, to help you make your selection.

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Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Top 5 Best Retro Handhelds of 2024

1.Nintendo Switch OLED

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The Nintendo Switch OLED model adds to the fantastic formula of Nintendo’s powerful console, which may have ignited a new era of handheld gaming. By today’s standards, it’s not the most powerful console, and since the original’s 2017 release, a lot has changed in the console industry. Its remarkable library and portability, however, are hard to dispute, making it our top on-the-go system for 2024.

Although we specifically ranked the Nintendo Switch OLED model as the best, the original model also has many of its advantages. It is portable, still supports physical game cartridges, and still has a docking station and detachable Joycons. But if you choose the OLED model instead of the Switch Lite or original version, your eyes will be in for a treat. The new display boasts superb contrast and colours that transform epic adventures like Zelda Tears of the Kingdom into pure eye candy, and the slightly larger 7-inch screen makes all the difference.

Although the OLED Switch and its predecessor essentially have the same appearance, there are a few significant differences that make it stand out. First off, the OLED screen itself has a slimmer bezel and is a little bigger than other handhelds, which gives it a visual advantage. Additionally, it has a better kickstand around the back, which will please anyone who has had a close call with the original’s flimsy flap.

Although the Switch’s internal components aren’t particularly remarkable, they do the job in the end. Playing some demanding games in handheld mode eases the strain, and the NVIDIA Tegra X1 SoC has enough power to deliver 1080p 30fps visuals. Nevertheless, you won’t have to worry about performance for the most part, as Nintendo’s library caters to the hardware to ensure a smooth experience. If you are fussy when it comes to frame rates, you’re probably in the market for a handheld PC instead.

Naturally, one of the few handheld devices on this list with first-party games is the Nintendo Switch OLED, which has access to an incredible library of games. The Switch has Zelda, Mario, Pokémon, and other powerful games that will keep some players from ever considering the wild west of Steam, even though handheld PCs have storefront versatility on their side. The Switch’s library of adventures is arguably enough justification for purchasing the device, and it’s the main factor in the platform’s continued success after six years.

However, that screen, my god. This new model is all about that display, as its name suggests, and rightfully so. The original 6.2-inch LED panel is replaced by the Switch OLED with a larger, 7-inch OLED panel. Both displays are 720p HD – with the dock boosting the resolution to 1080p HD – but the OLED panel makes such a huge difference despite the lack of resolution upgrade.

Firstly, it completely changes the way the Switch feels in your hands. Despite there only being a 0.8-inch size difference, the 7-inch display seems so much larger, completely dominating the front of the console. It’s wonderfully immersive and makes a much larger difference to the Switch handheld experience than I imagined it would. Going back to the original Switch, or the Lite, suddenly the LCD display feels cramped, the bezels far too wide, and the colors so very muted.

2.Steam Deck OLED

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

When it debuted in 2022, the original model raised the bar for portable gaming PCs, but the new Steam Deck OLED elevates the device even further. Valve’s most recent portable system, which is now a platform in and of itself, combines the same fantastic, fast OLED visuals with the hardware and software that we all know and love, plus a few extra enhancements.

The Steam Deck OLED and the original model are both packed with features and are essentially a full-fledged PC in a portable form factor. This implies that you will be able to use dual touchpads, haptic feedback, integrated controls, and a gyroscope to play games that are typically available for your rig. If you prefer consoles to conventional desktop configurations, you’ll definitely vibe with what the Deck has to offer.

Unlike the model we first tried a few years ago, the Steam Deck OLED, as the name implies, has a shiny new OLED display. Compared to LCD, switching screen type means you’ll be able to enjoy excellent contrast and colors that’ll put many full blown gaming monitors to shame, not to mention it’s also 90Hz.

Even though it’s still one of the chubbiest handhelds available, the Steam Deck OLED weighs 640g, which is significantly less than its predecessor. Nevertheless, its ergonomic design ensures that it will fit comfortably in your hands, and if you spent a lot of time playing Wii U before the Switch came out, you will be accustomed to Valve’s symmetrical, high-up stick arrangement. Additionally, it essentially uses the same buttons as a modern PC controller, so you won’t have to get used to any unusual setups.

Once more, the Steam Deck isn’t the most potent portable computer available, but for the price, it still provides respectable performance. With its 800p screen, Value’s custom AMD APU can run a portion of your library at over 60 frames per second.you’ll even be able to play on a bigger screen using a Steam Deck dock. For the most part, you’ll have to make do with low settings to boost fps to an acceptable level when running new releases, but you’ll still notice the visual difference compared to Nintendo Switch.

It’s worth noting that the Steam Deck OLED technically comes armed with a different AMD APU to the original. It’s still RDNA 2, and the changes are better described as refinement that contribute to efficiency and power. Yet, during testing, we did find minor improvements when measured side by side with the LCD model, which might appeal to those of you looking to harness every frame during portable play.

Over 10,000 games on Steam are marked as either Steam Deck Verified or Playable, though not all of them are compatible with SteamOS. This implies that there shouldn’t be any bugs that prevent you from playing the game, but the system is more of a portable aid than a performance assurance. Despite compatibility issues, if you purchase a Steam Deck, you will have access to a large selection of games right away, which is impressive considering that you can purchase the LCD version.

3.Asus ROG Ally

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The Asus ROG Ally is a remarkable portable gaming PC that outperforms the Steam Deck, despite its many flaws. Because it’s a Windows device, it also boasts full PC compatibility, but in the end, that’s both a plus and a minus for the overall experience.

The Asus ROG Ally is a 7-inch handheld device with built-in controls, just like the Steam Deck. But the Ally goes above and beyond with a more recent AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and a 120Hz 1080p display. It can produce smoother graphics and surprisingly high frame rates thanks to that combination, especially in demanding games.

Despite its numerous shortcomings, the Asus ROG Ally is an exceptional portable gaming PC that performs better than the Steam Deck. It also boasts full PC compatibility because it is a Windows device, but ultimately, that is both a plus and a minus for the overall experience.

Similar to the Steam Deck, the Asus ROG Ally is a 7-inch portable device with integrated controls. With a more modern AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and a 120Hz 1080p display, however, the Ally goes above and beyond. That combination can result in surprisingly high frame rates and smoother graphics, especially in demanding games.

The ROG Ally’s Z1 Extreme APU has quickly emerged as the new chip to beat. Generally speaking, you’ll be able to to boost fps far beyond the realms of the Steam Deck in games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Starfield. However, it doesn’t quite reach the same heights as premium contenders like the Ayaneo 2S, and you may struggle to actually take full advantage of the 120Hz screen. That aside, if you’re looking for a more affordable handheld PC that can maintain frame rates at 1080p, this is it.

The Asus ROG Ally can run any application that your traditional rig can because it is a Windows handheld PC. This means that, unlike the Steam Deck, you can install and use multiple storefronts, such as Steam, the Epic Game Store, PC Game Pass, and GOG, without the need for workarounds or compatibility layers. This is not to say that you won’t experience controller compatibility problems or performance issues. It’s also important to keep in mind that Windows handheld optimization can present its own challenges when attempting to switch between apps and games.

4.Ayaneo Flip DS

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

The Ayaneo Flip DS’s powerful Ryzen 7 APU makes it one of the most potent handhelds available. But with a dual screen setup and a ton of other premium features, this powerful portable will make simulating old 3DS games a snap.

The Ayaneo Flip DS is a feature-rich portable computer that will more than meet your needs. Together with a 64GB RAM and up to 2TB of storage, it also has an AMD Zen 4 APU that can outperform the chip in the ROG Ally. Although it may seem excessive, the device also has a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port, so you can connect it to an eGPU and use it as a full-blown rig.

Of course, with its 3.5-inch touchscreen and 7-inch 1080p display, the Flip DS is also one of the few portable gaming PCs with two screens available. Ayaneo has successfully developed a device that resembles a 3DS but is capable of running Cyberpunk 2077, offering a more realistic emulation experience. Even better, the portable has triggers, hall effect thumb sticks, and all the other features we’ve grown accustomed to seeing in high-end Windows 11 devices.

Although the Flip DS may be a tribute to another dual screen handheld, its clamshell design sets it apart from other handheld PCs. The gadget not only departs from the Steam Deck’s design guidelines, but it also manages to squeeze exceptional cooling and full controls into a more compact package. Weighing in at 650g, it’s a little lighter than the Asus ROG Ally, which is impressive considering you’re getting two displays and virtually the same level of gaming power.

Due to their slightly less ergonomic design, the recessed thumb sticks on the Flip DS are one of its only design flaws. The difference from conventional handheld layouts will be apparent, but they are still fully functional and will become more comfortable as you get used to them.

The Ryzen 7 7840U and 8840U have the best performance among all the handheld PC chips currently on the market. During testing, we discovered that the Zen 4 chips could easily match the Z1 Extreme processor found in the Lenovo Legion Go and ROG Ally, achieving over 60p at 800p in games like Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Hitman 3, and Cyberpunk 2077. The Flip DS performs nearly as well as its sibling, the Ayaneo Flip, in comparison.but we did pick up on some frame rate variances thanks to its slightly lower 28W max TDP.

Naturally, we also tried out a whole bunch of 3DS and Wii U releases on the Flip DS, and the handheld easily scaled everything up to 1080p at full speed. Your milage will vary based on the game you’re trying to run, with emulators like Citra offering a heads up in regards to how specific adventures will run. Still, we were able to enjoy The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds and Bravely Default without any performance hiccups, all while having access to that vital secondary touchscreen.

Like the ROG Ally and other competitors, the Flip DS has access to all of the same stores as your typical PC. With its strong AMD APU, you’ll have a better chance of running more recent games at 60 frames per second, and Steam, the Epic Game Store, and even Xbox Game Pass will all function on this device without any tricks or workarounds.

The Flip DS’s dual screen configuration is the main factor that makes it superior to less expensive options. Awkwardly switching to a virtual touchscreen is a pain if you’ve ever attempted to emulate DS or 3DS games on any other device. Ayaneo’s handheld will allow you to replicate the precise design and features of Nintendo’s OG portable console, meaning you’ll be able to revisit your collection without any hardware hassle.

5.Anbernic RG35XX Plus

Last update on 2024-12-02 / Affiliate links/images from Amazon.

Despite being a Miyoo Mini Plus clone, Anbernic has accomplished something amazing with the RG35XX Plus. Although it has the same appearance, it is a little longer and has more powerful internal technology. Although it won’t be able to compete with devices like the Steam Deck or the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro anytime soon, the RG35XX Plus is a good option if you’re looking for a powerful device in a Game Boy-style package at a great price.

The RG35XX Plus is the best option if you want a shining example of how to upgrade. The original model’s quad-core ARM Cortex-A9, PowerVR chipset, and 256MB of RAM are no longer present; instead, the meatier platter of the H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 paired to 1GB of RAM. This upgrade blows the original RG35XX out of the water when it comes to emulation. Instead of middling emulation you’ll find in every budget device, up to and some PSP is now playable, all for just 64 bucks. Not bad, eh?

Let’s be honest here, the Anbernic custom Linux operating system is boringly plain, it does the job. Games and emulators are front and center, and that’s fine given the cost of the device. Updating the system is an exercise in pain most will avoid if possible, while the option to output the device to a TV or monitor via mini HDMI is a nice little touch.

The original model, which was a copy of the Miyoo Mini Plus, hasn’t changed all that much. The ‘if it ain’t’ broke, don’t fix it’ approach is what I will say about Anbernic. With its additional menu and X and Y face buttons, it resembles a Game Boy. Like all vertical handhelds, the triggers are still uncomfortable, but that’s not a deal breaker. Comfort is also greatly improved by the Miyoo Mini Plus’s minor size increase.

The original model, which was a copy of the Miyoo Mini Plus, hasn’t changed all that much. The ‘if it ain’t’ broke, don’t fix it’ approach is what I will say about Anbernic. It appears that a Game Boy, albeit with an extra menu and X and Y face buttons. The triggers are still uncomfortable, as is the case with all vertical handhelds, but that’s not the end of the world. The slight size increase over the Miyoo Mini Plus really helps with comfort, too.

Although the RG35XX Plus has drawbacks, you can use this tiny handheld to simulate most of the classics. With a device smaller than old video game cartridges, you can explore the history of video games, from the 8-bit heyday of the NES and Game Boy to even some 3D experiences like Dreamcast and PSP. Just be aware that you will need to provide your own collection of legally obtained ROMs because we are discussing emulation.

Best gaming handheld – FAQ

What is the best portable device for gaming?

The best portable gaming PCs in terms of power are the Asus ROG Ally, Steam Deck, and the soon-to-be Lenovo Legion GO. However, not everyone wants to play Steam games or increase frame rates, which is why less expensive portable consoles like the Nintendo Switch are more popular.

Which handheld has the best games?

The majority of handheld gaming devices support multiple storefronts. For instance, a Nintendo Switch is required if you want to play the newest Mario and Zelda games, whereas portable PCs like the Steam Deck can be used to access your Steam library. It’s debatable whether Nintendo games are superior to PC games, so you should choose a handheld device with games that suit your preferences.

What is the best alternative to the Switch?

The Steam Deck is arguably the greatest handheld device currently on the market. You will have complete control over Valve’s expansive storefront, but you won’t have access to the typical selection of Ninty romps. This implies that you will be able to use a docking station at home or on the go to play the newest games and a ton of independent capers.