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10 Best Handheld Gaming Pc 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Nintendo Switch™ with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy‑Con™

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,156
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Portability

Most important from
8826 reviews

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The system's performance is solid, with fast load times and crisp graphics that bring your favorite games to life.
Portability
Its portability is a standout feature, allowing you to take your gaming anywhere without compromising quality.

The Nintendo Switch with Neon Blue and Neon Red Joy-Con offers a unique blend of portability and versatility, making it an excellent choice for gamers who value flexibility in their gaming experience. Its 6.2-inch LCD screen provides a decent display for handheld play, while the option to play on a TV or tabletop adds to its adaptability. The detachable Joy-Con controllers are a standout feature, allowing for easy multiplayer gaming, whether online or locally. This makes it particularly appealing for families or groups looking to enjoy gaming together.

In terms of performance, the Switch is well-optimized for its games, especially the exclusive titles featuring Mario and friends. The battery life is reasonably good, although heavy use can drain it faster than some might prefer. Its weight of 3.18 pounds keeps it portable, but it may still feel a bit bulky for extended handheld use compared to lighter alternatives.

A drawback worth noting is that the processing power and graphics capabilities may not meet the expectations of hardcore gamers seeking top-tier performance. The Switch runs on a custom NVIDIA GPU, which works well for casual gaming but may struggle with more graphically demanding titles. While it supports various connectivity options, it falls short in terms of advanced specs like extensive storage capacity or RAM compared to dedicated handheld gaming PCs. The Nintendo Switch excels in versatility and accessibility, making it ideal for casual gamers, families, and those who enjoy local multiplayer experiences. However, those seeking high-performance gaming or advanced graphics might find it lacking compared to dedicated handheld gaming systems.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,156
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Portability

Most important from
8826 reviews

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The system's performance is solid, with fast load times and crisp graphics that bring your favorite games to life.
Portability
Its portability is a standout feature, allowing you to take your gaming anywhere without compromising quality.
#2

Nintendo Switch™ Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle (Full Game Download + 3 Mo. Nintendo Switch Online Membership Included)

Rating
9.6
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Portability

Most important from
3089 reviews

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The graphics on the Nintendo Switch are impressive, even in handheld mode. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe looks vibrant and runs smoothly, capturing the essence of the Mario Kart series.
Portability
The Nintendo Switch's portability enhances the Mario Kart experience. Being able to switch between TV mode and handheld mode seamlessly is a game-changer.

The Nintendo Switch™ Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle is a fantastic option for gamers looking for a versatile handheld gaming experience. With its Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers, it offers a fun aesthetic and a comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions. This device excels in portability, weighing only 3.2 pounds and featuring dimensions that make it easy to carry around. The three play modes—TV, Tabletop, and Handheld—allow users to enjoy their games in various environments, catering to both solo and group play.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which delivers a rich gaming experience with 48 unique courses and 42 characters. The promise of a 3-month Nintendo Switch Online Membership is also a great addition, giving players access to online play and additional features.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the Switch provides a solid gaming experience, it may not compete with more powerful gaming PCs when it comes to graphics and processing capabilities. The RAM and storage specifications are modest compared to dedicated gaming systems, which can limit performance for graphically demanding games or multitasking. Battery life is generally good, but heavy usage or graphically intensive games may drain it faster than expected.

In terms of connectivity, the Switch supports Wi-Fi but lacks certain advanced features like Bluetooth audio, which might be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, the selection of games, while impressive, might not satisfy hardcore gamers seeking the latest AAA titles.

The Nintendo Switch™ Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle serves as a strong choice for casual gamers and families, particularly those who enjoy multiplayer experiences and portability. However, those seeking high-end graphics or advanced performance may want to explore other options.

Rating
9.6
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Portability

Most important from
3089 reviews

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The graphics on the Nintendo Switch are impressive, even in handheld mode. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe looks vibrant and runs smoothly, capturing the essence of the Mario Kart series.
Portability
The Nintendo Switch's portability enhances the Mario Kart experience. Being able to switch between TV mode and handheld mode seamlessly is a game-changer.
#3

Nintendo Switch Lite - Blue

The Nintendo Switch Lite in Blue is a compact and lightweight handheld gaming console designed for players who seek a portable gaming experience. One of its standout strengths is its ease of use and portability, making it perfect for gaming on the go. With a fun color option, it's visually appealing too. The Switch Lite supports online and local multiplayer, allowing friends to join in on the fun whether they're together or apart.

When it comes to the gaming library, the Switch Lite is part of the larger Nintendo Switch ecosystem, which means players can access a vast range of beloved titles, especially featuring iconic characters like Mario and friends. This aspect makes it a great choice for fans of Nintendo games and family-friendly content.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The Switch Lite lacks the ability to connect to a TV, limiting its versatility compared to the original Nintendo Switch. Its built-in storage may also be on the lower side for gamers who want to download many games, necessitating the purchase of a microSD card for expanded storage. The battery life is decent, but can vary depending on the game being played, which might be a consideration for longer gaming sessions. In terms of performance, while the Switch Lite can handle a wide range of games, it may not provide the same high-end graphics experience as more powerful handheld gaming PCs. Gamers looking for high-performance gaming may find it lacking in that area. Additionally, the smaller screen size may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a larger display for immersive gameplay.

The Nintendo Switch Lite is an excellent choice for casual gamers and families who value portability and fun, but it may not meet the needs of those looking for a more advanced gaming experience.

Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Gaming Pc

Choosing the right handheld gaming PC can significantly enhance your gaming experience. These devices combine the portability of handheld consoles with the power of a PC, allowing you to play a wide range of games on the go. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your gaming needs and preferences.
Processor (CPU)The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your handheld gaming PC. It handles all the calculations and tasks required to run your games smoothly. A more powerful CPU can handle more complex games and multitasking better. CPUs are often divided into segments like dual-core, quad-core, and octa-core. For casual gaming, a dual-core might suffice, but for more demanding games, a quad-core or higher is recommended. Consider the types of games you play; if they are graphically intensive, opt for a higher-end CPU.
Graphics Card (GPU)The graphics card, or GPU, is crucial for rendering images, animations, and video. A powerful GPU ensures that games run smoothly and look great. GPUs are categorized by their performance levels, such as integrated graphics, mid-range, and high-end. Integrated graphics are suitable for less demanding games, while mid-range and high-end GPUs are better for modern, graphically intensive games. If you enjoy playing AAA titles or VR games, a high-end GPU is essential.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is the memory used by your handheld gaming PC to store and access data quickly. More RAM allows for better multitasking and smoother gameplay. Handheld gaming PCs typically come with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM. For basic gaming and everyday tasks, 4GB might be enough. However, for more demanding games and applications, 8GB or 16GB is recommended. Consider how many applications you run simultaneously and the complexity of the games you play.
StorageStorage determines how much data your handheld gaming PC can hold, including games, applications, and media. Storage options include HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive). SSDs are faster and more reliable but tend to be more expensive. Storage capacities typically range from 64GB to 1TB. If you play many games or store large files, opt for higher storage capacity. For faster load times and better performance, choose an SSD over an HDD.
DisplayThe display is where you view your games and content. Important factors include size, resolution, and refresh rate. Display sizes range from 5 inches to 8 inches or more. Higher resolution (e.g., Full HD or 4K) provides sharper images, while a higher refresh rate (e.g., 60Hz, 120Hz) ensures smoother visuals. If you prefer detailed graphics and smooth gameplay, opt for a higher resolution and refresh rate. Consider how portable you want your device to be; larger screens offer better visuals but are less portable.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use your handheld gaming PC before needing to recharge. Longer battery life is crucial for extended gaming sessions on the go. Battery life can range from a few hours to over 10 hours. If you often play games while traveling or away from power sources, choose a device with longer battery life. Consider your gaming habits and how often you can recharge your device.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB ports, and HDMI. These features allow you to connect to the internet, pair with other devices, and connect to external displays. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are essential for online gaming and using wireless accessories. USB ports are useful for connecting peripherals like controllers and external storage. HDMI allows you to connect to larger screens for a better gaming experience. Consider what accessories and external devices you plan to use with your handheld gaming PC.
Operating SystemThe operating system (OS) is the software that manages your handheld gaming PC's hardware and software. Common OS options include Windows, Android, and custom gaming OS. Windows offers compatibility with a wide range of PC games and applications, while Android provides access to mobile games and apps. Custom gaming OS may offer optimized performance for gaming. Choose an OS based on the types of games and applications you plan to use.

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