The holiday season is that time of year when the clock seems to speed up, especially when it comes to gift shopping. The anticipation and excitement can quickly turn into panic, particularly if you have a gaming enthusiast in your life. If you find yourself scrambling for a last-minute present for a PC gamer or someone curious about PC gaming, look no further than the world of handheld gaming PCs. These compact gaming marvels offer unparalleled portability and are perfect for anyone who loves gaming on the go—from transcontinental flights to casual gaming during lunch breaks. Here, we’ll explore three standout handheld gaming PCs that could make any gamer’s holiday truly memorable.
The Steam Deck has rapidly become a beloved staple within the gaming community since its release. Often hailed as the best budget handheld gaming device on the market, the Steam Deck is easy to see why it has taken the spotlight. Priced at $399 for the 256GB model, this system is an excellent entry point for gamers who desire a portable gaming experience without breaking the bank. Despite being available for some time, its features and performance keep it relevant in today’s gaming landscape.
While the initial 256GB storage might not be sufficient for those looking to install big AAA titles en masse, the Steam Deck allows for easy upgrades, providing room for expansion down the line. For gamers who enjoy indie titles, the storage dilemma is less pressing. Built solidly, ergonomically designed, and equipped with impressive hardware, the Steam Deck performs admirably in a variety of titles, even those demanding significant resources. With a community of satisfied users singing its praises, it remains one of the most recommended handhelds for players of all skill levels.
Where the Steam Deck excelled as a fantastic budget option, the Asus ROG Ally positions itself as a versatile gaming powerhouse. The original version, which can now be found at discounted rates thanks to the launch of the ROG Ally X, comes packed with an AMD Z1 Extreme APU. This powerful chip delivers performance that stands out, making the Ally a formidable competitor in the handheld gaming space.
Scoring an impressive 86% in reviews, the ROG Ally doesn’t just stop at being a gaming device. Its Windows operating system makes it a capable portable PC when coupled with a dock, enhancing its functionality beyond gaming. Lightweight and equipped with a visually stunning display, this handheld runs quietly under load, making it a fantastic choice for prolonged use. Currently priced at around $459 on Amazon, the ROG Ally is not just another gaming device; it’s an all-around performance machine that caters to various needs, whether for gaming or productivity.
If you’re seeking something different for the gamer in your life, consider the Lenovo Legion Go. This unique handheld shares its powerful AMD Z1 Extreme APU with the ROG Ally but enhances the experience through an innovative design. Unlike traditional handhelds, the Legion Go boasts detachable controllers reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch, providing flexibility during gameplay.
What truly sets the Legion Go apart is its impressive 8.8-inch display, complete with a crisp 144 Hz IPS panel and a stunning native resolution of 1600p. While this massive screen elevates the gaming experience, it comes with certain caveats. The high resolution can be taxing on the APU, especially with demanding games, necessitating adjustments for smoother play. Furthermore, the size of the device does make it less convenient for mobility compared to its counterparts. Nevertheless, for $500, you get a versatile handheld that combines innovative technology with engaging gameplay, making it a worthy consideration for any gamer.
Selecting a handheld gaming PC as a gift may seem daunting, but the options available are designed to cater to a variety of gaming needs and preferences. Whether it’s the well-established Steam Deck, the versatile Asus ROG Ally, or the innovative Lenovo Legion Go, each option brings something unique to the table. Ultimately, these handhelds succeed in capturing the essence of gaming freedom, allowing players to indulge in their passion from anywhere. As you prepare to navigate the holiday season, these three devices stand out as exceptional gifts for any PC gaming enthusiast.