Best Gaming Handhelds for 2025

#gaming #handhelds

The world of gaming has come a long way since the days of clunky, cumbersome consoles tethered to a living room TV. With the advent of handheld gaming devices, players can now enjoy their favorite games on the go, without being held back by corded connections or cumbersome setup. But with so many options out there, choosing the right handheld can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best gaming handhelds for 2025, to help you make an informed decision.

The Rise of Handheld Gaming

The first handheld gaming devices emerged in the 1970s, with arcade games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. These early devices were basic, with limited graphics and gameplay only accessible in public spaces. Fast forward to the 1990s, when Nintendo released the Game Boy, a portable version of the popular 8-bit console. Suddenly, gamers could play their favorite games on the go! Since then, handheld gaming has come a long way, with advancements in technology, processing power, and portability.

Key Considerations for Choosing the Best Handheld

Before diving into our top picks, let’s consider the essential factors to keep in mind when selecting a handheld gaming device:

• Processors: Look for devices with powerful, high-performance processors like ARM Cortex-A53, ARM Cortex-A72, or AMD architectures.
• Display: Opt for devices with high-resolution, vibrant displays (at least 720p, preferably 1080p) for an immersive gaming experience.
• Storage: Ensure the device has ample storage capacity, whether internal (128GB+) or expandable via SD card slots.
• Game Selection: Consider the types of games and developers supported (Mario, Pokémon, Final Fantasy, or indie titles).
• Battery Life: Choose devices with long battery life (5+ hours) for extended gaming sessions.
• Connectivity: Ensure devices have Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and possibly USB-C or micro-USB connectivity.

The Top Handheld Gaming Devices for 2025

Based on these criteria, here’s a list of the top handheld gaming devices for 2025:

1. Nintendo Switch Lite

• Price: $200
• Processor: NVIDIA Tegra X1
• Display: 720p (5.56 inches)
• Storage: 32GB internal, expandable up to 128GB via microSD
• Games: Exclusive Nintendo titles, including Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon
• Battery Life: Up to 6 hours

The Nintendo Switch Lite is a compact, portable version of the original Switch, without the detachable Joy-Con controllers. Its lightweight design and impressive 3D gaming capabilities make it a great choice for fans of Nintendo’s iconic franchises.

2. PlayStation Vita TV (PSTV)

• Price: $300
• Processor: Quad-core ARM Cortex-A9
• Display: 720p (5 inches)
• Storage: 16GB internal, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• Games: Exclusive PlayStation Vita titles, including Gravity Rush and Persona
• Battery Life: Up to 4 hours

The PSTV is a portable, TV-connected console offering a range of PlayStation Vita games. Its sleek design and impressive graphics make it a great choice for fans of Remastered PS3 and PS1 games.

3. Razer Junglecat

• Price: $350
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 820
• Display: 1080p (6.65 inches)
• Storage: 64GB internal, expandable up to 256GB via microSD
• Games: Exclusive Razer first-party titles, including mobile games from popular franchises like Titanfall and Star Wars
• Battery Life: Up to 8 hours

The Razer Junglecat is a high-end, Android-based handheld with a focus on gaming performance. Its impressive display and customization options make it a great choice for those seeking a PC gaming experience on-the-go.

4. GPD Win 3

• Price: $400
• Processor: Intel x86-64 processor
• Display: 1080p (6.65 inches)
• Storage: 64GB internal, expandable up to 128GB via microSD
• Games: PC games, including ports of popular titles like Dota 2 and Overwatch
• Battery Life: Up to 6 hours

The GPD Win 3 is a powerful handheld PC with an Intel processor, running Windows 10. Its large display and A/B gamepad layout make it an ideal choice for PC gamers seeking a portable companion.

5. Anbernic RG350

• Price: $150
• Processor: ARChandler RISC processor
• Display: 720p (4.3 inches)
• Storage: 16GB internal, expandable up to 256GB via microSD
• Games: Retro handheld console games, including game ROMs of popular titles
• Battery Life: Up to 5 hours

The Anbernic RG350 is a budget-friendly, retro-focused handheld with a unique game library. Its compact design and lightweight build make it an excellent choice for those interested in revisiting classic games from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras.

In conclusion, the world of handheld gaming has never been more exciting. With these top picks, you can choose from a range of devices that cater to different gaming preferences, from Nintendo’s iconic franchises to PC portables and retro consoles. Remember to consider factors like processors, display, storage, and game selection when making your decision. Happy gaming!