Affiliate disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Anbernic affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
This guide has been superseded. We've published an updated, more comprehensive buyer's guide: Best PC Gaming Handhelds 2025: The Complete Buyer's Guide. It covers the latest devices including the Lenovo Legion Go S (SteamOS) and updated pricing. The overview below is preserved for reference but may contain outdated information.
The premium handheld market is now dominated by Windows-based devices capable of running modern PC games, not just retro titles. Here's how the top contenders stack up.
Steam Deck OLED ($549–$649)
Still the best value in premium handhelds. The OLED model's screen is stunning. SteamOS is the best handheld OS in existence.
ASUS ROG Ally ($699)
Raw performance king. The AMD Z1 Extreme chip outperforms the Steam Deck's custom APU. Windows 11 can be clunky but Armoury Crate helps.
Lenovo Legion Go ($699)
The largest display of the bunch (8.8"). Detachable controllers are a genuinely clever touch. Battery life is a concern.
Which Should You Buy?
- Best overall: Steam Deck OLED
- Best performance: ROG Ally
- Best display: Lenovo Legion Go