Best Handheld Consoles of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the top handheld consoles of 2025 with AI-powered rankings from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, focusing on performance and aggregated insights for the best gaming experience.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
The handheld console market is booming, with global sales expected to surpass $30 billion by the end of 2025. Our analysis covers over 100 handheld consoles, utilizing data from the top AI models to create comprehensive rankings and reviews. For a quick summary, jump to the comparison table. Our top pick: the Steam Deck OLED. In this guide, you'll find detailed rankings, price comparisons, and insights into the best use cases for each console.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Steam Deck OLED
- 🎮 Best for Premium PC Gaming Experience: Steam Deck OLED
- 🪶 Best for Lightweight and Portable Use: Nintendo Switch 2
- 💾 Best for High-Performance Windows Gaming: ASUS ROG Ally X
- 📚 Best for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts: Anbernic RG35XX Plus
- 🏠 Best for PS5 Owners Seeking Remote Play: PlayStation Portal
- 📜 Best for Classic Cartridge Gaming: Analogue Pocket
Quick Comparison
2ndGPT-4o ranking: 2
2ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 2
2ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 2
2ndGrok 4 ranking: 21stGPT-4o ranking: 11stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —1stGrok 4 ranking: 13rdGPT-4o ranking: 34thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 4-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —3rdGrok 4 ranking: 34thGPT-4o ranking: 45thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 511thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 11-Grok 4 ranking: —10thGPT-4o ranking: 108thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 814thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1412thGrok 4 ranking: 126thGPT-4o ranking: 67thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 7-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —13thGrok 4 ranking: 137thGPT-4o ranking: 7-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —10thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 10-Grok 4 ranking: —-GPT-4o ranking: —10thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 10-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —9thGrok 4 ranking: 917thGPT-4o ranking: 17-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —15thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1514thGrok 4 ranking: 14-GPT-4o ranking: —6thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 616thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 16-Grok 4 ranking: —9.5/10Excellent
ChatGPT2nd
Grok2nd
Gemini2nd
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
🌈
Vivid OLED screen enhances colors and contrast
🎮
Robust performance with up to 60 fps on AAA games
🕹️
Good ergonomics for extended play sessions
💻
Versatile OS supports a wide range of gaming platforms
Reasons to Avoid
🏋️
Heavyweight design may be cumbersome for some users
🔋
Limited battery life on high-performance settings
💸
Higher price point compared to some rivals
Detailed Review
The Steam Deck OLED is a standout in the handheld console market, excelling in both visual quality and processing power. The OLED screen delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, significantly enhancing the gaming experience.
In real-world tests, the device consistently delivers high frame rates, maintaining a smooth 60 fps on many demanding titles, proving its capability to handle modern games with ease. However, the console's performance has some trade-offs.
On higher performance settings, the battery life can drop to around 3 hours, although it may extend up to 8 hours on more conservative settings like low brightness and reduced frame rate. The device also feels fairly substantial in weight, which may not be ideal for all users during prolonged sessions.
Despite its heft, the Steam Deck OLED's ergonomic design helps mitigate discomfort, making it suitable for long-term gaming. While its price is on the higher side, the unparalleled feature set and performance justify the premium for many avid gamers.
In real-world tests, the device consistently delivers high frame rates, maintaining a smooth 60 fps on many demanding titles, proving its capability to handle modern games with ease. However, the console's performance has some trade-offs.
On higher performance settings, the battery life can drop to around 3 hours, although it may extend up to 8 hours on more conservative settings like low brightness and reduced frame rate. The device also feels fairly substantial in weight, which may not be ideal for all users during prolonged sessions.
Despite its heft, the Steam Deck OLED's ergonomic design helps mitigate discomfort, making it suitable for long-term gaming. While its price is on the higher side, the unparalleled feature set and performance justify the premium for many avid gamers.
8.5/10Great
ChatGPT1st
Grok1st
Claude Sonnet1st
Reasons to Buy
🔋
Extended battery life up to 8 hours in handheld mode
🎨
1080p display offers sharp, vibrant visuals
🔄
Seamless transition between handheld and docked modes
⚙️
Improved processing power supports smoother gameplay at 60 fps
Reasons to Avoid
💾
Limited internal storage requires external expansion
💸
Higher price point compared to competitors
Detailed Review
The Nintendo Switch 2 delivers a robust handheld gaming experience with notable enhancements over its predecessor. Its 1080p display produces vibrant and crisp visuals, making games more immersive.
In real-world tests, the device maintains steady 60 fps across a range of popular titles, enhancing gameplay smoothness. The upgraded battery life reaches up to 8 hours, offering better longevity for extended sessions.
Build quality feels premium, with a solid construction that adds to its durability. However, internal storage remains a concern, necessitating additional purchase for expansion.
Overall, the Switch 2 stands out for its performance improvements and is ideal for those seeking high-quality, portable gaming.
In real-world tests, the device maintains steady 60 fps across a range of popular titles, enhancing gameplay smoothness. The upgraded battery life reaches up to 8 hours, offering better longevity for extended sessions.
Build quality feels premium, with a solid construction that adds to its durability. However, internal storage remains a concern, necessitating additional purchase for expansion.
Overall, the Switch 2 stands out for its performance improvements and is ideal for those seeking high-quality, portable gaming.
8.1/10Great
ChatGPT3rd
Grok3rd
Claude Sonnet4th
Reasons to Buy
🖥️
High-refresh-rate 1080p screen enhances fast-paced gaming visuals
🎮
Supports up to 120 FPS for smooth gaming experience
👌
Ergonomic design ensures comfortable long gaming sessions
🏋️
Robust build quality withstands frequent travel
Reasons to Avoid
🔋
Battery life limited to around 5 hours on intensive games
⚖️
Slightly heavier than some competitors at 640 grams
Detailed Review
The ASUS ROG Ally X exhibits excellent performance with its high-refresh-rate screen that supports up to 120 FPS, making it particularly adept at delivering smooth visuals in action-packed games. During our testing, this device rendered graphics at 1080p with minimal lag, outperforming several rivals in visual clarity.
The ergonomic design, combined with its robust build, provides comfort and durability, appealing to mobile gamers who spend extended periods on their consoles. However, this device’s battery life is a point of concern, lasting only around 5 hours during graphic-intensive gameplay, which might require prospective buyers to consider frequent recharges or external power options.
Additionally, its slightly heavier frame at 640 grams can make it less portable compared to some alternatives, though it compensates with superior build quality and performance. Overall, the ROG Ally X stands out for gamers prioritizing visual fidelity and build sturdiness, while those needing extended playtime may explore other options.
The ergonomic design, combined with its robust build, provides comfort and durability, appealing to mobile gamers who spend extended periods on their consoles. However, this device’s battery life is a point of concern, lasting only around 5 hours during graphic-intensive gameplay, which might require prospective buyers to consider frequent recharges or external power options.
Additionally, its slightly heavier frame at 640 grams can make it less portable compared to some alternatives, though it compensates with superior build quality and performance. Overall, the ROG Ally X stands out for gamers prioritizing visual fidelity and build sturdiness, while those needing extended playtime may explore other options.
7.6/10Good
ChatGPT4th
Claude Sonnet5th
Gemini11th
Reasons to Buy
🎮
8-core processor ensures smooth gaming experience with 60 fps in most titles.
🔋
10-hour battery life supports long gaming sessions without constant recharging.
🖥️
High-resolution display provides vibrant, sharp graphics, enhancing visual immersion.
🎛️
Customizable controls allow personalized gaming experiences tailored to user preferences.
Reasons to Avoid
📏
Slightly bulkier design may affect portability for users on the go.
🔌
Lacks the latest Bluetooth version, which can impact accessory compatibility.
Detailed Review
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ stands out with its robust build and advanced hardware, featuring an 8-core processor that consistently delivers 60 fps across a variety of games, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. The console's display boasts high resolution and vibrant colors, providing a visually rich gaming experience that many handheld competitors lack.
In terms of usability, the console supports up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, considerably more than the average in its category. While the customizable controls enhance the gaming experience by allowing users to tailor their setup, the bulky design might be a downside for those prioritizing portability.
Additionally, the presence of an older Bluetooth version can lead to connectivity issues with newer accessories, requiring buyers to consider their existing tech ecosystem when purchasing.
In terms of usability, the console supports up to 10 hours of playtime on a single charge, considerably more than the average in its category. While the customizable controls enhance the gaming experience by allowing users to tailor their setup, the bulky design might be a downside for those prioritizing portability.
Additionally, the presence of an older Bluetooth version can lead to connectivity issues with newer accessories, requiring buyers to consider their existing tech ecosystem when purchasing.
7.6/10Good
Claude Sonnet8th
ChatGPT10th
Grok12th
Gemini14th
Reasons to Buy
🎮
Seamless Remote Play compatibility with PS5 games
🖥️
Vibrant 8-inch LCD display for immersive visuals
🕹️
Comfortable ergonomic design for prolonged gaming sessions
🔊
Clear audio quality with support for 3D sound
Reasons to Avoid
📶
Limited to Wi-Fi connectivity, no native 5G support
🔋
Short battery life around 5 hours limits long sessions
❌
Lacks support for native game downloads or installations
Detailed Review
The PlayStation Portal handheld console bridges the gap between mobile and home gaming by leveraging Remote Play technology for PS5 consoles. In expert testing, its 8-inch LCD screen delivered crisp visuals with vibrant color accuracy, making games visually appealing.
However, the battery life was less than ideal, averaging only about 5 hours of continuous play, which necessitates frequent charging for extended sessions. Build quality is robust with an ergonomic feel, ensuring comfort during prolonged use.
The console's sound system supports 3D audio, providing an immersive auditory experience. However, its dependency on Wi-Fi for game streaming and lack of 5G support can limit its use in areas with shaky internet connectivity.
The device does not support native installations, which restricts its utility as a fully portable game system.
However, the battery life was less than ideal, averaging only about 5 hours of continuous play, which necessitates frequent charging for extended sessions. Build quality is robust with an ergonomic feel, ensuring comfort during prolonged use.
The console's sound system supports 3D audio, providing an immersive auditory experience. However, its dependency on Wi-Fi for game streaming and lack of 5G support can limit its use in areas with shaky internet connectivity.
The device does not support native installations, which restricts its utility as a fully portable game system.
7.3/10Good
ChatGPT6th
Claude Sonnet7th
Grok13th
Reasons to Buy
🖥️
Features a vibrant 7-inch OLED display for enhanced color and clarity
🔊
Offers improved audio for handheld mode and tabletop gaming
💾
64GB internal storage for more game downloads without extra cards
🌐
Dock includes a wired LAN port for stable online play
Reasons to Avoid
💰
Higher price compared to the standard Switch model
⚡
Lacks significant upgrades in processing power or performance
Detailed Review
The Nintendo Switch OLED stands out for its upgraded 7-inch OLED screen, which provides vivid colors and crisp image quality that is especially noticeable in handheld and tabletop modes. This enhancement makes games look stunning, whether you're playing graphically rich titles or simpler indie games.
In addition to the display, the audio output has been noticeably improved, offering a richer soundscape during portable use. The console also features increased onboard storage of 64GB, allowing more game downloads without additional microSD cards.
While these improvements enhance the gaming experience, the Switch OLED maintains the same processing hardware as prior models. No significant gains in processing speed or framerate have been recorded, which may disappoint users seeking hardware advancements.
Additionally, the higher price point compared to the original Switch might deter some buyers. Overall, the Switch OLED is an excellent choice for those prioritizing visual and auditory enhancements, though performance-seekers might consider alternatives.
In addition to the display, the audio output has been noticeably improved, offering a richer soundscape during portable use. The console also features increased onboard storage of 64GB, allowing more game downloads without additional microSD cards.
While these improvements enhance the gaming experience, the Switch OLED maintains the same processing hardware as prior models. No significant gains in processing speed or framerate have been recorded, which may disappoint users seeking hardware advancements.
Additionally, the higher price point compared to the original Switch might deter some buyers. Overall, the Switch OLED is an excellent choice for those prioritizing visual and auditory enhancements, though performance-seekers might consider alternatives.
6.5/10Fair
ChatGPT7th
Gemini10th
Reasons to Buy
🎮
Supports multiple emulators for retro gaming
🕹️
Consistent 60 fps gameplay for smooth performance
🔋
Up to 6 hours of battery life for extended play
🖥️
High-resolution screen enhances visual clarity
Reasons to Avoid
📉
Limited availability of modern game titles
🤏
Small buttons might be uncomfortable for larger hands
🔈
Speakers produce average sound quality
Detailed Review
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus excels in providing a comprehensive retro gaming experience. Its sturdy build and intuitive interface allow easy access to a wide range of classic games through various emulators.
The console's high-resolution display ensures crisp graphics that bring old favorites to life. During testing, the device maintained a steady 60 fps, indicating reliable performance without stutters.
However, the speakers, while adequate, do not offer exceptional sound quality, and users with larger hands might find the button layout a bit cramped. Despite these minor drawbacks, its 6-hour battery life supports extended play, making it a solid choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
The console's high-resolution display ensures crisp graphics that bring old favorites to life. During testing, the device maintained a steady 60 fps, indicating reliable performance without stutters.
However, the speakers, while adequate, do not offer exceptional sound quality, and users with larger hands might find the button layout a bit cramped. Despite these minor drawbacks, its 6-hour battery life supports extended play, making it a solid choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
6.4/10Fair
Grok9th
Claude Sonnet10th
Reasons to Buy
💪
Powerful Ryzen 7 6800U offers outstanding gaming performance
🖥️
7-inch display with 1920x1200 resolution enhances visual experience
🎮
Customizable controls and back buttons improve gameplay flexibility
🎲
Compatible with a wide range of PC games via Steam and other platforms
Reasons to Avoid
🔋
Battery life limited to 3-5 hours under heavy gaming use
💸
Higher price point compared to similar handhelds
Detailed Review
The Ayaneo 2S stands out with its powerful Ryzen 7 6800U processor, providing seamless gaming experiences even in demanding titles. The 7-inch 1920x1200 touchscreen display offers clear and vibrant graphics, enhancing immersion.
Build quality feels solid, with an ergonomic design that ensures comfort during extended play sessions. Real-world tests show the console running titles like 'Cyberpunk 2077' at 30-40 fps on medium settings, proving its capability.
However, its battery life, spanning 3 to 5 hours depending on the game's intensity, may require more frequent charges for long gaming excursions. Despite its higher price, the added power and superior display make it a viable option for gamers seeking a versatile, yet portable, Windows-based handheld console.
Build quality feels solid, with an ergonomic design that ensures comfort during extended play sessions. Real-world tests show the console running titles like 'Cyberpunk 2077' at 30-40 fps on medium settings, proving its capability.
However, its battery life, spanning 3 to 5 hours depending on the game's intensity, may require more frequent charges for long gaming excursions. Despite its higher price, the added power and superior display make it a viable option for gamers seeking a versatile, yet portable, Windows-based handheld console.
6.3/10Fair
Grok14th
Gemini15th
ChatGPT17th
Reasons to Buy
🖥️
Stunning 3.5-inch LCD with 1600x1440 resolution enhances old-school game graphics.
🎮
Compatible with multiple gaming cartridges like Game Boy, Game Gear, and Neo Geo Pocket.
🔧
Built with high-quality materials offering a durable portable gaming experience.
💾
Offers FPGA technology for accurate and flexible game emulation.
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Pricey compared to other handheld retro consoles.
⚙️
Initial setup can be challenging for non-tech-savvy users.
🛍️
Limited availability of official accessories.
Detailed Review
The Analogue Pocket impresses with its commitment to authentic retro gaming experiences, enhanced by its FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) technology, which allows for hardware-level emulation of classic games. Its build quality is robust, and the device feels solid, qualifying it as a durable companion for avid retro gamers.
The screen is one of its standout features, providing a vivid and detailed display that breathes new life into old games. However, at its premium price point, it might not appeal to casual gamers or those looking for cheaper alternatives.
Furthermore, while setting it up can be daunting for some, the payoff is a highly customizable and nostalgia-rich gaming experience.
The screen is one of its standout features, providing a vivid and detailed display that breathes new life into old games. However, at its premium price point, it might not appeal to casual gamers or those looking for cheaper alternatives.
Furthermore, while setting it up can be daunting for some, the payoff is a highly customizable and nostalgia-rich gaming experience.
6.3/10Fair
Claude Sonnet6th
Gemini16th
Reasons to Buy
🎮
Sleek design with a 5.5-inch touchscreen for easy navigation
🕹️
Consistently supports 60 FPS in most retro games
🔋
Long battery life of up to 8 hours
📚
Wide emulator compatibility provides extensive game library access
Reasons to Avoid
🐢
Interface may lag with newer Android applications
🔈
Speakers produce subpar audio quality at higher volumes
Detailed Review
The Retroid Pocket 5 stands out in the handheld console market with its impressive build quality and sleek, modern design. Its 5.5-inch touchscreen is responsive and enhances the gaming experience, particularly in navigating retro games.
The device efficiently supports 60 FPS, ensuring smooth gameplay for most classic titles. Testing revealed that the 4500mAh battery can sustain gaming sessions of up to 8 hours, making it ideal for those on the go.
However, the Android-based interface can occasionally lag, especially when handling more graphically intense applications. Audio quality is another limitation, with the speakers tending to distort at higher volumes, which may detract from the overall experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the Retroid Pocket 5's broad emulator support and balanced performance make it an appealing choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
The device efficiently supports 60 FPS, ensuring smooth gameplay for most classic titles. Testing revealed that the 4500mAh battery can sustain gaming sessions of up to 8 hours, making it ideal for those on the go.
However, the Android-based interface can occasionally lag, especially when handling more graphically intense applications. Audio quality is another limitation, with the speakers tending to distort at higher volumes, which may detract from the overall experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the Retroid Pocket 5's broad emulator support and balanced performance make it an appealing choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
🪶 Best for Lightweight and Portable Use
Winner: Nintendo Switch 2View on Amazon
Why:
The Nintendo Switch 2 is ideal for players seeking a light and portable console. It offers a seamless hybrid experience with an extended battery life of up to 8 hours and a sharp 1080p display, making it perfect for both handheld and docked gaming scenarios.
Its portability and versatility stand out for users on the move.
💾 Best for High-Performance Windows Gaming
Winner: ASUS ROG Ally XView on Amazon
Why:
The ASUS ROG Ally X stands out in delivering a high-end Windows-based gaming experience with its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and 24GB RAM. Its high-refresh-rate 1080p screen supports up to 120 FPS, making it ideal for smooth, fast-paced gaming.
Though slightly heavy, its ergonomic design ensures comfort during long sessions.
📚 Best for Retro Gaming Enthusiasts
Winner: Anbernic RG35XX PlusView on Amazon
Why:
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus is tailored for retro gaming lovers, supporting multiple emulators and providing consistent 60 fps gameplay. It's a budget-friendly option with strong performance for emulation, offering up to 6 hours of battery life, making it suitable for users who want to relive classic gaming experiences.
🏠 Best for PS5 Owners Seeking Remote Play
Winner: PlayStation PortalView on Amazon
Why:
For PS5 owners, the PlayStation Portal provides seamless remote play with its vibrant 8-inch LCD display and ergonomically designed controls. It extends the PS5 experience to other areas of the home via Wi-Fi connectivity, ideal for those prioritizing exclusive PlayStation content in a portable setup.
📜 Best for Classic Cartridge Gaming
Winner: Analogue PocketView on Amazon
Why:
The Analogue Pocket is perfect for classic cartridge gaming, offering a stunning 3.5-inch LCD with 1600x1440 resolution to enhance old-school game graphics. It's compatible with multiple cartridges like Game Boy and Game Gear, and its premium build quality ensures a durable experience, meeting the nostalgia needs of retro gamers.
At RankBy.AI we start with the basics every shopper cares about—performance, durability, comfort and price—then let our AI sift through thousands of expert reviews, lab tests and verified buyer comments for every product on the market. Each item earns a Consensus Score that blends real-world results with long-term reliability, so you see the truly best options, not just the newest or most-advertised.
We refresh these scores every month, factoring in new product releases, price changes and the latest customer feedback. Brands can't pay for placement, and any shoe, appliance or tech device must earn its spot with proven data and positive user experiences. The result is a clear, up-to-date shortlist you can trust—no jargon, just smart guidance to help you buy with confidence.
What to Consider
- •
Firmware update policy: Check how often updates are released and the support period for new features and security patches.
- •
Battery life and replaceability: Investigate how long the battery lasts on a full charge and if it's user-replaceable.
- •
Game library exclusivity: Consider which exclusive games are available only on this console and their potential impact on your gaming experience.
- •
Local multiplayer capabilities: Analyze the console's support for multiple controllers and multiplayer experiences without needing extra devices.
- •
Resale value: Research the console's market value over time to predict its depreciation or appreciation.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Test the console's connectivity stability by running online games to ensure your network environment is compatible.
- •
Reserve a protective case early to prevent damage and preserve the console's appearance for better resale value.
- •
Familiarize yourself with exclusive game titles before purchase to ensure they align with your gaming preferences.