The Best Handheld Gaming PCs
Introduction: Gaming has transcended boundaries, and today, it is not limited to stationary consoles or PCs. The world of gaming has expanded to fit right in the palm of your hand, thanks to the rise of handheld gaming PCs. These powerful devices combine the convenience of portable gaming with the capabilities of a high-performance computer, delivering an unparalleled gaming experience on the go. In this article, we will explore the best handheld gaming PCs available on the market, designed to cater to the needs of both casual and hardcore gamers.
1. Alienware UFO: Gaming's Extraterrestrial Delight The Alienware UFO is a powerful handheld gaming PC that has taken the gaming world by storm. Featuring a stunning 8-inch display with a high refresh rate and an ergonomic design, it provides an immersive gaming experience. Equipped with the latest Intel processor and a dedicated NVIDIA GPU, this device ensures seamless performance for graphically demanding games. With the option to connect it to an external display, the Alienware UFO seamlessly transitions from a handheld gaming device to a full-fledged gaming console.
As of my last update, the speculated specifications for the Alienware UFO were:
Processor: Intel Core i5 or i7 (specific generation not specified)
Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD or Iris Xe Graphics (not specified if there was a dedicated GPU option)
RAM: Not specified, likely at least 8GB or higher.
Storage: Not specified, likely included options for SSD storage.
Display: Probably around 7-8 inches with a high refresh rate.
Operating System: Windows 10.
2. GPD WIN Max: Your Portable Gaming Arsenal Designed specifically for gaming enthusiasts, the GPD WIN Max offers a sleek and compact design without compromising on performance. Sporting an Intel Core i5 processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, this handheld powerhouse can run AAA titles effortlessly. Its ergonomic controller layout and backlit keyboard enhance the gaming experience, making it an ideal choice for long gaming sessions on the move.
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, the GPD WIN Max is a handheld gaming device developed by GPD (GamePad Digital). It's a compact gaming laptop in a clamshell design with a built-in controller, making it suitable for gaming on the go. Below are the specifications of the GPD WIN Max based on the information available up to September 2021:
Processor: Intel Core i5-1035G7 or Intel Core i5-1135G7 (both quad-core processors from the 11th Gen Intel Core Tiger Lake series).
Graphics: Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (integrated in the 11th Gen Intel Core processors).
RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X RAM (dual-channel configuration for improved performance).
Storage: Options for 512GB or 1TB M.2 NVMe SSD.
Display: 8-inch H-IPS touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280x800 pixels.
Battery: Large 57Wh battery for extended gaming sessions.
Operating System: Windows 10 Home.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, various USB ports, HDMI, Ethernet port (via a separate adapter), headphone jack.
Controls: Built-in gamepad controls, including D-pad, analog sticks, and various buttons, similar to a game controller.
Keyboard: QWERTY keyboard integrated into the device.
Weight: Approximately 800 grams (1.76 pounds).
3. AYA Neo: Redefining Handheld Gaming The AYA Neo is a game-changer in the world of handheld gaming PCs. Powered by AMD's Ryzen 5 processor with integrated Radeon graphics, this device packs a punch in a small form factor. Its 7-inch touchscreen display and customizable controls ensure a comfortable gaming experience for every user. Whether you're playing the latest AAA title or retro classics, the AYA Neo delivers top-notch performance.
As of my last update in September 2021, the AYA Neo was a handheld gaming device that was released with the following specifications:
CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 4500U (6 cores, 6 threads, up to 4.0 GHz)
GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 6 Graphics
RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X
Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD
Display: 7-inch 1280x800 IPS touchscreen display
Battery: 47Wh
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
Ports: 1 x USB-A, 1 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm audio jack, 1 x MicroSD card slot
OS: Windows 10
Controls: Built-in game controllers (dual analog sticks, D-pad, A/B/X/Y buttons, triggers, bumpers)
4. Smach Z: Power and Portability Unite The Smach Z combines the best of both worlds, boasting the portability of a handheld gaming device and the power of a gaming PC. It is equipped with an AMD Ryzen processor and AMD Radeon Vega graphics, making it capable of handling demanding games without breaking a sweat. The Smach Z's controller layout resembles a traditional gaming console, providing familiarity and ease of use for gamers of all kinds.
As of my last update, the following were some of the key specs and features of the Smach Z:
CPU: AMD Ryzen Embedded V1605B (4 cores, 8 threads)
GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 8 Graphics
RAM: Up to 16GB DDR4
Storage: Various options for internal storage, such as 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.
Display: 6-inch touchscreen display, with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels.
Controls: The console features built-in gamepad controls, including a D-pad, analog sticks, buttons, and triggers.
Operating System: Linux-based operating system, Smach OS, which is optimized for gaming.
Connectivity: USB Type-C, USB-A, Micro HDMI, Micro SD card slot, headphone jack, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
Battery: A built-in rechargeable battery to power the device on the go.
Steam Compatibility: Smach Z is designed to be compatible with Steam and other PC gaming platforms, allowing users to play their existing library of PC games.
5. ONEXPLAYER: Embrace the Gaming Revolution The ONEXPLAYER is a handheld gaming PC that aims to revolutionize the gaming experience. With its Intel Core i7 processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, it offers top-tier performance in a compact design. Its 8.4-inch 2K resolution display with touch support ensures visual clarity and smooth interactions. The ONEXPLAYER supports multiple gaming platforms, allowing you to enjoy games from various ecosystems effortlessly.
As of September 2021, the ONEXPLAYER featured the following specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i7-1195G7 or Intel Core i7-1185G7
Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X
Storage: NVMe SSD (various capacities available)
Display: 8.4-inch IPS touchscreen display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels
Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (at the time of my knowledge cutoff, Windows 11 was announced but not yet officially released)
Ports: USB Type-A, USB Type-C, HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack, and microSD card slot
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth
Battery: 11,500mAh
Additional Features: Built-in controller buttons and analog sticks, cooling fan, speakers
Conclusion:
The era of handheld gaming PCs has ushered in a new age of gaming freedom. These innovative devices provide the best of both worlds, combining the convenience of portability with the raw power of high-performance gaming PCs. From the Alienware UFO's extraterrestrial experience to the ONEXPLAYER's gaming revolution, each handheld gaming PC mentioned in this article stands out for its unique features and capabilities.
When selecting the best handheld gaming PC for your needs, consider factors such as processing power, graphics capabilities, display quality, and overall design. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, these handheld gaming PCs are sure to deliver an unforgettable gaming experience wherever you go. Embrace the gaming revolution in the palm of your hand and elevate your gaming journey to new heights!