

#HANDHELD STEAM PC#
The device can be reformatted to run PC games, or you can stream games using Moonlight or Steam Link. Instead, you'll have access to various emulators and mobile games. That means you won't have access to hit PC games right out of the box. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your preference), the Ayn Odin runs natively on Android. It's also an excellent option for retro gaming enthusiasts who want to experience the glory days of gaming without lugging around a laptop or bogging down their smartphone. The Ayn Odin is a quirky little device that starts at just $279.
#HANDHELD STEAM WINDOWS#
✗ Runs on Android, but can be modded for Windows support There's no point in picking something up if you can't play your personal favorites. If you have a few favorite games you're looking to play on your handheld PC, be sure to spend a few minutes researching whether or not they're accessible on your prospective device. As a result, running other games requires several workarounds (or they're simply unplayable). Some handhelds restrict you to games listed on specific storefronts. It's one thing to have the power to play a certain game, but another if your device supports it. This means what its specifications allow it to play and what the operating system allows it to play. It's not easy to cram an entire gaming PC into such a small space, and the products that do usually carry a hefty price tag.īefore purchasing, you'll also want to determine which games the handheld PC can play. Keep in mind that portability often comes at the expense of power. While many handheld PCs are remarkably slim and easy to stow away in a backpack or suitcase, some are slightly larger than the popular Nintendo Switch.

While everything in the "handheld gaming PC" category is technically a handheld device, some of them are teetering on the edge of "portable." Portability is another big factor to consider. Of course, the more you raise your budget, the more power you'll get. If you're a PC gamer looking for something reliable with enough juice to power some of today's hottest games, expect to spend at least $600. Handheld gaming PCs run the gamut from a few hundred bucks to over $1,000-and if you don't establish a spending limit upfront, it can be easy to let it creep out of control as you see what's available in higher price brackets. Here are some things to consider.įirst, you must figure out a budget. Now that the market has been flooded with products, it can be hard to narrow down your options. They feature various designs, specs, and price tags. After all, handheld gaming PCs combine the portability of a Nintendo Switch with the impressive performance of a high-end gaming laptop. The appeal of having a legitimate gaming rig in the palm of your hand is becoming increasingly attractive to consumers. What to Look For in a Handheld Gaming PC in 2023
