Portable game consoles continue to win the hearts of gamers around the world due to their versatility. They allow you to play your favorite games anywhere: home, on the road or in nature. Such devices offer a wide range of functions: from running modern games to emulating older platforms. Compared to smartphones, consoles have physical buttons for convenient control, and their mobility and performance make them a good alternative to a PC. Below is presented 10 the best models of portable game consoles according to our editors.
Rating of the best game consoles 2025. Top 10
Valve Steam Deck
Steam Deck is a real portable computer, that works on SteamOS and supports Windows 11. The console is equipped with a powerful iron: processor AMD Zen2 and graphics based RDNA2, which allows you to run even the most demanding games.
- Features: Steam library support, the possibility of installing emulators and applications.
- Display: 7-inch with high definition image.
- Working time: to 8 hours (depending on the load).
Pluses: big screen, convenient management, the possibility of connecting to monitors and gamepads.
Cons: heavy weight (669 g), fast discharge during heavy games.
Nintendo Switch OLED
Nintendo Switch OLED — one of the most popular portable consoles thanks to the bright 7-inch OLED display and support as portable, and stationary game mode.
- Features: the possibility of connecting to a TV, a wide range of games from Nintendo and third-party developers.
- Autonomy: to 9 hours.
Pluses: quality screen, versatility, convenient management.
Cons: high price.
Nintendo Switch Lite
Nintendo Switch Lite — a compact version of the Switch without the possibility of connecting to a TV. The console is ideal for children and fans of portable games.
- Features: support for all Switch games, light weight (275 g).
- Working time: to 6 hours.
Pluses: compact design, several color variants of the case, access to a large library of games.
Cons: there is no possibility to connect to the TV.
ASUS ROG Ally
It is powerful portable Windows console 11 with a productive processor AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which provides high-level graphics.
- Features: the ability to run PC games, connecting accessories, Xbox Game Pass support.
- Display: 7-inch Full HD.
Pluses: high performance, big screen, the possibility of working both from a PC.
Cons: high cost.
Anbernic RG35XX
Compact console for fans retro games, which supports emulators of old platforms: NES, Sega Mega Drive, PS1 etc.
- Features: 5 000 pre-installed games, microSD support.
- Display: 3,5-inch IPS screen.
Pluses: compact, affordable price, many games.
Cons: small screen, awkward rear chickens.
Retroid Pocket 3+
Portable console of Android 11, which supports platforms PS2, GameCube and many others. Thanks to the ability to download applications from Google Play, Retroid Pocket 3+ becomes a universal gaming device.
- Features: HDMI port, microSD support, compact size.
- Working time: to 7 hours.
Pluses: long battery life, light weight, support for modern and retro games.
Cons: small screen (4,7 inch).
GPD Win 4
This is a powerful hybrid laptop and console, that works on Windows 11. The model supports modern games, and is also convenient for work on the road.
- Features: physical keyboard, Xbox Game Pass support.
- Display: 6-inch with Full HD resolution.
Pluses: productivity, PC functionality, compact design.
Cons: high price.
In Odin Pro
Console on the base Android, which is suitable for mobile games, and for emulating old platforms.
- Features: 6-inch display, powerful battery (6 000 mAg).
- Working time: to 8 hours.
Pluses: productivity, long autonomy, Google Play support.
Cons: heavy weight.
Playdate
Playdate is a unique console with monochrome screen and creative control using a rotary knob. Perfect for indie games.
- Features: stylish design, compactness.
- Working time: to 8 hours.
Pluses: uniqueness, light weight, affordable price.
Cons: limited game library.
Logitech G Cloud
Logitech G Cloud - console for cloud gaming with support Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce Now.
- Features: large 7-inch display, access to cloud platforms.
- Working time: to 12 hours.
Pluses: easy access to cloud services, long working hours.
Cons: dependence on internet connection.
IN 2025 year, the choice of portable game consoles has become even wider. Modern online stores offer game consoles of different price categories in a wide assortment – from powerful devices, how Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, to budget models for retro games, how Anbernic RG35XX — every gamer will find an ideal option for their needs.
How to choose a portable game console
We are ready to spend a lot of time playing our favorite games. That's why it's important, so that the pleasure of the process is not spoiled by low image quality, hangs or other problems. Before buying a portable game console, there are several key parameters to consider:
1. Productivity
The performance of the device is determined by the processor and the amount of RAM.
- Processor: The more powerful the chip, the smoother the games will run, even the most demanding. If you buy a console of a lesser-known brand, be sure to check the processor model and its specifications.
- RAM (RAM): Data processing speed depends on its volume. More RAM means faster launch and operation of games, as well as the ability to run resource-intensive applications.
2. Graphics
Responsible for image quality graphics processor. The more powerful the graphics core, the better the special effects will be, detail and dynamics. However, it is important to take into account the possibilities of the game itself: not all old games will be able to show the maximum graphic potential of new consoles.
3. Screen resolution and size
Resolution affects the clarity and detail of the image. A higher resolution provides a high-quality picture, but may reduce battery life.
- Display size: Choose a console with a diagonal screen, that will be comfortable for your eyes. Too small a display can create inconvenience during a long game.
- Matrix: Example, IPS matrices provide a bright picture with natural colors and a good viewing angle, which is especially important for portable devices.
4. Availability of games
The number and quality of available games depends on the console platform:
- Pre-installed games: Some models, like Anbernic, already have thousands of games included.
- Exclusives: It is important to consider, that manufacturers have exclusive projects. Example, Legend of Zelda available only on Nintendo Switch.
- Game stores: Windows consoles, like Steam Deck, give access to Steam, and Android consoles support Google Play.
It is worth determining before buying, which games are you interested in?, and check their compatibility with the selected model.
5. Autonomous working time
Battery life is a critical parameter for a portable console.
- Battery capacity: The more mAh, the longer the console will work without recharging.
- Actual working hours: Usually, manufacturers indicate an approximate indicator, which depends on the brightness of the screen, graphic settings and game type. Demanding games can quickly drain the battery.
6. Interfaces and connections
The presence of interfaces expands the functionality of the console:
- Bluetooth: For connecting wireless accessories (gamepads, headphones, keyboards).
- Wi-Fi: Allows you to download games, update or play online.
- HDMI port: Allows you to connect the console to a TV or monitor for big-screen gaming.
7. Ease of use
A portable console should be easy to use:
- Size and weight: The device should easily fit in a bag or pocket. A heavy model can cause fatigue during prolonged use.
- Ergonomics: Comfort buttons, analog sticks and overall design makes a big difference for long gaming sessions. Be sure to check out the user reviews.
Conclusion
The choice of a portable game console depends on the individual needs of the gamer and the features of use. It is important to be clear before buying, what is your priority:
- Modern AAA projects: If you plan to play the latest games with high graphics requirements, it is worth stopping at powerful models, such as Steam Deck or ASUS ROG Ally, which have productive processors and modern graphics solutions.
- Retro games: For fans of classic projects, such as games from PlayStation platforms 1, Sega and NES, budget and compact consoles are suitable for example Anbernic RG35XX or Retroid Pocket 3+.
- Hybrid platforms: If you're looking for a versatile device that can run like modern games, and retro content, supported consoles should be considered emulators and systems on the base Windows or Android, example GPD Win 4 or In Odin Pro.
When choosing, it is important to evaluate console performance, including the processor and amount of RAM, because the speed of the device depends on them. Also pay attention to image quality: a powerful graphics processor and a high-quality screen with HD or Full HD resolution will give you maximum pleasure from the visual component of the game.
No less important are autonomy and ergonomics. A powerful battery will allow you to play longer without recharging, and the comfortable design and convenient location of the buttons will provide a pleasant gaming experience even on the road. Supported models Bluetooth and Wi-Fi significantly expand functionality: you will be able to connect wireless accessories, play online or use the console as a multimedia center.
It should also be taken into account availability of games for a specific model. Platforms like Nintendo Switch offer exclusives, not available for other devices, while Steam Deck and similar models open access to extensive libraries of PC games.
So, the optimal console is a device, that meets your performance needs, graphics, autonomy and availability of games. Whether, Are you a fan of retro games?, fan of modern projects or looking for a universal solution, market 2025 year offers a wide selection of portable consoles for any gamer. The right choice will provide you with real pleasure from the game anywhere and at any time!
