What is the best portable game console?

Great question! The best portable game console depends on what kind of gamer you are and what you want from your handheld. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders in 2025:

🎮 The Best Portable Game Consoles in 2025

1. Nintendo Switch OLED

  • Why it’s great:
    The Switch is still one of the best all-around handhelds. With its hybrid design, you can play on the go or dock it to your TV. The OLED screen looks fantastic, and Nintendo’s exclusive titles (Mario, Zelda, Pokémon) make it hard to beat.

  • Best for: Casual gamers, families, and anyone who loves Nintendo exclusives.

2. Steam Deck (OLED Edition)

  • Why it’s great:
    A portable PC in your hands. It plays AAA games from Steam, Epic Games, and even Xbox Game Pass with some tweaks. The new OLED model has better battery life and a stunning display.

  • Best for: Hardcore gamers who want PC-level gaming on the go.

3. Asus ROG Ally

  • Why it’s great:
    Runs on Windows 11, meaning you can install Steam, Xbox, Battle.net, and even emulators. It’s more powerful than the Steam Deck in raw performance but comes at a higher price.

  • Best for: Tech-savvy gamers who want flexibility and maximum performance.

4. Retro Handheld Consoles (like R36S, Anbernic, or Kinhank Super Console)

  • Why they’re great:
    If you love classic gaming (NES, SNES, PS1, PSP, even Dreamcast), retro handhelds are amazing. They’re affordable, lightweight, and packed with thousands of nostalgic titles.

  • Best for: Retro enthusiasts and casual players who love portability.

5. PlayStation Portal (PS5 Companion)

  • Why it’s great:
    Not a standalone console but a PS5 remote player. If you already own a PS5, this device streams your games to a handheld screen with DualSense features.

  • Best for: PlayStation fans who want to extend their PS5 to bed, travel, or the couch.

🏆 Final Verdict: Which is the Best?

  • Best Overall: Nintendo Switch OLED (perfect balance of games, price, and fun).

  • Best for Power Users: Steam Deck OLED.

  • Best for Retro Lovers: R36S or Kinhank retro handhelds.

  • Best for PlayStation Fans: PS Portal.

👉 If you’re shopping in the UK, many of these are available through Amazon UK, Argos, or specialty stores like Gameloopx Retro Handhelds.