Handheld gaming PCs have become increasingly popular in recent years. Offering the ability to play the latest titles comfortably while on the go has brought a new level of enjoyment to gameplay and encouraged many gamers to try out the latest devices.
Just like in the iGaming industry, where many good instant withdrawal online casinos compete to attract players, the latest handheld gaming PCs offer standout features to deliver a unique gaming experience. While online casinos offer large game libraries and fantastic customer support, new handhelds boast unique hardware configurations and software tweaks that showcase each brand’s personality and excellent performance.
With many new models due to be released in 2025, we’ve looked at what’s currently available and what’s due for release to see which handheld PC is likely to reign supreme this year.
MSI Claw
The MSI Claw is one of the highest-rated handhelds currently available. The latest model, the Claw 8 AI+, offers impressive specs for a handheld. The device uses Windows 11 and gives access to a staggering number of games through trusted platforms like EA, Epic Games, Steam, and Xbox Games while allowing you to install any other anticipated game supported by Windows.
Although available in various configurations, almost all Claws are powered by Intel Ultra processors bundled with Intel Arc graphics, providing crisp visuals that look stunning on the seven- or eight-inch screen (depending on the model).
The unique AI engine found within the MSI Center M management system helps adjust power usage and performance based on your gaming activity to offer seamless gameplay with an extended battery. High-quality finishes, such as enhanced bass speakers, buttons with great tactile response, and a leading ergonomic design, make the Claw popular for playing almost any game—even among serious gamers.
Aside from the somewhat limited storage, one of the most significant complaints against the Claw is the high price. Due to the quality components under the hood, it is pricier than alternatives. This has prompted MSI to hint at a model being released with 16GB of RAM (rather than the standard 32GB), which should reduce the price slightly.
Lenovo Legion Go
As the world’s biggest PC manufacturer, Lenovo is a tried and trusted supplier of exceptional-quality PCs. The Legion Go, released under the company’s gaming brand, is no different. It offers detachable controllers (similar to the Nintendo Switch) and an impressive 144Hz screen.
Also powered by Windows 11, the device can access all prominent game stores and run games efficiently using its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. Featuring an integrated kickstand, the Legion Go also supports hands-free gaming using its detachable controllers and excels as a media streamer via apps like Netflix and Disney+.
Scheduled for release in 2025, the Legion Go 2 and Legion Go S aim to build on the success of the original Go by adding new and improved features. While the Legion Go 2’s features are mostly hardware-related, including a larger battery and more RAM, the Go S is likely to attract the most attention.
Said to be released with the choice of either Windows 11 or SteamOS, the Go S is expected to be significantly cheaper if you opt for the SteamOS version. This option, running the open-source platform from Steam, will limit game options to those found on the popular gaming store but will also avoid problems with Lenovo’s Space software, which many users have complained about.
Asus ROG Ally X
Like the MSI Claw, one of the main complaints about the Asus ROG Ally X is its higher price compared to options like the Legion Go and Steam Deck. However, the price is justifiable when considering the impressive performance the Ally X provides.
Powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, the device features a 7-inch, 120Hz screen set in high-quality materials. Designed for ergonomic use, it also features AirTriggers that bring new excitement to gameplay.
Asus has also attempted to make customizing the device effortless by including the Armory Crate Software. While this allows gamers to change almost any aspect of the device to suit their personal desires, the software has been found to be slightly glitchy in some areas.
Despite this, the sheer power of the device, which runs on Windows 11, has attracted millions of gamers. With no new model on the horizon, Asus has stated that continuous updates will be released to tweak performance and improve overall usability. A deal between AMD and Asus to make driver updates simpler is also set to improve compatibility with systems like AMD Fluid Motion Frames.
Steam Deck
As the first modern handheld gaming PC launched on the global market, the Steam Deck had already garnered a considerable following by the time competitors launched similar products. The device runs on Steam’s open-source operating system—SteamOS. As a result, the device is limited to games available through the platform. However, with over 179,000 titles available, this is a minor issue that can be overlooked due to the device’s comparatively lower price tag.
The Steam Deck is powered by a custom AMD APU (Zen 2) and features graphics delivered by AMD RDNA 2—only one version behind the RDNA 3 that runs graphics on the Asus and Lenovo options. The built-in trackpads also help boost gameplay by offering precision movements for games that are better played using a mouse rather than a joystick.
Although no significant updates or new models are expected from Steam in 2025, the inclusion of SteamOS on the latest Legion Go S may make many gamers rethink their decision to avoid the device due to its operating system. This could help the Steam Deck remain one of the most popular options moving forward.
