{"id":5064,"date":"2026-05-07T16:55:15","date_gmt":"2026-05-07T15:55:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/?p=5064"},"modified":"2026-05-07T16:55:16","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T15:55:16","slug":"are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/core-knowledge\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Handheld gaming has seen tumultuous rises and falls over the past few decades, with a firm beginning in the 90s, when portable gaming was new and exciting. From the Game Boy&#8217;s release in 1989 to the Game Boy Advance&#8217;s release in 2001, Nintendo dominated the small, pocket-sized side of gaming for decades.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sony took a bold step with the PSP in 2004, which sold over 80 million units over its ten-year lifespan, proving that handheld console gaming wasn\u2019t just a Nintendo phase.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite years of mobile dominance, handheld console gaming has a deep history, and the hype certainly hasn\u2019t died out in 2026. With more variety than ever before, breaking barriers to the best graphic capabilities in a small console, could you be missing out on the key to pocket gaming by overlooking modern-day handheld consoles?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#What-are-my-Handheld-Console-Options?\">What are my handheld console options?<\/a>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#Steam-Compatibility\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#Steam-Compatibility\">Steam compatibility<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Nintendo-Switch-OLED\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#Nintendo-Switch-OLED\">Nintendo Switch<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Steam-Deck\">Steam Deck<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#ASUS-ROG-Ally\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#ASUS-ROG-Ally\">ASUS ROG Ally<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Lenovo-Legion-Go\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#Lenovo-Legion-Go\">Lenovo Legion Go<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#PlayStation-Remote-Play\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#PlayStation-Remote-Play\">PlayStation Remote Play<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Retro-Handheld-Gaming\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#Retro-Handheld-Gaming\">Retro Handheld Consoles<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#What-is-the-Future-of-Handheld-Consoles?\">What is the future of handheld consoles?<\/a>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#VR\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#VR\">VR<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Upgradability\" type=\"internal\" id=\"#Upgradability\">Upgradability<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Is-a-Handheld-Console-better-than-a-Laptop?\">Is a Handheld Console better than a Laptop?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#Why-choose-Handheld?\">Why choose handheld?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"What-are-my-Handheld-Console-Options?\">What are my Handheld Console Options?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With the history of handhelds in mind and some brilliant models that lit up our childhoods, only the best handheld console could possibly beat the nostalgia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"759\" src=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/handheld-consoles-1024x759.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5088\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1.3491601343784994;width:868px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/handheld-consoles-1024x759.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/handheld-consoles-300x222.jpg 300w, https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/handheld-consoles-768x569.jpg 768w, https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/handheld-consoles.jpg 1266w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Steam-Compatibility\">Steam Compatibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best portable consoles can now access your Steam account as long as you have access to Wi-Fi, and the cost-to-quality ratio is far more balanced than in previous years. You\u2019re no longer limited by exclusives, with a library constantly being added to by independent creators and huge franchises. Triple A diamonds and oceans of phenomenal indie titles are now at your fingertips.<br><br>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/page\/handheld-consoles\/msi-claw\/\">MSI Claw A8<\/a> offers a nice blend of Steam and console support, with Windows OS support for the Xbox full-screen experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Nintendo-Switch-OLED\">Nintendo Switch OLED<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Nintendo Switch 2 has been a massive step-up from its predecessor in terms of build quality. Packed with additional features and a screen which outperforms the first Switch, it\u2019s still recommended to wait- if you can, for game releases and checking the price points before considering Nintendo\u2019s most expensive console.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Steam-Deck\">Steam Deck<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Linux-based OS in the Steam Deck is great for those looking for alternatives to Microsoft products. No Linux knowledge is required, and like most consoles, the beauty is in the lack of setup required to start gaming right away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"ASUS-ROG-Ally\">ASUS ROG Ally<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Asus ROG Ally is an alternative to the Steam Deck that runs Windows OS, so there are no gaming limitations. This console supports Steam and Xbox Game Pass, much like the MSI Claw, but with a slightly smaller 7-inch display.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Lenovo-Legion-Go\">Lenovo Legion Go<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A more expensive option compared to the ASUS ROG Ally and MSI Claw at \u00a31000+ for a Gen 2 console. Lenovo, on the surface, seems like an odd choice. However, there are some perks. The screen is slightly larger than its Windows counterparts, and the controllers are detachable from the console, like the Switch. The console also offers Windows game compatibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"PlayStation-Remote-Play\">PlayStation Remote Play<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/page\/consoles\/ps5\/\">PlayStation<\/a>, I have fantastic news for you. If you have a phone, tablet, or laptop with you, then you can simply download the Remote Play app, log in, and go!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Retro-Handheld-Gaming\">Retro Handheld Gaming<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For playing retro games, enthusiasts have four main avenues: dedicated handheld emulators, modern portable PCs, and classic refurbished models. If you\u2019re a nostalgic person craving those Pac-Man days, retro might be the way to go to save you some expense and enjoy childhood classics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"What-is-the-Future-of-Handheld-Consoles?\">What is the Future of Handheld Consoles?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"VR\">VR<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With smart glasses being a huge trend in 2025, VR still doesn\u2019t seem to have had its day, and big steps might well be made in gaming over the next few years. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/blog\/games\/the-future-of-vr-gaming-immersive-experiences-demand-top-tier-hardware\/\">Hardware<\/a> seems to be growing in popularity for those who want to dive into virtual worlds and live in a different reality. Maybe glasses are the future in portable gaming, and your task list will become an optional side-quest in your living UI.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Upgradability\">Upgradability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ve already seen potential for storage upgrades in PlayStation consoles and the MSI Claw, but could completely upgrading your console in the future be an option? It\u2019s unlikely with the amount of optimisation required to fit a huge desktop\u2019s capabilities into an 8-inch screen, but there\u2019s no doubt that some capacity for upgrades might give handheld consoles another edge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Is-a-Handheld-Console-better-than-a-Laptop?\">Is a Handheld Console better than a Laptop?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The other most well-known alternative to consoles is PCs, so for portability and applications other than gaming, the best answer is a laptop. Whilst upgrade options are still limited, a laptop typically offers longer battery life and functionality for web browsing, streaming; however, most handhelds can now offer this functionality too. If you want more in your device away from home and don\u2019t mind the extra cost, you can check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/blog\/gaming-laptops\/laptop-buying-guide-1\/\">gaming laptop<\/a> guide to find out if laptops are the solution for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to work on the go whilst still sinking your teeth into some serious gaming, a laptop is a great option, but nothing as small and lightweight as most handheld consoles on the market offers the performance of a specialist gaming device. Handhelds are optimised for simple functionality and are usually the cheaper option, whilst still offering stunning performance.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"Why-choose-Handheld?\">Why choose Handheld?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Handhelds are ideal for those who want a cheaper option and don&#8217;t have time to do all the research, like most alternatives, optimised for gaming. There\u2019s no finicky setup or requirement for a deep understanding of tech to pick up a console and game. The best handhelds are now lighter and more powerful than ever before. In 2026, handhelds still ride the wave of nostalgia -but they\u2019ve also evolved into genuinely competitive gaming devices with multi-platform compatibility that sit comfortably between traditional consoles and laptops. With powerful hardware, access to vast game libraries, and the flexibility to play wherever you are, they offer a level of convenience seldom matched by other platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They\u2019re not a perfect replacement for laptops or high-end desktops, especially if you need a device for work or maximum performance. But for pure, accessible gaming, handhelds strike a compelling balance between power, portability, and price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, are they worth the hype? For many players, absolutely. If you value flexibility, ease of use, and the ability to jump into your favourite games without being tied to a desk, modern handheld consoles aren\u2019t just worth considering; they might be one of the smartest ways to play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Find more tips and advice in our <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/blog\/\"><strong>blogs<\/strong><\/a><strong> and <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cyberpowersystem.co.uk\/blog\/category\/core-knowledge\/\"><strong>core knowledge hub<\/strong><\/a><strong>.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Handheld gaming has seen tumultuous rises and falls over the past few decades, with a firm beginning in the 90s, when portable gaming was new and exciting. From the Game Boy&#8217;s release in 1989 to the Game Boy Advance&#8217;s release in 2001, Nintendo dominated the small, pocket-sized side of gaming for decades.&nbsp; Sony took a&hellip;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/core-knowledge\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Read More &raquo;<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026?<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":174380893,"featured_media":5089,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1658,97],"tags":[1655],"class_list":["post-5064","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-core-knowledge","category-uncategorised","tag-gaming"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026? - Blog | CyberPowerPC UK<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/core-knowledge\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026? - Blog | CyberPowerPC UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Handheld gaming has seen tumultuous rises and falls over the past few decades, with a firm beginning in the 90s, when portable gaming was new and exciting. From the Game Boy&#8217;s release in 1989 to the Game Boy Advance&#8217;s release in 2001, Nintendo dominated the small, pocket-sized side of gaming for decades.&nbsp; Sony took a&hellip;&nbsp;Read More &raquo;Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/core-knowledge\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Blog | CyberPowerPC UK\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/CyberpowerUK\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-07T15:55:15+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-07T15:55:16+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/Are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026_.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"930\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"620\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"CyberPowerPC UK\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@CyberPowerUK\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@CyberPowerUK\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"CyberPowerPC UK\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"CyberPowerPC UK\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/4bf95a873c4b80d6665909a8a49f6cfd\"},\"headline\":\"Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026?\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T15:55:15+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T15:55:16+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1121,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/w\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/Are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026_.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Gaming\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Core Knowledge\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/cyberpowergaming.co.uk\\\/core-knowledge\\\/are-handheld-consoles-worth-the-hype-in-2026\\\/\",\"name\":\"Are handheld consoles worth the hype in 2026? 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