What is the best portable console of 2023? Comparison and analysis

Nothing better than leaving home, taking the subway, or on a plane to The Bahamas and carrying one of the best portable consoles of the year in your carry-on luggage. Equipment designed to provide you with hours of entertainment in those moments where sitting and waiting feels like an eternity. After all, who doesn’t remember the excitement that the Nintendo DS generated in us?

Of course, today’s consoles do not resemble those glories of yesteryear. In fact, some are much more advanced and their features are extremely striking. It is for this reason that I have selected the most outstanding portable game consoles of 2023.

Will you join me on this journey to discover which is the best portable console for you? Keep reading!

Analysis of the best portable video game consoles of 2023

Of course, paper specifications are only a small part of the package. For this reason, I will analyze the selected models of current pocket consoles that you can buy on Amazon.

Best value for money: Nintendo Switch OLED

The Nintendo Switch OLED is a device that is quite similar to the standard version but integrates an OLED panel to make the difference. As for the design, it retains its innovative aesthetics with separable controls but this time it offers a much more noticeable feeling of quality when holding it.

The change of panel seems to me to have provided greater contrast and an appreciated improvement in viewing angles. In addition, the screen is now 7 inches, but the resolution remains at 720p. In terms of performance, the gaming experience is quite similar to that of the standard version. With the same pulls and the same fluidity.

It should be noted that it now offers 64 GB of storage and supports expansion with microSD, which you will need. It also offers a better sound section and its 4310 mAh battery can provide autonomy of between 4 to 9 hours, depending on use and the game in question. Although, in general, it usually lasts just over 4 hours.

If you don’t have a Switch or have never been able to play on one, the OLED version is worth giving a chance. It is a device quite similar to the standard Switch, although with some improvements and a more refined design, but also retaining the same flaws.

If you don’t have a Switch or have never been able to play on one, the OLED version is worth giving a chance. It is a device quite similar to the standard Switch, although with some improvements and a more refined design, but also retaining the same flaws. The Lite, for its part, seems like a good option if you are looking for a portable console for children.

The best: Steam Deck

Have you ever wondered what would happen if a handheld console and a portable PC had a baby? Well, without a doubt, the product of that relationship would be the Steam Deck. A device that, in every way, attracts attention. It is bulky and cumbersome, but also comfortable to use even with small hands. It has triggers, buttons, and a stylish 7-inch screen.

In terms of operation, it seems to me to be an absolutely powerful device. It can move titles as powerful as God of War or even Resident Evil without even breaking a sweat. Of course, there are other games that require adjustments and others that do not support them. Still, its RDNA 2 GPU does a great job of keeping the screen fluid.

Likewise, its autonomy manages to be exactly as detailed on paper. 2 hours for demanding titles and up to 8 hours for lighter games. This is an example of stability that manages to overcome the errors or limitations of a console of its type.

Valve had many obstacles to introduce the Steam Deck. It is certainly not as well known as one would like, but it is an effective team and a great example of engineering by the company. Yes, it is somewhat expensive and it is also true that you should consider its limitations. Even so, having the entire Steam catalog at hand is a very juicy opportunity to take into account.

Asus ROG ALLY

Presented with Windows 11 and overwhelming power. This is how the Asus ROG Ally arrives, a device with nothing to envy of desktop devices. It integrates a 7-inch panel, weighs just over 600 grams, and is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. The result? An overwhelming team capable of competing against the Steam Deck.

Its plastic casing feels quality, and its grip may raise doubts, but I assure you that it holds well in your hands and its buttons do a good job. I find the FullHD resolution a delight, as it provides vivid colors and much-appreciated sharpness to games. In addition, the quality of its speakers will make you feel like you are in your favorite titles. Forza Horizon 5, Red Dead Redemption 2, Insomniac Spider-Man, and many others.

In addition, its integration with Windows 11 makes it a practical pocket laptop but optimized with Asus tools. Its battery life may be a bit short with powerful games, but it is understandable. With less demanding degrees, the experience offered is extremely rewarding.

The new Asus portable console is a very good bet against the Steam Deck. It is a team that has its deficiencies, but they are present in all of its classes. An autonomy that varies depending on the title, some technical details in the system, and a few other things. For the rest, it means having the Asus ROG Ally in your hands all day.

The cheapest: Playdate

The Playdate console is a rather curious case to analyze. It looks, at first glance, like a Game Boy with a crank on the side. Who could have thought of it? Well, to an innovative mind tired of the same thing. The concept of this device is quite fresh, its design attracts attention and it has a lot to offer, even though it seems very simple.

Playdate is presented as a square mini console, with rounded edges and a very attractive yellow cover. It weighs just over 80 grams and you can take it anywhere in your pockets. In fact, it fits easily into the palm of your hand. It’s plastic, but it doesn’t bother or slip. A winning design wherever you look at it.

The 2.7-inch LCD screen is an absolute joy in almost every aspect despite being monochrome. The interface is correctly adapted and the animations are fluid. Its processor provides enough power to play simple, indie titles without difficulty. In addition, the development company gives away games every week.

Due to its low power consumption, you can easily play for 7 hours straight. Ideal for long trips or distracting yourself in a waiting room. It is the best portable console in the independent world, although its future plans are a mystery. Even so, it is worth getting your hands on this curious and fun device. Buy it now from its official website:

GPD XP Plus

The GPD XP Plus is another interesting option to enjoy Android games. The mobile console stands out for its dimensions, detachable controls, and its 6.81-inch screen. Supports the input of adapters to play using a television or monitor. Likewise, it allows the use of wireless gamepads to dispense with the controls it comes with.

Of course, it is also an emulator console, allowing you to relive titles of yesteryear with quite comfortable gameplay. It can also run Xbox cloud games like Forza Horizon 5 without streaming issues.

In essence, it is like a mobile phone, but in a console format. In fact, you can even use SIM cards to access 4G networks. It also has a large 7000 mAh battery that provides many hours of gaming, so I consider it to be quite optimal for long sessions. The user experience is extremely complete and, in my opinion, efficient.

The GPD XP Plus model is a high-performance Chinese portable console ideal for enjoying cloud, emulated, and Android games. The usability is comfortable and the materials look resistant despite being plastic. Therefore, if you are not planning to change your mobile device to a more modern one, then give this practical console a try.

The GPD XP Plus model is a high-performance Chinese portable console ideal for enjoying cloud, emulated, and Android games. The usability is comfortable and the materials look resistant despite being plastic. Therefore, if you are not planning to change your mobile device to a more modern one, then give this practical console a try.

Razer Edge

The arrival of the Nintendo Switch opened the door to portable video game consoles like the Razer Edge. It is a portable console with Android 12, with a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen and detachable controls that are quite reminiscent of mobile triggers. Its exterior is quite simple, with a thick plastic body and a square frame.

Its gameplay setup is quite simple. In fact, it comes with an integrated application called Nexus which allows you to quickly run games or reassign touch controls to physical buttons. Inside you can also see a Snapdragon G3x processor and an Adreno 730 GPU.

The gameplay is fluid and can support titles like Genshin Impact without any problem. It can also run GeForce Now games, Xbox Live, and emulation titles. Even its battery can hold its own for up to 15 hours, or it might be 8 hours if you play intensely. In any case, there is enough autonomy for a long session.

The Razer Edge is an excellent option if you don’t have a flagship phone in your repertoire of devices. In fact, you could even take advantage of its version with 5G connectivity. Of course, it is not a console that aims to be the best, but I consider it a great step to comfortably play cloud titles. Even so, it needs to mature in several aspects.

What portable console to buy? Buying guide and tips

Finding the best portable gaming console is pretty much like trying to choose any other device. You have to base yourself on certain aspects or parameters to find the equipment that best suits what you are looking for. For this reason, here I share a practical buying guide to help you make the best decision.

Game catalog

There is always a game that makes us very excited. Have you seen the beauty behind the Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom? If I buy the Steam console out of ignorance, that experience will disappear, since it is an exclusive Nintendo title. Do you understand where I’m going? It is important to know what games the console you want to purchase supports.

Give yourself some time to explore each other’s game catalog. The Steam Deck, for example, has a large repertoire of titles at its disposal ranging from Hollow Knight to Horizon Zero Dawn. Other portable retro consoles only have games from the 80s. So do your research.

Screen and design

As if it were about choosing a gaming tablet, laptop, or mobile phone. When looking for a handheld console, it is worth checking the specifications of its screen. There are monochrome LCD panels, there are OLED options that offer very vivid colors, and others that use IPS technology to provide a good level of brightness. Is the resolution correct? How about the size?

Also, consider the design as a decisive factor. After all, no one wants to play on equipment that is uncomfortable to hold or heavy. There are also those who consider color as something important. If so, the Nintendo Switch comes in multiple different color editions. There are also devices like the Playdate whose shape is quite original.

Price

Buying the best console in the world is a pretty noble dream. That said, the value of a product is one of the most essential points when buying anything. It is very expensive? Not expensive enough? Does it fit my budget?

The truth is that, when it comes to portable consoles, the prices are very varied. There are relatively inexpensive devices and others whose prices exceed 350 euros, such as the Nintendo Switch OLED. There are also more expensive ones, like the Steam Deck, although it varies depending on the amount of internal memory it has. In short, evaluate which one best suits what you can invest.

Battery

No less important, the battery is another good point to consider before purchasing a portable console. It’s not going to be that, after just one hour of playing, the device runs out and has to spend 8 hours charging. Terrible. Most of these consoles can withstand between 3 to 8 hours of use, although it of course depends on the intensity.

Check out some analyses on YouTube to learn more about the autonomy of the console of your interest. Maybe it will convince you even more or change your mind.

Brand

The brand is a determining factor when choosing a portable console due to the trust and reputation that established companies have built over time. These brands typically offer quality hardware, an extensive game library, and solid after-sales support.

Furthermore, its popularity often guarantees a wide range of accessories and an active online community. However, beyond the brand, it is vital to consider aspects such as technical specifications, price, and the opinions of other users to make an informed decision.

Best portable consoles: frequently asked questions

Pocket consoles are fascinating and intriguing devices. In fact, it is common for them to raise recurring doubts and unknowns. For this reason, below, I answer the most frequently asked questions surrounding the best portable consoles of 2023.

What is the best portable console in 2023?

The subjectivity in this question is strong. Master Yoda would say something like this if he had dedicated himself to analyzing portable game consoles. Let’s see. Everything will depend on your preferences, budget, the game catalog, and other fundamental details. There are those who are loyal fans of Nintendo and its games, while others prefer the raw power of the Steam Deck.

These two consoles have enough votes to be considered the best portable console of 2023. Both for their specifications, game catalogs, and popularity. However, which one is best for you? That will be at your discretion.

What is the most powerful portable console in the world?

The Steam Deck stands out as the most powerful portable console on the market, at the moment, in the world. Okay, maybe there’s no need to go into exaggeration, but the mix of its AMD Zen 2 processor along with its AMD RDNA 2 graphics card gives it enough power to handle almost any PC game. Something that says a lot about his capabilities.

What is Nintendo’s latest portable console?

The last portable console that Nintendo launched on the market was the Nintendo Switch OLED, an improved version of the standard Switch characterized by its 7-inch OLED screen. Its market launch was on October 8, 2021.

What is better, a console or a gaming laptop?

The truth is that it is a complicated question to answer. What do you like? What do you prefer? The answer will depend on what best suits your needs and budget.

A gaming laptop is usually much more powerful and versatile than a handheld console. While a portable game console is cheaper and much easier to transport.

Therefore, I invite you to do a little research to determine which device may be a better option. In fact, at iDNSportal you have a lot of useful information at your disposal that will surely be useful to you. So don’t hesitate to take a look.

Have you already decided which is the best portable console for you? Tell me in the comments which one is your favorite and also let me know which game you have put the most hours into. Also, if you want to help your acquaintances, then share this article on your social networks.