Top Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2025: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and More

Okay, so, let’s dive into this whole handheld gaming thing. Imagine this—Steam Deck, right? It was like THE thing, the only real player. But then, bam! Asus ROG Ally shows up. A total game-changer. Why? Let’s chat about that.

First off, if you’re like me and not a Linux wizard (seriously, it’s like magic trying to figure it out), the Ally’s got your back. It’s a Windows 11 gizmo, thank goodness. Just load up your games— Epic, Xbox, whatever. No hocus pocus needed.

Oh! And the power? Mind-blowing. It’s got this AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip coupled with some Radeon graphics. I played some graphics-intense games and guess what? It didn’t melt or start screaming (the fan, I mean). Sure, there were tiny hiccups—let’s not sugarcoat it—but it mostly slayed.

Now, the display? Beautiful. Full HD, and seriously, it’s light. It’s like feather-light (not literally, but you get it). Played way longer without my hands feeling like they went through a workout. But, hang on a sec, here comes the bummer part: it feels like cheap plastic. And that stand? Yikes. Wobbly like a drunk flamingo. Would’ve been nice if they spiffed that up.

Aaand the battery. Sigh. It’s kinda weak sauce. Two-ish hours of gaming? I mean, c’mon, Ally. Charging is quick-ish, but you’re better off sticking close to an outlet, like a phone-addicted teenager.

Oh, and let’s not forget the price. At nearly 700 bucks, you’d think they’d toss in a carrying case! Nope. Nada. Especially annoying since the cheapest Steam Deck gives you one. And those back buttons? A bit awkward. Maybe it’s just me and my fingers?

So, Deck or Ally? That’s like asking pizza or burgers. Depends on your taste. Need tons of games and raw power? Ally’s your pal. Want classy feel, more battery, and a free bag? Go Deck.

Pick your adventure, folks. Both are pretty awesome in their own rights.