Welcome to the definitive resource for selecting the best handheld gaming PCs currently dominating the market in 2026. This year has represented a monumental shift in mobile hardware, where the gap between desktop performance and portable convenience has effectively vanished. Whether you are a hardcore enthusiast seeking the absolute peak of AMD architecture or a casual player looking for the most efficient way to enjoy your Steam library, this guide is designed to help you navigate the sophisticated world of modern portable hardware.
A handheld gaming PC is essentially a fully-fledged computer condensed into a controller-like form factor, running desktop operating systems such as Windows 11, Bazzite or SteamOS. Unlike traditional consoles, these devices offer the versatility of a PC, allowing you to install mods, use various game stores, and even handle productivity tasks. In recent years, companies like GPD, ONEXPLAYER, AYANEO, and Valve have pushed the boundaries of engineering, transitioning from niche novelties to mainstream powerhouses that can comfortably handle AAA titles at high settings.
The evolution of the portable gaming PC market has been driven by incredible leaps in APU technology, specifically with the introduction of AMD’s “Strix Halo” and “Strix Point” architectures. These chipsets provide integrated graphics performance that rivals dedicated desktop GPUs from just a few years ago. Consequently, gamers no longer have to compromise on visual fidelity or frame rates when playing away from their desks.
As we dive into the specific recommendations, remember that the best handheld gaming PCs depends entirely on your personal priorities, be it screen size, battery modularity, or raw processing power. Read on to discover which of these remarkable machines deserves a spot in your backpack for your next gaming session.
GPD WIN 5: The Unrivalled King and Best Handheld Gaming PC
The GPD WIN 5 stands at the absolute pinnacle of the current market, representing the most powerful handheld gaming computer ever released by the legendary team at GPD. This device is the first to properly harness the “Strix Halo” architecture, delivering desktop-class performance in a 7-inch form factor that remains reasonably portable. Featuring the groundbreaking Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, GPD WIN 5 is designed for enthusiasts who demand zero compromises while playing modern AAA titles at maximum settings.
Physically, GPD WIN 5 measures approximately 26.7 x 11.1 x 2.4 cm and weighs roughly 565g, making it significantly more pocketable than many of its 8-inch competitors. The display is a stunning 7-inch native landscape touchscreen, boasting a 1920×1080 resolution and a silky-smooth 120Hz VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) supported refresh rate. Under the hood, GPD WIN 5 offers a choice between the 16-core Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and the 8-core Ryzen AI Max 385, both built on the Zen 5 architecture. Read our GPD WIN 5 Ryzen AI MAX 385 vs 395 comparison article here to learn which out of the two best handheld gaming PCs is for you.
The graphical capabilities are equally impressive, with the Radeon 8060S GPU providing 40 compute units of RDNA 3.5 power. Furthermore, the GPD WIN 5 supports up to 128GB of LPDDR5X RAM at 8000 MT/s and includes a world-first Biwin Mini SSD (MSSD) slot for tool-free storage expansion. Read our BIWIN Mini SSD review here. This internal hardware is kept cool by an advanced dual-fan thermal system that allows the device to sustain high power draws during intense gaming sessions.
Benchmark results confirm that the GPD WIN 5 is a true powerhouse, achieving a staggering 234 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 and 127.57 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 75W TDP. When comparing the two available models, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variant offers a noticeable performance uplift over the Max 385, particularly in CPU-heavy multi-threaded tasks. Additionally, the GPD WIN 5 consistently outperforms previous-generation “Strix Point” HX 370 models, proving that the Max series is the new gold standard for high-end mobile gaming.
Ultimately, the GPD WIN 5 stands out because it packs more power per square inch than any other device on this list. The inclusion of a modular 80Wh battery system ensures you can swap power cells on the fly, extending your playtime indefinitely during long journeys. If you are searching for the absolute best handheld gaming PCs with no regard for price, this is the machine to buy. Read our full in-depth GPD WIN 5 review here.
ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex: The Elite Runner Up Best Handheld Gaming PC
If you prefer a slightly larger screen without sacrificing the immense power of the Strix Halo architecture, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex is an exceptional alternative for best handheld gaming PCs. This mobile gaming PC offers a more expansive 8-inch display, providing a more immersive experience for cinematic AAA titles. While it is heavier than its GPD counterpart, the ergonomics are finely tuned, featuring professional-grade capacitive joysticks and adjustable triggers that cater to competitive gamers.
The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex is a substantial machine, weighing in at 1.09 kg when the massive 85Wh swappable battery is attached. Its 8-inch native landscape screen features a 1920×1200 resolution and a 120Hz VRR refresh rate, ensuring that screen tearing is a thing of the past. Powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and the Radeon 8060S GPU, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex utilizes the full potential of Zen 5 cores to deliver blistering speeds.
Memory and storage are handled with similar expertise, supporting up to 96GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 4TB of PCIe 4.0 NVMe storage. Interestingly, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex features a 2-lane Mini SSD slot, which provides significantly faster read and write speeds (up to 3,551 MB/s) compared to the single-lane slot found on the GPD WIN 5. Connectivity is also top-tier, including a high-speed USB4 port and a dedicated DC barrel jack for 180W power input.
During our performance testing at 75W TDP, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex slightly edged out the competition with 241 FPS in Forza Horizon 5. In Cinebench 2024, the Zen 5 multi-core performance showed a very noticeable improvement over earlier some of the best handheld gaming PCs, solidifying its position as a top-tier performer. While the GPD WIN 5 is more compact, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex offers superior storage speeds and a more comfortable screen size for long-form gaming.
The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex stands out as a premium choice for those who want a “desktop-in-your-hands” experience with the best thermal stability in the 8-inch class. Its modular battery system and liquid-cooling options (on specific versions) make it a versatile beast for any environment. This is undoubtedly a high-performance portable gaming computer that justifies its heavyweight status with pure, unadulterated power. You can find our full ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex review here for more detailed information.
GPD WIN Mini 2025: The Best Handheld Gaming PCs for Portability
For gamers who prioritise mobility above all else, the GPD WIN Mini 2025 remains the undisputed champion of the compact gaming PC category. Utilising a unique clamshell design that protects the screen and keyboard while folded, GPD WIN Mini 2025 is small enough to fit into a jacket pocket. Despite its diminutive size, it refuses to compromise on performance, housing the sophisticated AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor to deliver a true AAA experience on the go.
The GPD WIN Mini 2025 measures just 17.2 x 10.9 x 2.7 cm and weighs a mere 555g, making it the most lightweight device in this high-performance guide. Its 7-inch LTPS touchscreen display supports 1080p resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate with full VRR and AMD FreeSync support. The internal specifications are impressive for such a small frame, featuring the 12-core HX 370 “Strix Point” CPU and the Radeon 890M GPU, paired with up to 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
Ergonomics have been significantly improved for the GPD WIN Mini 2025 model, with slightly wider grips and a more refined cooling system that manages heat better than previous iterations. The device also features a built-in QWERTY keyboard with adjustable backlighting, which is perfect for quick in-game chats or basic web browsing. Storage is equally flexible, supporting up to 4TB of NVMe PCIe 4.0 storage in a standard 2280 format.
Benchmark comparisons show that GPD WIN Mini 2025 performs exceptionally well at its intended 28W TDP, hitting 115 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 and a solid 48.05 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077. While it cannot match the raw 75W power of the Strix Halo-based GPD WIN 5 or Apex, it holds its own against other HX 370 devices like the Win MAX 2. It is worth noting that while the Max series is more powerful, the GPD WIN Mini 2025 offers the best performance-to-size ratio on the market.
The GPD WIN Mini 2025 stands out because it successfully solves the portability dilemma without turning into a underpowered toy. The clamshell form factor is both nostalgic and practical, providing a level of screen protection that “slab” style handhelds simply cannot match. If your priority are the best handheld gaming PCs that you can truly take anywhere, this pocket-sized powerhouse is your ideal companion. Learn more about this portable handheld in our GPD WIN Mini 2025 review here.
GPD WIN MAX 2 2025: The Best Handheld Gaming PC for Productivity
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 is a masterclass in hybrid design, serving as both one of the best handheld gaming PCs and a highly capable mini laptop. This device is the perfect choice for professionals who need a machine that can handle spreadsheet work during the day and high-fidelity gaming at night. With its large 10.1-inch screen and integrated physical keyboard, GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 bridges the gap between a traditional notebook and a gaming handheld with effortless grace.
Measuring 22.7 x 16 x 2.3 cm and weighing 1098g, the GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 is essentially a sub-notebook with hidden gaming superpowers. Its 10.1-inch IPS touchscreen is the largest in this guide, supporting resolutions up to 2560×1600 (1600p) and active stylus input for creative work. Like its smaller siblings, it is powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and Radeon 890M GPU, supported by up to 64GB of LPDDR5X memory.
One of the standout features of GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 is its professional adaptability; the gaming controls can be completely hidden by magnetic faceplates, making it look like a standard business laptop in an office setting. Furthermore, it boasts an incredible array of ports, including dual USB4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and a dedicated OCuLink port for connecting high-performance external GPUs (eGPUs). The 67Wh battery also provides the longest runtime of the Strix Point models, lasting roughly 20 minutes longer than the WIN Mini in stress tests.
Performance-wise, GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 is a top-tier “Strix Point” performer, achieving 117 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 at 28W TDP. In Geekbench 6 multi-core tests, it consistently ranks near the top of its class, only slightly behind the ONEXFLY F1 Pro. While the Strix Halo MAX series is more powerful for pure gaming, GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 offers a level of versatility that those devices cannot match, especially when docked or used for content creation.
The GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 stands out because it refuses to be put in a box. It is a legitimate work tool that happens to play AAA games beautifully when the work day is done. If you want a single device that can replace both your laptop and your console, GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 is the most logical and powerful choice available in 2026. Our in-depth GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 review here covers everything you need to know on what makes this one of the best handheld gaming PCs.
ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro: The Best OLED Handheld Gaming PC
For many gamers, the display is the most important component, and that is where the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro truly shines. As a premier mobile gaming PC, the F1 Pro features a breathtaking 7-inch OLED panel that delivers infinite contrast and vibrant colours that LCD screens simply cannot replicate. If you spend your time playing visually rich titles like Elden Ring or Cyberpunk 2077, the visual fidelity offered by the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro is genuinely transformative.
The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro measures 26.3 x 9.8 x 2.2 cm and weighs approximately 607g, placing it in a very comfortable weight class for long sessions for the best handheld gaming PCs. The star of the show is the 7-inch OLED touchscreen, which boasts a 144Hz refresh rate, 800 nits of brightness, and a 10,000:1 contrast ratio. This device is powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, paired with the Radeon 890M graphics chip and up to 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
Unlike some competitors, ONEXPLAYER has focused heavily on the “handheld” experience, ensuring the device is comfortable to hold with well-placed analogue sticks and responsive buttons. The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro also features dual USB4 ports, allowing for easy eGPU connectivity despite the lack of a native OCuLink port. Storage speeds are particularly impressive, with the internal NVMe SSD reaching speeds of up to 7,109 MB/s, ensuring nearly instantaneous load times.
In our benchmark suite, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro HX 370 model performed well at 28W TDP, though it trailed slightly behind the GPD devices in Forza Horizon 5 with 97 FPS. However, the F1 Pro showed its strength at lower TDP settings, where its power management often resulted in higher frame rates than competitors in the 10W-15W range. While the Strix Halo Max series remains the performance leader, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro offers the most beautiful visual experience in the 7-inch category.
The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro stands out because it prioritises the “wow” factor of its display and its premium build quality. The combination of an OLED 144Hz screen and a lightweight, ergonomic chassis makes it one of the most enjoyable ways to play modern games. For the visual purist, the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro is the portable gaming computer of choice. Our ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro review here covers everything to know what makes this a consideration in our best handheld gaming PCs guide.
AYANEO 3: The Best Handheld Gaming PC for Modular Customisation
The AYANEO 3 is perhaps the most innovative device released last year, pioneering a modular design that allows gamers to customize their physical controls. This compact gaming PC is perfect for those who play a wide variety of genres and want their hardware to adapt accordingly. Whether you need a precise D-pad for fighting games or dual touchpads for complex strategy titles, the AYANEO 3 allows you to swap modules in seconds to suit your specific needs.
Measuring 28.9 x 11.5 x 2.2 cm and weighing 690g, the AYANEO 3 feels like a premium piece of tech from the future. It offers two display options: a 7-inch LCD with 120Hz VRR or a high-end 7-inch OLED with a 144Hz refresh rate. Powering this modular marvel is the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and Radeon 890M GPU, supported by up to 64GB of LPDDR5X memory.
The modular system is handled via the AYA SPACE software, allowing for an “ejection” of the control modules at the touch of a button. You can swap between Xbox and PlayStation-style analogue layouts, or even install a six-button module specifically for retro fighting games. Additionally, the AYANEO 3 includes an OCuLink port and dual USB4 ports, making it one of the most well-connected devices on our list.
Benchmark results place the AYANEO 3 comfortably within the top tier of “Strix Point” devices, hitting 114 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 at 28W TDP. While its raw performance is lower than the Strix Halo-powered GPD WIN 5, it offers a more tailored experience through its software and hardware modularity. When comparing HX 370 devices, the AYANEO 3 stands out for its flexibility and the premium feel of its AYA SPACE frontend.
The AYANEO 3 stands out because it empowers the user to define their own gaming experience. No other handheld gaming computer offers this level of physical customisation without requiring a screwdriver. If you value innovation and want a device that can evolve with your gaming tastes, the AYANEO 3 is a modular masterpiece. Our AYANEO 3 review here goes further in-depth to see why this is one of the best handheld gaming PCs if you like different control layouts for particular games.
Steam Deck OLED: The Best of the Rest
No discussion of the best handheld gaming PCs would be complete without mentioning the Steam Deck OLED. While it does not feature the cutting-edge “Strix Halo” or “Zen 5” architecture found in the newer models, it remains the champion of value and user-friendliness. For many, the seamless integration of SteamOS and the vast library of “Verified” games make the Steam Deck the most accessible entry point into the world of portable PC gaming.
The Steam Deck OLED features a custom 6nm AMD APU that is significantly less powerful than the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, but it is highly optimised for efficiency. Its 7.4-inch HDR OLED display is a highlight, offering vibrant colours and a 90Hz refresh rate at a 1280×800 resolution. While it cannot run AAA games at 1080p high settings like the ONEXFLY Apex, it provides a very stable 30-60 FPS experience for the majority of the Steam library.
Where the Steam Deck truly excels is in its ergonomics and software ecosystem. The dual trackpads and four rear macro buttons provide a level of control that many other handhelds struggle to match. Furthermore, the 50Wh battery offers between 3 to 12 hours of gameplay depending on the title, making it a very reliable travel companion. It is also significantly more affordable than the high-end Strix Halo machines, making it a great Steam Deck alternative for those on a stricter budget.
Performance-wise, the Steam Deck OLED is clearly outclassed by the newer Strix Point and Strix Halo devices, which offer up to 3x the graphical throughput. However, it remains a fantastic choice for indie gaming, emulation up to the PS2 era, and players who prefer a “pick up and play” console experience over a Windows 11 environment. It is the perfect “best of the rest” choice for those who don’t need the bleeding edge of hardware.
Ultimately, the Steam Deck OLED stands out for its sheer polish and community support. It may not be a high-performance portable gaming PC in the same vein as the GPD WIN 5, but it is a reliable, well-supported, and joyfully simple machine. For the casual gamer or those heavily invested in the Steam ecosystem, it remains a fairly strong contender in 2026.
Best Handheld Gaming PCs Technical Specifications Compared
| SPECS | GPD WIN 5 | ONEXFLY APEX | GPD WIN MINI 2025 | GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 | STEAM DECK (OLED) | ONEXFLY F1 PRO | AYANEO 3 |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 | AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | Custom AMD APU (Zen 2) | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 |
| GPU | AMD Radeon 8060S | AMD Radeon 8060S | AMD Radeon 890M | AMD Radeon 890M | 8 RDNA 2 CUs | AMD Radeon 890M | AMD Radeon 890M |
| RAM | 64GB – 128GB LPDDR5x | 48GB – 128GB LPDDR5x | Up to 64GB LPDDR5x | Up to 64GB LPDDR5x | 16GB LPDDR5 | 32GB – 64GB LPDDR5x | Up to 64GB LPDDR5x |
| STORAGE | Up to 4TB M.2 2280 + Mini SSD | Up to 2TB M.2 2280 + Mini SSD | Up to 4TB M.2 2280 | Up to 4TB M.2 2280 | 512GB – 1TB NVMe | Up to 4TB M.2 2280 | Up to 2TB M.2 2280 |
| DISPLAY | 7″ 1920×1080, 120Hz VRR | 8″ OLED, 1920×1200, 120Hz VRR | 7″ LTPS, 1920×1080, 120Hz VRR | 10.1″ IPS, 2560×1600, 60Hz | 7.4″ OLED, 1280×800, 90Hz | 7″ OLED, 1920×1080, 144Hz | 7″ OLED, 1920×1080, 144Hz |
| BATTERY mAh / Wh | 80Wh (External/Removable) | 85Wh (External/Removable) | 44.24Wh (~11,500 mAh) | 67Wh (~17,400 mAh) | 50Wh (~13,000 mAh) | 48.5Wh (12,600 mAh) | 49Wh (~12,800 mAh) |
| DIMENSIONS (cm) | 26.7 x 11.16 x 2.42 | 29.02 x 12.35 x 2.25 | 17.2 x 10.9 x 2.7 | 22.7 x 16.0 x 2.3 | 29.8 x 11.7 x 4.9 | 26.36 x 9.82 x 2.26 | 28.98 x 11.5 x 2.24 |
| DIMENSIONS (in) | 10.51 x 4.39 x 0.95 | 11.43 x 4.86 x 0.89 | 6.77 x 4.29 x 1.06 | 8.94 x 6.3 x 0.91 | 11.73 x 4.61 x 1.93 | 10.38 x 3.87 x 0.89 | 11.41 x 4.53 x 0.88 |
| WEIGHT (g) | 565g (Handheld) / 915g (Total) | 699g (Handheld) / 1079g (Total) | 555g | 1005g | 640g | 599g | 690g |
| WEIGHT (lbs) | 1.25 lbs / 2.02 lbs | 1.54 lbs / 2.38 lbs | 1.22 lbs | 2.22 lbs | 1.41 lbs | 1.32 lbs | 1.52 lbs |
Best Handheld Gaming PC Benchmark Comparisons
| BENCHMARK | GPD WIN 5 | ONEXFLY APEX | GPD WIN MINI 2025 | GPD WIN MAX 2 2025 | ONEXFLY F1 PRO | AYANEO 3 |
| CINEBENCH 2024 (Single-Core) | 110 | 113 | 114 | 113 | 116 | 113 |
| CINEBENCH 2024 (Multi-Core) | 1,511 | 1,719 | 849 | 893 | 953 | 914 |
| GEEKBENCH 6 (Single-Core) | 2,809 | 2,898 | 2,900 | 2,851 | 2,854 | 2,771 |
| GEEKBENCH 6 (Multi-Core) | 17,996 | 18,198 | 13,256 | 12,252 | 13,321 | 13,013 |
| 3DMARK TIME SPY | 10,541 | 10,635 | 3,879 | 3,871 | 3,681 | 3,715 |
| 3DMARK NIGHT RAID | 57,589 | 61,861 | 28,959 | 31,743 | 29,763 | 28,968 |
| 3DMARK FIRE STRIKE | 23,739 | 23,452 | 7,793 | 8,699 | 7,960 | 8,270 |
| PCMARK10 | 8,130 | 9,160 | 7,233 | 7,297 | 7,172 | 6,985 |
| FORZA HORIZON 5 (1080P 28W) | 155 FPS | 170 FPS | 115 FPS | 117 FPS | 97 FPS | 114 FPS |
| SOTTR (1080P 28W) | 126 FPS | 128 FPS | 87 FPS | 88 FPS | 107 FPS | 81 FPS |
| CYBERPUNK 2077 (1080P 28W) | 72.11 FPS | 78.43 FPS | 48.05 FPS | 48.00 FPS | 44.06 FPS | 46.18 FPS |
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Handheld Gaming PCs
What is the best handheld gaming PC in 2026?
The best handheld gaming PCs in 2026 is the GPD WIN 5 series. It is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, built on the Strix Halo architecture with Zen 5 cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics. Its combination of 120Hz VRR display, modular 80Wh battery, and desktop-class performance makes it the top-ranked portable gaming PC on the market.
What are the most powerful handheld gaming PCs available?
Currently, the most powerful best handheld gaming PCs are the GPD WIN 5 in its Ryzen AI Max+ 395 configuration. The Strix Halo architecture delivers up to 234 FPS in Forza Horizon 5 at 75W TDP, outperforming all previous-generation HX 370-based handhelds by a considerable margin. The ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex, also powered by the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, is a very close second with 241 FPS at 75W TDP thanks to its larger 8-inch thermal envelope.
Can handheld gaming PCs run modern AAA games?
Yes, modern handheld gaming PCs can run AAA games very effectively. Devices powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (Strix Halo) can achieve over 100 FPS in titles like Forza Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 at 75W TDP. Even the previous-generation HX 370-based devices, such as the AYANEO 3 and GPD WIN Mini 2025, deliver smooth 60+ FPS in demanding titles at their optimal 28W power setting. These compact gaming PCs are genuine Windows 11 handhelds capable of running any game in your library.
Is the Steam Deck worth buying in 2026?
The Steam Deck OLED is still worth buying in 2026 for the right type of gamer. It offers the most polished out-of-the-box experience for Steam users, with a 90Hz HDR OLED display and a well-supported SteamOS ecosystem. However, it cannot match the raw performance of newer Strix Halo or Strix Point devices. If you primarily play indie games, retro emulation, or simply want a straightforward console-like experience without the complexity of Windows 11, the Steam Deck OLED is a fantastic and affordable choice.
What are the best handheld gaming PCs for emulation?
For emulation, the best handheld gaming PCs depends on the era of games you want to run. Any device on this list handles emulation up to the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii U era comfortably. For the most demanding modern emulation targets, such as PlayStation 4 or Switch titles, the GPD WIN 5 or ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY Apex with their Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processors offer the headroom needed for smooth, high-resolution emulation. The GPD WIN Mini 2025 is a particularly popular compact gaming PC for emulation due to its clamshell design and lightweight form factor.
What are the best handheld gaming PCs for travelling?
For portability, the GPD WIN Mini 2025 are the best handheld gaming PCs for travel. Weighing just 555g and measuring 17.2 x 10.9 cm, it fits comfortably into a jacket pocket. Its clamshell design protects the screen and keyboard when folded, making it far more durable in a bag than traditional slab-style handhelds. Despite its compact size, the GPD WIN Mini 2025 runs the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, delivering genuine AAA gaming performance that makes it far more than just a casual travel companion.
How does a handheld gaming PC differ from a gaming console?
The best handheld gaming PCs, such as the GPD WIN MAX 2 2025, runs a full desktop operating system like Windows 11, giving you access to any game store, mod support, and the ability to perform productivity tasks. A gaming console, by contrast, runs a locked proprietary OS with curated software. Handheld gaming computers are significantly more powerful and flexible, but require more technical familiarity to operate. The Steam Deck bridges this gap by running SteamOS, offering a more console-like experience while retaining the openness of a PC.
What are the best handheld gaming PCs for under £500?
For under £500, the Steam Deck OLED is the standout choice and the most accessible entry point into handheld gaming PCs. It offers a premium 90Hz HDR OLED display, solid battery life, and seamless SteamOS integration at a price that significantly undercuts the Strix Halo and Strix Point-powered devices. If your budget stretches a little further, keep an eye on deals for HX 370-powered devices like the ONEXPLAYER ONEXFLY F1 Pro which occasionally reach competitive price points during sales periods.
