5 Best Handheld Alternatives to Xbox Series S/X

In recent years, the Xbox Series S/X has dominated the gaming world, and it was released on 10th November 2020. The Xbox Series X/S are the fourth generation of consoles, succeeding the previous generation’s Xbox One. The higher-end  X and lower-end S are part of the ninth generation of video game consoles. Check out the best handheld alternatives to Xbox Series S/X consoles, and each of the handheld consoles listed takes specific budgets, genres, and specialised features.

1. Steam Deck OLED

• Display: 7.4″ HDR OLED, 1280×800 resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, up to 1000 nits brightness, vibrant colors with deep blacks.

• Battery: 50W hr, lasts 3–12 hours (better than LCD model).

• Performance: Upgraded 6nm APU, 16GB RAM, 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD storage.

• Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi 6E, USB-C with DisplayPort, and faster I/O.

• Build: Lighter and more ergonomic than the LCD version.

• Price: $549

The Steam Deck OLED enhances the original model with a vibrant OLED display, offering deeper blacks and richer colors. Users appreciate the improved screen brightness and contrast, which elevate the gaming experience. The device maintains compatibility with the extensive Steam library and benefits from the user-friendly SteamOS interface. However, some users note that while the display is a significant upgrade, the overall performance remains similar to the LCD version.

2. Steam Deck LCD

• Display: 7-inch LCD with a 1280×800 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and 400 nits brightness.

• Performance: Equipped with AMD APU, 16GB RAM, and options for 64GB eMMC, 256GB SSD, or 512GB SSD storage.

• Software: Runs SteamOS 3.0, supporting a wide range of PC games.

• Battery Life: Approximately 2–8 hours, depending on usage.

• Price: $349

The original Steam Deck LCD model offers a solid entry into handheld PC gaming. Users value its affordability and access to a vast game library. The device’s performance is generally praised, though some users mention that the LCD screen lacks the vibrancy and contrast found in the OLED version. Overall, it’s considered a reliable choice for those new to handheld gaming PCs.

3. Asus ROG Ally X

• Graphics: AMD Radeon™ RDNA 3 GPU (12 CUs, up to 2.7 GHz, 8.6 TFLOPS)
• Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD

• Display: 7-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS touchscreen, 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, FreeSync Premium

• Battery: 80Wh, offering extended gaming sessions

• Operating System: Windows 11

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, dual USB-C ports, microSD card reader

• Price: $374

The Asus ROG Ally X is lauded for its ergonomic design and powerful performance. Users highlight the comfortable grip and responsive controls, making extended gaming sessions more enjoyable. The device’s high-refresh-rate display and robust hardware handle demanding games smoothly.

4. Ayaneo Flip DS

• Storage: Up to 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD

• Displays:

  • Main: 7-inch 1080p IPS, 120Hz

  • Secondary: 3.5-inch 960×640 touchscreen

• Battery: 45Wh (approximately 1.5–2.5 hours of gameplay)

• Operating System: Windows 11

• price: $1,399

The Ayaneo Flip DS packs heaps of handheld performance thanks to its Ryzen 7 APU, but it’s also one of the only portable PCs out there with two screens. That makes it perfect for both Steam gaming sessions and 3DS emulation, meaning you can practically play anything on this device.

5. Super Pocket

• Display: 2.8″ screen (320×240 resolution)

• Controls: Classic D-pad

• Games: (Capcom, Taito, Technos, Atari)

• Battery: Rechargeable via USB-C, lasts 4 hours)

• Operating System: Simple menu interface, no emulation setup required

• Price: $69

The Super Pocket offers a nostalgic gaming experience with its retro design and preloaded classic games. Users enjoy its simplicity and portability, making it ideal for quick gaming sessions. The device’s compatibility with Evercade cartridges expands its game library, appealing to collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts. While it doesn’t match the performance of modern handhelds, its charm lies in its straightforward, pick-up-and-play nature. For more gaming gear recommendations, check out Total Apex Gaming!