CheckMag | Can the Steam Deck OLED really last 12 Hours? Top 5 handheld consoles for on-the-go gaming

Despite its robust capabilities, the Legion Go has some drawbacks. The battery life is relatively short, lasting about 4 hours on conservative settings. The device is also heavier and bulkier compared to other handhelds, weighing in at 854 grams, which aids in better cooling due to its four fan vents.

Running on Windows 11, the Legion Go is compatible with a wide array of PC games beyond those available on Steam. It also features modern connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and two USB-C ports for charging and connecting external accessories.

Overall, the Lenovo Legion Go offers a unique and powerful gaming experience with its large, high-quality screen and detachable controllers, though potential buyers should consider its shorter battery life and heavier build.

Cloud gaming has advanced significantly, and the Logitech G Cloud (find this model on BestBuy at $299) showcases this progress. With a reliable internet connection, this device enables streaming of AAA titles directly from a browser. The G Cloud operates on a custom Android version, allowing access to cloud-gaming services such as Xbox Game Pass and Nvidia Cloud Gaming, which require an online connection to play games typically reserved for more powerful consoles. Additionally, it supports game installations from the Google Play Store for offline play and offers expandable storage via an SD card to supplement its 64GB internal memory.

One major advantage of cloud gaming on the G Cloud is the elimination of long download times, which is a common issue with platforms like Steam. While you need an internet connection to play, the instant access to games without waiting for large downloads is a significant benefit.

Battery performance is another highlight of the G Cloud, offering up to 10 hours of use, surpassing other non-Switch handheld consoles. Its lighter build compared to devices like the Steam Deck, Legion Go, and ROG Ally makes it an excellent choice for emulation and portable gaming.

For those seeking a large-screen device optimized for cloud gaming, the G Cloud provides a straightforward and efficient experience. While alternatives like the Legion Go and ROG Ally also support cloud services, they come with higher costs and shorter battery lives. The G Cloud’s compatibility with Google Play Store emulators further enhances its versatility, establishing it as the best handheld console for cloud gaming.

The Nintendo Switch OLED (check it out at BestBuy for $349) is the flagship model in Nintendo's existing console lineup. It features a larger 7-inch screen with a slimmer bezel, enhancing its visual appeal compared to other handhelds. Additionally, the improved kickstand on the back provides much-needed stability, a welcome upgrade for those frustrated with the original's flimsy support.

In terms of performance, the Switch's hardware may not be groundbreaking, but it is sufficient. The NVIDIA Tegra X1 SoC delivers 1080p visuals at 30fps, and playing in handheld mode eases the load for demanding games. Performance generally isn't a concern, as Nintendo's game library is optimized for the hardware, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.

Like Nintendo, Valve has released an updated version of its portable console, known as the Steam Deck OLED (available on Amazon at 670$). This iteration features a minor spec upgrade and, as the name suggests, an OLED screen. The most significant enhancement is the inclusion of a 50-Wh battery, an improvement over the original's 40-Wh capacity. While the Steam Deck already offers decent battery life for less demanding games, this upgrade helps mitigate the quick drain experienced with high-end AAA titles.

In terms of performance, the Steam Deck may not be the most powerful handheld PC on the market, but it provides respectable performance considering its price point. The device runs on an operating system designed to boot directly into your games library, similar to traditional consoles. This OS allows easy navigation to the store for purchasing new games, with Steam indicating whether a game is compatible with the Deck.

Weighing 640 grams, the Steam Deck OLED is lighter than its predecessor, although it remains one of the heftiest handhelds available. Despite its size, the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable fit in the hands. The layout, featuring high-up symmetrical sticks reminiscent of the Wii U, adheres to the modern PC controller standard, minimizing the learning curve for new users.

The Super Pocket (find this model on BestBuy at $59) simplifies handheld gaming by focusing on plug-and-play functionality. Users can easily switch between the built-in game collection and Evercade cartridges without worrying about downloads or settings.

The Super Pocket excels in playing retro games, making it perfect for enthusiasts. Available in Taito and Capcom Editions, it features a Game Boy-inspired design with a D-pad, four front buttons, and rear bumpers. As the name suggests, the Super Pocket is compact and pocket-sized, making it highly portable.

The device sports a 320x240 pixel IPS screen, which, while not as premium as the higher resolution displays of systems like the Nintendo Switch OLED, is adequate for its 2.8-inch size. The games look vibrant and feature deep colors, with display options like CRT scanline filters and adjustable aspect ratios to enhance the visual experience. Despite its modest screen, the Super Pocket offers impressive display quality for its price, costing less than most new Switch games.