Phones are great, but sometimes you crave the tactile feedback of actual buttons. That's where Android gaming handhelds come into play. In this guide, we'll dive into our top picks, detailing their specs, capabilities, and the gaming experiences they offer. Whether you're into retro gaming or looking for something more powerful, we've got you covered. So, let's explore these fantastic devices and see if any pique your interest.
Best Android Gaming Handhelds
Let's jump into our curated list!
Odin 2 PRO
The AYN Odin 2 PRO takes the beloved Odin series to new heights with its enhanced specs. It's a powerhouse that can handle almost any Android game and excels at emulation.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen2 CPU
- Adreno 740 GPU
- 12GB RAM
- 256GB Storage
- 1920 x 1080 6" LCD Touchscreen Display
- 8000mAh Battery
- Android 13
- WiFi7 + BT 5.3
The Odin 2 PRO can emulate GameCube and PS2 games, as well as a wide range of 128-bit titles. The only caveat is that, unlike its predecessor, it doesn't support Windows as easily. If Windows compatibility is crucial, the original Odin is still available.
GPD XP Plus
The GPD XP Plus stands out with its swappable peripherals on the right-hand side, offering unparalleled customization for your gaming experience. Here's what it brings to the table:
- MediaTek Dimensity 1200 Octa-Core CPU
- Arm Mali-G77 MC9 GPU
- 6GB LPDDR4X RAM
- 6.81" IPS Touch LCD Screen with Gorilla Glass
- 7000mAh Battery
- Supports up to 2TB microSD
Perfect for those who want to play a diverse range of games, from Android titles to PS2 and Nintendo GameCube. While it's on the pricier side, the customization options and powerful performance make it a compelling choice.
ABERNIC RG353P
The Abernic RG353P is a robust, retro-style handheld perfect for nostalgia lovers. It boasts a mini-HDMI port and a premium feel, making it a great choice for portable gaming.
- RK3566 Quad-core 64-bit Cortex-A55 1.8GHz CPU
- 2GB DDR4 RAM
- Android 32GB/Linux 16GB (expandable)
- 3.5" IPS 640 x 480 Touchscreen Display
- 3500mAh Battery
- Android 11/Linux
With dual boot capabilities for Linux and Android 11, it's versatile enough to handle Android games and classics from N64, PS1, and PSP.
Retroid Pocket 3+
The Retroid Pocket 3+ boasts a sleek, simple design that's both functional and stylish. It's a more advanced version of the Retroid Pocket 2S, offering a comfortable grip and portable size.
- Quad-core Unisoc Tiger T618 CPU
- 4GB DDR4 DRAM
- 128GB Storage
- 4.7" Touchscreen Display 16:9 750 x 1334 60FPS
- 4500mAh Battery
It's excellent for Android games and 8-bit retro titles. Fans of Gameboy and PS1 will find it runs these systems smoothly. N64 and some Dreamcast and PSP games are also supported, though settings may need tweaking.
Logitech G Cloud
The Logitech G Cloud impresses with its ergonomic design and powerful performance, despite its slim profile. It's a modern take on gaming handhelds, focusing on cloud gaming.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G Octa-core CPU up to 2.3GHz
- 64GB Storage
- 7" 1920 x 1080p 16:9 IPS LCD Display 60Hz
- Rechargeable Li-Polymer Battery, 23.1 watt-h
It runs Android games smoothly, including heavy hitters like Diablo Immortal. The high-quality screen enhances your gaming experience, making it perfect for cloud gaming sessions.
You can purchase the Logitech G Cloud directly from their official website.
Looking for games to play on these handhelds? Check out our list of the best new Android games this week, or dive into the world of emulation for a nostalgic gaming experience.
