2023 has been an extraordinary year for handheld gaming. The industry witnessed significant advancements, not only in the realm of retro handheld emulation but also with major players stepping into the world of PC handhelds. In this review, I'm diving into the crème de la crème, the top 5 handhelds of 2023, featuring the Steam Deck OLED, Ayn Odin 2, Lenovo Legion Go, Asus ROG Ally, and Miyoo Mini Plus. Let's explore each of these groundbreaking devices, rating them out of 10, and see how they've shaped the handheld gaming landscape.
1. Steam Deck OLED: The Game Changer (9.5/10)
Valve's Steam Deck OLED is a marvel in the handheld gaming world. The introduction of an OLED screen with HDR and a 90Hz refresh rate has significantly upped the ante. What makes it stand out is its user-friendly Linux-based system, offering a near-console experience with the flexibility of a PC.
The Steam Deck OLED excels in compatibility, running a vast array of games effortlessly. Minor upgrades like faster RAM and improved battery life further solidify its position at the top. It's not just a minor update; it's a major leap forward. The only downside is the jump in price for the OLED model, but the sheer quality and performance make it a worthy investment.
2. Asus ROG Ally: The PC Powerhouse (9/10)
The ROG Ally by Asus redefined PC handheld gaming. With its 1080p, 120Hz screen, and SSD upgradability, it brings high-end PC gaming into a compact form. This device legitimizes the PC handheld market with its impressive build and performance. The Ally manages to be powerful yet surprisingly quiet, a rare feat in this space.
However, it does have some heat issues, and the micro SD card slot is a bit finicky. Despite these minor setbacks, the ROG Ally stands as a testament to Asus' expertise in Windows gaming devices, offering a sublime gaming experience.
3. AYN Odin 2: The Emulation King (8.5/10)
The AYN Odin 2 is a powerhouse in emulation, effortlessly running games from NES up to PS2 and even some Nintendo Switch titles. Its Android platform makes it incredibly versatile for emulation enthusiasts. The device's high price is a bit of a hurdle, but for those deeply invested in emulation, it's a small price to pay for the quality and performance on offer.
The Odin 2 represents a significant step forward in handheld emulation devices, blending power with user-friendly customization.
4. Lenovo Legion Go: The Newcomer (8/10)
Lenovo's Legion Go is a notable addition to the handheld arena. Its standout feature is the large, beautiful screen, perfect for immersive gaming. The detachable controllers add a unique touch, though they are more of a novelty than a necessity.
The Legion Go falls short in areas like the UI, update process, and a surprisingly loud fan, even when idle. While it's a great handheld, especially for those who value screen size, it's not without its flaws.
5. Miyoo Mini Plus: The Retro Favourite (7.5/10)
Rounding off the list is the Miyoo Mini Plus. This device answers the call for a more accessible retro gaming handheld. While it doesn't quite reach the heights of its predecessors, it holds its own with consistent updates and support, like the Onion OS for emulation.
It's a tribute to the classic Game Boy form factor, catering to those nostalgic for 90s 2D games. Its capability to play NES to PS1 games makes it a versatile choice for retro enthusiasts. However, its limitations in stock and some design choices hold it back from achieving greatness.
Conclusion: A Year of Handheld Wonders
2023 was a landmark year for handheld gaming. We saw incredible strides in both emulation and PC handhelds. Each of these devices brought something unique to the table, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in portable gaming. As we step into 2024, the question remains: how will the handheld gaming landscape evolve further? With such innovation and variety, the future looks bright and exciting for handheld gaming enthusiasts.
What are your thoughts on these top 5 handhelds of 2023? Do you agree with the rankings, or would you have arranged them differently? Share your opinions and stay tuned for more gaming insights!
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This article was originally published on 3 Jan 2024. Product specifications, prices and availability may have changed. We sometimes receive review products and may earn commission through affiliate links. We are not obliged to publish a positive review. About our reviews and disclosures.
