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The Steam Deck is one of the best handheld gaming consoles out there, but it has its fair share of competition from big names such as MSI, Lenovo, ASUS, Logitech, and more. So, if you were planning on buying a handheld gaming console but also wanted to check out what alternatives are available to the Steam Deck, you're in luck, as there are plenty.
We've compiled a list of handhelds from different brands that we think offer good competition to the Steam Deck and even outshine it in some aspects. We also included options for all budgets, so no one is left behind, and you'll find their details and pros and cons–everything you'll need to make an informed decision.
Products at a glance
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Best Steam Deck alternative overallLenovo Legion Go 8.8
- Processor: Up to AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme with RDNA Graphics
- Memory: 16GB 7500Mhz LPDDR5X on board
- OS : Windows 11 Home
- Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 2242
- Display: 8.8″ QHD+ (2560 x 1600) IPS
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Best runner-upASUS ROG Ally 7″
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor
- Memory : 24GB LPDDR5X
- GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 3 based Graphics (4GB VRAM, 12 compute units)
- Storage: 1TB
- Display: 7″ LED IPS
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Best mid-range
Logitech G Cloud
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G
- Memory: 16GB
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz
- Storage: 64 GB
- Display: 7″, 1920 x 1080 FHD
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Best budgetNintendo Switch™
- Processor: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 4310mAh
- Storage: 32 GB
- Display: 6.2-inch LCD Screen / 1280 x 720
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Best unique
Razer Kishi V2
- Dimension: 92.2 mm x 180.7 mm x 33.9 mm
- OS requirement: Android 9 or higher
- Compatibility: iPhone SE – 14, Samsung Galaxy S8 – S22, Samsung Galaxy Note 8 – 20, Google Pixel 2 – 6
How we picked
We picked the handhelds in this guide based on their price, features, and hardware. Here at PC Guide, we have strict testing protocols for every product we recommend, such as motherboards, GPUs, and more; however, we haven't reviewed many handhelds, but our experience in testing allows us to recommend solid options.
That being said, we will update this selection when we've tested a variety of handhelds, so check back with us soon.
Our top picks
- Processor: Up to AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme with RDNA Graphics
- Memory: 16GB 7500Mhz LPDDR5X on board
- OS : Windows 11 Home
- Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 2242
- Display: 8.8″ QHD+ (2560 x 1600) IPS
- Excellent performance
- Detachable controllers offer more versatility
- Great display
- It is bulky
- The battery life isn't the best
If you're looking for the best Steam Deck alternative, we recommend you check out the Lenovo Legion Go.
This handheld stands out as a premium handheld and features excellent hardware. For example, it has a vibrant 8.8-inch display with a 2560×1600 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, which should deliver a smooth gaming experience.
In addition, its various operations are powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, which is an 8-core and 16-thread processor with a maximum boost clock speed of 5.1 GHz. On top of that, it has a GPU with 12 cores, meaning it should be able to handle anything you throw at it, whether it is a AAA title or an indie game.
A unique design element of this handheld is the removable controller design, allowing you to detach the grips for a more comfortable setup or to connect to external accessories. Regarding its battery life, it should last up to 4-6 hours, but it can be less depending on the load. It supports fast charging with USB-C, so you should be back to gaming in no time.
The Legion Go runs Windows 11, giving you access to your full Steam library and other PC games without restrictions. Its build quality is solid, with a premium feel and excellent cooling that keeps performance stable during extended gaming sessions.
While it's on the heavier side compared to other handhelds, the large screen and powerful hardware make it an excellent choice for gamers who want a portable PC gaming experience without compromise. If you prioritize screen real estate and raw power, the Legion Go is a top contender.
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor
- Memory : 24GB LPDDR5X
- GPU: AMD Radeon RDNA 3 based Graphics (4GB VRAM, 12 compute units)
- Storage: 1TB
- Display: 7″ LED IPS
- The 120Hz refresh rate promotes smooth gaming
- It has fast charging
- The fans don't make a lot of noise
- Battery life can be much better
For those who want to check out all the options that give the Steam Deck a run for its money, we recommend you check out the ASUS ROG Ally, which features the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip as our top pick. Also, the ROG Ally 2 is in the works, and according to some early leaks, the design is facing some harsh criticism, but it should feature good upgrades, so maybe that is something to wait for.
This handheld has a more pocket-friendly price tag than the Lenovo Legion Go and features the same sharp 7-inch 1080p IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate as the Ally X, delivering smooth and vibrant visuals.
The Z1 Extreme should deliver excellent gaming output across a number of titles, perfect for enthusiasts. A great aspect of running Windows 11 is that you can access your full PC gaming library and software ecosystem via Steam, Epic Games, and other platforms.
The design of this handheld consists of dual fans with dust filters and heatpipes to keep it running cool in the short and long run by stopping the dust from building up. The dual front speakers with Dolby Atmos and two-way AI noise cancellation should provide an immersive experience, whether you're gaming, watching movies, or videos on it.
This handheld is a great option for gamers who want a capable device without compromises. It balances performance, portability, and price effectively, making it one of the best value Steam Deck alternatives on the market today.
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G
- Memory: 16GB
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz
- Storage: 64 GB
- Display: 7″, 1920 x 1080 FHD
- Excellently placed controls
- Great build quality
- Needs an internet connection for gaming
- Cloud gaming can be laggy
Mid-range products offer the best balance between value for money and performance, as they don't cost as much as high-end options but aren't on the level of budget options either. So, if you're looking for a mid-range handheld gaming console, we recommend you check out the Logitech G Cloud.
The Logitech G Cloud is designed primarily for cloud gaming, offering a lightweight and portable 7-inch 1080p IPS display with a 60Hz refresh rate. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G chipset, meaning you shouldn't experience lag during gameplay. It is also optimized for streaming games from services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and Steam Remote Play.
Running on Android 11, the G Cloud doesn't run PC games natively but excels at delivering a smooth cloud gaming experience with minimal latency. Its ergonomic design and long battery life up to 12 hours of streaming make it ideal for gamers who want to play AAA titles on the go without the bulk of a full PC handheld.
Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to pair wireless headphones or controllers. While it lacks the raw power of native PC handhelds, the Logitech G Cloud offers excellent value and convenience for streaming-focused gamers.
- Processor: NVIDIA Custom Tegra processor
- Memory: 32 GB
- Battery: 4310mAh
- Storage: 32 GB
- Display: 6.2-inch LCD Screen / 1280 x 720
- Excellent versatility as it can be docked to a TV and more
- Up to 8 consoles can connect with it
- Detachable Joy-Cons make it easy to store
- Comes with a limited 32GB base storage
- The graphics aren't the most refined
It is understandable that not everyone is operating with a huge budget, but that doesn't mean that they can't play games. If you've got a strict spending limit, check out the original Nintendo Switch.
This handheld gaming console offers a versatile gaming experience that seamlessly transitions between handheld and docked play. You can connect it to the TV and play games with the Joy-Cons or even enjoy two-player games with each person playing with a single controller.
In addition, it also supports up to 8 connections for games that support a large party multiplayer option. What makes it even better is that if you're playing on your own, it's 6.2-inch LCD screen should deliver vibrant visuals, optimized for Nintendo's exclusive games and a vast catalog of indie titles.
It is also powered by the Nvidia Tegra X1 chip, which has 20nm processes, 8 cores, and, according to Nvidia, can handle 4K at 60 FPS. All of this combined allows it to provide a smooth performance tailored to Nintendo's ecosystem rather than raw power.
The Switch's detachable Joy-Con controllers enable flexible multiplayer options and motion controls, while the console's compact size and moderate weight make it highly portable. Battery life varies between 2.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on the game, with fast charging via USB-C.
Though its screen resolution and processing power are modest compared to PC-based handhelds, the Switch's unique game library and hybrid design keep it a favorite for casual and dedicated gamers alike.
- Dimension: 92.2 mm x 180.7 mm x 33.9 mm
- OS requirement: Android 9 or higher
- Compatibility: iPhone SE – 14, Samsung Galaxy S8 – S22, Samsung Galaxy Note 8 – 20, Google Pixel 2 – 6
- It can turn your mobile into a gaming console anywhere
- Compact design makes it easy to store and keep with you
- It has a high level of compatibility
- Only works with compatible smartphones
- Bound by mobile games
- No screen, as it only offers controllers
Our last option is very unique as it lacks a display and is only a pair of controllers that attach to your mobile phone, transforming it into a console-quality gaming device.
This is the Razer Kishi V2, and it achieves this via its ergonomic and extendable design that securely clamps around phones up to 170mm in length. Featuring tactile microswitch buttons, clickable analog thumbsticks, and analog triggers, it delivers responsive, precise controls ideal for fast-paced gaming. So, whether you're playing PUBG mobile or any other game, these controls should keep you at the top of your game.
Powered directly through your phone's USB-C port, the Kishi V2 eliminates input latency for seamless gameplay and includes passthrough charging so you can power your phone while gaming. Additional programmable M1 and M2 buttons expand customization options via the Razer Nexus app, which also offers game discovery and mapping features.
Though it lacks an audio jack, the lightweight controller's comfortable grip and universal fit make it a top choice for mobile gamers seeking a premium physical control experience without compromise. It supports streaming PC and console games, extending your gaming library beyond mobile titles.
How to choose the best Steam Deck alternative
Some major aspects overlap with all handhelds, and you have to pay attention to those while selecting a good alternative to the Steam Deck.
Hardware
The first aspect you need to look at is the hardware, particularly the processors. Handhelds with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processors offer good gaming performance, and some of the handhelds that feature this CPU are the Lenovo Legion Go and the ASUS ROG Ally X.
Besides that, the OS the hardware runs on is crucial, as that can have a positive or negative impact on the output. Generally, Windows-based devices are easier to operate as it has an extensive ecosystem and support.
Price
While hardware is something you can't compromise on, you'll also need to factor in your budget and what handheld it allows for. Options like the ROG Ally X or the Lenovo Legion Go offer good performance but also cost more.
So, while looking for a handheld gaming console, keep your budget in mind and filter the available options based on your budget. This will help you from overspending.
Screen size
The screen size is a major component of any handheld, as that is what it is all about. There is no point in getting a high-end handheld if it has a 4” display, as you won't be able to enjoy the graphics.
Lenovo Legion Go has an 8.8” display while the ASUS ROG Ally features a 7” display, which is decent as the Steam Deck has a 7.4” display. However, keep in mind that options with a large display and a high-end panel will bump up their price, making it heavier on your wallet.
Does Steam Deck use RTX?
You can use RTX on a Steam Deck by leveraging GeForce NOW's Ultimate membership and experience the output of an RTX 4080. So, while natively it can't handle Ray Tracing, with this method, you can experience serene visuals on your Steam Deck.
Is Steam Deck AMD or Intel?
The Steam Deck uses AMD APUs, meaning the processor and the GPU are based on the same chips, to power its various operations.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Lenovo Legion Go is the best Steam Deck alternative. It has a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, a large 8.8-inch display with a 2560×1600 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate, and it runs on Windows 11, meaning you've got a mini PC in your hands. All of these aspects and more make it an excellent alternative to the Steam Deck.
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