Here’s how it works. Grabbing one of the best handheld gaming consoles will change the way you play your favorite games, whether you're on the move or simply away from your console or PC.

The best handheld games consoles are almost essential if you want to break free from the confines of your TV or monitor and experience everything that gaming has to offer while you're out and about.

and since there are now handheld gaming PCs as well as consoles to choose from in 2025, the answer isn't clear cut. That said, I have a bunch of recommendations based on hours to testing to share ...