Phones are great and all, but sometimes you want some actual buttons. We created this guide to showcase our personal choices for the best Android gaming handhelds. We go over the important stuff, such as specs, what the console does, and what it can run. Some are designed with retro gaming in mind, some are from big names, there are small and big specs available, so take a peek and see if any catch your eye.Best Android Gaming HandheldsLet’s crack on with our list!Odin 2 PRO
What’s not to love about the AYN Odin? Well the Odin 2 boasts even better specifications with its PRO version, which will handle virtually any Android game, and tackle emulation with ease.Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen2 CPUAdreno 74012GB RAM256GB Storage1920 x 1080 6” LCD Touchscreen Display8000mAh BatteryAndroid 13WiFi7 + BT 5.3The AYN Odin 2 Pro can also emulate GameCube and PS2 titles, as well as a wide array of 128-bit games.
The only drawback we see is unlike its predecessor, the Odin, the Odin 2 doesn’t support Windows, or at least not as readily. The original Odin is still available though, so if Windows is crucial, then go for it.
GPD XP Plus
This one's a special one. The GPD XP features interchangeable peripherals on the right side, simplifying emulation customization. That sounds great, but what are the specs?
MediaTek Dimensity 1200 Octa-Core CPUArm Mali-G77 MC9 GPU6GB LPDDR4X RAM6.81″ IPS Touch LCD Screen with Gorilla Glass7000mAh BatterySupports up to 2TB microSD.The GPD XP excels for those wanting diverse gaming, from Android to PS2 and even Nintendo GameCube titles. Note that this console is expensive, but its peripheral customization justifies the cost. It's a powerful device with impressive capabilities.
ABERNIC RG353PAbernic RG353P is a robust, retro-style handheld console – ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts. It even boasts a mini-HDMI port! The console's weight lends it a premium feel. With 2 SD card slots and a headphone jack, you can fully enjoy portable gaming. Its resemblance to the SNES is excellent, but what are the specifications?
RK3566 Quad-core 64-bit Cortex-A55 1.8ghz CPU2GB DDR4 RAMAndroid 32GB/Linux 16GB (expandable)3.5” IPS 640 x 480 Touchscreen Display3500MAH BatteryAndroid 11/LinuxThe Abernic RG353P also features dual booting for Linux and Android 11 – superb! It not only handles Android games exceptionally well, but also allows you to play classics from the N64, PS1, and PSP.
Retroid Pocket 3+The Retroid Pocket 3+ boasts a stylish, sleek design radiating simplicity – we adore it. While the Retroid Pocket 2S could easily merit inclusion, the Retroid Pocket 3+ is undeniably a superior iteration, albeit at a marginally higher cost. The handheld console's dimensions are ideal. It's neither too compact nor excessively large. It's comfortable to grip and easily fits in a bag for portable gaming.
Let’s review the specifications:
Quad-core Unisoc Tiger T618 CPU4GB DDR4 DRAM128GB Storage4.7” Touchscreen Display 16:9 750 x 1334 60FPS4500mAh BatteryIt handles Android games exceptionally well, alongside your preferred 8-bit retro titles. Gameboy and PS1 enthusiasts will be pleased to learn this compact device emulates them flawlessly! N64 games also perform very well on the Retroid Pocket 3+, though minor setting adjustments may be necessary.
It also manages most Dreamcast titles and a significant portion of PSP games, though verification is recommended before committing.
Logitech G Cloud
We’re big fans of the Logitech G Cloud’s design. The stylish model with comfortable ergonomic hand grips makes gaming a delight. Despite its slim profile, it’s still one of the most potent Android handhelds. While the overall design isn’t as nostalgic as its competitors, the contemporary look is exceptionally attractive. It may look superb, but what are the specifications?
Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G Octa-core CPU up to 2.3GHz64GB Storage7” 1920 x 1080p 16:9 IPS LCD Display 60HzRechargeable Li-Polymer Battery, 23.1 watt-hIt runs Android games remarkably well, and it can even handle Diablo Immortal with the Snapdragon 720 processor – excellent! With the device leveraging cloud gaming, it’s easier than ever to jump in and out of games during your free time. The screen is also stunning, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Android games with high-quality visuals.
You can purchase the Logitech G Cloud on the official website!
Want something to play on the top Android gaming handhelds? Well look no further than our best new Android games this week. …or emulate. You can do that too.