Home News Top Android Gaming Handhelds: A Buyer's Guide

Top Android Gaming Handhelds: A Buyer's Guide

by Audrey Nov 24,2024

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 adore about the AYN Odin? Well the Odin 2 presents even more impressive specifications with its PRO version, which will effortlessly handle nearly any Android game, and tackle emulation as well.
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 broad array of 128-bit games.
The only drawback we perceive is unlike its predecessor, the Odin, the Odin 2 isn’t able to run Windows, or at least not as readily as before. The original Odin is still available though, so if Windows is a priority, then go ahead.
GPD XP Plus

This one’s exceptional. The GPD XP features interchangeable peripherals on the right side, simplifying emulation customization. That sounds fantastic, but what are the specifications?
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 gamers wanting diverse titles, from Android to PS2 and even Nintendo GameCube. Note that this console is costly, but its peripheral customization justifies the price. It’s a potent device with impressive capabilities.
ABERNIC RG353P

Abernic 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 boot for Linux and Android 11 – fantastic! It not only handles Android games superbly, but also 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 overly 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 masterfully handles Android games, as well as beloved 8-bit retro titles. For Gameboy and PS1 enthusiasts, this convenient device flawlessly executes their favorites! N64 games also perform very well on the Retroid Pocket 3+, but minor setting adjustments may be needed.
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 size, 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 great, 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 – superb! 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 best Android gaming handhelds? Well look no further than our best new Android games this week. …or emulate. You can do that too.