Portable gaming devices are experiencing a resurgence this year, with a notable shift from their peak popularity decades ago. For the first time, all three major gaming hardware companies – Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft – have handheld gaming devices available in the market, alongside other options.
A recent holiday survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC) revealed that 16% of children requested gaming handhelds like the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck portable computer as Christmas gifts. In comparison, 46% asked for a home console, including the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2.
ESAC President Paul Fogolin noted that while handheld devices represent a smaller portion of the gaming landscape, the survey results indicate a growing interest in this segment, especially considering the recent introduction of many new devices. The increasing popularity of the Steam Deck also reflects a rising enthusiasm for PC gaming.
Each of the aforementioned devices offers unique features and capabilities, catering to different preferences for gamers looking to play on the go. Here’s a breakdown of what each device has to offer:
Nintendo Switch 2:
– Released in June 2025
– Pricing starts at $629.99, with a $699.99 bundle option including “Mario Kart World”
– The Switch 2 is a hardware update to its predecessor, offering improved performance and compatibility with a wide range of games. It retains the versatility of being both a handheld and a console that can connect to a TV.
Microsoft Xbox ROG Ally and ROG Ally X:
– Launched in October 2025
– Prices range from $799 for the Ally to $1,299 for the Ally X
– Microsoft’s first gaming handheld, the ROG Ally, is a specialized PC designed in collaboration with Asus. It delivers a gaming-centric experience and access to a vast library of PC games, including titles from Steam and Epic Games.
Sony PlayStation Portal:
– Introduced in November 2023
– Priced at $270, often available on sale for around $240
– The PlayStation Portal focuses on streaming gameplay, enabling users to play games remotely from a PlayStation 5 console or through cloud streaming. It offers a cost-effective option for those interested in gaming on the go.
In addition to these major players, there are other PC handhelds and retro gaming devices available in the market, catering to diverse gaming preferences and budgets. From the Steam Deck by Valve to retro-inspired devices like the Analogue Pocket, gamers have a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences and gaming needs.