Handheld consoles are portable game consoles that are ideal for on the go. The compact size makes them particularly flexible, and children in particular like the handy devices. Read here which handhelds are available.
If you are interested in a handheld console, there is currently no way around Nintendo, both the Nintendo Switch and the Switch Lite are the most popular portable game consoles on the market. The compact consoles are particularly popular with children because they are easy to use and have a handy size. You can find out here which other handheld consoles are worthwhile.
What is a handheld console?
Handheld consoles are portable game consoles. Unlike stationary consoles that connect to the TV at home, handheld consoles can be played anywhere at home or on the go thanks to a built-in screen and built-in speakers.
Nintendo Switch und Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch is not purely handheld, but a hybrid of a portable console and a stationary device for the television. Nintendo currently offers the best handheld consoles, so there are also many games for the console. From classics like Mario to Zelda to Skyrim and The Witcher 3, there is actually a game for every player. In addition to the internal memory of 32 GB, you can also buy an SD card and expand the memory. The hybrid console allows gaming on a 6.2-inch display with two detachable joycons as well as gaming with the stationary console on the TV screen.
The Switch Lite, on the other hand, is purely a handheld console and cannot be connected to the TV. But it is made of one piece and is ideal for playing on the go. On the Nintendo Switch Lite you can play all Nintendo Switch titles that support handheld mode. The display is slightly smaller at 5.5 inches. Depending on usage, you can play with the Switch Lite for three to seven hours without having to charge the device.
Nintendo 3DS XL
Before the Switch generation, the Nintendo 3 DS XL console came out in 2015. In contrast to the handheld console Nintendo 3DS, the XL variant has a larger screen, automatic brightness adjustment, increased computing power and additional controls. A new, improved 3D display and a motion-stable 3D function enable the indoor camera to recognize the player’s face and automatically correct the angle.
Playstation Vita
The Playstation Vita was Sony’s answer to Nintendo, but production has since been discontinued. There are still used devices that can be purchased online. A successor is not in sight. The very first PS Vita was released in 2011, and there were 25 games when it was released. The Playstation Vita uses dual analog sticks, a touchscreen and a touchpad when gaming. As a player, you have different ways of influencing what happens in the game.
Cheap retro handheld consoles
There are numerous inexpensive alternatives in the retro look of the popular Game Boy from Nintendo or small slot machines with joysticks on the Internet. In terms of quality, these consoles differ from the well-known competition and the games also vary in terms of variety and quality. The low price and the handy format still make such consoles nice handheld alternatives.
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