If you’re a gamer, you’re probably excited about the upcoming launch of Steam Deck, the handheld gaming console by Valve. With its impressive hardware specs and the ability to play your entire Steam library on the go, Steam Deck seems like the perfect gaming device for gamers who love to travel.
However, not everyone wants to spend $400+ on a portable gaming console. Luckily, there are many other options available in the market that offer similar features and performance at a more affordable price. In this article, we’ll explore the best Steam Deck alternatives that you can buy right now.
1. Introduction
Portable gaming consoles have come a long way since the days of Game Boy and PSP. Today, gamers have a plethora of options to choose from, ranging from the classic Nintendo Switch to high-end gaming laptops. The Steam Deck is the latest addition to this market, and it’s generating a lot of buzz.
However, not everyone can afford to spend $400+ on a gaming console. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers great performance and features, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore the best Steam Deck alternatives that you can buy right now.
2. What is Steam Deck?
Steam Deck is a handheld gaming console by Valve, the same company behind the popular Steam platform for PC gaming. The device comes in three different models, starting at $399, and features an AMD APU with RDNA 2 graphics, 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and a 7-inch touchscreen display.
The device can run all your Steam games, as well as other PC games through third-party launchers. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a USB-C port for charging and external accessories.
3. Why Look for Steam Deck Alternatives?
While Steam Deck is an impressive device, it might not be the best option for everyone. For starters, it’s quite expensive, with the base model starting at $399. Additionally, it’s not available until December 2021, and there’s no guarantee that it will be in stock.
Moreover, Steam Deck is quite bulky and heavy, which might not make it the most comfortable device to carry around for long periods. Lastly, some gamers might not be interested in playing all their PC games on a handheld console and would prefer a dedicated gaming device instead.
4. Best Steam Deck Alternatives
If you’re looking for a more affordable, portable gaming console that offers similar features and performance as the Steam Deck, here are some of the best options available in the market:
1. Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch is a classic portable gaming console that has been around since 2017. While it might not have the same hardware specs as the Steam Deck, it’s still a great device for gaming on the go.
The Switch features a 6.2-inch touchscreen display and comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers. It also has a dock that allows you to connect it to your TV and play games in full HD resolution. The Switch has a vast library of exclusive games, including Super Mario, Legend of Zelda, and Pokemon, making it an excellent choice for Nintendo fans.
2. GPD Win 3
The GPD Win 3 is a portable gaming device that looks like a mini-laptop. It features an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 5.5-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a full keyboard and a gamepad.
The GPD Win 3 can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a portable device that can also double as a mini-laptop.
3. Aya Neo
The Aya Neo is another portable gaming device that looks like a mini-laptop. It features an AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor, 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The Aya Neo can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a powerful, yet portable device.
4. OneGx1 Pro
The OneGx1 Pro is a portable gaming device that looks like a mini-laptop. It features an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The OneGx1 Pro can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a powerful, yet portable device.
5. Onexplayer
The Onexplayer is another portable gaming device that looks like a mini-laptop. It features an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The Onexplayer can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a powerful, yet portable device with a larger screen.
6. Alienware UFO
The Alienware UFO is a portable gaming device by Dell that looks like a mini-console. It features an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB of LPDDR4 RAM, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as detachable controllers.
The Alienware UFO can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a portable device that can also double as a mini-console.
7. GPD XD Plus
The GPD XD Plus is a portable gaming device that looks like a mini-console. It features an MTK8176 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 5-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The GPD XD Plus can run all your Android games, as well as some PC games through emulators, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a portable device that can also double as a mini-console.
8. Nvidia Shield Tablet
The Nvidia Shield Tablet is a portable gaming device that looks like a mini-tablet. It features an Nvidia Tegra K1 processor, 2GB of RAM, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The Nvidia Shield Tablet can run all your
Android games and it’s a great option for gamers who want a portable device that can also double as a mini-tablet.
9. Smach Z
The Smach Z is a portable gaming device that looks like a mini-console. It features an AMD Ryzen V1605B processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 6-inch touchscreen display. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as detachable controllers.
The Smach Z can run all your PC games, including AAA titles, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a portable device that can also double as a mini-console.
10. Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2
The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 is a gaming smartphone that features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 processor, up to 18GB of RAM, and a 6.92-inch AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate. The device also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as a gamepad.
The Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 can run all your Android games, as well as some PC games through emulators, and it’s a great option for gamers who want a powerful gaming smartphone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Steam Deck is an exciting new portable gaming device, but it’s not the only option for gamers looking for a portable gaming experience. There are many excellent alternatives, from the Nintendo Switch to the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2. Ultimately, the best portable gaming device for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re a PC gamer who wants to play your favorite games on the go, the GPD Win 3, Aya Neo, OneGx1 Pro, Onexplayer, and Smach Z are all excellent options. If you prefer console gaming, the Nintendo Switch and Alienware UFO are great choices. And if you’re looking for a powerful gaming smartphone, the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel 2 is a top contender.
No matter which portable gaming device you choose, you’re sure to enjoy gaming on the go with high-quality graphics and immersive gameplay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these portable gaming devices more expensive than the Steam Deck?
It depends on the specific device, but some are more expensive than the Steam Deck while others are cheaper.
Can these portable gaming devices run all PC games?
Most of them can run all PC games, but some may struggle with particularly demanding titles.
Are these portable gaming devices easy to carry around?
Yes, all of these devices are designed to be portable and easy to carry around.
Which portable gaming device has the best battery life?
The Nintendo Switch has the best battery life, with up to 9 hours of gameplay on a single charge.
Can I connect these portable gaming devices to a TV?
Some of them, such as the Nintendo Switch and Alienware UFO, can be connected to a TV for a larger gaming experience.