Handheld gaming devices have become immensely popular among online gamers. Whether you're nostalgic for the bygone era when gaming was portable anytime, anywhere, or you seek the convenience of playing PC or desktop games on the go without compromising substantial progress, there's a handheld device to suit your needs. Regardless of your motivation, we've streamlined the process of choosing the best handheld gaming device under $300 to make your decision easier!
1. Retroid Pocket Flip
If you’re looking for a handheld gaming device that’s light on your pocket, literally and figuratively, why not go for Retroid? The Android-powered gaming device lets you play your favorite games anytime or launch an emulator, too! But you can dock the Retroid to your TV or PC to play your game on a bigger screen! The Retroid company offers three devices:
- 2S Handheld
- Pocket 3+
- Flip
However, the best option for any gamer is the Flip. Its active cooling system lets you play games for a long time. It has 128GB of storage, allowing you to store all your favorite games on one device. Plus, it has a touchscreen and customizable buttons!
Pricing: $164.00
2. Retroid Pocket 3+
The Retroid Pocket 3+ is another handheld gaming device under $300 to consider. Like the flip, it also has a touchscreen and a game launcher with emulator. Unlike the Pocket Flip, this one has passive heat dissipation, which doesn’t fully cool your device. However, it’s still worth a try since it’s slightly more affordable than the Flip. Plus, with the Retroid Pocket 3+, you have color variants to choose from!
Pricing: $149
3. Playdate
If you want an old-school gaming experience, check out Playdate! It’s reminiscent of the old Nintendo Gameboy devices. You can only play 8-bit games, but it’s still enjoyable! So far, you can play up to 24 games, which you can purchase on the official store. One advantage of this handheld device is storing it in your pocket! Plus, it has a pull-out analog controller from the side to help characters move and do other actions on selected games!
Pricing: $199
4. Anbernic RG552
Here’s another option to consider if you want old-school-style gaming devices. Anbernic has various models and gaming models to choose from! Most devices are compatible with emulators, allowing you to play games from the past.
But if you want their state-of-the-art device under $300, you can buy the Anbernic RG552. This device has Linux and Android systems, allowing you to play simulators, Android games, and other simulators! Plus, you can expand the storage to play more games.
Pricing: $226.99
5. Analogue
Here’s another device paying homage to the old Game Boy models. Their Analogue Pocket model is compatible with your beloved Game Boy games! You can stick a cartridge and play like the old days. Unlike other devices on this list, they don’t have emulators.
Despite the 8-bit gaming style, it boasts a high-res screen (1600×1440). Plus, the Pocket is protected by Gorilla Glass, too! However, Analogue isn’t just a gaming system. You can also create music and connect it to your other devices! Additionally, they have a multi-player option, letting you play with your friends!
Pricing: $249.99
6. Powkiddy Max2
If you also want to select from various models, Powkiddy also offers them to avid gamers like you! Powkiddy has designs that will remind older gamers of their child. Meanwhile, their devices could also be great to let kids know about handheld gaming devices.
Most of their handheld gaming designs have smaller screens but can accommodate simulators. Additionally, some of their handheld devices have a fast-charging option, allowing you to play games for four hours, even on an hour’s charge. But you have to go with one of their bestsellers, the Max 2.
It has an ergonomic grip, providing comfort when you play for long. It’s compatible with various simulators. Plus, it’s expandable to 128 GB.
Pricing: starts at $154.99
7. Ayn Odin Lite
The Odin Lite is the affordable option of their flagship, Odin. However, it’s still a powerful handheld gaming device. You can customize the game launcher and set the screen mapping. Additionally, you can have fun playing your favorite online games from the Xbox and PS5 with integrated gaming apps to bring them anywhere. Finally, you have two options when buying the Odin Lite: the 4+64GB model or the 6+128GB version.
Pricing: starts at $237
8. Nintendo Switch Lite
Nintendo Switch Lite is a must-have for gamers who grew up playing the Nintendo consoles. Even if you didn’t play the original Nintendo games as a child, it’s also one of the best handheld gaming devices under $300, especially if you want to play various games with friends. You can browse their library with thousands of games compatible with the Switch Lite. Moreover, you can get the latest updates and store screenshots to share with friends.
Pricing: $199
9. Portal Retro
Pimax also has a handheld gaming device under $300. They specialize in VR gaming, but if you don’t need it, the Portal Retro is the best device. It’s decent with an LCD 2K screen and is lightweight, weighing around 306 grams. Plus, it has a storage capacity of 128 GB with 8GB memory.
Pricing: $299
10. Evercade EXP
The Evercade EXP is another handheld gaming device to consider, especially if you’re a fan of cartridge-based gaming systems. This is the best gaming console for Capcom fans since it has 18 built-in games from the video game company. However, it’s not only 8-bit games you can play. In fact, you can also play 3D games with this device! Plus, you can turn it vertically for games meant for vertical gaming. Finally, you can play for up to 5 hours and have 4GB built-in RAM.
Pricing: $149
Concluding Remarks
While Nintendo's handheld gaming consoles have a significant presence in the market, there are other compelling options to enhance your gaming experience within the handheld gaming devices under $300 range. These devices not only offer value for money but also evoke a sense of nostalgia for some users. The diverse options available cater to different preferences, with features ranging from 8-bit capabilities to RGB and 3D functionalities. The variety ensures that you have a range of choices to suit your gaming preferences.