This year, handheld gaming PCs have become a standout holiday gift. Offering a blend of portability, versatility, and performance that many players crave, they’re ideal for gamers who want a more console-like way to enjoy PC gaming. And devices like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Xbox Ally, ROG Xbox Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go deliver the power of a gaming laptop inside a sleek, portable form factor. Instead of being tethered to a desk, gamers can take their full PC library with them on the go.
Learn everything from operating systems and game compatibility to battery life, storage, and setup, so you can feel confident choosing the right device for the gamer on your list.
Who’s it for? Match the gift to the gamer
A handheld gaming PC is best suited for teens, students, or anyone who spends a lot of time travelling. It’s the hottest gift for gamers who want console-level convenience paired with PC-level flexibility. They’re also a great fit for anyone who already owns a gaming PC or console but wants the freedom to keep playing when they’re away from their main setup.
It’s important to consider who you’re giving it to and what they’re playing.
Handheld gaming PCs are less ideal for very young children: These devices can be heavy, with software ecosystems that can require some technical know-how. PC gaming interfaces aren’t generally designed with very young users in mind. Similarly, someone who primarily plays mobile games may find the experience too complex.
It’s also helpful to consider whether the person receiving the gift is familiar with PC gaming platforms: There are different options such as Steam, Epic Games Store, or Xbox Game Pass. These storefronts are straightforward once you learn them, but they may feel a bit overwhelming for someone brand-new to PC gaming.
Also, if they are experienced with these platforms, it can affect which handheld PC they might prefer. Some are more open platforms, like the ASUS ROG Ally family, which can interface with all the aforementioned services. On the other hand, a platform like the Steam Deck is designed around exclusive use with the digital Steam storefront.
Key things to consider before gifting a handheld PC
1. Operating system
One of the most important factors to consider is the operating system. Windows-based handhelds, like the ROG Ally, offer wide compatibility with virtually every PC game and launcher. Steam Deck models running SteamOS provide a more streamlined, console-like interface but rely on Linux. This means Windows-specific games may require extra steps or not run at all. Understanding which ecosystem your recipient uses most: Steam, Xbox, or multiple launchers, can help guide the right choice.
2. Choosing the right game library ecosystem
A Windows handheld offers the greatest flexibility, as it can run Steam, the Epic Games Store, GOG, Xbox Game Pass, and more with minimal setup. A SteamOS device excels if the player mostly uses Steam and prefers a simple, unified interface that organizes all their PC games in one place.
3. Key hardware specs to look for
Specs also matter when deciding between devices. The processor, RAM, and graphics capability all contribute to how smoothly games run. Most handhelds today feature modern AMD APUs paired with 16GB of RAM. This is usually enough for everything from indie titles to many demanding AAA games.
SSD storage is also a major factor, and handhelds span a few common capacities. A 256GB model is best for indie games or a small rotation of titles. Moving up to 512GB offers the sweet spot for most players, providing enough room for several large releases. A 1TB option is ideal for those who frequently install big AAA games and want more flexibility. Premium models even go up to 2TB for maximum storage, you can also expand your storage with SD cards. Since many modern games exceed 100GB, 512GB or higher is generally recommended for most gift recipients.
4. Power consumption and battery life
Battery life is an important element, especially if the person will use the handheld while travelling or away from outlets. Depending on the game, a handheld may last anywhere from one to several hours, so expectations should be set accordingly.
5. Display matters: resolution, size, and refresh rate
The display quality on the PC handheld influences both visual clarity and comfort. Screen sizes typically range around 7 inches, with some handhelds offering higher resolutions or faster refresh rates for smoother gameplay. A larger or brighter screen is great for visual immersion, but can reduce battery life, so consider the factors that suit the gamer you are buying for.
6. Comfort and ergonomics are important
Comfort and ergonomics shouldn’t be overlooked. Some handhelds feel heavier or bulkier than others, and hand size can affect which device feels best during longer play sessions. The layout of the buttons and thumbsticks varies from model to model, so personal preference plays a role.
For example, the new ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X have been redesigned to feel like an Xbox controller in your hands with a screen in the centre. As someone who plays games for hours, I find this design to be overall the most comfortable and familiar. Be sure to consider their comfort and preferences when it comes to controllers and other gaming devices they use, if any.
7. Storage solutions that scale
Finally, expandable storage options are incredibly helpful. Many handhelds include a microSD slot for additional space, and USB-C docks can expand connectivity even further by adding ports for monitors, keyboards, mice, or external drives.
Steam Deck vs ROG Ally vs Legion Go
While you don’t need to dive into every spec or benchmark to choose a great gift, it helps to understand the broad differences between the most popular handhelds. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors to consider when deciding between these top handheld options:
Steam Deck: Budget-friendly and Steam-focused
The Steam Deck is often the most affordable option and runs a Linux-based SteamOS. It is designed for players who want a console-like experience while accessing their Steam library. The hardware delivers strong performance for its price and is a great gift choice for gamers who already own a large collection of Steam titles. Its straightforward setup and dedicated Steam interface make it a great choice for those who primarily stick to Steam.
ROG Ally and ROG Xbox Ally: Windows flexibility and greater performance
The ROG Ally and ROG Xbox Ally take a different approach by running a full Windows OS. This gives users access to virtually any PC game or launcher without limitations. Both devices feature bright, high-resolution screens and powerful internal hardware, providing superior graphics and performance.
The trade-off is that their high-performance design consumes more battery, meaning play sessions away from an outlet may be shorter. These devices do feature software-based options to manage battery life, but even with these settings, heavy gaming or high-performance tasks will still drain the battery faster than on more efficiency-focused handhelds.
ROG Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally X: premium performance
The ROG Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally X aim to address battery levels while also upgrading the hardware of standard ROG Ally models. With larger battery capacity, these handhelds provide longer playtime without compromising on performance, making them ideal for enthusiasts who want premium hardware that can handle demanding games on the go. For gamers seeking both top-tier specs and practical portability, the ROG Ally X models represent a thoughtful balance of power and endurance.
If you are still not sure which ROG Xbox Ally console to go with, I have an in-depth comparison of the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Ally X.
Lenovo Legion Go: Another high-end contender
The Lenovo Legion Go stands out as a feature-rich, modular option. It has one of the largest screens in the PC Gaming handheld category at 8.8 inches. Its controllers are detachable, like Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons, allowing tabletop play or even mouse-like gyro aiming in supported titles. Because it runs Windows, it offers full compatibility with major PC gaming platforms. Storage options include a 1TB model, with support for microSD expansion, so there’s plenty of room to play. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for gamers who want a hybrid handheld/tabletop experience or who prioritize a larger, more versatile display.
Find the best fit for the gamer on your list. Here’s a detailed comparison of ROG Ally vs Steam Deck vs Legion Go.
Accessories to consider
A handheld gaming PC makes a fantastic gift on its own, but a few accessories can elevate the experience right from the moment it’s unboxed.
- Travel case, like this travel case for ROG Xbox Ally 2-in-1, is a great companion that helps protect the device while on the move
- High-capacity microSD card provides essential extra storage for more game installations.
- Screen protector keeps the display safe from scratches.
- USB-C dock gives them the option to plug the device into a TV or monitor for a console-like setup.
Adding a Steam or Xbox digital gift card can also be a thoughtful touch that lets them pick out their first game or expand their library immediately.
Set-up considerations for the recipient
Handheld gaming PCs often require some setup before they’re ready to use. Depending on the model, the recipient may need to install system updates, drivers, or game launchers before diving into gameplay.
Windows-based devices may require a few extra steps, such as signing in to a Microsoft account or adjusting performance profiles. If the person you are buying for is new to PC gaming, sharing a quick-start guide or a helpful YouTube walkthrough can make the initial setup feel much more approachable.
Once everything is configured, it will closely mimic using a traditional gaming console, just with far more flexibility.
Final tips for gifting success
There are many factors to consider when picking out the right handheld gaming PC for that special someone on your list. A little research goes a long way, and many gamers appreciate the thought that goes into picking a device that matches their playstyle. You may also want to confirm which games they like to play so you can choose a handheld that works well with their library.
If you’re unsure which model or device they’d prefer, Best Buy Canada is here to help. Best Buy has a flexible return policy and an extended holiday return window that can offer added peace of mind.
A handheld gaming PC can create a genuine “wow” moment when unwrapped during the holidays. It’s a unique gift that blends practicality with excitement and is perfect for anyone who loves tech, gaming, or the idea of PC-level power they can carry anywhere.
