Top Gaming Handhelds of 2024: CNET's Recommendations

CNET highlights the Nintendo Switch as the top gaming handheld for 2024, praised for its versatility and affordability.

### CNET's Top Gaming Handhelds of 2024: A Comprehensive Guide
* 🎮 The handheld gaming market is thriving with various options, including **anticipated releases from Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony** in the coming years.
* 🌟 The Nintendo Switch remains a top choice, celebrated for its **versatility, affordability, and extensive library of first-party and indie games**, despite being **7 years old**.
* 💻 The Valve Steam Deck is a strong contender, particularly its **OLED version**, which offers **excellent display quality** and the ability to play PC games like **Elden Ring**, although it requires a **separate dock for TV connectivity**.
* 🕹 The PlayStation Portal, priced at **$200**, is a unique streaming device that allows users to **play PS5 games remotely** but is considered niche due to its limitations.
* 📦 The Panic Playdate is a quirky, compact handheld that features a **crank** and comes with **24 indie games**, although its small screen lacks a **backlight**.
* 🎮 The Analog Pocket is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts, capable of playing **classic Game Boy titles** and supporting various **emulation options**.
* 📱 Lastly, the iPad Mini, with its recent chip upgrade, offers a **portable gaming experience** when paired with a controller, **expanding the definition of handheld gaming**.
* 🔍 For more detailed insights, readers are encouraged to visit CNET's website for **additional gaming handheld coverage** and **best lists**.

Best Gaming Handhelds of 2024

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Overview of the Handheld Gaming Market in 2024

CNET's top gaming handhelds of 2024 are reviewed, highlighting the transitional state of the market.

Upcoming releases from Nintendo, Microsoft, and Sony are anticipated.

Windows gaming handhelds are gaining popularity, with the Steam Deck remaining a strong contender.

Top Recommendations: Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck

The Nintendo Switch is praised for its versatility, affordability, and extensive game library.

The Valve Steam Deck is highlighted as a strong second-place option, particularly its OLED version.

The Steam Deck's strengths include its display, controls, and PC game compatibility.

The Steam Deck's drawbacks include its size and lack of detachable controls.

The PlayStation Portal is described as a niche option, streaming games from the PS5.

The PlayStation Portal's ability to stream games remotely with a PlayStation Plus subscription is mentioned.

The Panic Playdate is highlighted for its unique design and curated indie game selection.

The Analog Pocket is recommended for retro gaming enthusiasts.

The iPad Mini is suggested as a versatile option for streaming games.