It’s November 2025, and if you’re a gamer on the go, you’re living in the golden age. Forget clunky controllers and tethering yourself to a TV; the future of gaming is portable, powerful, and packed with options. But with a constant stream of new handhelds hitting the market, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a minefield. Fear not, fellow traveler! We’ve spent the last few months elbows-deep in joysticks, buttons, and screens, testing the latest and greatest to bring you the definitive guide to the best gaming handhelds of 2025. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast, a PC gaming power user, or somewhere in between, there’s a handheld here for you.
The All-Around Champ: Retroid Pocket 6 Pro
If you’re looking for a device that can do it all – from classic emulation to some surprisingly capable Android gaming – the Retroid Pocket 6 Pro remains our top pick for most people. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the 6 Pro boasts a more powerful processor, a vibrant display, and improved ergonomics. This translates to smoother gameplay across a wider range of retro consoles, as well as the ability to handle more demanding Android titles like *Genshin Impact* and *Diablo Immortal* with reasonable settings.
The Retroid Pocket 6 Pro shines when it comes to emulation. It effortlessly handles everything from 8-bit classics to PlayStation 2 and GameCube games, offering a near-perfect portable retro experience. The improved processor also allows for upscaling and enhanced graphical fidelity, breathing new life into your favorite old games. The intuitive Android interface and customizable controls make setup a breeze, even for those new to emulation.
What About the Retroid Pocket 6?
You might be wondering about the standard Retroid Pocket 6. While it’s a solid device in its own right, the “Pro” version’s upgraded specs offer a significant performance boost, particularly when it comes to more demanding games and emulators. If you’re serious about pushing the limits of what a handheld can do, the extra investment is well worth it.
The PC Powerhouse: AYANEO NEXT II
For gamers who refuse to compromise on power, the AYANEO NEXT II is the king of the hill. This isn’t just a handheld; it’s a full-fledged portable PC, capable of running the latest AAA titles with impressive graphical fidelity. Featuring cutting-edge processors, ample RAM, and dedicated graphics, the AYANEO NEXT II brings the desktop gaming experience to the palm of your hands.
Of course, all that power comes at a premium. The AYANEO NEXT II is significantly more expensive than other handhelds on this list. It’s also larger and heavier, making it less ideal for truly portable gaming sessions. However, if you absolutely need to play *Cyberpunk 2077* on the bus, this is the only device that can truly deliver. Consider this the Bugatti of handheld gaming – luxurious, powerful, and not for the faint of wallet.
The Budget-Friendly Retro King: Anbernic RG35XX Plus
Not everyone needs or wants to spend a fortune on a gaming handheld. If your primary focus is on classic retro gaming, the Anbernic RG35XX Plus offers incredible value for money. This compact and affordable device is perfect for reliving your childhood memories with its vast library of pre-installed games and support for various retro emulators.
The RG35XX Plus may not be the most powerful handheld on the market, but it excels at what it’s designed to do: deliver a authentic retro gaming experience. The comfortable controls, vibrant display, and easy-to-use interface make it a joy to play classic games on the go. While it may struggle with more demanding emulators like PlayStation 2 or GameCube, it’s more than capable of handling everything from Atari to PlayStation 1.
The Cloud Gaming Contender: Logitech G Cloud 2
Cloud gaming is rapidly evolving, and the Logitech G Cloud 2 is poised to be a major player in this space. Building upon the success of the original, the G Cloud 2 boasts a more powerful processor, longer battery life, and an even more immersive cloud gaming experience. With support for Xbox Cloud Gaming, NVIDIA GeForce Now, and other cloud gaming services, you can access a vast library of games without having to download or install anything.
The G Cloud 2 isn’t just a streaming device; it’s a dedicated cloud gaming machine. The comfortable design, responsive controls, and vibrant display make it a pleasure to use for extended gaming sessions. While it’s limited in its ability to play native games, its cloud gaming capabilities are truly impressive, allowing you to play the latest AAA titles on the go with minimal latency. Keep an eye on this one – cloud gaming is only going to get better.
The world of gaming handhelds is constantly evolving, with new devices and technologies emerging all the time. While choosing the right handheld can be a daunting task, understanding your own gaming needs and preferences is key. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast, a PC gaming power user, or a cloud gaming aficionado, there’s a handheld out there that’s perfect for you. So, grab your favorite device, fire up your favorite game, and get ready to game on the go like never before!