Your browser does not support JavaScript!

Evolution and Comparison of Handheld Gaming Consoles in 2024

GOOVER DAILY REPORT July 23, 2024
goover

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Evolution of Handheld Gaming Consoles
  3. Comparison of Top Handheld Gaming Consoles in 2024
  4. Detailed Review of Lenovo Legion Go
  5. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The report 'Evolution and Comparison of Handheld Gaming Consoles in 2024' examines the development and contemporary state of handheld gaming consoles, focusing on popular models like the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go. It provides a detailed comparison of these consoles' features, strengths, and weaknesses, with particular emphasis on the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally. Notable advancements covered include enhanced processors, high-resolution displays, and improved connectivity. The report aims to assist consumers in making informed decisions by evaluating each console's performance and usability in detail.

2. Evolution of Handheld Gaming Consoles

  • 2-1. Historical context

  • The concept of playing video games on the go dates back several decades. However, in recent years, there has been a significant transformation in the handheld gaming industry. The revolution was notably marked by the introduction of the Nintendo Switch, which redefined portable gaming. Following the Switch's success, key industry players such as PlayStation, ASUS, and Lenovo entered the handheld gaming market aiming to capture a share of this growing segment.

  • 2-2. Key innovations over the years

  • Over the years, various innovations have shaped the evolution of handheld gaming consoles. Key advancements include more powerful processors, higher-resolution displays, and improved connectivity options like WiFi 6E and Bluetooth v5.2. For instance, the Steam Deck features a 4-core Zen 2 processor, 16GB of RAM, and an 800p@90Hz display, offering a compelling portable gaming experience. Similarly, the Nintendo Switch introduced removable controllers and multi-mode play, enhancing its portability and versatility. The ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go have pushed the boundaries further with powerful 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processors and high-refresh-rate displays, catering to a more demanding gaming audience. These developments underscore the industry's shift towards creating versatile, high-performance handheld gaming devices capable of competing with traditional home consoles.

3. Comparison of Top Handheld Gaming Consoles in 2024

  • 3-1. Steam Deck: Features, pros, and cons

  • The Steam Deck is recognized as the best overall handheld gaming console. It is powered by a 4-core Zen 2 processor coupled with 16GB RAM and 512GB of built-in storage. It features a 7.4-inch, 800p HD+ OLED display with HDR, providing rich color details and deep blacks. Its display supports up to 90Hz refresh rate, and the device is compatible with the latest WiFi 6E. It includes Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity and built-in trackpads to emulate a mouse on shooter games. Videos can be output at up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz when docked. However, the Steam Deck is relatively pricey and lacks built-in NFC for amiibos. Additionally, the dock station is sold separately.

  • 3-2. Nintendo Switch: Value proposition

  • The Nintendo Switch OLED is distinguished by its cost-effectiveness, with a price tag of approximately $350, which is at least $200 cheaper than the Steam Deck. It features a Tegra X1+ chip and comes with removable controllers, a built-in Ethernet port, NFC for amiibos, and a MicroSD slot. It offers three gaming modes: handheld, tabletop, and docked, and includes a sturdy kickstand for tabletop mode. The Nintendo Switch OLED struggles to handle most AAA PC games, outputs a maximum of 1080p@60Hz when docked, and is incompatible with WiFi 6E.

  • 3-3. ASUS ROG Ally: Performance and usability

  • The ASUS ROG Ally is noted for its impressive performance, thanks to its 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. It features a 7-inch, 1080p@120Hz display and runs on the Windows 11 operating system. It supports WiFi 6E, Bluetooth v5.2, and includes a built-in MicroSD slot for storage expansion. A notable feature is the built-in ROG XG Mobile interface for external GPUs. However, the device has a less-than-desired battery life, lacks built-in trackpads, and the ROG dock with HDMI output is sold separately.

  • 3-4. Lenovo Legion Go: Combined power and versatility

  • Launched in late 2023, the Lenovo Legion Go features an 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and an 8.8-inch, QHD+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Its versatility is highlighted by detachable controllers and a rear kickstand, allowing for handheld, tabletop, and docked modes. It supports WiFi 6E, Bluetooth v5.2, and includes a built-in MicroSD slot. Additionally, it features a built-in trackpad for mouse emulation and a base that transforms one controller into a joystick. Despite its robust performance, the Legion Go has poor battery life, is bulkier than competitors, and lacks an available dock station.

  • 3-5. Retroid Pocket 4 Pro: Portability

  • The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro excels in portability with its compact, lightweight design, making it easy to carry in a pocket. It has a 4.7-inch IPS display with a 750p HD+ resolution at 60Hz and is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 chip with Android 11 and 8GB RAM. It supports a 15+ hour battery life, MicroSD storage expansion, Bluetooth v5.2, and WiFi 6E. It can connect to an external monitor via micro-HDMI. However, it may feel less comfortable for users with larger hands, has a ghosting issue on the display, and supports only up to 1080p resolution for external monitors.

4. Detailed Review of Lenovo Legion Go

  • 4-1. Display and controllers

  • The Lenovo Legion Go features a large 8.8-inch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, which is bigger compared to its competitors' typical 7-inch screens. The display boasts a high resolution of 2560x1600 and a refresh rate of 144Hz, providing vibrant colors and sharp details. Despite its size, it is not OLED but still offers good contrast between darker and lighter elements. The Legion Go’s detachable controllers are a unique feature that allows for more flexibility in gaming. Although they can be challenging to detach and using the right controller as a mouse isn't always effective, the detachable functionality is a distinctive advantage that adds versatility.

  • 4-2. Battery efficiency

  • The Legion Go’s higher resolution and large screen could potentially negatively impact battery life, which is a notable downside due to the power required to maintain the high display quality and refresh rate. Comparatively, handheld gaming consoles like the ASUS ROG Ally might offer a more balanced approach between performance and battery efficiency due to its slightly lower resolution and smaller screen.

  • 4-3. User interface and gameplay experience

  • Running on Windows 11, the Lenovo Legion Go offers a familiar interface for PC gamers. The built-in Legion Go launcher is user-friendly and supports a wide array of gaming services such as Xbox, Steam, and Epic Games. The device also offers comprehensive customization options, including performance modes, display settings, and controller mapping. The built-in kickstand enhances gameplay by allowing users to play comfortably without holding the device.

  • 4-4. Comparison with ASUS ROG Ally

  • When comparing the Lenovo Legion Go to the ASUS ROG Ally, several differences emerge. The Legion Go features a better screen with higher resolution and refresh rate, but this could impact battery life negatively. The ASUS ROG Ally is more portable with a smaller, sharp Full HD display and includes powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 processors. Both devices run on Windows 11, providing extensive gaming options. However, the Legion Go’s detachable controllers and superior display give it a competitive edge, despite the Asus ROG Ally being available for purchase sooner and possibly providing better portability and battery efficiency.

5. Conclusion

  • The report emphasizes the rapid progress and competitive dynamics within the handheld gaming console market. Key findings highlight the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally as leading options for 2024, each with distinct advantages— the Legion Go with its superior display and detachable controllers, and the ROG Ally with its balance of performance and portability. The Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch continue to offer unique value propositions, catering to different segments of gamers. However, the evolving technological landscape and diverse user needs pose limitations. Future research should focus on the longevity of user satisfaction and the consistency of performance over time. Practical applicability includes using these insights to guide consumer purchases, with attention to individual gaming requirements and preferences.

6. Glossary

  • 6-1. Steam Deck [Product]

  • A powerful handheld gaming console known for its high-spec display and performance. Steam Deck is highly regarded for delivering a robust gaming experience on the go.

  • 6-2. Nintendo Switch [Product]

  • A versatile handheld gaming console offering good value with a wide range of exclusive games. Known for its hybrid console-handheld design, it remains a popular choice for many gamers.

  • 6-3. ASUS ROG Ally [Product]

  • A high-performance handheld gaming device featuring AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and Windows 11. It stands out for its portability and powerful performance.

  • 6-4. Lenovo Legion Go [Product]

  • A cutting-edge handheld gaming console featuring a large 8.8-inch display, detachable controllers, and a battery-efficient design. It runs on Windows 11 and is recognized for its versatility and superior gaming experience.

  • 6-5. Retroid Pocket 4 Pro [Product]

  • A highly portable gaming console known for its compact size and ease of use, making it a convenient option for gaming on the go.

7. Source Documents