Are Handhelds Gaming PCs Here To Stay?
By Moiz Banoori
At Tech4Gamers, the future of handheld PCs is a hot topic of discussion. With the recent surge in handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally, Steam Deck OLED, and the MSI Claw, the gaming community is buzzing with excitement. These first-generation products have proven to be a hit among PC gamers, showcasing the demand for portable gaming experiences.
Valve’s Steam Deck made a significant impact on the handheld gaming PC market. The absence of mainstream manufacturers in this space allowed the Steam Deck to shine, prompting other established companies like Lenovo and ASUS to join the handheld gaming trend. But the question remains: is handheld PC gaming a passing fad, or is it here to stay?
First Gen Products Have Been Great
While current handhelds may not boast top-of-the-line specifications, devices like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally deliver exceptional gaming experiences. According to benchmarks by Gamers Nexus, these handhelds can run demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at over 40 frames per second, a remarkable feat considering their compact size.
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The Steam Deck Is Here To Stay
Although the Steam Deck may not match the raw performance of traditional gaming PCs, its game optimization features set it apart. Valve’s proactive approach to addressing issues and providing a verified list of compatible games enhances the overall gaming experience. With plans for consistent updates and no new hardware releases in sight, the Steam Deck is poised to remain a staple in the handheld gaming market.
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Huge Leaps Ahead
In just a year, the handheld gaming landscape has evolved significantly with the introduction of devices like the Legion Go and MSI Claw. The rapid advancements in integrated graphics from AMD and Intel hint at a promising future for handheld gaming. As companies continue to innovate, we can expect even greater performance from future handhelds.
Should You Wait For A Better Option?
For gamers seeking top-tier performance, waiting for refinements in integrated graphics from AMD and Intel may be the best choice. However, current handhelds offer a satisfying gaming experience, particularly for indie titles and less demanding games. The growing interest in handheld gaming devices, fueled by the success of the Steam Deck, indicates a bright future for the industry.
Bottom Line
The surge in popularity of handheld gaming devices, led by the success of the Steam Deck, signals a promising future for the handheld PC gaming market. With both established and emerging companies investing in this space, the bar for handheld gaming experiences is set to rise in the coming years.
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Last updated on April 22, 2024
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