The Misstep of Using Windows 11 on PC Handhelds

The latest trend in handheld gaming is to use Windows 11, but is this a good idea? We explore the pros and cons of using a full-fat desktop operating system on a handheld device.

The Misstep of Using Windows 11 on PC Handhelds

As a gamer on the go, I’ve always been excited to explore new handheld gaming options. However, my experience with the Asus Rog Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go has left me wondering - who thought it was a good idea to run Windows 11 on these devices?

The latest trend in handheld gaming is clear - everyone’s doing it. From Nintendo to Steam, it seems like every major player in the industry is jumping on the bandwagon. But while others have developed bespoke operating systems tailored to the needs of gamers on the move, many PC handheld manufacturers are opting for a full-fat version of Windows 11.

So, what’s the problem with this approach? For starters, Windows 11 is not optimized for handheld gaming. It’s a desktop operating system that’s been shoehorned onto a smaller screen, with no consideration for the unique challenges of gaming on the go.

The handheld gaming experience

As I navigated the Asus Rog Ally X and Lenovo Legion Go, I was struck by the clunkiness of the interface. The icons are tiny, the menus are confusing, and the whole experience feels like a chore. It’s like trying to navigate a complex website on a smartphone - it’s just not designed for it.

And then there’s the issue of usability. On a handheld device, you want simplicity and ease of use. You want to be able to jump straight into your games without having to navigate a complex web of menus and settings. But with Windows 11, you’re stuck with a full-fat desktop operating system that’s just not optimized for handheld gaming.

The Steam Deck - a handheld gaming device that gets it right

So, what’s the alternative? For me, it’s clear that a bespoke operating system is the way to go. The Steam Deck, for example, has a beautifully designed interface that’s tailored specifically to the needs of gamers on the move. It’s easy to use, intuitive, and most importantly - it’s designed from the ground up for handheld gaming.

Of course, there are some workarounds for Windows 11 on PC handhelds. You can adjust the scaling and font size to make the interface more readable, and some manufacturers offer programmable buttons that can be used to create custom shortcuts. But at the end of the day, these are just Band-Aid solutions for a fundamentally flawed approach.

As I look to the future of handheld gaming, I’m excited to see what other manufacturers will bring to the table. Will they follow in the footsteps of Nintendo and Steam, or will they continue to rely on Windows 11? Only time will tell.

But one thing’s for sure - if you’re looking for a handheld gaming device that’s designed from the ground up for gaming on the go, you should steer clear of Windows 11.

The Xbox app - a rare example of a well-designed handheld interface

In conclusion, while Windows 11 may have its strengths as a desktop operating system, it’s a misstep on PC handhelds. It’s a clunky, confusing interface that’s just not optimized for handheld gaming. If you’re looking for a handheld gaming device that’s truly designed for the task, look elsewhere.