As technology advances, two major contenders have emerged to dominate the portable gaming landscape: gaming handhelds and smartphones. Both offer on-the-go gaming, but each has its unique strengths and weaknesses.
Table of contents
In this article, we’ll be exploring:
- What a gaming handheld is
- How gaming handhelds and smartphones compare
- The most frequently asked questions
Let’s begin.
What is a gaming handheld?
A gaming handheld is a dedicated portable gaming device designed to provide a focused gaming experience on the go. Unlike smartphones, which have multifunctionality, gaming handhelds are optimised for gaming, boasting specialised hardware and ergonomic designs.
These devices come with physical controls such as buttons, D-pads, and analogue sticks, enhancing precision and responsiveness in games. A recent example of this is the Rog Ally announced earlier this year by ASUS.
Key features of gaming handhelds
The features listed below are typical for gaming handhelds, making it easier to identify them.
Dedicated gaming:
Gaming handhelds are solely designed for gaming, ensuring a seamless and immersive gaming experience without distractions.
Specialised hardware:
They feature powerful processors, graphics chips, and memory, solely dedicated to gaming, resulting in superior performance and graphical capabilities.
Physical controls:
The inclusion of physical buttons and controls provides a tactile and precise gaming experience that many gamers prefer.
Game libraries:
Gaming handhelds often have exclusive titles and a curated selection of high-quality games optimised for their hardware.
Gaming handhelds vs. smartphones: A head-to-head comparison
When deciding between a gaming handheld and a smartphone for your gaming needs, several factors come into play. Let’s compare the two in key aspects to help you make an informed decision.
1. Performance and graphics
Gaming handhelds:
With their dedicated gaming hardware, gaming handhelds have the edge over smartphones when it comes to performance and graphics. Games run smoother, load faster, and boast better visuals, providing a console-like gaming experience.
Smartphones:
While modern smartphones have come a long way in gaming performance, they still can’t match the raw power of gaming handhelds. However, flagship smartphones do offer impressive gaming capabilities.
2. Portability and convenience
Gaming handhelds:
These devices are designed with portability in mind, offering a comfortable grip and compact form factor, making them ideal for gaming on the go. They easily fit into bags or pockets.
Smartphones:
Being an everyday essential, smartphones are always with us, making them convenient for impromptu gaming sessions. However, their larger size and lack of ergonomic gaming controls may affect long gaming sessions.
3. Game Library and Exclusives
Gaming handhelds:
Despite having a more limited game library compared to smartphones, gaming handhelds often boast exclusive titles that are tailored to take advantage of their unique hardware.
Smartphones:
The app stores for smartphones are teeming with an extensive variety of games, including many popular titles. However, exclusive gaming experiences are rare.
4. Pricing
Gaming handhelds:
Dedicated gaming handhelds are usually priced higher due to their specialised hardware and gaming-focused features.
Smartphones:
Smartphones come in a wide range of prices, offering options for various budgets. While flagship devices can be expensive, mid-range and budget smartphones can also deliver decent gaming experiences.
Final thoughts
Choosing between a gaming handheld and a smartphone depends on your gaming preferences and lifestyle. If you prioritise top-notch gaming performance and prefer physical controls, a gaming handheld might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a versatile device that can cater to all your digital needs, a smartphone with decent gaming capabilities could be the ideal choice.
Ultimately, both gaming handhelds, and smartphones have their strengths and advancements in technology will continue to blur the lines between the two platforms. As gaming enthusiasts, we are fortunate to have such diverse options for portable gaming, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the most frequently asked questions concerning gaming handhelds and smartphones.
Can I play the same games on both gaming handhelds and smartphones?
While some games are available on both platforms, gaming handhelds often have exclusive titles tailored to their hardware, offering unique gaming experiences not found on smartphones.
Are gaming handhelds more expensive than smartphones?
Yes, gaming handhelds are usually priced higher due to their specialised gaming features and hardware. Smartphones, on the other hand, offer a wide price range, catering to different budgets.
Which platform offers better battery life for gaming?
Gaming handhelds generally have longer battery life during gaming sessions since they are optimised for gaming performance. However, battery life can vary based on the device and usage patterns.
Can I connect gaming handhelds to a TV for a larger screen experience?
Some gaming handhelds support TV-out functionality, allowing you to connect them to a TV for a bigger-screen gaming experience. However, not all models offer this feature.
Are gaming handhelds and smartphones suitable for casual gamers?
Both platforms cater to casual gamers with a wide variety of games available. Smartphones, being more versatile, may be more suitable for casual gamers who want an all-in-one device.
