Steam Deck
For those looking for the best portable gaming experience, period.
$1,129 AUD
512GB OLED
👑 Recommended Overall Model 👑
For those seeking a top-notch viewing experience, we highly recommend the 512GB OLED model. This model doesn't just offer significant performance enhancements over the previous LCD models; it also comes with a host of incremental upgrades and a larger, more vibrant OLED display. The glossy display enhances color saturation, ensuring vivid visuals and avoiding any saturation issues that may arise with the 1TB variant. Additionally, the money saved compared to the 1TB OLED model allows users to expand their storage options beyond 2TB, whether through an SD card or SSD upgrade. With its blend of premium features, improved display quality, significantly better battery life, and customizable storage options, the 512GB OLED model stands out as the best choice for discerning gamers seeking the ultimate handheld gaming experience.
You can purchase this unit from Kogan directly HERE. (Recommended)
Alternative Link: MyPhone (eBay)
And our accessory guide is HERE.
$1,329 AUD
1TB OLED
The "Ready To Go" model (that we still don't fully recommend yet)
While we believe the 1TB model offers a slightly inferior viewing experience compared to its counterparts, recent price drops have made it a compelling option for certain users. The addition of the 1TB model to our recommendations is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a ready-to-go package without the need for SSD upgrades or those who frequently play outdoors in direct sunlight. Despite its slightly lower display quality, the 1TB model provides a usable amount of storage space in a convenient package, eliminating the need for tinkering. However, it's essential to note that our preference still leans towards the 512GB OLED model for its superior display quality, value and customization potential, making it the ideal choice for those who really care about the visual experience and are willing to upgrade their own device down the line.
Alternative Link: MyPhone (eBay)
You can view our Steam Deck specific buyers guide HERE!
Windows-based Handhelds
For those who're looking for a hybrid system that's capable of both work and play.
$1,149 - $1,249 AUD
Lenovo Legion Go
512GB Z1 Extreme
The Lenovo Legion Go offers a captivating 8.8-inch QHD+ IPS display with a commendable 144Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals for gaming on the go. Equipped with two full-speed USB4 ports, it offers seamless connectivity and compatibility with various accessories. However, users may encounter some challenges with its portrait orientation, fan noise and software interface. Despite these drawbacks, the Legion Go remains a compelling option for gaming enthusiasts seeking a portable windows based gaming experience.
You can purchase this unit from Kogan directly HERE. (Recommended)
Or via Tristar, a third party seller for a lower price HERE.
You can also read our in-depth review of this product HERE.
$1,099 - $1,299 AUD
ROG Ally
512GB Z1 Extreme
The Asus ROG Ally offers a commendable display with impressive color accuracy and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. However, its integration with the Asus ecosystem limits customization options, and the device's reliance on proprietary eGPUs restricts user flexibility. The SD card reader issue and control inconsistencies further detract from its appeal. Despite its promising features, significant drawbacks position the ROG Ally behind its competitors in the handheld gaming market.
You can purchase this unit from Kogan directly HERE. (Recommended)
Or via JB Hi-Fi HERE.
You can also read our in-depth review of this product HERE.
Emulation Focused Handhelds
For those who are looking for a nostalgia hit, and aren't afraid of a little emulation.
Miyoo Mini Plus
64GB, WiFi 5, Accessory Pack
The Miyoo Mini Plus is a standout retro emulation-focused handheld console, perfect for gaming enthusiasts seeking a compact and portable experience with its fantastic 3.5" LCD display. Priced at an ultra-affordable $89, the Miyoo Mini Plus comes bundled with an SD card and a case, making it ready to play right out of the box. Its availability at Kogan with a local warranty makes it an extremely compelling choice for retro gaming enthusiasts looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to retro gaming, the Miyoo Mini Plus offers hours of nostalgic fun in a convenient package, all at a price the average Joe can stomach.
You can purchase this unit from Kogan directly HERE. (Recommended)
Streaming Handhelds
For those who are simply looking stream games from their existing hardware, no frills here.
Abxylute Streaming Handheld
Looking for a versatile handheld gaming console that's perfect for streaming? Look no further than the ABXYLUTE – it's your all-in-one solution for enjoying Xbox Game Pass, PS5, Steamlink, Moonlight, and more! Comparable to the Logitech G Cloud but priced at just half the cost, the ABXYLUTE delivers exceptional value, with the added convenience of local availability and warranty support.
Powered by Android 12, the ABXYLUTE supports basic emulation for Nintendo DS, PS1, and Nintendo 64 games. With its gorgeous 7" display, impressive battery life of up to 8 hours, and lightweight design, gaming streaming on the go has never been easier. Plus, featuring hall sensor thumbsticks and low-latency Wi-Fi support, the ABXYLUTE ensures smooth and uninterrupted streaming at an unbeatable price point.
You can purchase this unit from Kogan directly HERE. (Recommended)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kogan the only retailer that you'd recommend?
Sort of. For anything not locally available, such as the Steam Deck or even the Miyoo Mini, we highly recommend Kogan for their local stock, excellent customer service, strong warranties, and competitive prices. Kogan excels at bringing tech to Australia that might otherwise be inaccessible, usually from their Hong Kong side of the business. For handhelds available locally, we also appreciate Amazon and JB Hi-Fi. However, their prices tend to be higher than Kogan's ultra-competitive rates. Therefore, we still lean towards recommending Kogan unless having physical brick-and-mortar store support is a necessity for you. In that case, these local stores are also excellent options.
Are you biased towards any specific retailer?
Sometimes we're asked if we're biased towards any particular retailer, and the short answer is no. We generate affiliate links from various online stores, including eBay, Amazon, and Kogan. However, it's essential to note that we've been providing recommendations well before establishing any affiliate partnerships. Additionally, we continue to post links to products where we have no option of generating those links. Our primary goal remains to provide the best products for our readers, ensuring transparency and impartiality in our recommendations. Our choice of recommended links is based on two primary considerations: 1. The price, because we always aim for you to get the best deal, and 2. Long-term support. We understand that things can go wrong, and we always aim to guide you towards a retailer willing to provide support in such unfortunate events.
I'm sold, which one should I buy?
For general console-level, portable gaming, we recommend the Steam Deck, which we truly believe is currently the best handheld gaming console money can buy. Whether it's for the comfort, feature set, or value, the Steam Deck is the clear winner.
For those wanting a Windows-based handheld, we recommend the GPD Win4. Its integrated keyboard and trackpad are game-changers for Windows-based devices, offering compact size, relatively quiet fan noise, and class-leading performance all in one package. However, as of now, the only methods of purchasing are through Indiegogo and Aliexpress, platforms we don't completely feel comfortable backing up. Once we find a trusted retailer for these, we'll add them to our recommended product lists.
Finally, for retro handhelds, the Miyoo Mini Plus is an extremely good value retro-emulation focused handheld that's a crowd favorite. It includes everything right out of the box, is available locally, and has a massive community following and support, including custom OS's that greatly improve the device. We also admire the AYN Odin 2 and Retroid Pocket 4, but at that price point, we recommend purchasing an LCD Steam Deck instead, hence why they are not listed as recommendations.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this website are affiliate links. This means that if you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we have personally used and believe in. Our opinions are our own and not influenced by any sponsorships or affiliations.