Latest news with #handheldgaming
The Verge
4 days ago
- The Verge
Four reasons why it's a surprisingly bad time to buy a gaming handheld
I love modern handheld gaming, and I recommend it to anyone and everyone. Just maybe not today? If you decided today was the day to finally drop hundreds of dollars on your first handheld, I might advise you to wait. Four reasons: The best handhelds are sold out The second-best handhelds just got more expensive Third-tier handhelds are riddled with compromises The entire state of gaming handhelds will improve if you wait The best handhelds are sold out If you're reading this story, I suspect you've been on the fence about handheld gaming machines — until the Nintendo Switch 2, the fastest-selling game console of all time, caught your attention. Perhaps you liked the idea of bigger Mario Kart or smoother Fortnite and Pokémon; perhaps you liked the idea of taking graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 on the go. Unfortunately, the $450 Nintendo Switch 2 is sold out everywhere as of this writing, and its alternatives may not offer the experience you'd hope. The $550 Steam Deck OLED is the best, most Switch-like handheld you can buy thanks to its pick-up-and-play SteamOS operating system, its similarly decent battery life, and an eye-popping HDR OLED screen. You might even be happier with a Deck OLED than a Switch 2 if you prefer the freedom of PC gaming to Nintendo's first-party games. But the Steam Deck OLED, too, is entirely out of stock in the US and Canada. You'd have to wait. The second-best handhelds just got more expensive If I were buying today and couldn't get a Switch 2 or Deck OLED, what would I buy instead? A few months ago, the choice seemed clear: I would personally spend a bit more money for the $800 Asus ROG Ally X, the best Windows gaming handheld yet — and arguably the best PC gaming handheld period once you replace Windows with the SteamOS-like Bazzite. If I couldn't afford that, I would have waited for the $500 Lenovo Legion Go S, the first true Steam Deck competitor authorized to use SteamOS. But both of those prices no longer apply. Ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2's launch on June 5th, Asus and Lenovo's handhelds suddenly cost $100 more than promised in the US. So does their rival the MSI Claw, with both 7- and 8-inch models $100 pricier than originally communicated. It's possible these increases are tied to China tariffs and could go down again, but neither company would tell us so. Third-tier handhelds are riddled with compromises If money were burning a hole in my pocket, the next thing I'd probably do is talk myself into buying a first-gen handheld PC. I'd (correctly!) point out that the original $650 Asus ROG Ally and original Lenovo Legion Go have the same AMD Z1 Extreme chips as the newer Ally X and Legion Go S. But I'd be tricking myself into buying dramatically shorter battery life and a less comfortable experience. Both the Ally X and the Legion Go S are better than the originals, with slightly better performance and far longer playtime from the Ally X's doubled battery pack. Asus and Lenovo have made their cooling systems quieter and more efficient, the Legion's speakers and charging are improved, and its lower-res variable-refresh-rate screen can sometimes make games run smoothly that'd be choppy on its predecessor. In some cases ignorance is bliss; some power users would be perfectly happy if they found a good deal on the original Ally or Legion Go. But for a new buyer, the totality of these changes could be profound — the difference between 'I don't know why anybody would want a PC gaming handheld' and 'where has this been all my life?' The entire state of gaming handhelds will improve if you wait But the most profound change, for many gamers, would be having a potent portable game system that just works. The original Nintendo Switch offered portability and ease of use, but it's never been a powerhouse; almost all of today's Windows handhelds are more powerful than a Switch 2 or a Steam Deck, but I can't rely on them to wake and sleep and launch games reliably. Excitingly, both Valve and Microsoft finally appear poised to fix that. Valve is finally bringing its pick-up-and-play SteamOS to other handhelds beyond the Steam Deck, including official support for the Legion Go S and unofficial support for the Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally line. (But as I'll explain, you might not want to rush out and download Valve's recovery image just yet.) Meanwhile, Microsoft has announced a stripped-down version of Windows for gaming handhelds, one that ditches the desktop in favor of an 'Xbox full-screen experience' that will come to various handhelds next year, including the existing Ally and Ally X. It promises to improve sleep, wake, performance, and battery life while making non-Steam storefronts into first-class citizens. Presumably, any major PC handheld will soon let you choose between Windows and Steam. But that's not a reason to buy them today. For one, it seems that both Microsoft and Valve are prioritizing their partners' flashiest hardware launches first. The new Xbox-ified Windows will first arrive on a pair of 'Xbox Ally' handhelds co-developed with Asus this holiday season, which could suck all the air out of the room for rival Windows machines, particularly if Microsoft decides this is the moment to compete with Valve's Steam Deck on price. And while you can indeed install Valve's big SteamOS update on rival Windows handhelds with AMD chips, it only fully supports the SteamOS version of the Lenovo Legion Go S at this point. When I tried installing it on an Asus ROG Ally or even the Windows version of the Legion Go S, it was missing necessary power modes to keep it from unnecessarily draining its own battery and had some bugs as well. Here's Valve's Lawrence Yang to The Verge on the rollout plans: Currently, the SteamOS model of Legion Go S (dark purple model) is the only officially supported non-Steam Deck device with SteamOS. We are continuing to improve compatibility with more devices, starting with other AMD powered handhelds like the ROG Ally. Features like RGB controls and power management for the Ally are in the pipe, and will be noted in patch notes as we ship updates. We're looking at support across AMD powered handhelds, including Legion Go, Legion Go S + Windows, and ROG Ally models. Even the SteamOS version of the Legion Go S didn't launch 100 percent baked: I keep seeing the tiny trackpad stop working properly (Valve tells me it's investigating), and there's no official way to control the RGB lighting. Speaking of fully baked, it seems even Nintendo launched its Switch 2 with notable issues. We've heard reports of crashes and freezes, an issue that has its own Nintendo support page, and some (including me) have found intermittent issues getting a system to stay connected to wired ethernet. Many are having trouble getting content to display properly on a TV without washing out or oversaturating. It's not clear when the biggest issues facing today's gaming handhelds will get fixed, or how evenly distributed the fixes might be. I'm not saying that's a reason to stay away for long — nobody's expecting a Steam Deck 2 or a Switch 2 OLED anytime soon, so I don't fear that particular flavor of buyer's remorse. But knowing what I know today, I wouldn't rush to buy a handheld now. I'd wait a month or three until Switch 2 and Steam Deck OLED supplies return — or at least until the future of Windows and SteamOS get a little less fuzzy.
CNN
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNN
I found the 11 best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories after a week of nonstop testing
Looking for the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? I don't blame you. Nintendo's new console works well out of the box, but you might find your palms hurting after a few hours of handheld gaming. Or you may notice the fact that your internal storage is full from downloading just a handful of games. Or maybe you're just wondering how the heck to transport this $450 machine without scuffing it up. Fortunately, there are accessories to aid with all those issues and more, and I've tested a whole ton of them to help you figure out which ones are actually worth it. You can already buy a wealth of Nintendo Switch 2 add-ons from both Nintendo and some of our favorite third-party brands, whether you need a spare controller or just an easy way to keep your pricey new console safe. But given the price of Nintendo Switch 2 games, you won't want to blow whatever budget you have left on just any piece of junk. That's why I've done the hard work of playing lots of Switch 2 with various gizmos attached to it in the name of finding the legitimately good accessories. Oh, and a quick bonus tip: While it's not technically an accessory, I'd say that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is a must for any Switch 2 owner. The $20 per year base membership allows you to play games online and will be necessary for GameChat starting early next year. But I'd strongly encourage you to check out the $50 per year Nintendo Switch Online and Expansion Pack membership, as it also throws in the library of Nintendo GameCube classics that are exclusive to Switch 2 owners, as well as free upgrade packs for Switch 2 enhanced games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Got it? Good. Let's dive into some hardware. SanDisk 256GB MicroSD Express Card If you buy one thing for your Switch 2, it should be a microSD express card. While the console's 256GB of built-in storage is far more generous than what we got last generation, new games like Street Fighter 6 and Cyberpunk 2077 — not to mention all the Switch 1 games you're probably transferring over — will eat up that space before you know it. And even if you're a physical game collector, many Switch 2 cartridges will essentially just be key cards that still require you to download the full game. You also can't use just any microSD card like you could on the original Switch; only microSD express models (which have faster transfer speeds) will work on the console. Options are limited and pricey at the moment, but I went with this SanDisk card given how well the brand's SD cards served me during the Switch 1 days. I personally bought a 128GB card since it was available sooner, but you should really invest in at least a 256GB model, especially with space-sucking titles like Star Wars Outlaws and Madden NFL 26 on the horizon. MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, 6-Pack Your Switch 2 screen is gonna get dirty and smudgy. It's just a fact of life. Fortunately, microfiber cloths make it easy to wipe away those unsightly fingerprints and specks of debris, and the ones from MagicFiber are what I keep buying year after year. On top of being sleek, lint-free and quick to eradicate gunk, they're also a great value with options ranging from $10 for a two-pack to $30 for a 30-pack. Mumba Clear Case for Nintendo Switch 2 One of my biggest issues with the Nintendo Switch 2 is that the Joy-Cons dig into my palms when I play in handheld mode. Fortunately, I was able to alleviate this discomfort significantly by throwing on a case, and this Mumba model is my favorite of the batch I tested. Its polycarbonate shell is rugged but flexible enough to easily snap on to my Switch 2, and its soft, rubberlike grips allowed me to game in comfort for hours on end. Best of all, its dock-friendly design means you don't have to snap it off whenever you want to play in TV mode. If this case seems like your jam, you can save 15% by using our exclusive code MUMBACNN15 at both Amazon and Mumba. Supcase Heavy-Duty Adjustable Stand The Nintendo Switch 2's built-in kickstand is pretty reliable, but sometimes it helps to have a little bit of elevation. This ultra-sturdy aluminum Supcase stand is a great solution and came especially in handy when I wanted to better see the action on my coffee table while trying not to get my butt kicked in Street Fighter 6. Its highly articulate design allows for 270 degrees of unique viewing angles, and it'll also work great for your phone, tablet or any other screen you'd like to prop up. Folks looking to give their Switch 2 an extra lift can save 15% at Amazon and Supcase with our exclusive code SUPCNN15. Anker Nano Power Bank The Switch 2's battery life isn't the best — I've gotten around three to four hours on a charge, depending on what I'm playing — so you'll want to keep one of the best portable chargers handy for longer trips. And there are few we love more than the Anker Nano Power Bank, a product so good that I almost never see our tech writer Henry T. Casey without it. Don't let its attractive, highly pocketable design fool you; this 30W brick gave me an extra 20% battery in about 20 minutes, which is perfect for when you're trying to beat just one more Zelda shrine on the road. Read our reviewDbrand Prism 2.0 Screen Protector I've never been a big screen-protector person. I'm always worried about them messing up my display more than any actual foreign objects, and if you install them wrong, you run the risk of an awkwardly misaligned covering filled with those ever-unsightly bubbles. But Dbrand has really figured something out with its Prism 2.0 protector. This two-pack of screen protectors includes what the company calls an "idiot-proof" installation tray, and as somewhat of a klutz myself, I can confirm that it works. You just pop the tray on top of your Switch, peel off the adhesive cover, do a quick finger swipe and use the included squeegee to wipe away any bubbles, and you now have a scratchproof, fingerprint-resistant display that can comfortably survive a trip in your bag. As a nice bonus, you also get a microfiber cloth and a few alcohol wipes for keeping your screen pristine. Belkin Charging Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Have you ever experienced the horror of taking your Switch out at the start of a long trip just to realize it's dead? You'll want to check out the Belkin Charging Case, which packs a 10,000mAh portable charger right into its design so that you can keep your system juiced up in between play sessions on the road. While I wish the case left just a little more breathing room for the charger's USB-C cord, it still worked well in my testing, allowing me to enjoy a freshly charged Switch by the time I walked from a friend's place to the subway. It features storage for up to 12 game cards, a pouch for your cables and even a handy AirTag slot for easily tracking it down, all packed within a slick, understated design that hides the fact that you're carrying around a kids' toy. It's pricey for a carrying case, but you're also getting a fully removable Belkin power bank that you can pop out and use for your phone or tablet and even features an LED battery status indicator. And if you don't need portable charging, the cheaper $30 Travel Case features the same attractive aesthetic within an even slimmer design. Nintendo Switch 2 Camera You don't need the official Switch 2 camera to video chat with your friends — the USB webcam you may already have should work fine — but Nintendo's delivered a pretty good one at a reasonable price. Its built-in base made it easy to set up on both my entertainment center and coffee table, and it captures a decently wide angle that made it easy for friends to see me during multiplayer sessions. The physical privacy shutter is a nice touch too. Just don't expect amazing sharpness from its 480p StreamCam While the Switch 2 Camera is perfectly reliable, I much prefer using my beloved Logitech StreamCam, which captures a sharper 1080p picture and can clip to the top of my TV or console for a more natural viewing angle. If you don't feel like splurging, you can always grab a cheaper webcam like the Logitech C920 and connect it via a USB-A to USB-C adapter. Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller If you already have a Pro Controller from your previous Switch, you can just keep using it on the Switch 2. But if you're new to the fold and want a proper console-style gamepad for playing action games with precision, this latest model has held up very well during my sweaty Mario Kart and Street Fighter Switch 2 Pro Controller feels a bit lighter and snappier than its predecessor, complete with an attractive two-tone design, a dedicated GameChat button, a headphone jack and, most significantly, programmable rear buttons that are especially handy for competitive games. If its steep price is too high for you, I'd recommend looking at alternatives like PowerA's Advantage Wired Controller and Nintendo's Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip that also gets you those bonus rear buttons. Dbrand Killswitch Kit Calling the Killswitch a case would be doing it a disservice. This thing straight up transforms your Switch 2 into a better version of what's already one of the best consoles around. Its impact-resistant shell is rated to provide protection against hardwood and concrete, and its incredibly ergonomic grips are an absolute delight that make the system feel more like a Steam Deck and help stave off those dreaded hand cramps. Better yet, since each portion of the Switch gets its own distinct covering, you can pop the Joy-Cons off without having to take the case off (and enjoy those amazing ergonomics even in TV mode). The one big downside is that the Switch 2 won't fit into Nintendo's dock with the Killswitch applied, but Dbrand throws in a free Dock Adapter that'll work within the case's dimensions. You can also order your Killswitch with some handy optional add-ons, such as stick grips that make the thumbsticks feel way more tactile and a travel cover that lets you safely throw your Killswitch-equipped Switch (say that three times fast) into a bag. Storage and comfort Before buying anything else for your Switch 2, you should be investing in storage and protection. As I mentioned above, the Switch's 256GB of storage will fill up very fast, and you'll want to grab a microSD express card so that you're not constantly deleting games to make room for new ones. Your next priority should be some sort of grip case like the Mumba and Dbrand models we recommend above. This will alleviate a lot of the uncomfortable pressure that the Joy-Con 2 may put on your palms by default and will add some extra protection in the unfortunate event that you drop your console. Travel essentials Unless you plan on never taking your Switch 2 out of the house (and what's the point if not?), you need a good carrying case for the road. We've tested both fabric and hard-shell models, and we found both reliable. As such, you should look for things like how many game cards a case holds (especially if you're big on physical games), as well as how much room there is for things like cables and controllers. Speaking of travel, you should ideally have a portable charger handy when you're playing Switch 2 on the go. The one you're already using for your phone or laptop is likely good enough, but be sure to double-check for any compatibility issues. Of course, you could always grab Belkin's excellent charging case, which packs a 20W power brick right into its design so you can charge while you travel. Choose your controller The Switch 2 includes a pair of Joy-Con 2 as well as a Joy-Con 2 Grip out of the box, which is enough for some quick two-player tabletop sessions and traditional controller play once you use the grip. You can also use your existing Pro Controller and Joy-Con wirelessly (as well as select wired gamepads), meaning original Switch owners won't have to start from scratch for their next big multiplayer game night. There's also a new and improved Switch 2 Pro Controller, as well as a few fresh third-party options available. If you play Switch 2 on your TV at all and game pretty regularly, I highly recommend using a proper full-size controller, whether you're bringing over an older one, picking up the Switch 2 model or going with a reliable third-party alternative. Can you use older Nintendo Switch accessories as Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Can you use older Nintendo Switch accessories as Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? In many cases, yes! Just about any Switch-compatible wireless controller will work with the Switch 2, including your existing Pro Controller and Joy-Cons (just don't try and attach your old Joy-Cons to your new console; it won't work). Switch-friendly wired controllers should also work via a USB connection. Since Switch 2 game cards are the same size as Switch 1 cartridges, any game card holders you have will work just fine as well. Don't expect to use any cases, grips or screen protectors from older Nintendo Switch models with the Switch 2, though, as the new console is significantly bigger and has a larger screen. Also, the regular microSD card you may have used for your old Switch is no good here; the Switch 2 only works with the newer, faster microSD express standard. Are Nintendo's accessories better quality than third-party Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Are Nintendo's accessories better quality than third-party Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Based on our experience, both yes and no. I tend to find Nintendo's Pro Controllers better than similar wireless controllers, and I certainly would never use a dock that isn't made by Nintendo. But items like third-party carrying cases are often just as good as — if not superior to — what Nintendo offers. And while the official Switch 2 Camera works just fine for chatting online, you'll get much better video quality and a wider range of mounting options if you just go with a good computer webcam. Also, if a third-party accessory is officially licensed by Nintendo — as is the case with certain microSD cards and controllers — you can feel pretty safe picking one up for your Switch 2. Where are the best places to buy Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Where are the best places to buy Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Nintendo Switch 2 accessories are pretty widely available online and in-store at most major retailers, including Best Buy, Walmart, Target, GameStop and Nintendo itself. Interestingly, Amazon US no longer seems to sell official Nintendo products (including the console and first-party games and accessories), but the retailer still carries plenty of third-party add-ons, including several we recommend. As a rule of thumb, any store that sells the Switch 2 will likely sell the accessories you want for it. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this article, senior tech editor Mike Andronico tried and tested numerous Switch 2 accessories to find out which are the best buys.
Geek Wire
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Wire
Week in Review: Most popular stories on GeekWire for the week of June 8, 2025
Get caught up on the latest technology and startup news from the past week. Here are the most popular stories on GeekWire for the week of June 8, 2025. Sign up to receive these updates every Sunday in your inbox by subscribing to our GeekWire Weekly email newsletter. Most popular stories on GeekWire Xbox Ally vs. Nintendo Switch 2: Microsoft enters a handheld console war that lacks actual competition This isn't quite what we expected to see last year, but the ROG Xbox Ally still marks a new chapter in the rapidly developing 'handheld war.' Microsoft's announcement of the Ally during its annual Xbox Showcase broadcast on Sunday only came a few days after Nintendo's release of its latest console, the Switch 2. … Read More
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Xbox Ally X aims high, but there's one thing holding it back
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. After months of rumors, Microsoft's Xbox handheld is a reality, although it might not be the portable gaming machine that will dominate the market. The ROG Xbox Ally is the new handheld made by Asus in partnership with Microsoft, and the Xbox maker made the announcement of the new gaming hardware during Sunday's Xbox Games Showcase. There are two versions of the portable console coming: the Xbox Ally and the Xbox Ally X. The former will be the standard version, while the Ally X will be the performance version with improved specs. This Xbox Ally, however, is not Microsoft's new next-generation hardware. The company was rumored to have a first-party handheld in development that would release along with a standard home video game console, with both of them being the successor to the Xbox Series system. That particular first-party handheld that Microsoft was reportedly working on has now been rumored to be on pause for the time being. The next console from Microsoft is expected sometime in 2027. ROG Xbox Ally ROG Xbox Ally X Operating System Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Home Comfort & input Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R Hall Effect analog triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU Contoured grips inspired by Xbox Wireless Controllers deliver all-day comfort, complete with impulse triggers for enhanced control. ABXY buttons / D-pad / L & R impulse triggers / L & R bumpers / Xbox button / View button / Menu button / Command Center button / Library button / 2x assignable back buttons / 2x full-size analog sticks / HD haptics / 6-Axis IMU Processor AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme Processor Memory 16GB LPDDR5X-6400 24GB LPDDR5X-8000 Storage 512GB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade 1TB M.2 2280 SSD for easier upgrade Display 7' FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9 120Hz refresh rate FreeSync Premium Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection 7' FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9 120Hz refresh rate FreeSync Premium Corning Gorilla Glass Victus + DXC Anti-Reflection I/O Ports 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.01x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC)1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack 1x USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.0, Thunderbolt™ 4 compatible1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C with DisplayPort™ 2.1 / Power Delivery 3.01x UHS-II microSD card reader (supports SD, SDXC and SDHC; UHS-I with DDR200 mode)1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack Network and Communications Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4 Wi-Fi 6E (2 x 2) + Bluetooth 5.4 Dimensions 290.8*121.5*50.7mm 290.8*121.5*50.7mm Weight 670g 715g Battery 60Wh 80Wh Included ROG Xbox Ally 65W charger Stand ROG Xbox Ally X 65W charger Stand The Xbox Ally comes with an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor, 16GB LPDDR5X-6400, 512GB M.2 2280 SSD, and 60Wh battery, while the Ally X has an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme processor, 24GB LPDDR5X-8000, 1TB M.2 2280 SSD, and 80Wh battery. Both devices have a 7' FHD (1080p) IPS, 500 nits, 16:9 120Hz refresh display, Xbox-inspired button layout, and Wi-Fi 6E. Some other differences between the two are that the Xbox Ally X has a USB4 and USB 3.2 port, impulse triggers, and weighs 45 grams more. Looking at the specs, the Xbox Ally X does have slightly better components than the ROG Ally X that came out last July. Both devices will seemingly be more powerful than the Steam Deck, but power is not everything when it comes to handhelds. A big concern about the Xbox Ally is the Windows 11 operating system. The ROG Ally X, MSI Claw, and Lenovo Legion Go all used Windows 11, and it actually hampers the performance. The devices are essentially Windows 11 laptops, and if the system and games are not optimized, it can feel sluggish and perform poorly. On the other hand, the operating system for the Steam Deck, SteamOS, offers a much better performance on these portable consoles. The Lenovo Legion Go S can be used with SteamOS, and there is a big performance boost when ditching Windows. It's unclear right now how optimized the Xbox UI will be on the Xbox Ally. Microsoft says the Xbox Ally and Ally X will come out this holiday season in the U.S., U.K., and several other countries. There will be pre-orders for the portable console, although no specific date was mentioned. As for how much it will cost, that is the big question. Microsoft says it will reveal the portable's pricing in the coming months, but it's very likely to cost more than $500 since the ROG Ally launched in 2023 with a price tag of $600. There's also the question of tariffs. Microsoft already had to raise the price of its Xbox Series consoles due to tariffs. Asus has already raised the price of some of its products because of those tariffs, as the company is based in Taiwan. Some portable consoles have also increased in price, or their manufacturers have refused to sell them in the U.S. due to tariffs.
Geeky Gadgets
12-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS Z2 Extreme Ryzen HX370 the Ultimate Portable Gaming Powerhouse?
What if you could carry the power of a high-performance gaming rig in the palm of your hand? The Z2 Extreme, armed with the formidable Ryzen HX370 processor and running on the gaming-optimized SteamOS, promises just that. In an era where handheld gaming devices often compromise performance for portability, this device boldly challenges the norm. Imagine playing graphically demanding titles with fluid precision, all while enjoying the freedom to game anywhere. It's not just another entry in the handheld market—it's a statement that portability doesn't have to mean sacrificing power. In this exploration of the Z2 Extreme, ETA Prime uncovers how its innovative hardware and software redefine what's possible in portable gaming. From the efficiency and speed of the Ryzen HX370 to the versatility of SteamOS, this device is built for gamers who demand more. You'll discover how its thoughtful design balances comfort with durability, and why its seamless integration of performance and portability makes it stand out in a crowded landscape. Whether you're a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Z2 Extreme might just change how you think about gaming on the go. After all, why should you settle for less when the future of handheld gaming is here? Z2 Extreme Portable Gaming with SteamOS Ryzen HX370: The Core of High-Performance Gaming At the heart of the Z2 Extreme lies the Ryzen HX370 processor, a powerhouse built to handle the most demanding gaming workloads. Its advanced architecture ensures smooth gameplay, even for graphically intensive titles, while maintaining efficiency. Here's what makes this processor a standout: Enhanced Performance : Experience reduced loading times and faster response rates, making sure fluid gameplay even in resource-heavy games. : Experience reduced loading times and faster response rates, making sure fluid gameplay even in resource-heavy games. Efficient Multitasking : Seamlessly switch between games, applications, and system functions without experiencing lag or slowdowns. : Seamlessly switch between games, applications, and system functions without experiencing lag or slowdowns. Optimized Battery Life: Enjoy extended gaming sessions with improved power efficiency, reducing the need for frequent recharging. The Ryzen HX370 ensures that the Z2 Extreme not only meets but exceeds performance expectations. It delivers a balance of speed, efficiency, and reliability, making it an ideal choice for gamers who demand top-tier performance in a portable device. SteamOS: A Platform Tailored for Gaming The Z2 Extreme runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system specifically crafted for gaming. This platform offers a streamlined interface and direct access to the extensive Steam gaming library, making it a versatile choice for gamers. Key features of SteamOS include: Cloud Saves : Sync your game progress across multiple devices, making sure uninterrupted gameplay wherever you go. : Sync your game progress across multiple devices, making sure uninterrupted gameplay wherever you go. Cross-Platform Compatibility : Play your favorite titles on various devices without losing functionality or performance. : Play your favorite titles on various devices without losing functionality or performance. Customization Options: As an open source platform, SteamOS allows users to tailor the system to their specific preferences and needs. With SteamOS, the Z2 Extreme becomes more than just a gaming device—it transforms into a versatile gaming hub. Its combination of user-friendliness and adaptability ensures that gamers can enjoy a personalized and immersive experience. Real SteamOS Ryzen HX370 Handheld the Z2 Extreme Watch this video on YouTube. Stay informed about the latest in handheld games consoles by exploring our other resources and articles. Portability and Design: Gaming on the Move The Z2 Extreme is designed with portability in mind, making it an excellent choice for gamers who are always on the go. Its compact size and lightweight build ensure that it's easy to carry, whether you're commuting, traveling, or gaming at home. Despite its small form factor, the device doesn't compromise on essential features: Ergonomic Controls : Designed for comfort and precision, the controls allow for extended gaming sessions without discomfort. : Designed for comfort and precision, the controls allow for extended gaming sessions without discomfort. High-Resolution Display : Enjoy crisp, vibrant visuals that bring your games to life, enhancing the overall gaming experience. : Enjoy crisp, vibrant visuals that bring your games to life, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of portable use, making sure reliability over time. The Z2 Extreme delivers a console-like experience in a handheld form, combining performance, comfort, and durability to meet the needs of gamers who value mobility without sacrificing quality. Seamless Gaming in a Compact Form The Z2 Extreme's design strikes a careful balance between aesthetics and functionality. Its sleek, portable form factor houses powerful hardware capable of delivering high-quality gaming experiences. Features such as responsive buttons, intuitive controls, and a vibrant display enhance gameplay, whether you're navigating fast-paced action or exploring expansive open-world environments. This thoughtful design ensures that the Z2 Extreme is not just a gaming device—it's a trusted companion for gamers who prioritize both mobility and performance. Its ability to deliver consistent, high-quality gaming experiences in a compact package sets it apart in the competitive landscape of handheld gaming devices. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
