Latest news with #handheldgaming
Gizmodo
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Gizmodo
The Best Gadgets of May 2025
Handhelds, novel cameras, and more handhelds. Oh my! As eventful as Google's I/O was, May was just as much about gaming hardware as it was the Next Big Thing for Gemini AI. The Switch 2 may be on the foreseeable horizon, but other handheld gaming companies like MSI, Lenovo, and Anbernic weren't goofing off and waiting for Nintendo to bowl them over. MSI dropped the Claw A8 in lime green, while Anbernic put out the RG34XXSP, a Game Boy SP-style retro handheld, and Lenovo launched its Legion Go S handheld gaming PC with SteamOS. It's not just about gaming. This month's list has some wild cards, too, so scroll through for some gadgets that will upgrade your kitchen game, bring you back to a simpler time of taking photos, and maybe even kickstart your journey into pixel art. Handheld gaming PCs may be getting bigger, but one thing that's been holding them back, by most people's accounts, is software (looking at you, Windows). Valve, which makes the Steam Deck, is here to make that hindrance just a little better by licensing its UI, SteamOS, to handheld makers, and Lenovo's Legion Go S will be the first of such gadgets. We haven't gone hands-on with the Legion Go S with SteamOS yet, but I can't imagine that the new UI won't give the Legion Go S a huge upgrade over the Windows 11 version. We already lauded the Windows model for its perfect ergonomics, so this software upgrade should make those pros feel more pronounced. See Legion Go S at Best Buy This camera might literally be a heavyweight, which is not great if you're looking for something low profile, but it's also got quite a few features that might make the weight feel worth bearing. Among those features is autofocus, enabled by the ability to swap between four different lenses inside the camera that are on a rotating gear. If you're okay with a little heft, Polaroid's Flip camera delivers photos with the characteristic and charming instant camera look that you're used to—just make sure you've got proper lighting. See at Best Buy Do you need a device to display pixel art in your life? No, no, you do not. Would you like one, though? You might, especially if it's this one from Govee, which is bright, versatile, and even displays GIFs at 30 fps. It's not just images, either; this thing also has a speaker (albeit not a loud one) to pair your 8-bit artwork with some chiptunes. If you're feeling truly compelled, it even has a feature that lets you track the price of Bitcoin, though we prefer to keep things uncomplicated with Mario or Metroid. See Govee Gaming Pixel Light at Amazon I'm a minimalist in the kitchen, but I fully acknowledge that a good kitchen gadget can change your life, and the Breville Paradice 9 rises to that level. I personally love using a sharp-ass set of knives, but sometimes you just want to make things easy, and that's where food processors shine. The Paradice 9 has lots of strengths, including a dicing kit for even chopping and a feed chute that's big enough to reduce the prep that you need to do going in. That means you can just cut an onion in half, throw that sucker in, and process away. It's pricey for the field ($400), but it does its job and does it well. See Breville Paradice 9 at Best Buy The SP is Nintendo's best Game Boy ever, and while you can't relive that magic pixel for pixel with a new handheld, you can buy one from Anebernic that nails the classic SP form factor with a twist. The RG34XXSP is one of the many, many retro gaming handhelds from Anbernic that riffs off Nintendo's Game Boy to bring retro emulation to a pocket near you at a price you can probably afford. My personal favorite is the GameCube colorway, but there's also one that mimics the PlayStation and the Playdate. For $67 you can emulate all sorts of games, too, including N64 and Dreamcast titles. Good news, TikTok, you've got a new Fujifilm to fawn over. The X Half is a new half-frame-esque camera with a high price tag but also a bunch of cool retro features, film simulations, and a vertical format that will make your social feeds happy. For $850, you get an 18-megapixel sensor with a lens that's equivalent to 32mm with an f/2.8 aperture. If you're into the vintage vibes, there's a lot to love here, including a 'film mode' where you need to use the frame advance lever after taking every picture, which simulates the experience of shooting on actual film. Your move, Gen Z. If vibrators and dildos aren't cutting it, Motorbunny has your back. We reviewed the Motorbunny Buck, which is a saddle with some serious horsepower. If you're willing to shell out more money to get your rocks off mechanically, then the Motorbunny Buck is a solid option with powerful vibration, thrusting, and tons of attachments to fit your pleasure profile. For the gamers, there's even an attachment that syncs vibrations to your game controller so you can really feel the heat. See Motorbunny Buck at Amazon We love a gadget that hits the sweet spot for affordability, and the Surface Pro 12 caters to that. While you still have to buy a keyboard separately, the Surface Pro 12 toes the line between tablet and laptop well and debuts at $800 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage at base. It also runs on Snapdragon's X chips, which—despite being relatively new in the space—are already delivering great battery life in a range of well-priced devices. This thing is light too, at 1.5 pounds, which means you can actually use it as a tablet. Plus, on a more subjective note, I'm a sucker for purple gadgets. See Surface Pro at Amazon See Surface Pro at Best Buy
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS ROG Ally vs Legion GO S vs Steam Deck OLED : Handheld Games Consoles Compared
What if your next gaming session didn't have to be tethered to a desk or console? The rise of handheld gaming consoles has transformed how we play, offering the freedom to take AAA titles or indie gems on the go. With Valve's bold move to extend official SteamOS support to third-party devices, the competition among portable gaming systems has never been fiercer—or more exciting. Enter the Steam Deck OLED, Lenovo Legion Go S, and ASUS ROG Ally: three distinct handhelds vying for your attention with their unique blend of power, design, and features. But which one truly delivers the best experience for your gaming style? In this comprehensive comparison, ETA Prime compares the specs, performance, battery life, and usability of these standout devices. Whether you're drawn to the vivid OLED display of the Steam Deck, the larger screen real estate of the Legion Go S, or the raw power and customization potential of the ROG Ally, this overview will help you navigate the intricate landscape of handheld gaming. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of which console aligns with your gaming priorities—be it portability, performance, or immersive visuals. Let's explore what sets these devices apart and why your next gaming adventure might just fit in the palm of your hand. Handheld Gaming Console Comparison Steam Deck OLED: Balanced Efficiency and Seamless Compatibility The Steam Deck OLED represents an evolution of Valve's original Steam Deck, introducing a 7.4-inch OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate. This upgrade enhances the visual experience with vibrant colors and deeper contrasts, making games more immersive. Powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 APU (4 cores, 8 threads) and an RDNA2 GPU, the device delivers a balanced performance suitable for a wide range of games. With pricing starting at $439 for refurbished models and reaching $649 for new units, it remains an accessible choice for many gamers. One of the Steam Deck OLED's standout features is its optimized SteamOS, which ensures smooth compatibility with an extensive library of games. Its battery life is another strong point, offering up to 5+ hours for indie games and approximately 2 hours for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. This makes it an excellent option for gamers who value energy efficiency, ease of use, and a robust game library. The device's compact design and seamless integration with Steam's ecosystem further enhance its appeal for casual and dedicated gamers alike. Lenovo Legion Go S: Bigger Screen, Enhanced Comfort The Lenovo Legion Go S differentiates itself with an 8-inch IPS display featuring a 120Hz variable refresh rate. This larger screen provides a more immersive gaming experience, particularly for players who prioritize screen real estate and smoother visuals. Under the hood, the device is powered by the Ryzen Z2 Go APU, which incorporates Zen 3+ architecture, 4 cores, 8 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA2 GPU. Prices range from $580 for open-box models to $649 for new units, positioning it as a direct competitor to the Steam Deck OLED. Although the IPS display lacks the color depth and contrast of OLED technology, its larger size and higher refresh rate make it a compelling choice for gamers who value visual fluidity. The Legion Go S offers comparable battery life to the Steam Deck OLED, though it tends to drain faster during AAA gaming sessions. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort during extended play, making it particularly suitable for users who engage in long gaming sessions. Additionally, the device's larger screen enhances its usability for multitasking or streaming content, adding versatility to its feature set. 2025 Handheld Games Consoles Compared Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on SteamOS from our extensive range of articles. ASUS ROG Ally: High Performance with Customization Potential The ASUS ROG Ally stands out as the most powerful device in this comparison, designed for gamers who demand top-tier performance. It features the Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, built on Zen 4 architecture, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 12-compute-unit RDNA3 GPU. This advanced hardware enables the ROG Ally to handle demanding AAA titles with ease, delivering smooth gameplay and impressive graphical fidelity. The device includes a 7-inch IPS display with a 120Hz variable refresh rate and is priced between $440 for open-box models and $649 for new units. While the ROG Ally's stock 40Wh battery limits its runtime, upgrading to a 65Wh battery significantly improves its endurance, making it more suitable for extended gaming sessions. Its mod-friendly design appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their devices, whether through hardware upgrades or software tweaks. Performance benchmarks consistently place the ROG Ally ahead of its competitors, excelling in graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. However, its shorter battery life and higher power consumption may require compromises for gamers prioritizing portability. Performance Benchmarks and Battery Life: Key Differences Performance and battery life are critical factors when comparing these handheld gaming devices. Each device offers unique strengths in these areas, catering to different gaming styles and preferences. Steam Deck OLED: Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Focuses on efficiency, offering the best runtime for indie games and steady performance for casual gaming sessions. Lenovo Legion Go S: Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. Balances a larger screen and higher refresh rate with competitive performance, though its battery life may fall short during intensive gaming. ASUS ROG Ally: Delivers unmatched performance for AAA titles but requires a battery upgrade to sustain longer playtimes. The ROG Ally leads in raw performance, using its advanced Zen 4 architecture and RDNA3 GPU to handle demanding games effortlessly. The Legion Go S offers a middle ground, with its larger display and 120Hz refresh rate enhancing gameplay for visually demanding titles. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck OLED excels in indie game performance and energy efficiency, making it a reliable choice for casual gamers. Choosing the Right Handheld Gaming Console Selecting the ideal handheld gaming console depends on your individual gaming priorities and preferences. Each device in this comparison caters to specific needs, offering distinct advantages: Steam Deck OLED: Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Best suited for gamers who prioritize compatibility, ease of use, and energy efficiency. Its optimized SteamOS and extensive game library make it a versatile choice for casual and indie gaming. Lenovo Legion Go S: Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. Ideal for those who value a larger display and ergonomic design, making it perfect for extended gaming sessions and multitasking. ASUS ROG Ally: Tailored for performance enthusiasts who seek maximum capability and are willing to invest in upgrades for extended playtime and customization. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your gaming style and priorities. Whether you're drawn to performance, display quality, or battery life, these devices offer compelling options for handheld gaming enthusiasts. Carefully evaluate your needs to determine which device aligns best with your gaming preferences and lifestyle. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gadgets News 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.
The Verge
3 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
SteamOS puts the pressure on Microsoft's Xbox-branded handheld
Microsoft's combination of Xbox and Windows for handheld gaming PCs can't come soon enough. Windows on handhelds is in desperate need of some love, and Lenovo's Legion Go S is the best evidence yet that Microsoft has a big Windows-shaped problem it has to solve on any upcoming Xbox-branded handhelds. YouTuber Dave2D managed to test the Legion Go S with the new SteamOS version alongside the existing Windows model. The hardware is exactly the same, but the operating systems are totally different, and the results are eye-opening. Games running on the SteamOS model perform better than the Windows version at low or medium settings, by around 5 to 10 percent. These are games that are made for Windows, but Valve's excellent Proton compatibility layer means they run better with the help of Linux and SteamOS. The Legion Go S with SteamOS even beats Valve's Steam Deck performance, and you can get even better performance if you're willing to sacrifice the battery. Battery life on a handheld gaming PC is a massive part of the experience, and the SteamOS version of the Legion Go S just totally embarrasses the Windows model in Dave2D's tests. In Dead Cells, at 60fps, the Legion Go S with SteamOS runs for just over six hours, but on the Windows variant it doesn't even manage to hit the three-hour mark. That's half the battery life just for choosing Microsoft's OS. It's the same with Hades, where the SteamOS version runs for more than four hours, but the Windows equivalent doesn't quite reach two.
Geeky Gadgets
3 days ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Lenovo Legion Go S Official SteamOS Review : OLED Steam Deck Killer or Risky Gamble?
What if your handheld gaming console didn't just play games but redefined how you experienced them? The Legion Go S, Lenovo's latest entry into the portable gaming market, has made a bold move by adopting SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system designed for gaming. This shift from Windows isn't just a technical tweak—it's a fantastic option. With enhanced performance, seamless updates, and a streamlined gaming experience, the Legion Go S is poised to challenge its competitors, including the Steam Deck OLED. But does this bold leap forward come without compromise? Not entirely. While the integration of SteamOS unlocks new possibilities, questions about battery life and display quality linger, leaving gamers to wonder if this device is truly the future of handheld gaming. ETA Prime explores how SteamOS transforms the Legion Go S into a more efficient and gamer-friendly console, offering smoother gameplay and access to a vast library of titles. We'll also dive into the console's hardware, including the powerful AMD Ryzen Z2 APU, and examine its ability to balance performance and adaptability. But it's not all smooth sailing—issues like limited battery life and underwhelming display performance reveal the trade-offs of this ambitious redesign. Whether you're a tech enthusiast curious about the rise of Linux in gaming or a gamer weighing your next handheld investment, the story of the Legion Go S is one worth unpacking. After all, innovation often comes with a price. Legion Go S with SteamOS Why SteamOS Integration Transforms the Experience SteamOS integration brings a host of advantages to the Legion Go S, making it a more efficient and user-friendly gaming device. This Linux-based operating system offers several key benefits: Seamless firmware updates and BIOS adjustments, simplifying system management for users. and BIOS adjustments, simplifying system management for users. Reduced system overhead , leading to optimized gaming performance compared to Windows-based systems. , leading to optimized gaming performance compared to Windows-based systems. Improved stability, minimizing interruptions and making sure a smoother gaming experience. For gamers, this means a more reliable and efficient platform that aligns with the demands of modern gaming titles. SteamOS also provides access to a vast library of games through the Steam ecosystem, further enhancing its appeal. AMD Ryzen Z2 APU: The Power Behind the Console At the heart of the Legion Go S is the AMD Ryzen Z2 APU, a processor designed to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency. This hardware configuration ensures the console can handle a wide range of games while offering flexibility for different gaming scenarios. Key specifications include: 4 cores and 8 threads , allowing smooth multitasking and gaming performance. , allowing smooth multitasking and gaming performance. An RDNA 2 integrated GPU , capable of handling graphically demanding titles with ease. , capable of handling graphically demanding titles with ease. Support for up to 16GB of VRAM on the 32GB RAM model, providing ample resources for modern games. on the 32GB RAM model, providing ample resources for modern games. Customizable power modes ranging from 5W to 40W, allowing users to prioritize either battery life or performance. This robust hardware setup ensures that the Legion Go S can meet the needs of gamers who demand both power and adaptability. Legion Go S Running Official SteamOS Install Tested Watch this video on YouTube. Expand your understanding of SteamOS Integration with additional resources from our extensive library of articles. Performance and Battery Life: Striking a Balance The Legion Go S delivers competitive performance, particularly when compared to the Steam Deck OLED. At a 15W TDP (Thermal Design Power), the two devices perform similarly, but the Legion Go S occasionally pulls ahead due to its higher RAM capacity. Additional performance features include: Frame generation technology , which enhances gameplay smoothness in demanding titles. , which enhances gameplay smoothness in demanding titles. Customizable power settings, allowing users to balance performance and battery life based on their preferences. However, battery life remains a critical factor. The Legion Go S is equipped with a 55.5Wh battery, offering varying runtimes depending on usage: Up to 5 hours for indie games at a 7W TDP. for indie games at a 7W TDP. Approximately 2 hours for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. for AAA titles at a 15W TDP. Just 1 hour and 20 minutes in performance mode at 30W TDP. While the customizable power modes provide flexibility, the relatively small battery limits extended play sessions. A larger battery, such as a 65Wh unit, could significantly improve its longevity. For now, users must actively manage power settings to maximize their gaming experience. Display and Visual Experience The Legion Go S features a 120Hz display, which enhances gameplay fluidity and responsiveness. However, there are notable limitations that affect the overall visual experience: The display lacks the vibrant colors and contrast offered by the Steam Deck OLED's screen. and offered by the Steam Deck OLED's screen. Most modern games cannot fully use the 120Hz refresh rate due to hardware constraints. For gamers, this means the display is functional and smooth but falls short of delivering a truly premium visual experience. While the high refresh rate is a welcome feature, its potential remains underutilized in many scenarios. Comparing the Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED The Legion Go S and Steam Deck OLED cater to different priorities, making the choice between them dependent on individual preferences. Key comparisons include: The Legion Go S offers greater customization options and higher potential performance at elevated power levels. and higher potential performance at elevated power levels. The Steam Deck OLED features a superior display and comparable performance at 15W TDP, making it a more balanced option for many users. For gamers who value customization and are willing to actively manage power settings, the Legion Go S is a strong contender. However, for those who prioritize display quality and longer battery life, the Steam Deck OLED remains the more practical choice. Future Potential with the Z1 Extreme Upgrade The Legion Go S is poised for further improvement with the anticipated release of the Z1 Extreme version, which promises to elevate its performance capabilities. This upgraded APU is expected to deliver: Enhanced processing power , allowing smoother gameplay for newer, more demanding titles. , allowing smoother gameplay for newer, more demanding titles. Better utilization of VRAM, resulting in improved graphics handling and overall performance. For gamers, this upgrade could make the Legion Go S an even more competitive option in the handheld gaming market, provided the new processor meets expectations. The Z1 Extreme version has the potential to address some of the current limitations, such as battery life and display performance, further solidifying the console's position as a versatile gaming device. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News 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.
Geeky Gadgets
23-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
New MSI Claw A8 AMD Handheld Games Console Unveiled
What if you could hold the power of a high-end gaming PC in the palm of your hand? The MSI Claw A8, powered by AMD's innovative Ryzen Z2 processor, is here to challenge the way we think about portable gaming. With its bold lime green and white design, this handheld device doesn't just perform—it makes a statement. In a market crowded with competitors, MSI's latest innovation promises to deliver stunning visuals, seamless multitasking, and enough customization options to satisfy even the most discerning gamers. But is the Claw A8 just another flashy gadget, or does it truly set a new standard for handheld gaming? ETA Prime explore how MSI has engineered the Claw A8 to be a fantastic option in portable entertainment. From its 8-core processor and RDNA 3.5 graphics to its immersive 1200p display and long-lasting battery, the Claw A8 is packed with features designed to elevate your gaming experience. We'll also uncover the thoughtful details—like Hall effect analog sticks and customizable RGB lighting—that make this device as functional as it is stylish. Whether you're a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, the Claw A8 invites you to rethink what's possible in handheld gaming. Could this be the device that finally bridges the gap between portability and performance? MSI Claw A8 Overview Unmatched Performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Processor At the heart of the Claw A8 is AMD's Ryzen Z2 processor, built on the innovative Zen 5 architecture. This 8-core, 16-thread processor is designed to handle demanding tasks with ease, making sure smooth multitasking and high-speed gaming. Paired with the Radeon 16 CUGPU, which uses RDNA 3.5 graphics technology, the device delivers stunning visuals and optimized power efficiency. The inclusion of 24 GB of RAM running at an impressive 8,000 MHz ensures the Claw A8 can tackle resource-intensive games and applications effortlessly, providing a seamless and responsive gaming experience. Immersive Visuals and Long-Lasting Battery The Claw A8 features an 8-inch 1200p display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, offering sharp and vibrant visuals that enhance gameplay. Equipped with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology, the screen minimizes screen tearing, making sure smoother and more immersive gaming sessions. With a brightness of 500 nits, the display remains clear and vivid, whether you're gaming indoors or outdoors. To support extended play sessions, the device is powered by an 80Wh battery, delivering hours of uninterrupted gaming without the need for frequent recharging. MSI Claw A8 AMD Handheld Watch this video on YouTube. Enhance your knowledge on AMD Ryzen systems by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Striking Design and Enhanced Controls MSI has crafted the Claw A8 with a unique lime green and white color scheme, making it stand out in the handheld gaming market. Weighing just 765 grams, the device strikes a balance between portability and durability, making sure it is easy to carry while remaining robust. The inclusion of programmable macro keys and customizable RGB lighting allows users to personalize their gaming setup. Additionally, the Hall effect analog sticks and rounded triggers provide precise and comfortable controls, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Comprehensive Connectivity and Superior Audio The Claw A8 is equipped with modern connectivity options to ensure seamless integration with peripherals and networks. Key features include: Wi-Fi 6E for fast and stable online gaming for fast and stable online gaming Bluetooth 5.3 for effortless pairing with accessories for effortless pairing with accessories Dual USB 4 ports for versatile connectivity For added security, the device includes a built-in fingerprint sensor, safeguarding your data and device. On the audio front, the Claw A8 features DTS sound technology and dual stereo speakers, delivering immersive and high-quality sound that complements its impressive visuals. Ample Storage and Expandability The Claw A8 offers exceptional storage capabilities with its 2280 M.2 SSD. This larger form factor, compared to the more common 2230 or 2242 SSDs in handheld devices, provides greater storage capacity and faster data transfer speeds. This ensures ample space for your game library, media files, and other applications, making it a practical choice for gamers who need extensive storage options. Customizable Performance with MSI Centerm Software The Claw A8 allows users to fine-tune its performance through MSI's Centerm software. This tool enables adjustments to the device's TDP (Thermal Design Power), allowing you to balance raw performance and battery life according to your gaming needs. Whether you're playing graphically demanding titles or prioritizing extended battery life for longer sessions, the Claw A8 adapts to your preferences, offering a tailored gaming experience. A New Standard in Handheld Gaming The MSI Claw A8 combines powerful hardware, innovative features, and a striking design to set a new benchmark for handheld gaming devices. Its AMD Ryzen Z2 processor, RDNA 3.5 graphics, and customizable options make it a versatile and compelling choice for gamers seeking both performance and portability. While MSI has yet to announce pricing or a release date, the Claw A8's specifications suggest it will be a strong contender in the handheld gaming market. Whether you're a casual gamer or a dedicated enthusiast, the Claw A8 promises to deliver an exceptional gaming experience tailored to your needs. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Top News 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.
