In the world of handheld PC gaming, we are living in a golden age. The choice is no longer if you can play PC games on the go, but how. For many enthusiasts, three devices represent the pinnacle of what’s possible: the Valve Steam Deck, the ASUS ROG Ally, and the Lenovo Legion Go. I’m fortunate enough to own all three, which presents a luxurious problem: when I sit down on the couch, which one do I actually pick up?
The answer isn’t as simple as “the most powerful one.” After months of testing, I’ve realized that there is no single “best” device. There is only the best device for a specific moment. Welcome to my “right tool for the job” philosophy.
A quick & honest breakdown of my devices
Before I explain my choices, let’s quickly summarize the personality of each handheld.
1. Steam Deck: The reliable console-like companion The Steam Deck is the master of “just works” gaming. Valve has performed software wizardry to make Linux a seamless, console-like experience. You pick it up, you press play, and you’re in your game. It’s comfortable, reliable, and the suspend/resume feature is flawless. Its biggest weakness? That same software. Every now and then, you’ll hit a wall where a game’s anti-cheat or specific compatibility issues with Proton just won’t let you play.
2. ROG Ally: Versatile all-rounder The ROG Ally is the compatibility king. Because it runs Windows, it plays everything. Your entire library from Steam, Epic Games, Game Pass, and beyond is at your fingertips without any fuss. However, this comes with the “Windows tax.” You might be interrupted by updates, the user interface can be clunky, and the screen, while excellent, feels a bit small once you’ve experienced the competition. On the original (white) ROG Ally also suffers from a small 40Wh battery and lack of optimization in Windows for this shortcoming, which Valve did optimize for in Steam OS. So if you have the budget to do so. buy the (black) ROG Ally X.
3. Legion Go: Portable IMAX experience The Legion Go’s defining feature is its screen. At a massive 8.8 inches, it is absolutely stunning and transforms the gaming experience, especially for at-home play. Games look incredible. But this beauty is a beast that needs feeding: the battery drains quickly. It also shares the same Windows quirks as the Ally. It’s the least ‘pick up and play’ of the three, but my god, that screen is a sight to behold.
The Right Tool for the Job
After living with all three, I’ve developed a natural rotation based on my situation.
Couch gaming at home: When I’m at home with a charger nearby, the Legion Go is my undisputed king. The large, vibrant screen provides the most immersive experience, making it feel less like a handheld and more like a personal, portable TV. The battery life isn’t a concern, and the sheer visual impact makes every session feel like an event.
Quick Breaks (at Work): During a lunch break or when I only have 15-20 minutes to spare, the Steam Deck is my go-to. Its suspend/resume functionality is second to none. I can be in and out of a game in seconds without worrying about closing applications or draining the battery. It’s the most frictionless experience for short bursts of gaming.
Travel and On-the-Go: When I’m traveling, the ROG Ally (X) hits the sweet spot. It’s more compact than the Legion Go, and its universal game compatibility means I never have to worry if the game I want to play will actually run. It’s the perfect travel companion, offering the best balance of performance, size, and the guarantee that my entire library is available. However, like mentioned before the battery of the white Ally is just too small for longer trips and I recommend a JSAUX 65Wh battery upgrade.
There is No “One” Winner
If you’re trying to decide between these three incredible devices, my advice is to stop looking for a single winner. Instead, ask yourself: “In which situation will I be using this the most?”
Your answer will guide you to the right choice. The “best” handheld isn’t the one with the highest specs on paper; it’s the one that fits most seamlessly into your life.
But that’s my setup. Now I’m curious to hear yours. If you had all three, which one would be your couch companion tonight?