5 Cheaper Alternatives to the Steam Deck

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As a gamer, I was so excited when Valve released the Steam Deck in 2022, and it really has become a top handheld gaming PC. Right now, you can get one for anywhere between $399 and $649, depending on which version you want. They offer different storage sizes – 256GB, 512GB, or even 1TB – plus options for better battery life and even different screen types like LCD or OLED. Now, there are cheaper handhelds out there, but honestly, while I’ve looked at a few, most don’t offer the same level of gaming options or power as the Steam Deck. Here are five alternatives, but I’m just listing them – they’re not ranked in any specific order.

1) Ayn Odin

The Ayn Odin is a handheld gaming console powered by Android. It’s popular for playing classic retro games and mobile games. Prices range from $249 to $329 depending on the configuration, with models offering 4 to 8 GB of memory. The newest version, the Ayn Odin 3, has a 6-inch screen that displays at 1080×1920 resolution with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It’s a bit smaller than a Nintendo Switch and uses a similar control scheme. The device runs on an 8,000 mAh battery and comes in several colors, with many optional accessories available.

2) Asus ROG Ally X

The ROG Ally X is a popular alternative to the Steam Deck, and it’s also Microsoft’s first handheld Xbox. While some versions are pricier than the Steam Deck, the base model is only about $50 cheaper – costing $599. It runs on Windows, letting gamers play a wide range of titles, including Xbox games. As a direct competitor, the ROG Ally is the most obvious choice if you’re looking for something different, but expect to pay a similar price to the Steam Deck’s higher-end models.

3) Loki Zero

The Ayn Loki Zero is a portable gaming device that comes with either 256GB or 512GB of storage. It can run both Ubuntu and Windows 10, making it great for streaming games. You don’t need to install a lot of software because it’s designed to be lightweight. It also has fun customizable features like RGB lights and vibration feedback. The Loki Zero features a 6-inch, 1080p screen and a battery that lets you play for hours. It costs $249, but it can be hard to find directly, so you may need to look for it on sites like eBay.

4) Retroid Pocket 6

The Retroid Pocket 3 Plus is a handheld gaming device priced at $229. It features a vibrant 5.5-inch AMOLED screen with a sharp 1920×1080 resolution. Four different versions are available, with memory ranging from 8 to 12GB – the models with more memory cost $279. While these higher-capacity versions aren’t available yet, they’re expected to ship in January 2026 and are available for pre-order now. Because it runs on Android, the games you can play are similar to those on a typical smartphone. However, it’s especially well-suited for playing classic retro games, and its design reflects that, with a button layout and feel geared towards older titles.

5) Powkiddy RGB30

If you’re like me and love retro gaming but don’t want to spend a fortune, the Powkiddy RGB30 is seriously worth checking out. It’s way smaller and cheaper than a Steam Deck, coming in at only $70! I’ve been having a blast with it – it can emulate tons of classic consoles like Nintendo 64, PlayStation, even arcade games through MAME. It’s got 16GB of memory, and the screen is a nice 720p HD, which is perfect for playing older games the way they were meant to be. Honestly, for the price, it’s an awesome little handheld.

If we didn’t mention the handheld gaming device you prefer, please share it in the comments below! Join the discussion in the ComicBook Forum now.

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2025-12-19 17:18