When it comes to handheld gaming, the Steam Deck handheld and its variants are easily at the top of the market, though they’re so popular that they’re often sold out in 2026.
There are various reasons for this, with RAM and storage shortages the main culprits, but thankfully, there are plenty of other options out there for handheld enthusiasts. From systems that offer a PC-like experience to retro classics, here are some great alternatives to the Steam Deck during its supply shortages.
6 Best Steam Deck Alternatives In 2026
Before diving into the list, it’s important to note that everyone will have their own specific preferences for what they look for in a handheld device. Make sure you know exactly why you might have wanted a Steam Deck, and compare them to the options down below to figure out which might be best for you.
- More Insider Gaming: When Will Steam Deck Consoles Be Back In Stock?
With that out of the way, here are six great alternatives to the Steam Deck and its variants in 2026.
Lenovo Legion Go S
There’s an argument to be made that the Lenovo Legion Go S is a better Steam device than the Steam Deck itself. It supposedly runs titles faster than Valve’s own device, and it’s just as comfortable in the hand—an often overlooked aspect of handheld gaming.
There are plenty of variations to the Lenovo Legion, too. The Legion Go S is arguably the most affordable entry-level system, but if you’ve got the cash to spare, the newly-released Legion Go Gen 2 packs an even beefier punch.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
Asus ROG Xbox Ally X
Despite the name, the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X isn’t a portable Xbox. Instead, it’s a more powerful ROG Ally X, with the standout being the upgraded processor.
Insider Gaming has a comprehensive Asus ROG Xbox Ally X review, where it was praised for running any title, both old and new, with ease, whilst the Xbox integration never feels disruptive or pointless. Any title with the Xbox Play Anywhere tag can be accessed on the device, and it’s ultimately a great competitor to the Steam Deck.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
Nintendo Switch 2
Now, the Nintendo Switch 2 likely needs no introduction. It serves as both a home console and handheld device, but it’s a very different system that’s built for an entirely separate purpose from the Steam Deck.
The Switch 2 is not a portable PC in any shape or form, nor does it try to be. It won’t run games as well as the Steam Deck, and of course, you’ll be limited to the library available to Nintendo instead of Steam. However, what it does offer is easy functionality, accessibility, and a wide range of console exclusives that are some of the best in their genres.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
MSI Claw 8 AI+
Back to portable PCs, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ is another solid entry into the realm of handheld gaming. It’s a capable device that more than delivers the promise of PC gaming on the go, though it does have a few minor drawbacks.
- More Insider Gaming: Steam Machine—Everything To Know About Valve’s New System
The main one is certainly the large screen size. You’d think that a larger screen would equal a better experience, but it can hamper the comfort when using it for extended periods of time. However, it does offer experimental AI that can adjust your game’s settings for optimal performance, which can be handy for new users.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
PlayStation Portal
The PlayStation Portal is an incredibly unique device, as it doesn’t operate like most handhelds. Instead of running games natively on the system, it relies on streaming games from the Cloud all through an internet connection.
Therefore, it’s not a great device if you’re planning to game on the go, but if you’re settled somewhere with a strong connection? It could be one of the best in the business, especially for PS5 owners. It’s as great and comfortable to hold as a DualSense controller, and considerably cheaper than other alternatives. If you’re a fan of the PlayStation library, the Portal should be on your radar—with an OLED version rumoured for 2026.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
R38S Handheld Game Console
Admittedly, this entry is a bit of a gimmicky one, but when you’re talking about handheld gaming, it’s hard to ignore the glory days of the Game Boy and PSP. Through the power of emulation, an admittedly grey area in the realm of video games, the R38S brings the golden age back to the small screen.
With over 15,000 games packed into the device from the get-go, you’ll be spoilt for choice the moment you unbox it. From the NES to the PS1, N64 to the Nintendo DS, it’s an emulation powerhouse. Of course, you won’t be playing the likes of ARC Raiders or Battlefield 6 on this thing, but if you’re a big retro fan, it’s definitely a system worth picking up.
If you’re interested, check out their line of products here.
Are you thinking of picking up one of these devices? If you’ve got any more questions regarding any of them, don’t be afraid to ask away in the official Insider Gaming Discord Server!
For more lists and recommendations, check out the 7 biggest upcoming soulslike games of 2026, as well as the 9 open-world RPGs you need to play in 2026.
Charlie is one of Insider Gaming's Guides Writers who's been in the gaming industry for a little over a year. Unfortunately for him, he enjoys every video game genre out…
More from Charlie Champion
