Acer is “watching” the handheld gaming PC scene, and I hope that means budget options

Jan. 29, 2024

Cheaper Steam Deck rivals are still a possibility

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The idea of anAcerhandheld gaming PC isn’t surprising given that all the big laptop makers are getting in on the action. However, comments made by the company suggest it might actually be on the cards, and that gives me hope for a new, cheaper Steam Deck rival. By that, I mean a portable Windows 11 rig that comes in at the same price asValve’s machine, unlike most other alternatives with a similar agenda.

Thebest gaming handheldspace is transforming into something special, but it arguably has a problem on its hands in terms of portable PC pricing. Sure, theSteam Deckstrikes a nice balance between affordability and performance, and there are cheaper alternatives like theAYN Loki Zerofor lightweight activities. Yet, I can’t help but feel the rest are allergic to the idea of matching Valve’s base price, with theAsus ROG AllyandLenovo Legion GOboth costing the same as a lower spec gaming laptop.

It’s for that very reason that I’m hyped about remarks made by Acer UK regional director Craig Booth toTom’s Guide. According to the general manager, the renowned laptop manufacturer is “watching” the handheld PC scene “with interest,” which at least confirms the idea is on the company’s mind. In addition, Booth says that creating a portable device like the Steam Deck would be “relatively straightforward” for the firm since it has access to “the technology” required to do so. That part isn’t exact news, but again, it sounds like logistics aren’t going to be an issue.

Let’s encourage cheaper Steam Deck rivals

Just so we’re clear, Acer hasn’t remotely confirmed plans for a gaming handheld, nor are Booth’s comments a sly teaser. That said, they do strongly suggest that the tech brand could whip up a Steam Deck competitor whenever it likes, but it’d rather sit back and wait for the perfect opportunity. This makes sense when you consider the infancy of the portable PC platform, not to mention future devices like theAsus ROG Ally 2could change the goal posts before Acer can even find its feet.

I like premium hardware as much as the next PC nerd, and myAyaneo 2S reviewillustrates the benefits of pricey portable tech. Nevertheless, I’d trade away the extra performance for something that balances cost and abilities in a heartbeat, as that’s what’ll ultimately help more players play incredible PC games without an expensive rig. Not to get too deep into it, but I come from a working class family, so I understand the importance of financial approachability all too well.

And that’s what I hope Acer will consider when drawing up its gaming handheld plans. Forget about detachable controllers and high resolution screens. Instead, focus on offering up robust performance and great quality controls for a competitive price, one that’ll keep Valve and the rest of the scene on its toes. After all, theNintendo Switch 2may eventually come and draw potential players away with affordable console specs and change the landscape as we know it.

Looking for something with more oomph? Check out thebest gaming PCbuilds for a desktop powerhouse. Alternatively, take a peek at thebest gaming laptopsfor rigs you can take on the go.

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I’ve been messing around with PCs, video game consoles, and tech since before I could speak. Don’t get me wrong, I kickstarted my relationship with technology by jamming a Hot Wheels double-decker bus into my parent’s VCR, but we all have to start somewhere. I even somehow managed to become a walking, talking buyer’s guide at my teenage supermarket job, which helped me accept my career fate. So, rather than try to realise my musician dreams, or see out my University degree, I started running my own retro pop culture site and writing about video games and tech for the likes of TechRadar, The Daily Star, and the BBC before eventually ending up with a job covering graphics card shenanigans at PCGamesN. Now, I’m your friendly neighbourhood Hardware Editor at GamesRadar, and it’s my job to make sure you can kick butt in all your favourite games using the best gaming hardware, whether you’re a sucker for handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch or a hardcore gaming PC enthusiast.

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