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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The best handheld for Metroidvania games is the one that runs the titles you want in the storefront you already use. Choose Nintendo Switch 2 for Nintendo’s console library and confirmed handheld support for Hollow Knight: Silksong; Steam Deck OLED for a Steam library and SteamOS controls that include trackpads and rear buttons; or ROG Xbox Ally for Windows access to supported games from Xbox and other PC stores. No official evidence establishes one overall winner, so compare your specific games, screen preferences, storage needs, and expected time away from a charger.
Which handheld fits your Metroidvania library?
Metroidvanias reward repeated exploration, precise movement, and returning to difficult encounters. But the genre spans console and PC storefronts, so a device’s access to your chosen games matters more than a generalized genre ranking. Check the specific titles you plan to play and their current compatibility information before buying.
| Handheld | Best fit | Platform and game access | Notable trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo Switch 2 | Players prioritizing Nintendo’s console ecosystem | Nintendo Switch 2 games; Nintendo lists Hollow Knight: Silksong as supported in handheld mode on Switch 2. Nintendo’s game page | Game storage expansion requires microSD Express; battery estimate varies by game. |
| Steam Deck OLED | Players whose Metroidvanias are on Steam and who want SteamOS | Steam library; Steam lists Silksong as a Steam title and gives SteamOS + Linux requirements. Steam store page | Valve’s cited material does not confirm a current Steam Deck Verified status for Silksong; check the live compatibility entry. |
| ASUS ROG Xbox Ally | Players who want Windows and supported titles from multiple PC storefronts | Windows 11, with access to supported PC games from Xbox and other stores. Xbox handheld compatibility overview | Check handheld compatibility game by game; some titles may need in-game setting changes for optimal performance. |
How to choose based on the games you want to play
Choose Switch 2 for Nintendo’s library
Nintendo lists Switch 2 compatibility and handheld mode as “Supported” for Hollow Knight: Silksong on its Australian game page. That makes Switch 2 a clear option if you want this game on Nintendo’s platform, but check compatibility for every other title on your list rather than assuming all Metroidvanias have the same status. Nintendo also cautions that software compatibility and play experience may differ on Switch Lite; that is separate from the Switch 2 compatibility listing.
Choose Steam Deck OLED for a Steam-first collection
Steam lists Silksong as a Steam title, tags it as a Metroidvania, and specifies SteamOS + Linux system requirements. Valve’s cited pages do not establish its current Deck Verified badge, so consult the game’s live Steam Deck compatibility entry before treating that status as confirmed. Steam Deck OLED runs SteamOS 3 and is the most direct fit of these three if your relevant games are already in your Steam library.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Choose ROG Xbox Ally for Windows storefront access
ASUS describes the 2025 ROG Xbox Ally as a Windows 11 handheld that accesses supported PC games from Xbox and other stores. That wider PC-store access can suit a collection spread across storefronts, but it does not guarantee every game will work equally well on a handheld. Xbox’s compatibility overview identifies games marked handheld optimized and notes that some games may need in-game adjustments for optimal performance.
Screen, controls, and storage compared
| Device | Display (manufacturer specification) | Controls and operating system | Storage expansion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch 2 | 7.9-inch wide-color-gamut LCD; 1920 × 1080; HDR10; VRR up to 120 Hz. Nintendo specifications | Nintendo console platform; the cited specification page does not list comparable input features such as trackpads or assignable rear buttons. | microSD Express only for expansion, up to 2 TB. Standard microSD cards can be used to copy screenshots and videos from the original Switch, not as Switch 2 game-storage expansion. |
| Steam Deck OLED | 7.4-inch HDR OLED; 1280 × 800; refresh rate up to 90 Hz. Valve specifications | SteamOS 3; full-size capacitive thumbsticks, two trackpads with haptic feedback, gyro, and four assignable rear grip buttons. These are additional input options, not proof of greater comfort for every player. | High-speed microSD card slot. |
| ROG Xbox Ally | 7-inch 1080p touchscreen; 120 Hz; FreeSync Premium. ASUS specifications | Windows 11; ASUS lists touchscreen and control specifications on its product page. | The cited ASUS product details do not state a storage-expansion format. |
These are specification differences, not a measured comparison of legibility, image quality, or performance in particular games. If you prefer a larger image area, the listed display sizes can help narrow the choice; if you rely on trackpads, gyro, or rear inputs, Valve documents those features specifically for Steam Deck OLED.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Battery estimates are not a head-to-head test
Battery life depends on the game and settings, and the available figures come from manufacturers’ different estimates or test descriptions. They should not be read as controlled comparisons between these handhelds.
| Device | Published battery information | How to interpret it |
|---|---|---|
| Switch 2 | Nintendo estimates approximately 2–6.5 hours and says actual life depends on the games played. Nintendo specifications | A broad manufacturer estimate, not a guaranteed runtime for a particular Metroidvania. |
| Steam Deck OLED | Valve lists a 50 Wh battery and an estimated 3–12 hours of gameplay. Valve OLED specifications | The published range is not a game-specific runtime promise. Valve’s separate hardware page describes a 40 Wh battery and approximately 7–8 hours for lighter use, including smaller 2D games; that 40 Wh figure is not the OLED specification. Valve hardware page |
| ROG Xbox Ally | ASUS lists a 60 Wh battery. Its Silksong battery comparison describes 720p, a 60 fps cap, low in-game graphics, and Silent operating mode, but the cited passage does not state a runtime. ASUS product page | The comparison conditions are not an hour estimate and do not establish independently measured runtime. |
For long sessions away from power, treat each maker’s estimate as a planning range rather than a promise. Screen settings, frame-rate limits, game load, and operating mode can all affect actual use; there is no cited controlled battery test across these three devices.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
A practical pre-purchase check
- Write down the games you actually intend to play. Include the storefront or console platform where you own them, not only the game names.
- Verify access and compatibility for each title. Check Nintendo’s platform listing, Steam’s live Deck compatibility entry, or Xbox’s handheld compatibility details as applicable; do not infer status from another game in the same genre.
- Pick the input and display features you value. Compare listed screen size and type, and decide whether Steam Deck’s documented trackpads, gyro, and rear buttons matter to your play style.
- Plan storage expansion only if needed. Use a microSD card for Steam Deck; Switch 2 requires microSD Express for game storage. Do not buy a standard microSD card expecting it to expand Switch 2 game storage.
- Set a realistic unplugged-play expectation. Compare the manufacturers’ estimates with your likely games and settings, but do not treat the published figures as directly comparable runtime tests.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
