Increasing Disposable Income and Technological Advancements is Driving Handheld Game Console Market

Published: Oct 2024

Global handheld game console market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% during the forecast period (2024-2031). The market growth is driven by the increasing disposable incomes, changing consumer preferences, and the rising availability of various gaming options. Additionally, these consoles are lighter and more compact than home video game consoles, contributing to market growth. 

The global handheld game console market is segmented by product (Playstation, Xbox, Razer Switchblade, Nintendo Switch, and others (Steam Deck, ROG Ally), by platform (iOS, android, windows, and Linux), by end-users (adults and children), and, by geographies (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of the World). 

The Nintendo Switch segment is anticipated to hold a considerable market share, attributed to its hybrid features. It may function as a portable handheld device or as a conventional home console that is linked to a monitor or television. It can thus target two markets simultaneously. Additionally, the console is a convenient gadget to travel with due to its adaptability.   

The major market players in the global handheld game console market include Adobe Systems Incorporated, Google Inc. (DoubleClick), AOL Inc. (Verizon Communications Inc.), Yahoo Inc., Beeswax, and others. The market players are investing in product innovation, new product launches, strategic partnerships & collaborations, and contracts to remain competitive.    

Recent Developments 

  • In August 2024, according to a Windows Report, Lenovo is anticipated to launch its handheld console. The company is said to have opted for a Nintendo Switch-like design with removable joy-con-like controllers. 
  • In July 2024, Asus released a refined version of its portable ROG Ally X. The device features 1080p resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and large and clicky A/B/X/Y buttons.
  • In January 2024, Taiwanese laptop maker MSI launched the Claw. The AI handheld console is powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra Processor and is equipped with ARC™ graphics featuring up to 8 Xe cores and advanced XeSS technology. It enables smooth gameplay across various AAA titles. It features a HyperFlow cooling system, a 53Wh battery, and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity.  
  • In January 2023, Verizon and Razer unveiled - Razer Edge 5G, a 5G handheld gaming device. It features, Verizon 5G Ultra Wideband, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 Gaming Platform, 6.8” FHD+ 2400x1080 AMOLED 144Hz display, Razer Kishi Pro 2 controller, two-way speakers with Verizon adaptive sound, 2 digital mics, 5000mAh battery, 8GB memory, and 128GB storage. 
  • In April 2022, Panic, launched Playdate a pocket-sized gaming console. It is a bright yellow retro-esque console.