Gaming Handheld Showdown: My Insights on Android vs. Linux Experience!

Over the last few months, gaming handhelds have rapidly shifted from a captivating new pastime to a complete obsession. Technically speaking, my initial handheld was the Windows-centric ASUS ROG Ally, yet it wasn’t until I explored Linux and Android handhelds focused on emulation that the desire for more began to take root.

If you’re contemplating this venture, the first choice you need to consider is the operating system. Which is superior: Linux or Android-based handhelds? Each has its advantages; however, depending on your requirements, the right selection should become quite evident.

And indeed, I recognize that Android is built on Linux, but that detail is not pertinent to the discussion at hand. They cannot execute the same software, and handhelds utilizing these two systems exhibit a stark contrast.

If you’re in pursuit of an economical and joyful emulation device, Linux reigns supreme. One of my early handhelds was the TrimUI Smart Pro, which for less than the price of a single modern AAA title, seamlessly runs all the retro games from my youth. This is true for most Linux handhelds, generally operating on low-power processors priced between $30 to $100. These processors have been in circulation for years, meaning they are all highly optimized for both performance and compatibility.

The blend of a budget-friendly processor and an open-source operating system allows these devices to exceed expectations relative to their price point, making them an excellent option for your first handheld. They often come pre-loaded with emulators (and even games and BIOS) on a microSD card, so you can bypass the setup process and begin playing right away.

Nonetheless, it’s advisable to substitute the microSD card with a more reliable brand and upload your own collection of ROMs for optimal performance—and perhaps peace of mind, should you desire that.

For those who enjoy tinkering, Linux-based handhelds also provide considerable freedom. There exist numerous third-party Linux forks that are compatible with popular devices, and typically, all that’s required is transferring the files onto a pre-formatted microSD card. From lightweight and minimalist options like MinUI and KNULLI to more customizable choices such as Batocera, you can truly personalize each device.

The primary drawback is limited power. You won’t be able to play Nintendo Switch games on a Linux-based handheld, and most will struggle with PlayStation 2 emulation. They somewhat mitigate this with Port Master compatibility, allowing access to Linux ports of recent PC titles like Balatro, Celeste, and Stardew Valley.

Another significant advantage is the excellent suspend and resume capability. I cannot emphasize enough how fantastic it is to pick up a device, continue playing precisely where you paused, and then set it back down without the fear of losing progress. There truly isn’t a better way to game while on the move.

Naturally, there is the notable Steam Deck, which operates on the Linux-based Steam OS. It’s an outstanding device with greater power, but it belongs to its own category. This may evolve as more Steam OS-driven handhelds emerge, but it’s considerably larger and pricier compared to other Linux handhelds.

It’s also important to note that Linux can be installed on Windows handhelds through frontends like Bazzite. However, those are primarily emulation-focused, so much of the additional power present in most Windows handhelds will be underutilized. I suggest dual-booting since it provides the advantages of both systems, but you will still end up investing significantly more in a Windows handheld.

If you’re seeking a more potent emulation handheld, transitioning to Android is necessary. Android handhelds start at approximately $80, with the higher-end models reaching $500 or more. The ideal price point tends to hover around $150, where you’ll find sufficient performance to run games from the PlayStation 2 generation.

The upper tier of that range, which includes devices like the AYN Odin 2 and AYANEO Pocket EVO, features enhancements such as OLED displays, Hall Effect joysticks, the latest chipsets, and superior materials. Trust me when I say you don’t need any of these features, but if you desire them and can manage the cost, they are available.

However, that additional power doesn’t consistently result in improved performance. Drivers and software impose the real limitations on Android, and while emulators on Android are hugely popular, the wide array of devices and chipsets complicates development. Additionally, the Android community is recognized for being less appreciative, leading to the PS3 emulator RPCS3 not being available on Android anytime soon.

The fragmented development also means that configuring Android devices is a considerable hassle. None of the premium Android retro handhelds I’ve tried come with emulators pre-installed, hence you will need to set everything up manually before you can dive into a game. This process usually involves sideloading the latest emulators, installing drivers, and adjusting performance settings for each emulator.

That said, if you’ve already ventured into emulation on your smartphone, you should be somewhat acquainted with the process. After using Android devices for over a decade, I’m quite familiar with the scene, so depending on your past experience, this might not pose a challenge. Some budget-friendly Android handhelds from ANBERNIC and others may include a few emulators and ROMs pre-loaded, but that’s more the exception than the rule.

After going through all this, you’re still left with a gadget that resembles a phone. For dedicated handhelds, I strongly suggest installing an emulation frontend like ES-DE, Daijisho, or Beacon Game Launcher. I utilize it to replace the default launcher, transforming my handhelds from standard Android phones into true retro consoles.

The other side is that these handhelds can effortlessly run the latest Android games. I exclusively engage with controller-compatible titles for obvious reasons, but that list continues to expand each month. It’s an outstanding way to inject some modern flair into my retro gaming configuration.

Linux vs Android handhelds: Which should you select?

If this is your very first gaming handheld, I suggest starting with a Linux-based device. They are more affordable, simpler to set up, and come in a wide array of shapes to match the games you wish to play.

For experienced users with a larger budget, Android devices rank among the most powerful and aesthetically pleasing options available. They will require a bit of time to configure but can handle far more games.

Whichever option you choose, just remember that this hobby can quickly escalate. Be prepared to find yourself owning three or four different devices within six months. That happened to me, and honestly, I have no regrets.