Why Portable Handheld Consoles Are Winning Over Traditional Gaming Setups

Back in the day, gaming in Nigeria was simple: plug in a wired pad, gather your friends around a TV, and hope NEPA wouldn’t take the light mid-match. The “setups” were heavy, required a stable power supply, and often needed extra gadgets just to play.

But today, things have shifted. Portable handheld consoles like the Steam Deck OLED, ASUS ROG Ally, and Nintendo Switch OLED are taking over. They’re lighter, more affordable, and powerful enough to play the kind of games you’d normally expect only on a PlayStation or Xbox. For Nigerian gamers facing NEPA issues, small apartments, or long commutes, handhelds are becoming increasingly sensible alternatives to full setups.

So why exactly are portable handheld consoles winning the battle against traditional gaming setups? Let’s break it down.

Portability – gaming anytime, anywhere

Gaming Without NEPA Stress: We all know the pain of a blackout in the middle of a FIFA final. Traditional consoles can’t run without power, but handhelds come with rechargeable batteries that last for hours. Whether you’re waiting at the airport, stuck in traffic, or just dealing with NEPA, handheld consoles ensure the game continues.

Perfect for Nigerians on the Move: From campus hostels to Lagos traffic, handhelds fit our lifestyle. You don’t need a TV or even a big space. All you need is the device, and you’re good to go. Imagine running through Elden Ring while on a road trip; that’s freedom no big console can give.

Affordability – smarter entry into gaming

Lower Starting Costs: Buying a PS5 or Xbox Series X is one thing, but you also need a TV, sound system, and sometimes even an inverter to keep the fun going. That setup can easily cost over a million naira. By contrast, handhelds like the Switch OLED or Steam Deck work straight out of the box.

Better Value for Casual Gamers: Not everyone cares about 4K graphics or cinematic effects. For gamers who just want smooth gameplay without breaking the bank, handhelds give you plenty of fun for half the price.

Performance is catching up fast

Not just “Toy Gaming” anymore: A few years ago, handhelds were mostly for simple games like Mario or Candy Crush. But now? Devices like the ROG Ally run high-end AAA games — the same ones you’d play on a big console. That means you’re not missing out on major titles, even on a portable device.

Console-Level features in a smaller package: Handhelds now pack in fast refresh rate screens, powerful GPUs, and support for cloud gaming. Some even let you connect to TVs when you want the “console feel.” It’s the best of both worlds.

Handhelds vs Traditional Consoles – Which wins?

What works best for Nigerians?

If you consider mobility, cost, and NEPA-proof gaming → handhelds are your best bet.
If you want cinematic graphics, large-screen experiences, and mostly play at home → traditional consoles still rule.

Gaming on the Go in Nigeria – Why it just works

Think about it: many Nigerians don’t have the luxury of steady light or even space for a full gaming room. Portable handheld consoles solve that problem. They’re small, rechargeable, and still deliver the games you love.

From long trips to hostel life, handhelds remove the barriers that made gaming stressful here. Instead of planning “when NEPA comes,” you just pick up your console and play.

Explore our handheld gaming section here

Must-Have Accessories for Handheld Gaming

To get the best out of your portable console, you’ll need a few extras:

• Screen protectors (to avoid scratches in your bag)
  

• Carrying cases (especially if you travel a lot)
  

• Extra controllers (for multiplayer fun)
  

• Power banks (for longer gaming sessions)
  You can grab these and more from Tekkas Store’s accessories section.

Read here: Level Up: Must-Have Gadgets for Nigerian Gamers

FAQs

Q: Are handheld consoles better than traditional gaming setups?
Not in every way. But they win in terms of cost, portability, and flexibility — especially in Nigeria.

Q: What is the best portable handheld console in 2025?
Top picks are the Steam Deck OLED, ASUS ROG Ally, and Nintendo Switch OLED.

Q: Can handheld consoles replace a PS5 or Xbox?
Not completely. Big consoles still deliver unmatched graphics and multiplayer couch experiences. But for gaming on the go, handhelds are unbeatable.

Q: Do handheld consoles work without internet?
Yes. You can enjoy offline titles, but many also support online play if you want to connect.

Q: Where can I buy handheld consoles in Nigeria?
At Tekkas Store, you’ll find authentic handheld consoles and accessories at the best prices.

The Future of Gaming Is in Your Hands

Portable handheld consoles are no longer side gadgets — they’re becoming the main way people play. In Nigeria, where electricity and space are big challenges, handhelds just make sense. They’re affordable, powerful, and travel-friendly.

Whether you want to dive into an open-world adventure, score goals in FIFA, or pass the time during a long bus ride, handheld consoles are proving that the future of gaming isn’t stuck in the living room — it’s in your hands.