this post was submitted on 03 Aug 2023
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Handheld86

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A community for enthusiasts, hobbyists, and anyone interested in x86 gaming PCs in a handheld, portable form factor. Handheld86 (Hh86) brings together people who share a common interest in handheld gaming devices, with the power of x86 architecture. Whether you're a tech-savvy gamer or a curious newbie, all are welcome to join the discussions, share experiences, and learn more about this fascinating niche in the gaming world.

Rules

1. Promote Respect and Positivity.

Handheld86 thrives on a friendly and respectful environment. Encourage others and foster a positive atmosphere. No forms of harassment, name-calling, or personal attacks are tolerated.


2. Stay On-Topic: Handheld x86 Gaming PCs.

All posts and discussions should remain related to handheld x86 gaming PCs. Moderators have the right to remove content that is not directly or significantly related to the community's focus.


3. Refrain from Spam and Excessive Self-Promotion.

While we value and encourage the sharing of your personal experiences, modifications, and creations related to handheld x86 gaming PCs, please refrain from spamming and excessive self-promotion. Maintain a balance and ensure your contributions promote healthy discussions.


Definition of x86 Handheld Gaming PCs

In order for a device to be relevant in this forum, it must meet the following requirements:

  1. It must use the x86 computer architecture. This means no ARM-based PCs.
  2. It must be designed to be held and operated in your hands. This excludes traditional laptops and desktop PCs.
  3. It must be designed with handheld gaming ergonomics in mind. This usually takes the form of gamepad-style controllers integrated into the device.

List of x86 Handheld Gaming PC Brands

Steam


Asus


GPD


AYANEO


AYN


AOKZOE


Anbernic


Related Communities

::: spoiler Steam Deck

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[โ€“] Dax87@forum.stellarcastle.net 4 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

I've mentioned this before, but I would find it difficult to resist a gameboy-style x86 handheld with all the x-input/modern gamepad controls and a 16:9/16:10 aspect ratio.

I wouldn't mind if the device was just a little bit taller/thicker to accommodate better thermals/battery, and even sacrifice some horsepower in order to reach longer playtime and better thermals.

These exist in the arm platform, something like this:

Though it's more feasible with arm due to its smaller instruction set and overall power requirements.

I've toyed with the idea of using a raspberry pi form factor x86 SBC like a Rock Pi X and a shell like PiBoy DMG kit, but never went through with it because of all the issues I'd have to overcome or come to a compromise with; pricing, aspect ratio, potential customizations due to small differences between rpi and rock Pi, availability of parts, etc.

I just think I'd love that form factor as long as it can get me 3-4 hrs battery life on older/indie games.

Even though the rock Pi X is an Intel z8350, I've run vanilla wow on such a chipset and had a very playable experience. So my vision would be sitting down on a Gameboy-like device playing vanilla wow using the consoleport addon ๐Ÿคค. Or playing some older COD games, java Minecraft, stuff like that.

[โ€“] bjoern_tantau@swg-empire.de 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

It would be a smartphone, 5 or 6 inches. Maybe a bit thicker than normal smartphones. It would feature a keyboard, similar to an N900 but you would additionally be able to slide out analog sticks and buttons to the sides.

[โ€“] Dax87@forum.stellarcastle.net 1 points 1 year ago (1 children)

I'm reminded of the older zenfones that had x86 processors. None that I know of that had a keyboard. There was also the Xperia Play phone with slideout joysticks but no keyboard.

Would you run an x86 version of Android or some Linux derivative like Ubuntu touch?

[โ€“] bjoern_tantau@swg-empire.de 1 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Would you run an x86 version of Android or some Linux derivative like Ubuntu touch?

Neither. I would run a desktop Linux. Maybe with Plasma Mobile.

[โ€“] Dax87@forum.stellarcastle.net 1 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Nice! Still have phonecall capability as well too right?

Of course, one device to rule them all!

[โ€“] oldGregg@lemm.ee 2 points 1 year ago

A vr capable fannypack that can dock to a tv for non-vr mode

[โ€“] cutecycle@lemmy.world 2 points 1 year ago (1 children)

a thin DS style clamshell with an 8 inch screen, dual track pads and extra face buttons instead of back buttons

[โ€“] Dax87@forum.stellarcastle.net 1 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Have you seen the GPD Win 1, 2, and Mini? The 1 and 2 are older and no longer in production, but are decently thin clamshells, with a single screen instead of dual, and a thumb-type-capable keyboard. The GPD win mini is thicker but with more up-to-date specs, supposedly better than the steam deck. I don't think it's available yet though.

[โ€“] cutecycle@lemmy.world 2 points 1 year ago

I've thought about them, though I think id want more space for the buttons... like a 3ds without a bottom screen