Exploring the Growing Market of Handheld Gaming PCs
In the world of technology, it’s rare to see a major event in the industry that doesn’t introduce new handheld devices. While the much-anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 is still in the works, the market for PC gaming handhelds is experiencing a significant boom.
One of the latest players to join this trend is Acer, unveiling its budget-friendly Nitro gaming brand with the Nitro Blaze 8 and Nitro Blaze 11 models at CES 2025. Although Acer is entering the handheld PC arena a little late, with the Valve Steam Deck leading the way back in 2022 and other brands like Lenovo already on their second generation, Acer’s entry is still generating interest.
I’ve been waiting for Acer to step into the world of handheld PCs, as I’ve always been impressed with their hardware. The Swift laptop line and the Predator and Nitro gaming brands have consistently offered strong performance at affordable prices. However, after seeing what Acer has to offer at CES, I’m not entirely convinced…
Introducing the Monster Handheld from Acer
Acer had previously teased the Nitro Blaze 8, but the Nitro Blaze 11 was a surprise reveal at CES. The Blaze 8, despite its misleading name with an 8.8-inch display, follows the standard gaming handheld formula with specifications similar to competitors like the Lenovo Legion Go and Asus ROG Ally X.
On the other hand, the Nitro Blaze 11 boasts a massive 10.95-inch 1600p display, but it comes with a hefty price tag of $1,099. This places it above the typical $500 price point seen in the market for handheld gaming devices.
An 11-inch screen on a handheld device may be pushing the limits of practicality. From the promotional images, it appears bulky and may require some adjustment for users accustomed to smaller, lighter devices like the Steam Deck or Switch Lite. Additionally, despite its large screen size, the Nitro Blaze 11 only features a 55Whr battery, unlike the 80Whr battery found in the ROG Ally X.
When Does Size Become a Problem?
An 11-inch handheld device is quite large, almost comparable to the size of the laptop I’m using to write this article (a 13-inch HP Spectre x360). However, I can easily use my laptop without needing to physically hold it by the sides like a handheld device.
Acer’s design choice to provide detachable controllers for the Blaze 11, similar to the Nintendo Switch and Lenovo Legion Go, may appeal to gamers seeking a versatile gaming experience. The device also includes a kickstand for a more portable gaming display setup. While I have been skeptical of this feature in the past, it may make more sense with a larger screen like the one on the Blaze 11. Additionally, Acer offers a connector to combine the detachable controllers into a single gamepad for improved gameplay.
However, with its hefty price and large screen size, the practicality of the Nitro Blaze 11 compared to a traditional gaming laptop is questionable. A full assessment will need to wait until a hands-on review, but for now, Acer’s latest offering raises eyebrows for its unique design in the handheld gaming market.