Portable Gaming PC Sales Set for 32% Jump in 2025

Sales of portable gaming PCs continue to climb year after year, and by 2025, they’re expected to carve out a significant share of the handheld market. According to Omdia analysts, around 2.3 million devices will be sold globally in 2025 — a 32% jump from last year’s 1.7 million units. Analysts project strong demand will persist through 2029, with annual sales hitting roughly 5 million devices by then.

Despite rising popularity, manufacturers face hurdles. As McWhirter, Senior Games Analyst at Omdia, notes: "Windows 11 still struggles with controls on portable PCs’ compact screens." However, Microsoft is actively refining the platform for handheld standards. Meanwhile, newer models haven’t delivered major power boosts over the market-leading Steam Deck — though upcoming next-gen processors could shake things up in the next few years.

The handheld boom could get another lift from Xbox’s planned portable console debut late in 2025, potentially drawing audiences beyond traditional PC enthusiasts. Microsoft’s partnership with AMD to develop custom APUs (hybrid processors) for handhelds may also deliver "that very performance leap" the segment currently lacks.

Analysts stress portable gaming PCs aren’t replacements for desktops or laptops but complements to them. The market will see more players this year too: The Nintendo Switch 2 launch is expected to push combined Switch/Switch 2 sales past 20 million units. Still, Omdia experts doubt the sequel will match the original Switch’s phenomenal success. Its core strength — quality mobile gaming — is now mainstream, letting rivals lure away parts of Nintendo’s audience.

The portable gaming market is entering a transformative phase where software refinement and new brands could reshape the balance of power. Hopes are particularly high for Microsoft’s revamped Windows and the ASUS-developed Xbox handheld.