Logitech G Cloud Handheld Portable Gaming Console Review
The future of gaming is here, and it’s untethered. Today, we’re reviewing the Logitech G Cloud Handheld Portable Gaming Console, a device promising AAA gaming experiences without the need for expensive hardware or game downloads. Does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive in.
Detailed Review
The Logitech G Cloud Handheld Portable Gaming Console enters a burgeoning market of cloud gaming devices, promising a seamless transition to the world of streaming games. Right out of the box, the device feels surprisingly lightweight at just 463g, making it comfortable for extended gaming sessions. The 7-inch 1080p touchscreen is vibrant and responsive, offering a clear and crisp visual experience that holds up well even in fast-paced games.
Setting up the G Cloud is straightforward. It runs on Android, giving you access to the Google Play Store. This means you can download not just cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW (which are prominently featured), but also streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and even native Android games. The integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce NOW is particularly well-executed, allowing you to jump into your favorite AAA titles with minimal fuss, assuming you have the necessary subscriptions.
Performance is where the G Cloud truly shines – when the Wi-Fi cooperates. The console boasts support for Wi-Fi speeds of up to 800+Mbps over a 5GHz connection, and the optimized Wi-Fi radio does seem to minimize signal interference. However, the Achilles’ heel of any cloud gaming device is, predictably, internet connectivity. A stable, high-bandwidth connection is absolutely crucial to avoid lag, stuttering, and other performance hiccups. When the connection is strong, the G Cloud delivers a surprisingly smooth and responsive gaming experience, especially with titles optimized for cloud streaming. The haptics and gyroscope enhance immersion, and the remappable controls add a layer of customization appreciated by serious gamers.
The 12+ hour battery life, under normal streaming conditions (50% brightness and volume), is impressive and allows for extended play without constantly worrying about finding an outlet. Remote play via the Xbox app and Steam Link app is another welcome feature, allowing you to access your own locally installed games when cloud gaming isn’t an option.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and comfortable design | Relies heavily on a stable, high-speed internet connection |
| Excellent 7-inch 1080p touchscreen | Requires subscriptions to cloud gaming services (Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW) |
| Long battery life (12+ hours) | Performance is directly tied to the quality of your Wi-Fi |
| Integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming, GeForce NOW, and Google Play Store | Price point may be a barrier for some |
| Haptics, gyroscope, and remappable controls | |
| Remote play capabilities with Xbox and Steam Link |
Excellent Alternatives
If the Logitech G Cloud isn’t quite what you’re looking for, consider these alternatives:
Razer Edge: The Razer Edge boasts a Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 processor and a higher refresh rate screen, making it a powerful alternative.
AYANEO Air Pro: For those wanting to play locally installed games on a handheld PC, the AYANEO Air Pro offers impressive performance in a compact form factor.
Steam Deck: The Steam Deck allows access to your Steam library, making it a great choice for PC gamers who prefer a handheld experience.
Final Verdict
The Logitech G Cloud Handheld Portable Gaming Console offers a compelling entry point into the world of cloud gaming. Its lightweight design, excellent screen, and long battery life make it a pleasure to use, while its integration with popular cloud gaming services provides access to a vast library of games. However, its reliance on a stable internet connection is a significant limitation. If you have reliable high-speed internet and are interested in exploring cloud gaming, the G Cloud is a worthy contender.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5
