Vacations are looming and time off is all anyone can think about, so the only thing left to do is clear some space in your suitcase for the best travel board games. No matter whether you're taking a break with family, friends, or your partner, these portable favorites will brighten up the trip. Personally speaking, my family and I adore trying to outdo each others' high scores over the course of a holiday.

Where should you start, though? I've been writing about and reviewing the best board games on GamesRadar+ for almost eight years now, and that means I've got plenty of recommendations. These are the best travel board games our experts and I make a beeline for when we head on vacation, so they'll hopefully add a little sunshine to your trip as well. Bananagrams always finds its way into my suitcase because of how replayable it is, for example, while Hive is an excellent choice if you want to play something compact on plane or train tray tables.

These choices span a range of interests and costs, so there should be something to suit you regardless of your budget!

Quick list

Best travel board game overall

Countless fans (and our own writers, no less) swear by Scout, and honestly? I can't argue with them. It walked away with the industry's most prestigious game of the year award in 2022, and it continues to be highly recommended by the community now.

For starters, it travels exceptionally well due to coming in a small box while only using a few cards and tokens. That means you've got a lot of entertainment crammed into one small space.

Secondly, it's dead easy to learn but has a hidden depth that should keep you coming back. Your aim is to create sets of the same number or sequences of a higher value than the last one laid down, but you can't change the order of the cards in your hand. That means you've got to be clever in the way you gather and play new cards, giving plenty to think about. As our Scout review notes, "its emphasis on speed and uncertainty makes for an addictive 'just one more match' feeling that's hard to beat."

Best travel board game for families

Looking for a game everyone can enjoy, regardless of whether they like board games or not? Try Bananagrams. It's a high-speed crossword that anyone can understand, and it also travels brilliantly. For one thing, it's all stored in a single soft case that's easy to find room for. Next, it can be played anywhere with a flat surface.

The idea here is to use up all the letter tiles in front of you to create your own crossword, with words that all connect to one another. Each time you use up the supply, you shout "peel" and everyone must grab a new tile. Play then continues until every single tile is gone. It can become incredibly speedy once everyone gets the hang of things, and what may have sounded like a dry word game becomes a frantic race to the finish.

Enjoy competitive challenges? This will very much be your jam. It's a test of speed, skill, and flexibility, because rearranging your crossword when progression becomes impossible is key. While that can be overwhelming if you fall behind, there's no better feeling than outsmarting your rivals - particularly if you've gone from the back of the pack to pole position. You'll be dining out on that high for a while if you win.

Best travel board game for friends

There's nothing better than a hidden role game, if you ask me - and this one streamlines the mechanics of my favorites, including Unfathomable (which I said was brilliant but took too long to play in my Unfathomable review).

The aim is to take the gameplay excellence of those fan-favorites and condense them down into a 20-minute experience that's easy to understand and even easier to play. One side are pirates, while a small number take on the role of mutineers (the number of which varies depending on how many players there are). The pirates are trying to build up the value of their treasure chest and meet a specific goal, like 11 points in total. Meanwhile, the mutineers are trying to reduce that chest's value. To do this, everyone places a card from their hand into the chest each turn - and these cards have a value of +1, 0, or -2. If you're a pirate, you'll want to add as many +1s or 0s as possible. If you're a mutineer, it's all about those 0s or -2s. Once a pirate thinks the required goal has been met, the game ends and you check the chest... but you won't know if you've succeeded until you flip the cards over.

Things get interesting because you're encouraged to play fast and loose with the truth as a mutineer. You're meant to discuss what you've put into the chest each round, and mutineers can obviously lie. "Oh," they say after slapping down a -2 in secret, "me? I put in a +1. Definitely, yes sir." A pirate's only defence is to give anyone they're suspicious of three 'walk the plank' cards and banish them from the game, though they can also use ability cards to turn the tide.

Best travel board game for 2 players

It's impossible to discuss the best 2-player board games without Hive being mentioned. This is an utterly stone-cold classic that's been going strong since 2001, and there's a good reason for that. Despite being very accessible and portable enough to be used anywhere (be it a plane tray or a beer garden table), there's enough strategy powering it to keep you coming back.

Basically, Hive is like an easier-to-understand version of chess. Your aim is to surround and trap your opponent's queen, but all your tiles have to be connected to something else - you can't have bugs out on their own. Because they all move in different ways, you have to cleverly outmanoeuvre your foe whilst keeping you queen safe, all as they try to do the exact same thing. It's a shame only two people can play at once, but hey; it's good enough to make up for that shortcoming.

Enjoy competitive games or head-to-head challenges? Make sure this is in your collection.

Best strategy travel board game

If you want a travel board game that'll make you think but isn't going to stretch your gray matter too far out of shape, Catan: On the Road is a great choice. Actually, I started recommending this travel game to everyone after playing it once. That's the highest praise I can give.

This on-the-go spin-off condenses everything brilliant about the original (which our Catan review calls a must-have) into a streamlined version that takes between 15-30 minutes to play. Your aim? Build up seven Victory Points by settling the island of Catan. How players do that is up to them, though - you can increase your score through building cities, constructing the longest road, or gathering the largest army. Each path offers advantages that may tip the scales in your favor, so choose wisely. Cities allow you to draw extra resources every turn, for example, while knights protect you from Robber cards that may steal your goods.

When you throw in wrinkles like trade (which provides a short-term boost but may nudge your opponent one step closer to their goal), Catan: On the Road provides more nuance than you might expect. It's not perfect by any means, and those with an early advantage may run away with the game. However, it's just as easy to catch up if you've played your cards right... and there's something deeply satisfying about leap-frogging your foe into first place.

Best travel board game for kids

Even though it isn't just for kids (everyone can have a great time with this vacation board game), Sushi Go is particularly good when travelling with younger family members. On top of an inviting cartoon style, it's very easy to get the hang of and only lasts 15 minutes or so per session. It also comes in a hard-wearing metal tin, so can be taken pretty much anywhere.

Your aim is to create the most delicious sushi menu around, and you do that by choosing cards from a deck that's being passed between players. Each card scores differently, so you've got to choose wisely; they either provide points straight away or can be combined for a more powerful combo if you collect enough of an item. That gives plenty of options, but it also risks you winding up with nothing if you (literally) don't play your cards right. When multipliers, sets, and 'puddings' that only count at the end of the game are added to the mix, this straightforward game shows that it's got more than enough to chew on.

Honestly, Sushi Go is one of my ride-or-dies in terms of travel games; it goes with me everywhere.

For more recommendations, don't miss the best tabletop RPGs.

I enjoy janky old gamepads as much as the next console collector, but the best retro controllers of today are a solid alternative. Rather than feeling like one of those "little brother" third-party pads from back in the day, there are some new, bespoke pad options out there that offer tactile buttons, excellent d-pads, reliable wireless connectivity, and a level of comfort that will help even the oldest classics feel contemporary.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a staunch believer that many of the best retro controllers are the originals that came with your retro console. It makes sense given that those trusty old wired pads were designed specifically with their respective platforms and games in mind, and there's a reason why icons like the DualShock and OG Xbox controller serve as blueprints for the pads we use today.

At the same time, some retro controllers, like the infamously quirky N64 controller and its spaceship shell, are an acquired taste. I also spent a lot of time refurbishing old pads, as even the greatest options of all time that came with the NES, SNES, and PS1 don't feel too hot today, thanks to aging parts. Therefore, there's a case to be made for picking up a box-fresh retro controller for your favorite console and embracing boons like wireless, hall-effect sensors that eliminate stick drift, and shells that offer up superior comfort.

Best retro controller overall

Gulikit has pulled off something remarkable with its Elves 2 Pro. Rather than crafting a retro controller that feels like an alternative to a specific gamepad, it's made something ready to stand in for everything, and that's spectacular given the generational differences between something like the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive controller and the DualShock 2.

Naturally, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro has "Jack of all trades" vibes, but the "master of none" part of that saying isn't quite right. Yes, I do have options I'd recommend for specific systems, but this Bluetooth gamepad still manages to feel great with multiple generations of systems without pledging loyalty to just one console. That's largely thanks to the fact that it feels like a Genesis controller in the hands, with an authentic D-pad to boot while also wielding full-sized dual hall-effect thumbsticks for all your 3D gaming needs.

Visually, the Elves 2 Pro looks like a Sega Saturn pad, and the white version in particular nails its aesthetic objectives. Yet, by switching things up to a conventional four-button layout and including those aforementioned symmetrical sticks at the bottom, it manages to possess all the makings of a Dualshock alternative. It even has the same bumpers on top, so you won't be stuck for inputs.

The other main reason the Elves 2 Pro is my "best overall" pick actually doubles as a caveat, as it's linked to its Bluetooth abilities. To actually pair with a pad with all your old systems, you'll have to pick up additional dongles, as it's primarily designed to hook up to your Switch 2, PC, or phone. Having used this gamepad extensively with 8Bitdo Retro Receivers and Blueretro's adapters, though, I can confirm that it's able to become a one-size-fits-all option, and I wasn't able to sniff out any meaningful lag compared to 2.4GHz pads.

My pitch for using the Gulitkit Elves 2 Pro as a retro controller revolves around the idea of a retro receiver ecosystem. Yes, picking up all those extra adapters will cost you, but at the same time, it'll save you from investing in multiple separate gamepads for each console. That's exactly why I've awarded it my "best overall" label, as it's the one model that can appease the specific input needs of each platform.

Read more: Gulikit Elves 2 Pro review

Best for Sega Mega Drive/Genesis

8Bitdo knows a thing or two about making authentic, yet modernized retro controllers, and the M30 2.4GHz is a testament to that. Rather than trying to identically mimic the exact look and feel of Sega's OG Genesis/Mega Drive controller, this pad instead takes cues from the fan favorite Japanese Fighting Pad 6B while adding better ergonomics and solid 2.4GHz connectivity to make a triumphant alternative.

I can't count the number of hours I've spent spinning my way to the Death Egg in Sonic the Hedgehog 2. It's for that reason that swapping out my trusty original 6-button Sega pad on the Mega Drive (or Genesis, as you US players call it) for the 8Bitdo M30 makes for a perfect test of its abilities. It's a Pepsi challenge I was convinced I wouldn't fail, and yet, I wasn't able to pick out any latency issues, or grips with its authentic disc d-pad.

In fact, I'd go as far as to say that, compared to an unrefurbished original pad, the 8Bitdo M30 feels superior when playing Sega's 16-bit back catalogue. The six-button layout means your thumbs won't feel lost, and that d-pad boasts the exact same movement and grippy texture as a real Mega Drive pad. The weight is just about right, too, at 114 grams, and while that sounds like it'll be floaty light, it still provides enough heft while also being free from the molded cable of OG controllers.

Exceptional build quality and authentic feel aside, the other biggie is the fact that it comes with a 2.4GHz adapter. The inclusion of a wireless dongle gives it a natural advantage over my overall pick, the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro, despite both featuring a very similar d-pad and feel for Sega Games. Plus, if you are looking for extra frame accuracy, 2.4Ghz does introduce less latency compared to using 8Bitdo's Bluetooth Retro Receiver, even if the difference is arguably minimal.

The one thing that gets on my nerves with the M30 is the existence of different models. While some brands, like Retro-Bit, will happily give you both an original 2.4GHz dongle and USB adapter in the box, 8Bitdo sells two different versions alongside a separate Bluetooth pad. Simply put, if you want to use the M30 with a real Genesis, the Sega mini version, your modern console, and a PC wirelessly, you'll need to buy thrice, and that slightly sours what is otherwise a near-perfect controller for the 16-bit system and its games.

Read more: 8Bitdo M30 2.4Ghz review

Best controller for Sega Saturn

I'll confess that the Retro-Bit Sega Saturn Pro controller isn't the nicest gamepad I've tested. It's not quite as solid-feeling as the others I've tried, and I find its inclusion of Joy-Con-style thumbsticks questionable. Plus, it annoyed me straight out of the box since it's wearing the wrong logo on the front, and yet, it's still the best option for Sega's first 3D console thanks to its included 2.4GHz dongle and mode switching abilities.

For whatever reason, Retro-Bit decided to draw influence from two separate controller versions when making the officially licensed Sega Saturn Pro controller. It's using the same striking white shell and multi-colored buttons as the original Japanese 6-button pad, but borrows its shape from the larger model 1 pad included with the black system. It also has the full logo of that latter version rather than just the "Sega" logo that actually matches the color scheme, and that irritates the purist in me.

The decision to opt for the larger shell is undoubtedly linked to the inclusion of two smaller Hall-effect joysticks. These help it double as a fully functional modern pad for PC and Switch, but they pale in comparison to the full sticks of the Gulikit Elves 2 Pro (which happens to have a very similar Saturn vibe).

There is a solid reason to include analogue inputs, though, and that's because it allows the pad to function like an original OG Saturn 3D Control Pad. That's invaluable if you're looking for a way to play outings like Nights Into Dreams alongside the system's legacy of 2D fighting games, as it can easily switch between digital and analogue.

Yes, I know it sounds like I'm not really recommending the Sega Saturn Pro controller, but I actually am. It's just that the situation surrounding the pad is a little bit nuanced, as there are not many other options out there. It also still provides a serviceable 6-button setup and a nice d-pad, and that's enough to give it a seat at the table (for now).

Read more: Sega Saturn Pro controller review

Best controller for N64

For years, I've listened to players grumble about the Nintendo 64's cursed trident-shaped gamepad. 8Bitdo was clearly paying attention to those cries, as its N64 controller takes Ninty's unconventional prominent A and B buttons and places them on a conventionally shaped shell. The result? A pad that feels remarkably suited to the '90s console's design sensibilities while offering up contemporary comfort.

I really wasn't sure if I'd get on with the 8Bitdo N64 controller prior to getting my hands on one. I figured it mainly existed to make the Analogue 3D feel like a modernized version of Ninty's first 3D system, and while it does that, it also helps an original N64 feel decades newer. The important thing here, though, is it avoids disrupting the exact layout of a real N64 gamepad, and that's important to the exact early 3D camera systems used by the console's classics.

The more I think about the 8Bitdo N64 Controller, the more I feel like it's design choices are a no-brainer. Why didn't anyone add a single joystick, those big old A and B buttons accompanied by the C-pad, and that big silly start button sooner? Don't get me wrong, I still love using the original spacecraft monstrosity, and I even modded mine with a hall-effect joystick to help it compete. Yet, I do find myself reaching for the modern version more these days, as my hands appreciate the solid build quality and comfort when playing straight runs of favorites like Zelda: Majora's Mask.

The stellar build quality of this N64 gamepad, its beautifully accurate button layout, and ergonomic curves are all reason enough to grab this pad for your system. However, just like with the M30, 8Bitdo has somewhat fragmented connectivity across different models, meaning if you grab the Bluetooth version for wider Switch and PC compatibility, you'll need an adapter for the '90s system. Thankfully, dongles by the likes of BlueRetro work a treat, and 8Bitdo now has its own Retro Receiver if you're staying brand loyal.

I picked up 8Bitdo N64 controller prior to the 2.4Ghz version's existence, so if I were picking up one today, I'd grab that specifically for the console over the Bluetooth version. That said, I can recommend any version regardless, and both will still provide built-in rumble and integrated memory card support that'll save you thinking about additional accessories. My only, slightly biased instruction is that you should specifically grab the gray version since it matches the OG system perfectly.

Read more: 8Bitdo N64 controller review

Best controller for Sega Dreamcast

Making the Sega Dreamcast gamepad wireless is no mean feat, but the Retro Fighters StrkerDC provides a nifty solution. Rather than trying to somehow keep the VMU slot, the accessory maker has shifted it to the 2.4GHz receiver, meaning it doubles up as a viewable dock. The pad itself pairs wonderfully with the system too, although there's a better version if you're specifically into fighting games.

In terms of design language, the StrikerDC takes a similar approach to 8Bitdo's N64 controller. By that, I mean it keeps the single stick and exact button layout of Sega's pad, but morphs the overall shape into something more contemporary. There's something amusing about morphing the shell into something more like a modern-day Xbox pad since it's the Dreamcast controller that influenced that blueprint in the first place, but it does come together as a more comfortable package that makes sense.

In 3D games, the StrikerDC works a treat. While the triggers feel slightly hollow for my liking, and the bumpers have some actuation quirks if you press too far inwards, I could happily sit and revisit the greats like Sonic Adventure and Crazy Taxi using the pad. Despite my earlier comments, it's also serviceable in fighting games, but Retro Fighters has released a far more appropriate D6 controller with a disc-shaped d-pad, which may be preferable to the stiffer, harder to roll out moves in Street Fighter 2 with cross version on this model.

As for the dockable VMU, I really dig the idea, but I know it won't be ideal for every setup. My retro battlestation lives on a desk, meaning I can sit within view of the receiver to admire the unique memory card's 2-bit animations and occasional game functionality (namely the health indicator in Resident Evil: Code Veronica). If you sit at a normal distance from a larger screen, though, you're going to lose the functionality somewhat, even if it does still serve as a way to save your game.

There aren't really any third-party wireless Dreamcast controllers on the battlefield to challenge the StrikerDC. That said, I'm not awarding it the crown purely due to the lack of competition, as this is an excellent, comfortable pad for Sega's last system that reliably cuts the cord. Just keep in mind that its D6 sibling will feel superior in fighting games, and the system certainly boasts a lot of them.

Read more: Retro Fighters StrikerDC review

Best controller for PlayStation

There's no shortage of third-party PlayStation controllers out there, but the Retro Fighters Defender stands out thanks to its extremely wide compatibility. You'll be hard-pressed to find a pad that works wirelessly with the PS1, PS2, and PS3 out of the box, and while it does visually look more like a third-party PlayStation 3 pad from 2010, it's still the strongest option for your Sony setup.

The Defender (aptly named as a reference to PlayStation defending its position? Maybe? I'll make sense when we talk about the next entry), isn't too dissimilar to the StrikerDC. It's roughly using the same modern-day Xbox-inspired shell and the same bumpers and triggers. However, it feels like Retro Fighters has refined some elements with this model, with the latter triggers feeling less hollow than before and the actuation issues being eradicated from the R1 and L1 buttons.

Switching things up with Sony symmetrical stick placements sensibilities makes a difference to the overall feel, too. I'm pretty sure the Defender is using an identical d-pad to the StrikerDC, but placing it up top somehow helps it feel a little easier to rock, in turn enhancing its abilities in fighting games. I'd still prefer a disc, but it is nice to see incremental improvements with the PlayStation entry to this controller range.

This pad feels pretty great across all three PlayStation generations, and the vast number of games and genres tied to each console. I'd be surprised if you find an alternative as comprehensive as the Defender, and big kudos to Retro Fighters for including both a controller port dongle and USB adapter. The only thing really cramping this pad's style is the fact that it doesn't look that much like a classic DualShock, and Sony's stubborn licensed "sacred symbols" rules doesn't help.

That's not to say the Defender is fugly. The grey version specifically matches nicely with the original fat PlayStation, and there are a few colorways to choose from, including a transparent blue model that feels very '90s. Had this pad managed to look a bit more authentic, however, and managed to squeeze Six-Axis support for the PS3 side of things, we'd be looking at a perfect PlayStation pad, but near-perfection will have to do (at least until the Defender Pro lands this year).

Best controller for OG Xbox

You could say Retro Fighters is playing both sides of the old console war, as the Hunter does for the OG Xbox what the Defender does for its PS2 rival. Yet, it turns out that if you try to make a modern version of the S pad for Microsoft's first console, you simply end up with a modern-day wireless Series X/S controller with extra black and white buttons. Go Figure.

I promise I'm not being snarky when I draw comparisons between the Hunter and modern Xbox controllers. If anything, it's a compliment, as the objective here was to create a wireless gamepad for the OG Xbox that infuses old school touches with contemporary elements. In doing so, Retro Fighters has also made a controller that feels nicer than the rest of the range, even if it doesn't really feel like either the original 'S' model or the monstrously large Duke.

There's certainly room for debate over whether the Hunter should have embraced classic design elements rather than focus on contemporary comfort. In this instance, I reckon the latter makes more sense, as it's nice playing the first two Halo games with new-age triggers. Plus, I'm a big believer that you should still own original pads to retain the historic design languages of old hardware, even if you do want to primarily play using a newfangled, wireless remake.

I stand by my comments that this is the nicest feeling Retro Fighters controller in the range. That said, borrowing so many cues from the modern Xbox pad exposes it to some comparative criticism. It uses my favorite d-pad of the bunch, as the floating circular design works far better for fighting games, but it lacks the faux microswitch clickiness of the official pad, resulting in a slightly less satisfying sensation during use. The triggers on my Series S pad also feature pleasant dampening, whereas the Hunter makes do with a plastic-on-plastic clunk.

These are small gripes that don't really distract from the Hunter's status as the best OG Xbox controller. If anything, it's some smaller misses, like the lack of memory card support, that will upset purists looking for authentic functionality more. Even ditching the on-board slots doesn't keep this pad from greatness, though, and it has become a permanent staple of my big old Xbox ensemble.

Best controller for GameCube

I feel slightly silly dubbing an official Nintendo GameCube controller as the best GameCube controller. Yes, well done, Flip, water is wet. However, having tried plenty of third-party wireless alternatives and always craved the feel of the real deal, the Switch 2 remake lives up to my long-standing expectations, even if it does owe an open-source dongle for its place at the table.

Nintendo has been pretty nasty regarding firmware compatibility with the Switch 2. That extends to the gaming handheld's accessories, as there's currently no easy way to get controllers that use the new Bluetooth protocol working on PC. At least, that was the case before the developer behind the Blueretro adapters whipped up a solution, and the breakthrough means you can now use the gamepad with the original console.

Not everyone digs the GameCube controller's obnoxiously large green A button and weird-shaped counterparts. I happen to love the pad, so I'm somewhat biased, so the Switch 2 version's main goal with me was convincing me that it's just like my battleworn accessory from the 2000s. And, thankfully, it really does feel like a box-fresh original, with only some subtle differences with plastic textures standing out.

In terms of functionality, pairing it with a Blueretro adapter will perfectly pair the controller with your aging GameCube. That includes facilitating support for rumble and even the pressure-sensitive triggers, which really come in handy when playing Super Mario Sunshine or F-Zero GX. Effectively, using this pad will feel like you've simply cut the cord and magically tethered the gamepad to your cube, and that's all I ever wanted from a modern alternative to the Wavebird.

I would love it if either 8Bitdo, Retro Fighters, or any other retro accessory maker came out swinging with a rival that feels just as authentic. Whether that'll happen down the road remains to be seen, but given that this is a modern revamp of a Nintendo controller by Nintendo, it's presence on this list shouldn't be too surprising.

Best Game Boy controller

The idea of there being a controller that's "best for Game Boy" sounds a little silly. Surely, if you want controls that are great for Ninty's first portable, you'd use the OG pgadget or pick up one of the best retro handhelds that emulates its feel, right? Well, maybe, but it turns out GameSir's Pocket Taco isn't just a doohickey that'll turn your phone into a Pokémon machine; it's also a solid standalone controller.

The latter is all thanks to the way the Pocket Taco harnesses connectivity. Rather than doing what most other mobile controllers do and plugging straight to your smartphone via USB-C, this gamepad uses Bluetooth. That means it'll add physical buttons to your doomscrolling square while still functioning as a wireless pad for a bunch of other systems, including your PC, Switch, and even a docked Analogue Pocket.

Okay, sure, you can use a bounty of other pads to play Game Boy games on all those devices, including many on this list. But GameSir's contraption aims to feel specifically like the original DMG handheld in terms of button feel and d-pad, all while providing enough inputs to handle GBA games, too. It's simply going to feel more like a set of original Ninty handheld buttons than many other controllers you'll try, and that's what elevates this controller to greatness.

The Pocket Taco's whole vibe also makes it extremely travel-friendly. It's shaped exactly how you'd expect, given its tasty-sounding name, with your phone acting as a filling between a plastic sandwich. When it's not gripping onto your phone screen, it hinges to a lower-profile wedge that, when inserted into its included hard case, will easily slip into your backpack unnoticed.

My only real nitpicks with the Pocket Taco are tied to its free app, as it could use some work in terms of integrating emulators to provide a visual Game Boy feel. That's a separate issue to the controller itself, and if you're looking for something sleek with early handheld vibes and pretty solid battery life, GameSir may have you covered.

Read more: GameSir Pocket Taco review

Controller adapters for retro consoles

Old consoles naturally missed out on Bluetooth. Since quite a few of my best retro controller picks rely on the new-fangled wireless connectivity to hook up to systems, it's only right that I also include some of my go-to adapters and "retro receievers".

At the moment, these dongles are largely made by two accessory makers: 8Bitdo and Blueretro. I'm continually testing newcomers, but at the moment, these are the exact adapters I use to pair gamepads like the Gullikit Elves 2 Pro to retro consoles.

FAQ

Looking to play on the go? Swing by the best gaming handhelds for portable PCs, emulation gadgets, and more.

Are you a parent trying to hunt down Nerf blasters for your kids? It's not an easy job; there are countless options to choose from, and all these toys seem to do the same thing. Where should you start?

I've been reviewing and writing about toys for many years now, so I know exactly where you should start regardless of whether you're buying Nerf blasters for siblings, younger kids, or older children. (I'm also a parent myself, so finding the best Nerf blasters is a subject I've given a lot of thought to.) That's why you'll find my top three recommendations below.

Are there other, flashier options available? Of course. But if you're a parent just looking for good Nerf guns their children will enjoy, this is what I'd suggest.

Naturally, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are countless Nerf blasters out there to choose from, each with a different use-case (I'm personally quite fond of the Nerf N-Series Pinpoint due to its sniper-like accuracy, for example). However, these are the ones I default to when recommending Nerf toys for parents; they're a great starting point.

• See all Nerf deals at Amazon

Want to make the most of the warmer weather? Don't miss the best water guns. As for more general suggestions, why not drop in on our guide to the best toys?

It's the end of an era as the current edition grinds to a halt, and it's being given a suitably grand sendoff with a host of Warhammer 40K Armageddon Battalions. But which of the four packs should you get? Which ones are the best value, and the most practical?

I was lucky enough to be sent these kits ahead of time alongside the other releases for the end of the current edition (Return of Yarrick serves as such a good sendoff and makes me excited for what comes next), so I have thoughts about these Warhammer 40K Armageddon Battalions. My personal pick would have to be the Orks, for example; with the Warhammer 40K 11th Edition box set providing an entirely new range of greenskin miniatures, it's a really easy addition that fits a very unique niche for any budding collectors.

Let's dive into it, shall we? Before we start, a quick note: even though you'll be able to buy these packs direct from Warhammer, it's worth checking out indie retailers too. They tend to get chunky 10-20% reductions on the going rate, so are your best bet if you want to get best value. I'd usually recommend trying Miniature Market in the US (they haven't had their listings through yet, so watch closely) or Wayland Games in the UK. Magic Madhouse UK is also worth a look, because they haven't yet put their Armageddon Battalions live yet.

And there we have it. If I could choose just one of these mighty box sets, it'd be the Orks. The others are cool and all, but the thought of adding a vehicle fleet to the Ork army I want to make in 11th Edition is all too tempting.

What are you going to choose? Shout about it in the comments below!

For more tabletop recommendations, why not drop in on the best board games and the best card games?

The best Hall effect keyboard on the market right now is the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE. It's the best on paper and performed the best from my testing, but its wireless connection, sturdy battery life, versatile display, and top-of-the-pack typing feel comes at a price. This is a premium luxury, but it's so, so much more expensive than my second favorite.

That's why the Hall effect keyboard I'd recommend to most people is the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96. This is still a relatively expensive model, but so are pretty much all magnetic decks, but it's the best gaming keyboard I've tested so far overall, and offers 90% of the Azoth's charm at a good chunk of change less.

Of course, Corsair and Asus haven't cornered the magnetic market. In fact, I've been hands on with all the latest and greatest Hall effect keyboards from major gaming brands like Razer, Logitech, SteelSeries, Glorious, and more. Of all these, I've narrowed the top roster down to six options and you'll find them all just below.

The quick list

The best Hall effect keyboard overall

The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE is the best Hall effect gaming keyboard I've tested so far, but it's had to fend off some stiff competition from Corsair to get here. In many scenarios I'd actually recommend the Vanguard Pro over the Azoth, but if you're going for the gold standard of magnetic decks there's no denying Asus has it in the bag.

I'll get the TL;DR out of the way. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE offers the best typing experience I've had from a magnetic deck, while also piling on premium features you don't see elsewhere. That wireless connection is a rarity with these more power-hungry switches and the sturdy battery life saw me through a week of play at a time (far greater than the Ducky One X and comparable to the Cherry MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless). It's the sound-dampened, crisp PBT, super smooth experience I first fell in love with on the original Asus ROG Azoth - just with super-fast, versatile Hall effect switches.

It's an investment, though. The Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE has a price problem, coming in well below the $430 Asus ROG Falcata but still more than $100 higher than the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 below. At $349.99 you need to really know you prioritize a best-in-class typing experience and wireless experience for this deck to make sense.

It beats Corsair in a key few areas, though. The 96% form factor is far less condensed than the keys on the Vanguard. There's real breathing room here, which in turn increases accuracy and reliability - I know where I am on the deck at all times, and that's just not the case for the Vanguard. That extra sliver between the arrow keys and number pad makes all the difference.

Then you've got the switches themselves.

The Azoth 96 HE uses Asus's ROG HFX V2 clackers, the same ones that captured my attention in the Falcata. They're the smoothest, most mechanical-feeling magnetic switches I've tested so far, and in the Azoth chassis they have a bounce and energy that's unmatched. I feel springy moving across this board, with the sensitivity of those adjustable actuation points making for a particularly speedy, but still satisfying, gaming experience.

If you're going all-out on the best Hall effect gaming keyboard, the Azoth is where you should be looking. If you want to get 90% of the way there for a lot less cash, though, I'd recommend the Vanguard instead.

Read more: Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE review

The best Hall effect keyboard for most players

The Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 was the top dog before the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE came onto the scene. With its plastic construction, wired-only connection, and under-utilized display it's not quite the best on the market, comparatively, but it's still the best Hall effect keyboard for more casual players who don't want to break past the $300 price bracket.

The Vanguard thrives on its compact, but still button-heavy, form factor and excellent MGX V2 switches. Those clackers come second only to the Asus ROG HFX V2s inside the Azoth and Falcata, offering a super smooth keypress with a satisfying bounce and a real thocky feel. It's not quite as energetic as the softer options from Asus, but it's certainly more comfortable than the woolly options available elsewhere.

The main feather in this deck's cap is its functional but still space-saving layout. This is a squished 96% deck, giving you access to all your number keys, arrow buttons, and most navigation buttons, while still leaving mouse-swinging room to the right. Yes, it's a little cramped but it only takes a little muscle memory re-learning to get into the swing of those key placements, and I'd certainly take the five dedicated macro buttons while they're on offer.

So the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 stands tall in its typing feel, actuation adjustment, and extra controls. Where does it fall down?

If you thought you were getting the same kind of OLED display experience as you would the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE above, you'd be sorely mistaken. The panel on this model feels particularly under-utilized, only really offering some backgrounds and a volume dial. Compare that to the switch adjustment, media control, and system spec offering on Asus's model and the difference is pretty clear.

Still, with a wired connection and durable plastic chassis, the Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 comes in significantly cheaper than top-of-the-market options, without sacrificing core features and typing feeling. That's a win in my books.

Read more: Corsair Vanguard Pro 96 review

The best budget Hall effect keyboard

The Endgame Gear KB65HE is actually one of the first Hall effect gaming keyboards I tested, but that age means it's falling much further down the price scale compared to newer releases. I'll get this straight out the way, it's a lot heavier under the fingers compared to more modern models and you do drop dual-step actuation features. However, if you're looking to spend less than $100 / £100 on one of the best Hall effect gaming keyboards, it's still excellent value.

Everything about this deck is heavy, from the super dense brick of a chassis to the stiffer switches under the hood. That's not necessarily a bad thing. If you have a heavy hammer these are incredibly satisfying. I prefer a lighter touch and even I had a good time here.

It's rare to find magnetic switches in a gaming keyboard this far down the price bracket. You're usually looking at a $130 / £130 investment minimum (and that's with the heaviest of discounts applied). The Endgame Gear KB65HE keeps the basics (there are no dual-step actuations in here) while sporting a commendable $49.99 MSRP, miles from its original $140 launch price.

Those Gateron switches maintain their smooth feel with a slightly higher level of tension under each key than you'll find in more modern devices. With sensitivities bumped up as high as they go, that heavier feel goes out the window completely. I can still zip across a CS2 map at a hair trigger input, all with my more problematic keys staying well out the way of accidental presses.

You can spend a lot more than $50 and get only half of these features in a cheaper mechanical deck. The Endgame Gear KB65HE may be the oldest Hall effect gaming keyboard on this list, but that quality has endured and fought off years' worth of competition all the while.

Read more: Endgame Gear KB65HE review

The best compact Hall effect keyboard

Don't want your deck to take up all your space? 60% keyboards are the smallest most players opt for, but the lack of arrow keys is often a drawback. If you're after the best compact Hall effect gaming keyboard, though, Razer uses its analog switches to make all those problems go away. The Huntsman V3 Pro Mini keeps things incredibly efficient, making good use of those dual-step actuation features to provide handy arrow functionality while still saving you space.

These are Razer's Analog Optical Switch Gen-2s, so we're not exactly playing with Hall effect clackers here. The fundamental benefits are still the same, though, with adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 4.0mm, dual-step inputs, and rapid trigger on board. There's another trick up this deck's sleeve, though.

Those analog switches can also mimic the finer controls of a thumbstick. Simply assign WASD to joystick controls in Synapse, and you've got an extra degree of control over just how far you're moving, or steering, or peering in-game. That comes in clutch for stealth titles in particular, but if you don't have a PC controller for racing games it's also far more accommodating.

It's not all roses in Razer's camp, though. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini has a particularly thin frame, which hasn't been stuffed with particularly high quality sound dampening. That means I hear a noticeable amount of echo and ping when hitting keys particularly hard. It's nowhere near as bad as mechanical keyboards used to be, but if you're used to a deeper thock it may well take you a second to get used to.

Opting for a smaller form factor also, naturally, means you lose dedicated media controls. Everything's mapped up to alternative keys here, but if you need access to your volume at all times it's something to consider.

Read more: Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini review

The best full-sized Hall effect keyboard

Even the best Hall effect keyboards are power hungry, so it's a little rare to find a full-sized model that also sports a wireless connection. Ducky gets around that power draw by swapping over to inductive clackers. That means this is another not-strictly-HE keyboard, but it still has the same functions and features, with the added benefit of a cord-free setup.

Yes, this is a wireless gaming keyboard, but that max 15 hours of juice isn't going to get you too far. Instead, I'd recommend this deck primarily to those after a full-size keyboard rather than a cord-free one.

The extra cost of those inductive switches means full-sized decks are a little harder to come by, but the Ducky One X manages to squeeze a full rack of magnetic clackers into a $180 MSRP. Not only that, but it runs spectacularly.

There are a few sacrifices - awkward software means this is one you'll want to set and forget and there's no storage for onboard profiles. However, a gold-standard of sound dampening and a soft, smooth typing experience keeps the Ducky One X a step above its alternatives.

It's a slightly unique feel, almost padded out underneath the fingertips. That means you're not quite getting the energy or bounce of something like the Asus ROG Azoth 96 HE - it's more serene, like the mechanical Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile. I said that deck felt like typing on fresh snow, and the experience isn't too dissimilar here.

If you want the functionality of a Hall effect keyboard, but hate how they typically feel under the fingertips and don't want to sacrifice your extra keys this is absolutely where I'd be pointing you.

Read more: Ducky One X review

The best Hall effect keyboard for beginners

Logitech has been smart with its G512 X magnetic gaming keyboard. Only the left side of the deck is compatible with TMR switches and straight out the box you'll find a full sweep of mechanical clackers under those PBT keycaps. That's because rather than fill the whole deck, Logi supplies nine Gateron K20 magnetic switches along the top of the deck. These can be hot-swapped where you need them.

That means you can set up your magnetic switches exactly where you need them (likely around the WASD cluster) and still keep simpler mechanical switches elsewhere. That's perfect for beginners, especially considering the best Hall effect keyboards are a significant investment.

Here, you're spending a little less than you would for a full premium deck and still keeping the option to revert to mechanical clackers if you don't get on with the more customizable option. There's certainly a learning curve to using these switches, so any flexibility is a win.

The typing feel is a little heavier than I typically see, but it's still satisfying and smooth. I'd avoid it if you're looking for a particularly creamy stem, but I was still able to type for an entire work day without feeling too much fatigue. Not only that, but using both magnetic and mechanical switches didn't present too much of an awkward shift during day to day use as well.

It's the smart design choices of the G512 X that have earned its position on this page, though. Aside from those swappable magnetic switches, Logitech has also provided a series of O-rings nestled into the top lid. When attached to a TMR key, these provide a more tangible bump for multiple actuation use. No more guessing when you're half way down the stem - another win for beginners.

I do have my concerns about the case durability, but they're limited to the small line of plastic along the front edge of the top plastic. While the rest is sturdy, the overhang on this design means it's a little more flexible here - with considerable bending and some creaking under pressure. This is one to keep on the desk rather than in a backpack.

Read more: Logitech G512 X review

The best hot-swappable Hall effect keyboard

For the slightly more expensive Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR to make sense you'll need to be absolutely sure of two things; you need a wireless connection and you want the option to revert back to mechanical switches. A $249.99 / £209.99 MSRP doesn't put the Cherry deck at the top of the price range, but you're still spending a chunk of change on those extra features. For those hunting down a more versatile mechanical and magnetic option, this is a pretty unique proposition.

Some of the best Hall effect keyboards claim they're hot-swappable, but looking into the fine print you'll find most are only compatible with a couple of magnetic options. Cherry's deck flips that completely, with support for both Hall effect and mechanical clickers. This is the first time I've seen cross-switch compatibility and it's pretty rare out there.

Elsewhere, the Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless still holds up as a fantastic deck in its own right. With TMR sensors to keep that power slightly lower than more traditional options (and an 8,000mAh charge), the wireless battery life extends to a week of full-day use in my setup, with RGB switch on. Wireless magnetic decks are often falling far short of that benchmark.

The typing experience is as you'd expect from a Cherry deck, smooth, soft, and particularly well sound-dampened. There's just the right amount of resistance underneath each cap making for a speedy typing and gaming experience, especially when set at max sensitivity.

It's not, however, one for those who spend a lot of time in a keyboard's software. Cherry's downloadable program is far less intuitive than the rest of the market. Everything is still configurable and the app covers everything you'd need, but it's no looker and it can be difficult to parse each section's function. That's where the MX 8.2 Pro TMR loses most of its marks, but those building a more subtle setup will also want to check the strange logos emblazed across the space bar and top lip.

Read more: Cherry XTRFY MX 8.2 Pro TMR Wireless review

How I test Hall effect keyboards

The first thing I do with any Hall effect gaming keyboard that passes my desk is dive into the settings. The day-one experience of setting up a deck is sacred, but a smooth setup is all the more important when magnetic switches are taken into account. Getting those actuation points right, setting up rapid trigger settings, and creating certain per-game presets is essential to getting your money's worth out of a Hall effect deck, and unintuitive software can sour the experience straight out the gate.

Once everything's set up I spend a week living, working, and playing with the deck as if it were my own. That means I'm playing the games on my current roster, using the keyboard for all my daily work, and running its battery, any additional displays, and macro keys as I would in my usual routines.

The second week of testing gets a little more intensive. Once I've settled into a deck, allowed muscle memory to take over, and got a feel for the switches, I'm going back into the settings and tearing everything apart. I test competitive performance in CS2 and Apex Legends, running each keyboard at its heaviest and lightest switch settings with rapid trigger enabled.

From there, any additional features not previously covered by my everyday use are explored further. Any joystick-like analog features, four-step trigger options, or extra macro buttons / display settings are put to work across both competitive and single player endeavours. I also complete three speed tests in TypingTest.com, each test is spent in medium text on a one minute run. Final typing speeds and accuracy measures are taken as an average.

This second week of testing is also spent with other Hall effect keyboards on the desk. I directly test against each keyboard's major competition, whether that's from a price or feature perspective.

Wireless Hall effect keyboards are charged fully at the start of testing and left to do their thing. I don't turn them off when I'm done for the day, and I'm running full brightness until the battery eventually dies. After that charge run, I lower the brightness to 50% for a second go and, where applicable, test that lifespan on an 8,000Hz connection.

For more information on how we test gaming keyboards, check out the full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Also Tested

How to choose a Hall effect gaming keyboard

So you know you want to dive into the world of magnetic switches - it's a pretty big world. To help you narrow down your choice, it's worth getting some early must-have questions out the way early.

First you need to work out how much you want to spend. These decks aren't cheap - you're likely looking at more than $100 no matter how many features you drop (Endgame Gear KB65HE excluded), but price scales with extras and you might not need all of them.

The above table isn't a hard line, it's just an approximation based on what I've seen so far. There will absolutely be outliers to these but in general you'll find that the mid-range sits between $100 and $200 for a magnetic deck, with the move to $250 opening you up to better feeling switches overall. That's a lot higher than a mechanical option.

This is the point when you need to decide how important typing feel is. If you're just going for the core features of magnetic switches, and don't use your keyboard for hours of everyday work in between play sessions it's worth sticking to the low end of the $100s. That's where you'll find some of the best value on the market.

If you know you'll need to take your keyboard with you on your travels, or you're happy to invest in a wire-free setup a cordless connection is going to cost you. You can start to drop the wire at around $250, with better battery lives available in the $300+ region.

FAQ

Take a look at the best membrane gaming keyboards and best hot-swappable keyboards for a different deck flavor.

MAR10, or "Mario Day," is almost upon us, so now feels like the perfect time to celebrate the very best Super Mario merch. And considering how the intrepid plumber is now 40 years old, there's plenty enough of it.

Almost too much, actually. Because there's a world's worth of action figures, plushies, collectibles, and nick knacks based on the Mushroom Kingdom, the biggest Mario fans from GamesRadar+ HQ have rounded up their picks for the very best Super Mario merch. We've been fans of the franchise for our whole lives, and these are the goodies we'd want on our shelves - be it apparel or the best toys.

This isn't just for older fans who want a nostalgia powerup, though; there should be something to suit everyone here, regardless of age. I challenge anyone not to have their heart stolen by the Hatchin' Yoshi animatronic, for example.

Best Super Mario merch: Toys

Best Super Mario merch: Homeware & collectibles

For more Nintendo-related goodies, don't miss the best Pokemon merch or the best Legend of Zelda merch.

After three decades of pocket monsters, super-effective attacks, and weird little guys who hang out by the side of the road waiting for battles, compiling a list of Pokemon merch is easy. The best Pokemon merch, though? Well, that's a different matter.

Because the GamesRadar+ team and I have been fans of the franchise since it first hit shelves 30 years ago, we aren't short on recommendations. Whether it's plushies, toys, replicas, or accessories, there's plenty to choose from. To keep things simple, I've limited our suggestions to the very best Pokemon merch below. If you've got a limited budget or don't fancy spending hours trawling the digital shelves, these are the products I'd start with. They range from must-have add-ons for your Switch to some of the best toys.

Crucially, the following have been chosen either because we have these Poke-prizes ourselves or they boast incredibly positive user-reviews. That means these entries should delight fans regardless of what they're looking for.

Best Pokemon merch: Toys

Best Pokemon merch: Homeware

Best Pokemon merch: Books

Best Pokemon merch: Tabletop games

Best Pokemon merch: Accessories

For more Nintendo-related gear, don't miss the best Legend of Zelda merch. You can also find plenty of Ninty goodies in the best Lego sets.

Now that we're having a collective meltdown over the newly-revealed Ocarina of Time remake, it's a great excuse to hunt down the best Legend of Zelda merch like Link tearing through pots for rupees. If the strong-but-silent hero has taught us anything over the years, it's that collecting treasure is a noble pursuit... and now, there are more collectibles to find than ever.

Actually, there are almost too many. Finding the best Legend of Zelda merch can be like finding your way through the Lost Woods, so I've donned my best green cap to bring you a few recommendations and get the Goron rolling. There are options to suit every budget and era here, ranging from Nendoroids based on Majora's Mask (which is a frontrunner for our list of the best toys) to water bottles from Tears of the Kingdom.

In terms of standouts for me, I'd always gravitate towards amiibo. These are surprisingly high-quality statues that look great on a shelf or desk, so they're worth considering even if you won't ever use them on Switch as originally intended. Similarly, the Lego Zelda Deku Tree set is nothing short of a masterpiece in my opinion – it's a fantastic ode to games both old and new, marking it out as one of the best Lego sets overall. As for my Hardware Editor colleague and fellow Zelda-nerd Rosalie, the Bandai Proplica Master Sword earns her seal of approval.

Best Legend of Zelda merch: Toys & collectibles

Best Legend of Zelda merch: Homeware & apparel

Best Legend of Zelda merch: Accessories

Looking for more cool gear based on your favorite franchises? Don't miss the best Star Wars toys.

The GamesRadar+ team and I – massive Disney nerds all – have been channeling Santa's elves to bring you the very best Disney gifts. There's something here to suit every budget, age-range, and interest, so you should be able to find inspiration at the very least.

We haven't just chosen these items at random, either. My fellow Disney fans and I have selected recommendations we have personal experience with or would love to receive ourselves. If these Disney gifts ended up in our hands (be it Lego kits or the best toys), we'd be very happy.

Quick links

• T-shirts: From $12.99 at Amazon
• Sweaters: From $14.99 at Amazon
• Mugs: From $6.99 at Amazon
• Toys: From $9.99 at Amazon
• Plushies: From $12.11 at Amazon
• Pins: From $6.99 at Amazon
• Lego: From $9.29 at Amazon
• Disney Store: See the latest deals
• Disney Store UK: Christmas deals now live

Best Disney gifts under $20/£20

Looking for affordable but still-meaningful Disney gifts? These cheaper options should hit the spot. They're great choices as stocking fillers.

Best Disney gifts under $50/£50

If your budget can stretch a little further, you'll find some truly excellent Disney gifts that are a little more substantial.

Best Disney gifts under $100/£100

Want to make a real impression? These are the best Disney gifts overall, and if you ask me, they're worth every penny.

How to choose the best Disney gifts in 2025

Finding a good gift can be intimidating as is, never mind if the person in question adores a brand as big as Disney. That's why I always start with the following questions when tracking down the best Disney gifts:

For more present-worthy ideas, be sure to check out the best gifts for gamers, the best Nintendo gifts, and the best Star Wars gifts.

On the hunt for the best Star Wars gifts? Luckily, you've come to the right parsec for presents. The GamesRadar+ team and I are enormous fans of a galaxy far, far away, and we've spent years collecting merch based on it in our own time as well as covering it here professionally. That means we have a pretty good idea of what fellow nerds will love. To misquote C-3PO, we have a very good feeling about this.

To help you find the perfect present as quickly and easily as possible, I've rounded up what I think are the best Star Wars gifts available now across a variety of budgets and for a variety of ages. You'll find everything from stocking fillers to show-stopping collectibles here, with plenty in-between. There are even a few gifts for gamers, not to mention plenty of the best Star Wars toys.

Not sure where to start with the best Star Wars gifts? Don't miss my advice on how to choose Star Wars presents. That should at least get you started by providing a little inspiration.

Quick links

• Mugs: From $12 at Amazon
• T-shirts: From $14 at Amazon
• Plushies: From $9 at Amazon
• Action figures: From $11 at Amazon
• Books: From $10 at Amazon
• Board games: From $19 at Amazon
• Video games: From $20 at Amazon
• Star Wars gifts from $7 at Disney Store

UK

• Mugs: From £9.99 at Amazon
• T-shirts: From £12.79 at Amazon
• Plushies: From £9.97 at Amazon
• Action figures: From £7.99 at Amazon
• Books: From £9.99 at Amazon
• Board games: From £11.49 at Amazon
• Video games: From £13.64 at Amazon
• Star Wars gifts from £12 at Disney Store

Best Star Wars gifts under $20/£20

Want to keep costs down, or looking for the ideal stocking filler? These are all great starting points.

Best Star Wars gifts under $50/£50

If your budget can stretch a little further, you'll find a host of impressive Star Wars gifts that strike a great balance of cost and quality.

How to choose Star Wars gifts

There's a universe of Star Wars gifts out there, so how do you find the best ones? Considering the thousands of toys, collectibles, and curiosities that exist, where do you even start? If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't worry - here's what I always ask when tracking down Star Wars-related presents.

For more present-worthy ideas, why not check out the best Nintendo gifts, the best retro gifts, or the best PlayStation gifts?

As one of the biggest names in all of gaming, it's no surprise that finding the best Nintendo gifts is like trying to track down a 1-Up mushroom. There are countless options to choose from, and not all of them are created equal. That's why the GamesRadar+ present-hunting experts and I are here to point you in the right direction.

We've been writing about Nintendo for years, but all of us have been fans for a lot longer. That means we've got a pretty good idea of what gamers will love when it comes to the best Nintendo gifts. No matter whether your loved one adores Super Mario, The Legend of Zelda, Metroid, or one of the many other beloved franchises on the likes of Nintendo Switch 2, we've got a recommendation to suit them. Not sure what they're into, on the other hand? Don't panic - just check out our 'how to choose' guide further down the page.

If you ask us, these are some of the best gifts for gamers... and we say that from first-hand experience, because we actually own a lot of these. That's how we know your loved one will adore the best Nintendo gifts; we'd be very happy to receive them ourselves.

Quick links

• Nintendo mugs from $13.99 at Amazon
• Find Nintendo t-shirts from $12.99 at Amazon
• Browse all the Nintendo Lego sets at Amazon

Best Nintendo gifts under $20/£20

Best Nintendo gifts under $50/$50

How to choose the best Nintendo gifts

There is a mountain worth of Nintendo goodies available today that would make the perfect gift. While many will instinctively think of the Super Mario Bros series when they think of 'Nintendo', the brand actually encompasses so many different series, including Animal Crossing, Kirby, Pikmin, and, of course, Pokemon, making the amount of products you need to browse through pretty overwhelming.

There's no shortage of Nintendo products out there, but it doesn’t have to be such a slog to find the perfect gift. Checking what your budget is should be your first bit of protocol when it comes to choosing the best gift. Nintendo has been around for a long time, so there are gifts that range from everywhere to $10 all the way up to $900 and more. To make your shopping a little easier, we've narrowed down gifts under the $20 and $50 range. Giving yourself a price range like that to adhere can help narrow down your options and make finding the perfect Nintendo gift far easier and less stressful.

After you’ve got your budget sorted, I recommend checking what Nintendo characters and games the recipient of your gift is a fan of, when it comes to choosing that perfect gift. It's all well and good hunting down the cutest Pikachu plush, but what if the person prefers Squirtle or Charmander instead? What if they don’t like the Pokemon at all and are instead massive Pikmin fans? Knowing who and what they’re a fan of can go a long way in making your gift a memorable one.

Lastly, always double-check that you have an idea of what the recipient of your Nintendo gift of choice has and doesn’t have. For example, if they don't have a Nintendo Switch 2 yet, then buying the Hori Piranha Plant Camera listed above is not a wise plan. Making sure to do your research will help ensure you don’t double up and buy a gift they already have, or buy something they can’t even use.

For more nerdy goodness, don't miss the best Lego sets or the best retro gifts.

Never mind in-game trophies, tracking down the best PlayStation gifts is worthy of a real-life one. There are countless options available now, and it can be difficult to differentiate between the treasure and the tat.

That's where the GamesRadar+ team and I come in. We've spent years recommending the best gifts for gamers and are massive PS5 fans too, so our experts have a pretty good idea of what your loved one will enjoy. All of us would be happy to receive the products in this guide, and that's why they've been chosen as the best PlayStation gifts you can buy right now.

No matter who you're shopping for or your budget, there should be something to suit you below. This list of PS5 presents includes everything from merchandise (like mugs or playing cards) to essential accessories. Not sure where to start? Just check out our guide on how to choose the best PlayStation gifts. That should help you secure some of the best gifts for gamers around.

Quick links

• Shirts: from $16.99 at Amazon
• Hoodies: from $26.95 at Amazon
• Mugs: from $9.99 at Amazon
• Plush: from $7.34 at Amazon
• Skins: from $9.99 at Amazon
• Controllers: from $66 at Amazon
• Headsets: from $37.99 at Amazon
• Thumbgrips: from $12.99 at Amazon

Best PlayStation gifts under $20/£20

Hoping to keep costs down or find good stocking-fillers? These are great choices that won't break the bank.

Best PlayStation gifts under $50/£50

How to choose the best PlayStation gifts

Unless you've already got your own PS5 setup at home, it can be tricky to work out exactly what to buy for the Sony fan in your life. New controllers can get pricey real fast, and headsets can be worth hundreds of dollars. If you're only looking to spend $50 max I'd recommend looking at cheaper accessories and merch.

The former is a minefield. There are armies of cheap plastic brands vying for your attention on Amazon, and almost none of them are worth your time. Focus your attention on gadgets made by trusted, respected brands - the following have all passed GamesRadar+'s tests for value and reliability over the years.

Your safest bet is thumbstick toppers and controller skins at the very cheapest end of the spectrum. Not only are you getting something your recipient will likely use, but it doesn't necessarily matter if they already have some. This is stuff we need more of all the time, it wears down and a fresh set always feels fantastic.

The merch route is, in my opinion, far more fun - but you'll need to know your recipients favorite franchises. See if you can get an idea of their library and go from there. You'd be surprised how far these merch makers will extend their branding, from the obligatory mugs all the way through to cable tidies and even coffee beans.

If you're looking to spend a little more ($150 - $300), it's worth getting to know how your recipient plays. This is territory for a brand new pro controller or a top of the range headset. We've got guides to all the best PS5 controllers and the best PS5 headsets that can help you, but the following questions can help get you started:

• Do they only use a PS5 or do they play on multiple platforms? (Some accessories, like headsets, will work with everything, but not all of them)
• How many different games do they play? (If it's a lot, you'll want something that can be customized from an app or onboard, rather than relying on a PC program)
• Do they play online? (This will determine whether you buy a headset that prioritizes its microphone quality, for example, or a controller with a particularly low latency)

For more cool gear, why not check out the best retro gifts?

The hardest part of finding the best Valentine's Day gifts for gamers can be knowing where to start. Sure, you can unearth a wagon-load of tat based on your beau's favorite franchise. But finding something that's actually good? Well, that's harder.

This is why I've rounded up a few suggestions to get the ball rolling. The GamesRadar+ team and I have been hands-on with all of the following products, and we'd be straight up delighted to receive them as card-carrying nerds. With that in mind, they'll hopefully serve as a starting point if you're hunting down good Valentine's Day gifts for gamers but are stuck for ideas.

Just move quickly. If you want to make sure your presents arrive before the big day, it's worth acting sooner than later. Valentine's Day isn't far away, after all!

Best Valentine's Day gifts for gamers 2026

For more gift-worthy recommendations, why not check out the best board games or the best tabletop RPGs?

On the lead up to the Nintendo Switch 2's first birthday, the best Nintendo Switch headset for both iterations of the handheld remains the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless. This isn't the brand's most premium model, but the 3 Wireless takes some of the best qualities of SteelSeries' mid-range offerings from its robust built-quality, fantastic sound from its iconic 40mm Neodymium drivers, and adds some quality of life upgrades that make it full of value. Not to mention, it's available in cute pastel colorways to suit the coziest of Ninty setups.

For those without the funds to invest in SteelSeries' pair of cups, there's always the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit. Since the official Switch 2 version launched late last year, the $27.99 / £19.99 wired pair has earned a spot as one of the best gaming headsets in this list thanks to its great look, comfortable fit, and extremely low price. If you don't mind the wired connectivity or are looking for a pair for your kids, the Airlite Fit still provides a great sound despite its low price.

Anyone who needs something more compact for gaming on the go can pick up the best gaming earbuds on the market, the SteelSeries Arctis Game Buds. These tiny buds don't take up as much room as the best headsets on this list, and yet, despite their small size can still pack a punch thanks to their mighty 6mm audio drivers. I've spent plenty of time familiarising myself with them and testing the best Nintendo Switch headsets over the years, and you can find the results of my testing down below.

The Quick List

The best Nintendo Switch headset overall

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless is the best Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 headset, as it shares all the same high-quality features as its Arctis Nova 5 Wireless brethren with some upgrades of its own.

While Nova 3 Wireless carries the same over-ear form factor and comfortable padded earcups, the same 40mm Neodymium drivers, and the same Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, it expands on what came before by adding fast charging, a detachable microphone, over 200+ game audio presets, and brand-new colorways into the mix.

The fast charging, in particular, is a great extra for Switch 2 players. From just a 15-minute charge, you can get over 9 hours of playback, which is extremely handy when you're gaming on the go and need some extra juice. Alternatives like the Arctis Nova 5 Wireless were lacking this fast charging support, and worst of all, they were far more expensive. Arctis Nova 3 Wireless has an $109.99 / £99.99 MSRP, which essentially means you're getting the sound and quality of a fantastic mid-range headset for a more budget price.

If it's still a little more than you want to spend, there's also the Razer Barracuda X to think about. It previously remained as our top pick for Switch headsets as not only was its $99.99 / £99.99 easy to stomach, but it brought it a snappy Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity along with it. With its age, there are plenty of deals that bring its cost down to a lower $69.99, and it's still a valid pick up for those who want to limit their spending after forking out the cost of the new Switch 2. However, you will be missing out on those Switch game-specific audio presets and the fantastic mic quality that's packed into the Arctis Nova 3 Wireless.

Not to mention, the Razer Barracuda X is only available in white and black colorways. If you're looking for a more aesthetically pleasing headset for your cozy Switch or Switch 2 setup, the Arctis Nova 3 is available in white, black, and stunning Lavender and Aqua colorways, which is rare to see on other headsets. It looks cute, sounds great, and is one of the best value for money headsets you'll find on the market for the Ninty handheld today.

Read our full SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless review for more.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless vs the competition

The best budget Nintendo Switch headset

The Turtle Beach Airlite Fit isn't technically a new Nintendo Switch headset. The wired pair of cups has existed for quite some time, however, Turtle Beach recently released an officially licensed version for the Switch 2. This new iteration of the budget-friendly pair of cups not only matches the charcoal black and red and blue aesthetics of the Switch 2, but it still provides a great sound from its 40mm Neodymium audio drivers, and has a flip-to-mute mic, all for as little as $27.99 / £19.99.

I was provided with the new official Nintendo Switch 2 version of the Airlite Fit for testing, which matches the aesthetic of the new handheld. The officially licensed wired headset features a charcoal black colorway, with neon blue and red accents that copy the details on the Joy-Con 2 controllers. For this new release, Turtle Beach also has a Black and White version available to purchase if red and blue are not your thing.

Regardless of the colorways, the Airlite Fit wired gaming headset can be summed up as a closed-back pair of cups, with a flip-to-mute mic and volume wheel on the left earcup. The pair is equipped with 40mm Neodymium audio drivers, and can be hooked up to the Switch 2 and original Switch family of handhelds.

The Turtle Beach Airlite Fit might be cheap, but its audio quality is anything but. The 40mm audio drivers pack a punch, making everything from Donkey Kong Bananza to Mario Kart World sound impressive. Even when the volume was turned up to its loudest, I never experienced any distortion, and the bass, mid, and high frequencies sounded nice and balanced throughout testing. The sound is not enough to rival that of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless or the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, however it feels more than justifiable when you consider its incredibly low $27.99 / £19.99 price tag.

If you just dug out your savings for the new Nintendo Switch 2, but you still want its games to sound their best, the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit is a stupendous budget-friendly option.

Read our full Turtle Beach Airlite Fit review for more.

The best luxury Nintendo Switch headset

If you don't mind forking out almost as much as you spent on the Nintendo Switch 2 on a headset, the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni is the best premium pair I've tested with Ninty's newest handheld.

Previously, in this 'best luxury' spot, we had listed the Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, which is still a formidable headset. It sports the comfortable over-ear, closed-back design the Arctis lineup is known for, and impressed myself and the rest of the GamesRadar+ team the first time around with its hot-swappable battery tech and accompanying Game Hub device. The new Omni is very similar, so similar in fact that you'd be hard pressed to find many differences at first glance. Yet SteelSeries' latest pair is sporting some major upgrades that make it an even better and more luxurious option for Switch 2 players.

For one, there are thicker earcushions found on the Omni. If you like to game on the go, this makes the headset far more comfortable. There's also a new Midnight Blue colorway on display, which doesn't really match that of the all-black Nintendo handheld, but it's a nice inclusion regardless. Of course, it's not in its design where the Omni truly stands its ground, but in its features.

If you have a split Switch 2 and PC setup, the Omni will be a great tool in your gaming arsenal, as it supports Hi-res audio. The Switch 2 doesn't support that audiophile-level quality, but thanks to its new and improved 10-40,000 Hz frequency response paired with the Custom 40 mm Neodymium Magnetic audio drivers, you'll more than notice an impressive difference in the sound of your Switch 2 games. Whether it was Mario Kart World, Donkey Kong Bananza, or Pokemon Pokopia, the Omni brought out the warmth of the games' soundstages during testing, and that was without any EQ tinkering whatsoever - though you can play around with that if you want.

Essentially, the Arctis Nova Pro Omni is the Pro Wireless but better. And as it reigns supreme in our best headset guides, it makes sense that it'd stand as our new best luxury option for the Switch 2 also. Just be aware that the Omni has a $399.99 / £349.99 MSRP, which is $20 / £20 more than the Pro Wireless.

Read our full SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Omni review for more.

The best Nintendo Switch headset for in-game chat

The Corsair HS70 Bluetooth headset is perfect for those after a Nintendo Switch headset with a mic for voice chat. If you're looking to stream both in-game audio and Nintendo Switch Online chat features through the app at the same time, there's no other set of cups like it - plus it's not too shabby for the Switch 2's GameChat either.

This headset isn't the flashiest out there. Its matte black finish runs throughout the entire headset without a single glimmer of RGB. That's perfect for those after a more subtle aesthetic, and especially welcome considering so many cheaper headsets opt for brighter colors and cheap LEDs. You're getting a soft, though leatherette, padding to each cup for a nice level of comfort, and I particularly appreciated the larger cup design, which envelopes the ear rather than pushing against the side of the head.

The HS70 Bluetooth is a little weighty in the hands, however once it's on your noggin the over-sized ear cups and premium padding along the top of the headband will keep that pressure off the skull.

With a dual-connection between 3.5mm and Bluetooth, you can finally easily stream both audio channels through the same headset, and take advantage of a decent mic at the same time. That's an excellent Nintendo Switch feature that certainly fixes one of the biggest pet peeves many initially had with the older system, but this cheaper price point doesn't skimp on the audio quality either.

There's a well-rounded sound up for grabs here, with rich performance across all ranges and nicely balanced bass. All of that means everything from thrashing action to quieter open-world moments sounds great here and performs at a much higher level than you'd expect from the price alone.

Overall, you're getting a good set of headphones here for the cash. it's worth noting that you'll only be able to get a wired connection for Xbox and PlayStation - though PC players can still connect through Bluetooth. That makes this decidedly an OG Nintendo Switch-focused affair, where the Corsair HS70 Bluetooth really has the chance to shine.

Read our full Corsair HS70 Bluetooth review for more.

The best gaming earbuds for Nintendo Switch

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are the best gaming earbuds we've been crying out for quite some time, and that includes for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. A sturdy battery life, comfortable design, and powerful audio? What more could you want from a set of everyday companion buds?

They're a bit too thick to fit in most Nintendo Switch cases (trust me, I tried), but the compact Game Bud case never felt overly bulky. More importantly, these buds are super comfortable, even for someone like me who struggles to keep buds of any kind in their ears. Their bulbous design means they fit snugly in your ear, whether you're out for a walk after a long Switch 2 gaming session or curled up in bed with Netflix.

When it comes to buds not a fan of touch controls, as I'm pretty clumsy and prone to accidental presses. So the physical buttons of these Game Buds are a lifesaver. The Arctis GameBuds can also be used alongside the free-to-download Arctis mobile app, where you can customize some button gestures and sort out your mic monitoring and ANC settings, and choose from a huge library of Nintendo Switch game audio presets.

Not only are they easy to use, but they sound fantastic too. Even with their tiny 6mm audio drivers, everything from Super Mario Galaxy to Mario Kart World sounds bright and full, which is exactly what you want when it comes to the vibrant and lively Nintendo OSTs that are featured in so many iconic Switch games. If you're looking for a set of gaming-specific earbuds for your Nintendo Switch but still want your music and podcasts to sound great, the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are a no-brainer.

Read our full SteelSeries Arctis Game Buds review for more.

How we test Nintendo Switch headsets

We test Nintendo Switch headsets in the same way we would any other set of cups. Each device becomes a staple of our everyday setups, integrating into our handheld play for a minimum of two weeks before our final review. Beyond that, though, we use these headsets for everything from music to movies, and even across platforms, to test their total versatility within a lifestyle.

Our testing methods have had to adapt with the Nintendo Switch 2's launch. Now, every Switch-compatible headset that crosses our path will be tested vigorously with both the Switch 2 and the original Switch. That way, even if you aren’t yet ready to make the next-generational leap to the new handheld, you can still invest in a new headset with the safety in the knowledge of whether or not it’ll be enough to tide you over when you want the next best thing.

Whether they’re intended for the Switch or Switch 2, we test Nintendo Switch headsets according to their design, features, and performance. That means we're looking at everything from the physical aesthetic features and weight profile to individual EQ preset options and Bluetooth strength.

Our design critique centers around comfort, durability, and aesthetics. We're constantly assessing the weight, cushioning, and adjustment options that go towards making a Switch headset comfortable for longer sessions. We also look at the build materials, hinges, flexibility, and portability when considering the overall durability of a headset. On top of all that, we take a look at the actual colors, RGB options, silhouette, and size of a headset to see whether it can easily be used in a variety of different environments.

Headsets are adding new features to their rosters all the time, so we assess the quality of a feature list based on price and market competitors - whether that be through connection options, extra customization software, or overall compatibility. Beyond this, we test battery life by running a full depletion at least once.

Performance is tested across a series of games, but for Nintendo Switch headsets that list is expanded even further. We usually test across Horizon Forbidden West, Marvel Rivals, CS2, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Doom Eternal, and Sea of Thieves to gain a full understanding of soundstage, balancing, details, and clarity. However, Nintendo Switch headsets are put through the same process across compatible games like Super Mario Sunshine, Splatoon 3, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and Switch 2 exclusive games such as Mario Kart World and the Donkey Kong Bananza.

At the end of this testing process, we score every Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 headset according to comfort, audio, battery, microphone, versatility, and build quality. You can find out more about how we test gaming headsets in our full GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Also tested

How to choose a Nintendo Switch headset

There's a lot to choose from when picking out the best Nintendo Switch headset for you. From picking out your budget to finding the right form factor for your play style, here's how to find the best set of cups for you.

Switch vs Switch 2

Before you pick your new Switch headset, you need to do your research to ensure it’s compatible with what version of the handheld you're opting to play - whether that’s the original Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED, or the new Nintendo Switch 2.

Wired vs Wireless

A wired headset will be a lot cheaper but can be limiting, especially if you're looking to play with your console in docked mode. However, you won't have to worry about running out of battery so much when you're out and about. If you play in handheld mode the most, it's a lot easier to pick up a wired headset that will suit you.

Budget

A major consideration is how much you want to spend. Thankfully, Nintendo Switch headsets rarely cost the earth, like some PC options tend to. You can get away with spending less than $40 / £40 on your new set of cups, with plenty of budget options all offering some excellent value for money at this more affordable price point. This is the price of an entry-level model, with passable audio and a cheaper build.

However, between $50 and $150 (£50 and £150) you'll notice the quality of your audio (in particular the handling of the bass and finer mid-range details) increasing, more premium and comfortable materials, and more wireless options on the market.

Above this price range, you'll start picking up more sophisticated positional audio features, enhanced mic qualities, longer battery life in wireless headsets, and lighter weights as well.

Over ear vs in ear

We're seeing more and more earbuds hitting the market, vying for a position as one of the best Nintendo Switch headsets. These are usually cheaper, and can be more comfortable if you don't want a headband and often warmer ear cups getting in your way. Plus, these are far easier to throw into a case when you're out and about. However, you won't get quite the same quality here.

Best Switch headsets: FAQ

We're also rounding up all the best PS5 headsets as well as the best Xbox Series X headsets. Or, if you're out of the console game, check out the best PC headsets on the market right now.

The best gaming laptop I've tested so far remains the HP Omen Max 16, despite the newer HyperX model launching late last month and new dual-screened options and 300W releases from Asus and MSI hitting the shelves. Ultimately, though, all these new releases are pushing their price tags and feature sets above the budget and needs of most gamers.

After all, the Omen Max 16 is still a seriously impressive machine, beating out the recently-reviewed RTX 5090 Asus ROG Zephyrus Duo in its RTX 5080 performance (and putting several other flagship configurations in their place in the last year). It does that without a super chunky chassis or by sacrificing display and keyboard features. A fantastic all-rounder.

Of course, there are still spots open among the best gaming laptops for different uses-cases. The Lenovo Legion 5, for example, still offers the beset value overall with its excellently priced OLED display, while the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 retains its crown in the ultra-compact category.

With Nvidia's Spark SoC bringing gaming performance to high-end ultrabooks this year, and rising component prices putting new 2026 releases even further up the price scale, it's a big year for portable rigs.

I'm in a strange position where I go through gaming laptops faster than I do coffee pods, but with the door knocking with a fresh new machine every two weeks my office has been filling up with the latest and greatest rigs. With my trusty Steam library, years of experience with Intel, AMD, and Nvidia's generations of CPUs and GPUs, and a keen eye for design and value in hand, I keep my play to the small screen to find the best gaming laptops on the market.

The quick list

Recent updates

The best gaming laptop overall

The HP Omen Max 16 was a dark horse last year, and looks set to offer even better value in 2026. With a newer 'HyperX' branded model now on the shelves, the waters have been muddied slightly. The RTX 5070 Ti version of this new release, however, comes with half the RAM and storage of the RTX 5080 previous generation - all while costing a little more when discounts are taken into account.

That means I'm sticking with last year's release in the current market conditions. Component shortages are pushing new releases further up the price scale and while older models are still available for the taking there's better value elsewhere.

With better performance than the RTX 5080 Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 and even trading places with the RTX 5090 Razer Blade 16 in QHD settings, last year's HP Omen Max 16 has plenty of power under the hood while still keeping its cool up top.

The all-white model I tested packs a slick chassis aesthetic while still feeling luxuriously soft to the touch. If you're after something a little cheaper, the Lenovo Legion 7i Gen 10 also offers a similar design, and beats some of the keyboard flexing I found on the Omen - you do sacrifice power, though.

The HP Omen Max 16 is configurable with a wide range of components that span Intel, AMD, and Nvidia's mid and upper ranges, making for a comfortable set of choices. You will have to also choose your screen; I tested the IPS flavor and while I came away impressed I'd recommend opting for the OLED model instead.

Elsewhere, you'll find a strong selection of ports (including two Thunderbolt 4 options) split mainly across the left flank and rear panel. That's a rarity among 16-inchers, I often only see larger 18-inch models keeping permanent connections tucked away like this. It makes for a far tidier setup overall, though.

Overall, though, this is wild RTX 5080 performance, with the extra chassis space and smart cooling features to see the Omen Max 16 performing well above its station.

Read more: HP Omen Max 16 review

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The best cheap gaming laptop

I've had two machines going head to head in the battle for second place recently. The MSI Katana 15 HX B14W has beaten the Similarly priced Acer Nitro V 16 AI to become the best budget gaming laptop I've tested so far, though, finally knocking the RTX 40-Series Asus TUF A15 off its perch.

If you're after RTX 50-Series power in a solid, durable chassis that doesn't cost the earth this is going to be a delight. It's not quite as thin as the Acer Nitro, but it's a touch lighter and that extra chunk is never gaudy in its design. In fact, I was surprised by just how streamlined this budget machine looks, considering the Katanas of yore.

There's a secret weapon that just nudges MSI into the top spot here, though. While most cheap chassis are content with a 1200p or even 1080p screen, this rig is available in full QHD glory. That's rare for an RTX 50-Series machine that starts life this close to $1,000 and considering the RTX 5060 version I tested actually put that panel to work there's excellent value in here.

Ports are split across the left and right sides, as is usual on a cheaper machine there are no rear-mounted connections here. However, the keyboard surprised me with a particularly tight feel overall. While most budget gaming laptops cheap out here with mushy decks and flimsy keys, everything runs smoothly with a satisfying clack and an energetic feel.

When push comes to performance shove, the MSI Katana also manages to keep pace with more expensive rigs like the Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 10 (below) and the Lenovo Legion 7 Gen 10. It's largely trailing behind the far more expensive Alienware 16X Aurora, but still manage to beat Lenovo's entry level rigs in several QHD benchmark tests. This is a cheaper chassis with performance at the forefront of its mind, only this time the display has managed to keep a foothold in quality as well.

Read more: MSI Katana 15 HX B14W review

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The best value gaming laptop

The Lenovo Legion 5 sneaks an OLED display into a price tag that sits well below the rest of the premium market. With a solid, durable chassis and well-balanced configurations, this is one of the more cost-effective options available. The Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI is the only machine that has threatened this value position recently, but its higher price ultimately keeps it out the way.

Of course, we have to discuss that OLED face. A lot of gaming laptops are sporting these high-vibrancy panels this generation, but the tech is usually reserved for flagships. If you don't want to spend $3,000+ on a new machine, this is where you want to be looking.

It's not going to give the Razer Blade 16 anything to worry about with its slightly glare-heavy appearance, but it's still a punchy, high-contrast panel with inky blacks, impressive detailing, and a color palette you'd expect from a luxury device.

Configurations are capped at an RTX 5070, though CPUs can run all the way up to Intel Core Ultra 9s with some AMD options in there as well. If you're looking for something a little further up the ladder, the Helios Neo 16S AI can bump you up to an RTX 5070 Ti for a boost in VRAM.

The Intel i7-13650HX / RTX 5060 configuration I tested scored well in synthetic benchmarks. It beats the RTX 4070 HP Omen 17, a machine that launched at over $2,000 back in the day, and even trades places with the Alienware 16X Aurora at times.

It's also worth noting that it can beat the more expensive RTX 5060 configuration of the Lenovo Legion 7i Gen 10 in some tests.

Read more: Lenovo Legion 5 (Gen 10) review

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The best 14-inch gaming laptop

The 2026 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 finally has a price tag - an RTX 5070 Ti configuration will set you back $3,599.99, $1,100 more than the previous generation. That means the 2025 iteration is still my top pick, you can easily pick up an RTX 5080 configuration for less than the mid-range new-gen.

An RTX 5060 configuration can drop to between $1,300 and $1,400 on a good day, while RTX 5070 options can hover at around $1,800. Considering you're still getting an excellent 2880 x 1800 OLED display and that slimline feel that's easily workable if you need a gaming laptop right now.

That said, I tested an RTX 5070 Ti version of the newer model and it manages to beat the RTX 5080 inside last year's release. That's some serious horsepower, supported by a higher wattage and Intel's latest Panther Lake processor. The display has had a minor glow-up as well, with an extra coating that reduces glare and boosted brightness up to 1,100 nits.

Ultimately, this is going to be a pricey affair - as are all the best gaming laptops of 2026. Is it enough to warrant an upgrade from last year's release? No, but it's certainly going to offer a better experience for those who have been saving since the RTX 30-Series days. Ultimately, I'd point the majority of players towards last year's G14, swerving those who really want to dive in at the deep end towards the newer release.

The 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 kept up with larger RTX 4090 machines in my testing, blitzing through 1600p benchmarks at three-figure framerates in lighter titles, and staying well over 60fps in Horizon Zero Dawn: Remastered. Some graphical tweaks will need to be made to achieve those numbers in Cyperpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong, though the Multi-frame Generation of the RTX 50-Series can step in when you need a hand.

It also sports the super sleek design of some of the best Asus gaming laptops, with an endlessly portable form factor (though I am still salty about that slash lighting on the rear lid). It's also ever so slightly thinner than the newer model.

Read more: 2025 Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 review

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The best 16-inch gaming laptop

There's a new Razer Blade 16 in town - well, if you're after an RTX 5080 or RTX 5090 configuration anyway. Both the 2026 and 2025 iterations are coexisting at the moment; opting for cheaper specs will bump you down to the old model, while Razer's only selling high-end configurations of its latest release right now.

What's new? AMD is out and Intel's Core Ultra 9 386H processor is nesting inside this chassis, alongside reported improvements to battery life and display quality. If you're going for a premium GPU this is where you'll be looking - otherwise RTX 5060 enjoyers can hold onto the lower price of the previous generation I fell in love with. There are no RTX 5070 or RTX 5070 Ti options up on Razer's site right now.

Like all the best Razer laptops, this is one for those investing in the quality of life of their gaming laptop - if you want the best screen, keyboard, and form factor (with some DLSS help to reach high framerates) I've tested in a gaming laptop so far, it's a must-see. As you'll see above, the smaller form factor does impact performance, but this one's all about the style.

It's a surprisingly skinny machine, thinner than my everyday Razer Blade 14, which makes throwing it into a backpack incredibly easy. Even the USB-A ports barely fit on the side of this chassis, and we're still playing with flagship power under the hood.

The first thing you'll probably notice on the Razer Blade 16 is the OLED display. It was certainly my biggest takeaway from the 2024 model, and its implementation in later devices is nothing short of breathtaking. Its color accuracy, contrast, and eye-watering vibrancy make it the best gaming laptop display I've tested so far. If you're after something a little cheaper, the Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 10 also offers an OLED panel at a much lower price, though this and the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI both suffer from more glare.

The scissor-switch keyboard has upped the key travel to 1.5mm for a particularly satisfying feel. These clickers are energetic, precise, and smooth, making for a comfortable and precise typing and gaming experience.

If you can find an open-box RTX 5080 or RTX 5090 configuration of the previous generation, you're going to have a much easier time justifying your purchase. The new model is an iteration on what came before - that Panther Lake processor is going to pull its weight but meaningful upgrades aren't going to be too tangible.

Read more: Razer Blade 16 (2025) review

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The best 18-inch gaming laptop

The 2025 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 strikes the best balance between power and chassis design. It's not quite performing the same as MSI's machines from a benchmark perspective, but the wide range of components available and the strength of that display make this the best 18-inch gaming laptop on the market right now.

This is a chunky machine and while its dimensions and weight aren't going to make it the perfect travel companion it was never designed for that. The extra chassis size allows for better cooling, keeping all those internal components running as best they can.

If you're between this and the MSI Vector A18 A9W, it's worth noting that Asus performs much better from a display perspective. We've got the same ROG Nebula HDR display we've come to know and love in all its Mini LED glory. Connections are plentiful as well, with two Thunderbolt 5 options for additional speed over the Thunderbolt 4s in last year's MSI rigs.

The RTX 5090 Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 I tested blew the competition away when it came to easier 3D Mark tests like Fire Strike and Time Spy, and maintained its lead over the RTX 4090 MSI Titan and Raider in Steel Nomad as well. In-game, MSI was top dog across FHD and QHD+ benchmarks in all but Shadow of the Tomb Raider where the Raider just nudged it out the way. I managed to get Cyberpunk 2077 running at 212fps with Frame Generation on, while also bumping Super Resolution up to Quality.

Since I first reviewed this gaming laptop, the 2025 MSI Raider has overtaken it in sheer performance, and the RTX 5080 MSI Vector I tested also gave it something to consider. Still, the Scar 18 balances its power with additional features better than MSI's rigs.

Read more: Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 (2025) review

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The most powerful gaming laptop we've tested

The MSI Raider A18 A9W broke records as the most powerful gaming laptop I've tested yet. At launch it was the only gaming laptop to pair the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D processor with an RTX 5090, and it does so while also upgrading your SSD to a Gen 5 as well. That's all pretty rare, and it makes for a super-fast, if super-expensive, machine. There are some caveats to that hype, though.

The MSI Raider still packs a plastic chassis, despite charging more than last year's aluminum Titan model. That's a little disappointing, especially considering I experienced notable flexing in the main deck. Considering my test device would have cost well over $5,000, that's an oversight.

We've still got a gorgeous 4K Mini LED panel that makes everything from Doom: The Dark Ages to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle shine its brightest during my testing. MSI didn't opt for the dual-mode display you'll find on a Razer Blade 18, though, which means everyone is stuck on that 120Hz refresh rate - not great news for more competitive players.

If you're going solo, the size, depth, and detail in this screen are still a sight to behold - and the refresh rate isn't going to hold you back much at 4K anyway.

It more than makes up for its shortfalls once it gets going. I was able to benchmark at much higher rates than ever before. Even taking some odd Shadow of the Tomb Raider results out of the equation, the Raider's use of the RTX 5090 put it at the top of my testing pool across FHD and QHD benchmarks, and it blitzed the competition in 3D Mark's synthetic runs. Needless to say, that AMD processor sits proudly at the top of my PC Mark 10 data set as well.

Since the release of the MSI Raider A18 A9W, the MSI Raider 16 Max has shuffled onto the scene as well. This is a QHD option, leaving 4K to its larger sibling, but with a 300W power setting it gets pretty close to the A18's benchmarks in a smaller 16-inch form factor. That may well be a better option for those who still want the flexibility of travel.

Read more: MSI Raider A18 HX A9W review

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How I test gaming laptops

I live, work, play, stream, and browse on every gaming laptop that passes my desk for a minimum of two weeks. That allows me to assess its build quality, portability, display features, keyboard and trackpad, port selection, and form factor in a real-world setting as if it was being popped straight into your setup. For this reason, I use every laptop both by itself and as part of a larger monitor system (via a Razer USB 4 docking station).

I rate gaming laptops based on their design, features, and performance - and each section requires its own tests and real-world experiences.

The design of a laptop incorporates everything from its aesthetic (and how well it will blend into non-gaming scenarios) to build quality (its materials, any wobbles around the hinges, flexibility in the screen or base plate, and any creaking or rattling internally). In the world of gaming laptops, portability also plays a large role so I make sure to take each machine out with me for a series of coffee shop crawls, or a longer travel distance during my testing period.

The specific features I test are the display (brightness, clarity, color range, sharpness, speed), keyboard (size, balance, typing feel, placement), webcam, port selection (and placement), configuration options, trackpad, and onboard software options. All of these elements aren't just reviewed as a whole package, but directly compared against similarly priced competitors to understand each machine's value proposition as well.

Then we get to the all-important performance category. Every gaming laptop that I review is stress-tested against a series of benchmarking processes and everyday use. I run a standardised series of performance tests on each rig, benchmarking on both High and Ultra / Highest across:

• Shadow of the Tomb Raider
• Total War: Three Kingdoms (Battle)
• Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
• Cyberpunk 2077

Each of these benchmarks is carried out in FHD and QHD resolutions, as well as UHD where available, and run three times. The final score is reflective of the average of these runs.

I then test the GPUs inside these gaming laptops against 3DMark Fire Strike, Steel Nomad, and Time Spy.

Read more about how we find the best tech with the full Hardware Policy and find out exactly how we test gaming laptops.

Also tested

I'm always reviewing new gaming laptops, but only the very best make it to the top list above. You'll find all the most recent gaming laptop benchmark scores just below, and more information on each model further down.

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Latest news

The biggest gaming laptop story from the last month comes from Nvidia. The brand announced their long-rumored Spark SoC at Computex, looking to bring gaming performance to all-in-one integrated systems in the Fall of 2026. Nvidia states that the chip will have roughly the performance of an RTX 5070 mobile GPU, running games at 100fps in QHD (depending on the application). Of course, that's to be taken with a pinch of salt.

The Arm-based system uses 6,144 CUDA cores in its Blackwell GPU with a 20-core custom-built MediaTek CPU. It will begin shipping in Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and MSI laptops later this year.

What does it mean for your next gaming laptop? Right now, not much.

These chips are designed to turn productivity laptops into competent gaming machines, not improve upon existing high-end dedicated graphics. These rigs are also likely to be incredibly expensive at launch, though full pricing will depend on the brand and nothing has been announced.

In all likelihood, Nvidia's Spark will only impact your next gaming laptop if you've got the budget for a high-end ultrabook and the need for a true all-in-one hybrid.

How to find the best gaming laptop for you

Gaming laptops come in all shapes and sizes these days, with a massive range of configuration options, display technologies, and price tags to contend with. I've bought my fair share of machines over the years, and there are always three factors that make up the majority of my decision-making; size, specs, and display.

Size matters

Gaming laptops come in three sizes nowadays; 14-inch for those after a lightweight, portable design, 18-inch for a full desktop replacement, and 16-inch for a well-rounded performer that can still travel when needed. It's easy to see why 16-inch laptops reign supreme, taking over from the 15.6-inch models of yore to become the most popular gaming laptop form factor on the market.

In general, I'd recommend most players aim for this happy medium. An 18-inch device is a real strain on the back if you need to take it on the go (if it will even fit into a conventional backpack) and a 14-inch model can sacrifice power in the name of a slimmer form factor while carrying a similar price. However, if you know you're looking for a chunkier device that won't need to be moved or a work laptop that needs to keep up with you day to day, each extreme certainly has its place.

Under the hood

Your decision will mostly come down to your graphics card and processor - though, helpfully, finding the right GPU will often land you with the right CPU in the first place.

An RTX 4050 / RTX 5050 rig is designed for lighter players who might want to tinker through some less demanding games while primarily using their laptop for work or streaming. These rigs are likely to come with cheaper Ultra 5 or Ryzen 5 processors, but can also pack an Ultra 7 or Ryzen 7 punch as well. You'll usually find 16GB RAM and 512GB - 1TB of storage space included.

I would move up to an RTX 5060 if you're looking to play more demanding games, but don't necessarily need three-figure framerates - especially in QHD+ resolutions. This is the start of the mass market, most players will either find themselves with an RTX 5060 or 5070 rig - but sticking to the lower version might keep you from smooth rates on more demanding games in the years to come. You'll usually be opting for an Ultra 7 or Ryzen 7 processor here, with 16GB or 32GB RAM and 1TB of storage space.

The RTX 5070 is the most popular GPU range in a gaming laptop - and it's generally where I start my search when pricing up new machines. When I set out to find the best value GPU upgrade for a gaming laptop, the upgrade from the RTX 5060 to the RTX 5070 made the most sense from a price-performance perspective, especially when taking sales into account. While the RTX 5080 below offers a greater overall leap in performance class-to-class, these machines are stuck at a $2,000+ ground floor which means they don't offer as much value.

You're getting enough juice to bump things up to 1600p comfortably, though you might need to make some textural tweaks to run heavier games at Ultra settings. I'd recommend most players stick to an Intel Ultra 7 or 9 processor to keep the value right here, with 32GB RAM and 1TB - 2TB of storage space.

An RTX 5080 gaming laptop is going to see you through QHD+ gaming at ultra settings pretty comfortably - even in more demanding games. This is the start of high-end, and as high as I would recommend most casual players go. These machines are starting to drop their price tags a little now, but can still feel like a larger investment - especially if you take up the Ultra 9 / Ryzen 9 processors, 32 - 64GB RAM, and 2TB+ SSD opportunities that start opening up here.

I wouldn't recommend the majority of players concern themselves with RTX 5090 gaming laptops just yet. There's a performance jump for sure, you'll be outputting in 4K with much more ease, and QHD+ gameplay will feel like a breeze. However, these are premium machines, reserved for those with over $3,000 to spend. They're worth saving for if you want to future-proof yourself, but unless you're streaming or playing hardcore titles regularly you'll find better value further down the price range.

All about that display

The majority of mid-range gaming laptops ship with QLED+ resolutions in a 16:10 aspect ratio, with a 240Hz refresh rate. That's the gold standard for right now, but there are reasons to deviate from the norm. For example many rigs, particularly those from Alienware, can drop you resolution back down to FHD+ in exchange for faster panels (up to 480Hz in some cases).

That's a screen designed for competitive eSports-style gamers, rather than everyday adventurers, though. On the flip side, you'll find more OLED and 4K panels on the shelves these days - these give you a better viewing experience overall but at the cost of speed. While some brands like Razer have managed to bump their OLED screens up to 240Hz, you'll more likely find these screens at 120Hz max.

It's important to consider how you play when choosing your screen - whether you want to prioritize fidelity or speed. The QHD+ 240Hz option is so popular because it strikes the perfect balance between the two.

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Gaming laptops glossary

• AMD: AMD is a brand that develops a wide range of processors and graphics cards for business and gaming laptops.
• Chassis: The term chassis relates to the main body of the laptop, housing the components under the keyboard and the back of the lid.
• CPU / Processor: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) or Processor is the central component of a gaming laptop, completing instructions and operations across the machine. Intel and AMD are the leading manufacturers of processors, with Core and Ryzen product lines respectively.
• DisplayPort: DisplayPort is a port found on many gaming laptops, offering the ability to connect your machine to an external monitor. Unlike HDMI, DisplayPort allows for multiple displays to be connected through a single port, however is not compatible with anything other than monitors and computers. The latest version of DisplayPort is 2.1.
• Ethernet: Ethernet is the term given to both the port and cable used to connect your gaming laptop to the internet via a wire. Rather than using a less reliable WiFi connection, hardwiring your machine into your router can be faster and offer lower latencies.
• Fire Strike: Fire Strike is a graphics and physics test within the 3D Mark suite of benchmarks. We use Fire Strike to stress test the processor and graphics card, returning a figure as the result. The higher the number, the better the score.
• FPS (Frames Per Second): Frames per second refers to the number of frames that are displayed on a screen every second. This is a handy way to measure the speed and fluidity of the graphics on your gaming laptop. Most titles run smoothly at 30fps, however faster action titles are better enjoyed at 60fps and up. Competitive esports-level framerates are often over 100fps.
• GPU / Graphics Card: The GPU is responsible for the graphics your gaming laptop is capable of reproducing. AMD and Nvidia produce the majority of graphics cards found in today's gaming laptops, offering a range of different performance levels and prices.
• HDMI: HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and is the primary connection method used to link a computer to an external monitor, TV, or projector. The latest HDMI version is 2.1.
• Intel: Intel is one of the leading producers of processors in both business and gaming laptops.
• Nvidia: Nvidia is a brand best known in the gaming laptop space for producing graphics cards. The company's GeForce RTX GPUs are the most popular on the market right now.
• Nvidia G-Sync: Nvidia G-Sync is similar to AMD FreeSync (see above), and used to reduce screen tearing and stuttering during fast moving games. G-Sync is designed for use with Nvidia graphics cards, however.
• OLED: OLED displays are gathering momentum in the world of gaming laptops, offering an alternative to traditional LED screens. An OLED panel is able to produce better color contrasts and higher brightness.
• PC Mark 10: PC Mark 10 is a benchmarking software designed to test the power of a PC in a productivity setting. The program runs a series of mock work scenarios to test efficiency and processing performance, resulting in a single number response. The higher the number, the better the result.
• RAM: RAM stands for Random Access Memory, and allows your computer to streamline its efficiency in running tasks. The more RAM you have, the more space your gaming laptop has to keep required data easily accessible (and therefore recalled faster).
• Refresh Rate: Refresh rate in the context of gaming laptops generally refers to the speed at which the display refreshes the picture. A higher refresh rate provides smoother motion, which is required for faster paced titles. Gaming laptops today generally offer at least 120Hz refresh rates, but can move up to 360Hz.
• Resolution: The resolution of your screen is the number of pixels on the display. This is usually split into HD (1920 x 1080 or 1080p), QHD (2560 x 1440 or 1440p), or UHD (3840 x 2160 or 4K), however different screen proportions can bend these definitions a little - you may see QHD+ resolutions listed on a screen that isn't exactly 16:9 in dimensions (the standard for displays that these resolution numbers were based off).
• RGB: RGB refers to the lighting often found on gaming laptops, particularly in the keyboard. The term RGB denotes a range of colors rather than limiting backlighting to a single color.
• SSD: An SSD (or Solid State Drive) is the primary format of storage used in today's gaming laptops. It's faster than an HDD but is more expensive, which means you'll generally find SSD space tapping out at 1TB if you're browsing under $2,000.
• Thunderbolt: A Thunderbolt port uses the same design as USB-C but a vastly different experience overall. Machines incorporate Thunderbolt to allow faster data transfer and charging speeds as well as connecting multiple devices via a single cable. The latest version is Thunderbolt 5.
• Time Spy: Time Spy is another DirectX test for the performance of a graphics card inside your gaming laptop, similar to Fire Strike.
• USB Type-A: USB Type-A ports are standard USB connections used by the majority of external devices and are characterized by their larger square shape compared to the smaller USB-C.
• USB Type-C: USB Type-C is a newer connection type for adding external devices, shaped in a smaller, more rounded port style. USB-C can be used for power delivery if the port on your laptop accepts this feature, but is generally used for the same inputs as USB-A.
• Vapor Chamber Cooling: Vapor Chamber Cooling is a relatively new method of keeping a gaming laptop's temperature down so that it can perform at its best. Rather than solely using air vents and fans, vapor chamber cooling relies on a liquid cooling system to distribute heat more effectively.

Best gaming laptops: FAQs

If you're after something more permanent, check out the best gaming PCs we've tested so far, or the best gaming handhelds to maximize portability.

TMR controllers are here to stay, and I couldn't be happier. I've been watching this advanced type of thumbstick module go from a fringe adoption by a couple of trend-setting pads to the new gold standard of PC controllers. As we continue into 2026, these controllers are going to be the most highly coveted, and there will no doubt be an influx of new TMR rivals on the way, so I thought it'd be a great time to pull together a leaderboard of the best ones so far.

The best gaming controllers for the last couple of years have almost certainly sported Hall sensor thumbsticks, so let's back up a minute. What are TMR thumbsticks? Well, Hall sensors may have made a name for themselves by being immune to stick drift, but that's really just a side effect of what makes them so great. Hall technology uses tiny electromagnets to measure your inputs, which is much more accurate than a traditional potentiometer that wears down over time. TMR sticks take things even further, giving you a much greater resolution of inputs, as well as faster polling speeds.

Aiming and moving in a video game while using a TMR controller feels supercharged. Every nuanced twitch and adjustment can be picked up, and that gives these controllers so much potential. While I do believe there's a "right" controller out there for everyone based on their unique budget and needs, I've thrown together my subjective power rankings for the TMR controllers I'd recommend right now. You may disagree with my order, and if you do, that's okay, as long as we can agree that TMR controllers are undoubtedly the future. Before you dive in, if you want a feel for how I've gone about testing these controllers, head down to the "how I tested" section near the bottom.

The quick list