Highlights
- Sony's latest handheld device, the PlayStation Portal, is set to release on November 15th, 2023, retailing for $199.99.
- The PlayStation Portal allows users to stream PlayStation 5 games directly to its 8-inch 1080p LCD screen, incorporating the advanced technology of the DualSense controller.
- While the PlayStation Portal is limited to requiring a Wi-Fi connection and a PlayStation 5, it offers a unique solution for gamers wanting to play PS5 games with haptic feedback and adaptive triggers on the go.
First announced during March 2023's PlayStation Showcase as Project Q, Sony's latest handheld device is quickly becoming a real product that gamers can get there hands on later this year. Officially renamed the PlayStation Portal in August, this exclusively remote play device will retail for $199.99 and be available on November 15th, 2023.
The elevator pitch for this device is that it's a DualSense controller with a screen in the middle that can have games streamed directly to it from your PlayStation 5 console at home.
PlayStation Portal
While not exactly a PSP successor, the PlayStation Portal solves an age-old issue of having to share one TV in a household. This remote play device allows users to stream whatever is happening on their PlayStation 5's directly to the large 8-inch 1080p LCD screen. What makes the PlayStation Portal unique is that it comes packed with all the advanced technology of the DualSense wireless controller, such as adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. One downside is that it doesn't feature Bluetooth support for wireless audio, but it does work with the PlayStation Pulse earbuds and headset, while also sporting a 3.5mm audio jack for wired audio.
- Brand
- PlayStation
- Headset Compatibility
- 3.5mm, PlayStation Link
- Display
- 8-inch LCD
- Output resolution
- 1080p
PlayStation is no stranger to remote play as the PlayStation Vita was able to stream PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 games to the decade old handheld. In recent years, they have expanded to non-Playstation devices such as PC cloud streaming and smartphone remote play. One of the best ways to currently play PlayStation 5 games while not near a console is with the Backbone One controller for iPhone and Android devices. This retractable controller snaps onto the sides of any phone and transforms it into a make shift SteamDeck.
However, what separates the PlayStation Portal from those methods of remote play is that it includes the power of the DualSense wireless controller into the portables grips. When streaming PlayStation 5 games to a smartphone, no vibration feedback gets sent through the airwaves. With the PlayStation Portal, all those haptic vibrations and adaptive trigger features get sent over. A very cool solution for people looking to get the most out of their next generation hardware while also being away from their TV.
Sony PlayStation 5
The Sony PlayStation 5 console is one of the most popular gaming machines currently with a fast SSD, a custom AMD APU, and 16GB of GDDR6 console memory, making it one of the best options on the market. It also happens to have a surprising number of console exclusives and currently trades at a discount at multiple retailers nationwide.
- 4K Capabilities
- Yes, Up to 4K 120Hz
- Power Source
- AC Power
- What's Included
- Console, HDMI Cable, Controller, A/C Power, Stand, Documentation
- Brand
- Sony PlayStation
- Processing Power
- Up to 10.3 TFLOPS
- Storage
- 825GB
- CPU
- Custom 8-Core Zen 2
- Battery
- Built-in with the controller
- Weight
- 12 pounds
- RAM
- 16GB GDDR6
The main thing to know about the PlayStation Portal is that it's very limited in its capabilities. Without a Wi-Fi connection or a PlayStation 5, there isn't anything to do with this device.
For those looking for a handheld gaming experience that isn't tethered to a Wi-Fi connection, and has more battery life, consider picking up a Nintendo Switch Lite or a SteamDeck. Both options offer local play and are ready to go out of the box with no other hardware needed.