Exploring the Acer Nitro Blaze 11: An XXL Handheld Console

The PC handheld gaming market continues its expansion, ushering in the arrival of the Acer Nitro Blaze 11. Announced at CES, this device stands as the largest of its kind, sparking curiosity about its manageability. Upon testing, it does indeed fit in hand, albeit barely.

Size and Feel Comparison: Blaze 11 vs. Steam Deck OLED

To gauge its size, a Steam Deck OLED was used for comparison. Picking up the Blaze 11 can be precarious due to its expansive top and bottom edges, which require a stretch of the fingers. Despite its 2.3-pound weight, the device feels unexpectedly light, comfortable for gaming at home but potentially hazardous in bed due to its bulk.

While the Blaze 11 isn't as heavy as initially feared, the Steam Deck OLED's 1.41 pounds are notably lighter and offer a more robust feel. Though the Blaze 11 does not feel flimsy, it does seem less premium compared to its counterpart.

Gameplay and Features

Playing on the Blaze 11's expansive screen is an enjoyable experience, and its kickstand proves reliable in tablet mode when using detached controllers—a feature absent in the Steam Deck. Acer gains additional praise for incorporating Hall effect sticks and triggers in the design.

The $1,099 price point of this handheld giant will soon face competition as it launches in Q2 2025, correlating with the debut of the Lenovo Legion Go S and the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2.

The expansive screen of the Acer Nitro Blaze 11.

Size comparison between Steam Deck OLED and Blaze 11.

An ergonomic comparison shot of the Blaze 11 and the Steam Deck.

Acer's launcher running over Windows on the Blaze 11.

Features on the bottom of the Blaze 11.

Connectivity options on the top of the Blaze 11.

A comparison shot of Blaze 11 and an unidentified device.

The rear of the Blaze 11 showcasing its design.

Blaze 11 with detachable controllers.

Tablet mode of the Blaze 11.

The Blaze 11's likely primary use: home gaming.