Handheld Gaming PC Storage Upgrades: A Complete Guide

The handheld gaming PC market has transformed dramatically since the Steam Deck's arrival, bringing powerful portable computing to the mainstream. While devices from manufacturers like Ayaneo and GPD have existed for years, the current renaissance has refined the category significantly.

Storage expansion represents one of the most common upgrades users consider. While microSD cards offer simple capacity increases, upgrading to a faster SSD requires opening the device—a process that varies dramatically between manufacturers.

Some handhelds welcome user serviceability with thoughtful design, while others make the process unnecessarily complex. Understanding these differences helps users make informed purchasing decisions and prepares them for potential upgrades.

Before attempting any internal modifications, proper preparation is essential. Working in a static-free environment should be the foundation of any upgrade attempt, as electrostatic discharge can permanently damage sensitive components.

Users in arid climates should consider wearing an antistatic wrist strap for additional protection. The author notes that while living in New York provides natural humidity that reduces static concerns, caution remains the better approach everywhere.

There's nothing worse than going to reassemble a device, only to forget which screw goes where.

Organization proves critical during reassembly. These handhelds use relatively few screw types, but keeping them sorted prevents frustrating mix-ups. The most important safety rule involves battery disconnection:

• Always disconnect battery from motherboard first
• Work in static-controlled environments
• Keep screws organized and labeled
• Handle ribbon cables with extreme care
• Never force components during disassembly

The MSI Claw 8 AI+ emerges as the clear winner for serviceability, despite software limitations that have been noted elsewhere. Its design philosophy prioritizes user access above all else.

Accessing the SSD requires only removing the back screws and prying off the panel. The drive sits immediately accessible with no cables blocking the path and no additional screws to remove. Simply unscrew the M.2 retention screw, remove the old drive, and insert the new one.

The device uses M.2 2230 drives—compact modules that fit into tight spaces. While these drives may be marginally slower than larger alternatives, the difference remains negligible for gaming performance. The combination of accessibility and standard components makes this the most user-friendly option.

Both the Asus ROG Ally X and its successor, the Xbox Ally X, offer excellent ergonomics despite smaller screens. Their external designs differ significantly—the Xbox model features distinctive controller protrusions—but their internal architecture shares common DNA.

The ROG Ally X requires removing six back screws, three of which are captive and won't fall out completely. The Xbox Ally X uses a similar approach with five back screws plus three along the bottom edge. Once these are removed, the back panel separates from the main body.

Critical warning: a tiny ribbon cable connects the motherboard to the back panel, likely powering rear paddle buttons. Yanking the panel off will rip this cable. Once past this hurdle, the full-sized 2280 SSD sits directly in front of the battery.

The battery cable runs tightly above the SSD, and its connector on the motherboard is extremely fragile. Careful disconnection is mandatory. However, once the battery is disconnected, the 2280 drive swaps out easily, and replacement options are abundant since these are standard laptop-sized SSDs.

The Lenovo Legion Go initially appears promising due to its removable controllers, which should simplify back panel access without risking thumbstick damage. However, the reality proves more complicated.

After removing six screws and the back panel, users encounter what resembles a traditional laptop interior. A sticker covers both the battery and SSD, requiring careful removal to expose the connecting wires. This step alone adds complexity compared to competitors.

The 2230 M.2 SSD sits beneath this barrier, but it's protected by unusual mylar tape. This tape likely prevents the adhesive sticker residue from contacting the SSD's electronics. The recommended approach involves carefully transferring this protective tape from the original drive to the replacement.

While the Legion Go offers unique features like detachable controllers and a larger display, its storage upgrade process demands patience and precision. The protective tape transfer represents an extra step that could intimidate less experienced users.

Storage upgrade difficulty varies significantly across the handheld gaming PC landscape. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ leads with its straightforward, tool-friendly design, while the Asus ROG Ally X and Xbox Ally X offer standard 2280 SSD compatibility with moderate cable management requirements.

The Lenovo Legion Go presents the most challenges, requiring sticker removal and special tape handling, though its removable controllers and larger screen may justify the extra effort for some users.

Regardless of which device you choose, remember that not everyone needs to upgrade internally. MicroSD cards provide simple, risk-free expansion for most users. For those comfortable with careful tinkering, understanding each device's unique requirements ensures successful upgrades without damaged components.