Acer’s Bold Move: Introducing the Nitro Blaze Gaming Handhelds
At CES 2025, Acer has taken a giant leap in the world of gaming handhelds with the unveiling of two new devices. Emphasizing the idea that bigger might indeed be better, Acer has introduced the Nitro Blaze 11, a gaming handheld that is pushing boundaries with its massive 10.95-inch display.
The Nitro Blaze 11 is not just about size; it packs impressive power under the hood. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS processor, this CPU, typically found in laptops, pairs with an integrated AMD Radeon 780M graphics unit. With 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and storage options reaching up to an expansive 2TB, this device promises to deliver exceptional performance.
One standout feature of the Nitro Blaze 11 is its weight—over 1kg (2.3 pounds), putting it in the same league as carrying two iPad Airs. However, Acer has smartly designed the controllers to be detachable, similar to those on the Nintendo Switch or Lenovo Legion Go. This allows users to convert the handheld into a tablet with an external controller for more versatility.
Running on Windows 11 complemented by Acer’s gaming hub, the device includes a robust 55Wh battery. Connectivity options are plentiful with two USB-C ports (one supporting USB 4), a USB Type-A port, and a microSD slot. The screen’s resolution goes up to an impressive 2560×1600, with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
“The Nitro Blaze series redefines portable gaming, offering both power and flexibility,”
{Acer Representative}
Acer also caters to those seeking a more compact option with the Nitro Blaze 8. It features an 8.8-inch display with a higher refresh rate of 144Hz. While it shares the same technical specifications as its larger sibling, note that its controllers are fixed.
- Nitro Blaze 11: $1,099
- Nitro Blaze 8: $899
Both devices are expected to hit the shelves in the second quarter of 2025, offering gamers diverse options based on their preferences for size and portability.
