Cloud gaming is a growing alternative to traditional gaming, and this guide breaks down how it works, who it’s for, and which services are worth trying.

In recent years, cloud gaming has seen tremendous growth, offering a flexible alternative to traditional gaming setups. In this article, we break down how cloud gaming works, who it’s best suited for, and how today’s leading services compare, each with its own strengths and trade-offs.

What Is Cloud Gaming?

At its core, cloud gaming is about running a video game on a server located in a data center, rather than on the user’s local device. The game is streamed as video to the screen, while inputs, such as keyboard presses or gamepad movements, are sent back to the server in real time.

This setup allows demanding video games to run on lower-end hardware like laptops without a dedicated GPU, smartphones, or tablets. All that’s required is a stable internet connection.

Key Advantages of Cloud Gaming

Cloud gaming offers several notable benefits:

• Cost savingsNo need for a high-end PC or console. A monthly subscription can grant access to high-performance gaming without the upfront hardware expense.
• Versatility across devicesGames can be played on laptops, smartphones, TVs, and even Chromebooks – virtually any screen with a browser or app support.
• MobilityPlayers are not tied to a single device or location. As long as there’s stable connectivity, gaming is possible at home, while traveling, or even from a vacation rental.
• Access to large game catalogsMany platforms offer curated libraries or support for major distribution platforms like Steam and Epic Games Store. Users can stream games they already own or explore new titles.
• Discovery of new gamesSubscription-based models and platform recommendations make it easy to try different genres without committing to full-price purchases.

Popular Cloud Gaming Services

Boosteroid

Boosteroid is the largest independent cloud gaming platform globally and is not owned by a large tech corporation or investment fund. With over 6.8 million users and 27 server locations worldwide, including recent expansions in the U.S., Brazil, and European states – its footprint continues to grow.

The service allows users to play games they already own from stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Battle.net. It supports 4K resolution and 120 FPS without additional cost, and since May 2025, it has begun adopting the AV1 codec to deliver better visual quality over lower bandwidth connections.

Boosteroid works via browser or through dedicated apps for Windows, macOS, Android, Linux, and smart TVs. iOS is supported via Safari or other browsers.

Pros:

• Over 1,200 supported titles, including major AAA games
• No session time limits or monthly hour limits
• Global infrastructure optimized for low-latency performance
• As of May, 2025 – Support for AV1
• 4K, and 120 FPS
• Works on almost any device
• Independent and not tied to a console ecosystem

Cons:

• No manual server selection

GeForce NOW

GeForce NOW by NVIDIA is ideal for players who already own games on platforms like Steam, Epic Games, or Ubisoft Connect. It streams supported games from users’ libraries without the need to repurchase them.

The platform offers a free tier with wait times and limited quality, as well as paid plans with RTX-enabled servers and higher performance. The top-tier plan includes access to RTX 4080-class hardware and 4K/120 FPS support.

GeForce NOW supports nearly all devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and Shield TV.

Pros:

• High performance, even on modest hardware
• Supports large existing game libraries
• Multi-tier pricing, including a free option
• 4K and ray tracing in premium plans
• Availability of a free plan for 

Cons:

• Free plan includes wait times and limited features
• Time limits apply to both free and paid plans
• Limit on the number of monthly sessions for free users

Xbox Cloud Gaming (Game Pass Ultimate)

Xbox Cloud Gaming is Microsoft’s cloud offering and is included in the Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Instead of linking external game stores, it offers access to over 100 games from Microsoft’s own catalog, including first-party titles on launch day.

It’s available via browser, app, or Xbox console, and integrates seamlessly with the broader Xbox ecosystem.

Pros:

• Game Pass library access with one subscription
• Cross-device syncing and progress continuity
• Strong integration with Xbox and Windows devices

Cons:

• Does not support third-party libraries (e.g., Steam, Epic)
• Resolution currently limited to 1080p

Amazon Luna

Amazon Luna features a modular subscription model based on themed “channels,” such as Luna+, Ubisoft+, or Family. Each channel has its own pricing and collection of titles.

Luna supports Windows, macOS, Android, iOS (via browser), and Fire TV. It is especially appealing to casual players and families looking for simplicity and curated content.

Pros:

• Flexible channel-based subscription options
• Integrated with Prime Gaming for occasional free titles
• Wide device support, including smart TVs

Cons:

• No 4K streaming (capped at 1080p)
• Smaller game catalog compared to other platforms
• Limited availability in some regions

What to Consider When Choosing a Cloud Gaming Service

• Existing game libraryIf the user owns games on Steam or Epic, Boosteroid and GeForce NOW are good fits.
• Subscription-based accessFor users who prefer not to buy individual titles, Xbox Cloud Gaming and Amazon Luna provide full libraries for a monthly fee.
• Device compatibilityIt’s important to confirm that the service supports the intended device. Some platforms require external controllers or don’t function well on touchscreens.
• Server proximityPerformance improves significantly when servers are geographically closer. Boosteroid, for example, connects users to the nearest server automatically but does not allow manual selection.
• Internet stabilityStable, low-latency connections matter more than raw speed. Wired or high-quality Wi-Fi is recommended.

Final Thoughts

Cloud gaming continues to grow as a viable alternative to traditional hardware setups. While it may not yet replace local gaming for every player, its advantages, like low cost, mobility, and flexibility –make it an appealing option for many.

Whether someone wants to play from a smartphone, explore a new game catalog, or repurpose an old laptop, there’s likely a cloud gaming service that fits. As the technology improves and infrastructure expands, cloud gaming is moving from compromise to serious contender.

In recent years, the intersection of blockchain technology and the gaming industry has created a fascinating new paradigm that is reshaping how players perceive value in their gaming experiences. The fluctuations in Ethereum price have influenced this evolving ecosystem, as many digital collectibles operate on this blockchain network. Digital collectibles, represented as non-fungible tokens (NFTs), have emerged as a significant factor influencing not only in-game economies but also the physical and digital equipment used by gamers worldwide.

The Evolution of Digital Ownership

This transformation from traditional to blockchain-based ownership represents one of the most significant shifts in gaming history.

Traditional gaming has always featured collectible elements—rare items, special character skins, and unique weapons that players cherish. However, these digital assets historically existed solely within their native gaming environments, with no standardized way to prove ownership beyond the game’s ecosystem.

The introduction of blockchain technology has transformed this landscape by enabling true digital ownership. Now, gaming equipment and digital assets can be tokenized, allowing players to verifiably own unique digital items that exist independently of any single gaming platform.

How NFTs Change Gaming Equipment Value

Hardware Integration

The rising popularity of digital collectibles has influenced the development of gaming hardware. Manufacturers are now designing equipment with built-in functionality to interact with blockchain networks. This integration includes specialized storage solutions for digital wallets, enhanced security features, and optimized performance capabilities for blockchain-enabled games.

These technological adaptations add a premium to gaming equipment, as devices capable of seamlessly interfacing with digital collectible ecosystems offer additional utility beyond traditional gaming experiences.

Peripheral Enhancements

Beyond core computing hardware, gaming peripherals have also evolved to accommodate the digital collectible revolution. Controllers, headsets, and other accessories now come with features specifically designed to enhance interaction with digital assets. Some include authentication mechanisms that allow players to securely access their digital collections, while others incorporate display capabilities to showcase owned collectibles.

Virtual Reality and Digital Display

The rise of digital collectibles has accelerated development in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) equipment. These technologies provide immersive environments where players can showcase and interact with their digital collections in three-dimensional space. The ability to physically “walk through” a gallery of owned digital assets has created a new demand for VR equipment, further influencing the market value of these gaming peripherals.

Digital Identity and Equipment Personalization

Custom Hardware Identities

Digital collectibles have enabled a new form of equipment personalization where hardware devices can have their own unique digital identities. Gaming systems can now be associated with specific blockchain-verified signatures, creating a provenance record for the equipment itself. This development has introduced a new dimension of value to gaming hardware as the history and authenticity of devices become traceable and verifiable.

Integrated Display Systems

Monitor and display manufacturers have responded to the digital collectible trend by developing systems optimized for showcasing NFT art and gaming assets. These specialized displays often feature enhanced color accuracy, improved resolution, and custom modes designed specifically for digital asset visualization. As players increasingly value the presentation of their digital collections, these display solutions command premium pricing in the gaming equipment market.

The Intersection of Physical and Digital Value

Bundled Offerings

A notable trend in the gaming equipment market is the bundling of physical hardware with digital collectibles. Limited edition gaming systems now frequently include exclusive digital assets that are tied to the specific hardware unit purchased. This practice creates a symbiotic relationship between physical and digital value, where the worth of each component is enhanced by its connection to the other.

Authentication and Provenance

The technology underlying digital collectibles has also influenced how authenticity is verified for physical gaming equipment. Manufacturers now leverage blockchain systems to create tamper-proof records of production, ownership history, and technical specifications for premium gaming hardware. This authentication capability adds a layer of trust and value to high-end gaming equipment, particularly in secondary markets.

Looking Ahead: Equipment Evolution

Adaptive Hardware Systems

The future of gaming equipment appears increasingly intertwined with digital collectible ecosystems. Emerging technologies suggest the development of adaptive hardware that can physically transform based on owned digital assets. This could include modular components that reconfigure according to in-game achievements or aesthetics that dynamically change to reflect digital collectible ownership.

Energy and Performance Considerations

As gaming equipment continues to evolve alongside digital collectible technology, important considerations around energy efficiency and performance optimization remain at the forefront. The industry continues to balance the computational demands of blockchain interaction with environmental responsibility and user experience.

Look, I’ll be honest – I didn’t set out to become a portable monitor expert. It just kinda happened after I blew way too much money on my first gaming laptop and couldn’t afford a proper setup. Three years and four portable monitors later, I’ve learned some painful lessons about what works and what doesn’t when you’re gaming on a budget.

If you’re an indie game fan like me (hello, fellow person with excellent taste but limited funds!), finding an affordable portable monitor that doesn’t suck is weirdly complicated. So let me save you from making the same expensive mistakes I did.

The Broke Gamer’s Dilemma

Here’s the thing about being an indie gamer -we’re already saving money on the games themselves (thank god for Steam sales), but then we need somewhere decent to play them. And if you’re constantly moving between your parents’ house, your cramped apartment, and your partner’s place like I was last year, portability becomes really important.

I started this journey thinking, “How different can these monitors really be?” OH BOY was I wrong. Price doesn’t always equal quality, and some features matter WAY more than others. My first portable monitor was a $89 special from Amazon that had terrible viewing angles and died after 3 months. Lesson learned.

What Actually Matters When You’re Broke But Still Want Good Gaming

After much trial and error (and one particularly bad purchase after a late-night “I deserve this” shopping session), here’s what I’ve found actually matters:

Display Quality:

This is non-negotiable, even on a budget. Bad color reproduction makes those gorgeous indie game art styles look flat and lifeless. My second monitor made Hollow Knight look like it was underwater – all washed out and blue-tinted. Not cool. If you’re looking for a reliable display, consider checking out some high-quality computer monitors that offer great visuals for both desktop and portable gaming setups.”

Refresh Rate:

I used to think this was just marketing nonsense until I tried a 120Hz monitor after using a 60Hz one. The difference is REAL, especially in games with lots of movement. Even pixel platformers feel smoother. If you can stretch your budget for one premium feature, make it this one. For those who prioritize refresh rates, a 144 Hz gaming monitor is a great choice, especially if you want a smooth and responsive experience on a portable monitor.

Portability:

Weight matters more than you think! My first “portable” monitor was nearly 4 pounds, which doesn’t sound like much until you’re carrying it in your backpack all day. Now I won’t consider anything over 2 pounds. My shoulders have thanked me.

Connectivity:

Make sure it works with your actual devices! I bought a monitor that needed HDMI only to discover my new laptop only had USB-C. Cue me panic-ordering adapters before a weekend gaming session at my friend’s place. Not my proudest moment.

The Monitors That Actually Worked For Me

After much trial and error (emphasis on ERROR), here are the portable monitors that didn’t make me regret my life choices:

1. UPERFECT 2K 120Hz Portable Gaming Monitor

This 16-inch monitor with a 2560×1600 resolution is my current daily driver. At $189 (when I caught it on sale), it wasn’t the cheapest option, but it’s been worth every penny.

The HDR support makes indie games look INCREDIBLE – Ori and the Will of the Wisps literally made me stop and stare at the scenery instead of actually playing. The 120Hz refresh rate makes everything feel smooth, and it’s slim enough to fit in my already-overstuffed backpack.

One weird thing: the built-in speakers are surprisingly decent. I mean, they’re not going to blow you away, but they’re actually usable when you forget your headphones (which I do approximately twice a week).

2. ASUS ROG Strix XG17

OK, so this one is pushing the definition of “budget” at around $299, but hear me out. I didn’t buy this – my roommate did, and I’ve “borrowed” it enough times to have opinions.

The 17.3-inch screen with a 240Hz refresh rate is honestly overkill for most indie games, but WOW does it make everything look smooth.

The built-in battery is the real MVP though – about 3 hours of gaming without needing to be plugged in. Perfect for those coffee shop gaming sessions where all the outlets are taken by people pretending to write screenplays.

3. G-Story GSV56QM

This was my “compromise” monitor after the cheap Amazon one died. At $159, it has a 15.6-inch 1080p display with a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time.

The anti-glare coating is CLUTCH if you game in weird lighting situations like I do (shoutout to the weirdly bright overhead lights in my girlfriend’s apartment). The colors aren’t quite as vibrant as the UPERFECT, but they’re solid, and the high refresh rate makes platformers feel super responsive.

My only complaint is that the stand is kind of flimsy – it wobbles if you bump the table. I ended up 3D printing a better stand at my university’s lab (one of the few perks of being a perpetual student).

Real Questions From My Discord Friends

Do these actually work with my Switch/PlayStation/whatever?

Most portable monitors have HDMI inputs, so yes! I’ve used mine with my Switch, my friend’s PS5, and even hooked it up to a Raspberry Pi for some retro gaming. Just check the inputs before buying.

The Switch is especially perfect for portable monitors since it’s already designed for on-the-go gaming. Just remember that some games have tiny text that can be hard to read on smaller screens (looking at you, Disco Elysium).

Does refresh rate really matter for indie games?

I thought it wouldn’t, but it actually does! Even 2D platformers benefit from higher refresh rates – the motion just feels smoother. Games like Dead Cells and Hades feel much more responsive at 120Hz+.

That said, for turn-based games or visual novels, you can totally save money and stick with 60 Hz. My friend plays nothing but Slay the Spire, and she’s perfectly happy with her basic 60Hz monitor.

Can I use these as my main gaming display?

I did for about 8 months when I was between apartments and living on my friend’s couch (long story, involved a bad breakup and a flooded apartment). It’s doable, but not ideal for marathon gaming sessions.

The smaller screen size means you’ll be sitting closer, which can cause eye strain during long sessions. And the built-in stands aren’t usually adjustable enough for perfect ergonomics. But in a pinch? Absolutely workable.

Final Thoughts From Someone Who’s Wasted Too Much Money

Finding the best budget portable gaming monitors for indie games is all about prioritizing what actually matters for the types of games you play. For me, that’s color accuracy, refresh rate, and actually being portable enough to toss in a backpack.

The UPERFECT 2K 120Hz hits the sweet spot for me, but your needs might be different. Just please, PLEASE don’t buy the cheapest option on Amazon like I did. In the future, you will be annoyed at current you.

And remember – a good portable monitor makes those beautiful indie game art styles really pop. After all, if you’re going to spend hours staring at Hollow Knight’s gorgeous hand-drawn world, it should at least look how the developers intended!