
Phil Hayton
I’ve been messing around with PCs, video game consoles, and tech since before I could speak. Don’t get me wrong, I kickstarted my relationship with technology by jamming a Hot Wheels double-decker bus into my parent’s VCR, but we all have to start somewhere. I even somehow managed to become a walking, talking buyer’s guide at my teenage supermarket job, which helped me accept my career fate. So, rather than try to realise my musician dreams, or see out my University degree, I started running my own retro pop culture site and writing about video games and tech for the likes of TechRadar, The Daily Star, and the BBC before eventually ending up with a job covering graphics card shenanigans at PCGamesN. Now, I’m your friendly neighbourhood Hardware Editor at GamesRadar, and it’s my job to make sure you can kick butt in all your favourite games using the best gaming hardware, whether you’re a sucker for handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch or a hardcore gaming PC enthusiast.
Latest articles by Phil Hayton

My favorite 4K OLED gaming monitor is overkill for Switch 2, but I'm still itching to play Metroid Prime 4 on it
By Phil Hayton published
Deals The 32-inch LG UltraGear 32GS95UV might be geared towards PC players, but its high refresh 4K OLED abilities could be killer if paired with the Switch 2.

Nintendo says your old Switch HDMI cable "isn't compatible" with the Switch 2, but I'd argue that's not strictly true or helpful
By Phil Hayton published
News Nintendo says your old Switch HDMI cable isn't compatible with Switch 2, but since that's not strictly true, I'm here to clear things up about TV connectivity.

The best gaming handheld 2025: my top portable PC and console recommendations
By Phil Hayton last updated
Hardware Here are the best gaming handheld options in 2024, including the Nintendo Switch, portable PCs like the Steam Deck, and other systems we've put to the test.

Nintendo Switch 2 HDR explained: "how High Dynamic Range enhances the handheld's visuals"
By Phil Hayton published
Features Here's a breakdown of Switch 2 HDR and things to consider when using the feature in handheld and docked mode, including TV and monitor specs pointers.

Best PS5 external hard drives 2025: excellent portable SSD and HDD options
By Rosalie Newcombe last updated
Buying Guide We've been hands-on with all the latest storage upgrades so you can find the best PS5 external hard drive for your system.

Lenovo Legion R27qe: a solid 1440p monitor with some cost-cutting caveats
By Phil Hayton published
Review The Lenovo Legion R27qe packs nice 1440p 180Hz monitor specs for under $200, and it makes for a nice QHD jumping on point for budget players.

I'm getting a Switch 2 day one, but I still still be using my original GameCube to play all my favorite oldies
By Phil Hayton published
Features The Switch 2 might be gaining Online GameCube games, but I've got a setup that will let you upscale the retro console's library and play on modern screens.

AI upscaling explained: the DLSS sauce set to boost Switch 2 performance
By Phil Hayton last updated
Features Here's everything you need know about AI upscaling, including a break down of Nvidia DLSS, alternatives like FSR 4, and what the feature could do for Switch 2.

I'm willing to give Switch 2 mouse controls a chance, but only if they avoid the sins of the Lenovo Legion Go
By Phil Hayton published
Features Switch 2 JoyCons boast a mouse mode feature that's similar to the Lenovo Legion Go, but Ninty's new handheld will hopefully pull it off properly this time.

This one Nintendo Switch 2 dock feature could make the Steam Deck look silly
By Phil Hayton published
Features The new Switch 2 dock features a fan that will keep the handheld cool when running games at 4K, and that's something a docked Steam Deck can't pull off.

Nintendo Switch 2 vs Steam Deck: how do both gaming handhelds compare?
By Phil Hayton last updated
Nintendo Switch 2 Here's how the Nintendo Switch 2 compares to Valve's Steam Deck, including a closer look at specs, features, and games for both gaming handhelds.

The Switch 2 boasts a 1080p 120Hz display that has me more hyped for the handheld than ever
By Phil Hayton published
Features Nintendo has officially revealed Switch 2 screen specs, and I'm hyped to finally play new and old games at 1080p 120Hz on the go.

Asus just dropped what smells like an Xbox handheld teaser, but I'm already underwhelmed
By Phil Hayton published
News Yes, it's April Fools Day, but Asus has shared what looks to be a Xbox handheld teaser that feels like an improved ROG Ally X with pro controller elements.

The best PC cases 2025: the top shells to consider for your next build
By Phil Hayton last updated
Buying Guide We're running you through all the best PC case options available on the market right now, catering to all major form factors and styles.

The best gaming sound systems 2025: the top speakers for console and PC
By Phil Hayton last updated
Features Here are the best gaming sound system options for console and PC, including surround sound speakers and sound bars for your desk and living room.

This heroic retro handheld is keeping my physical gaming dreams alive and just got a last minute discount
By Phil Hayton published
Deals The Super Pocket Technos Edition just dropped under $50 thanks to Amazon's Big Spring Sale, and you've still got a few hours left to grab the retro handheld.

The best monitor for PS5 2025: high spec screens for the OG and Pro
By Phil Hayton last updated
Buying Guide Here are the best monitors for PS5 in 2024, including 4K UHD displays and OLED panels that will make your favorite PlayStation adventures pop.

Best standing desk 2025: Switch from seat to feet
By Phil Hayton last updated
Buying Guide We're rounding up all the best standing desks that you can buy in 2024, including premium and budget options for working at home and playing PC games.

Best gaming desk 2025: tried and tested surfaces worth investing in
By Phil Hayton last updated
Buying Guide Here's a rundown of the best gaming desks on the market right now, including premium and and budget-friendly options for work and play.

Chair makers Bouiles just launched a new standing desk that only takes five minutes to put together
By Phil Hayton published
News The Boulies MagVida is a desk that will only take you five minutes to put together, and it's now available to pre-order.

The best gaming monitor 2025: the most impressive displays I've tested this year
By Phil Hayton last updated
Buying Guide Here are the best gaming monitor models in 2024, including punchy OLED panels, super speedy screens, and brilliant budget options.

Razer Monitor Stand Chroma review: “a pretty but flawed premium RGB riser for your gaming desk”
By Phil Hayton published
Review The Razer Monitor Stand Chroma features stylish RGB, great build quality, and HDMI output, but its price tag and quirks are sore spots.

One of the meanest mini LED 144Hz gaming TVs on the market just got the Big Spring Deals treatment
By Phil Hayton published
Deals The 55-inch Hisense U8N is under $680 thanks to Amazon's Spring Deals event, and the 144Hz gaming TV is well worth considering if you need speedy visuals.

Gaming desks vs regular desks: which surface should you buy?
By Phil Hayton published
Features Here are the differences between gaming desks and regular desks to watch out for, including unique features, layouts, and designs.

This Switch gadget could save the handheld from my junk drawer once its sequel arrives, and it's down to a decent price
By Phil Hayton published
Deals The mClassic Switch Edition is now cheaper thanks to Amazon's Spring Sale, and it could give your handheld a second wind ahead of the Switch 2.
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