Revamp Your Gaming Experience with the Top 29 Retro Handhelds of 2026!

Looking for a way to play classic video games while on-the-go? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with the ultimate list of the best handheld consoles for retro gaming. But before we dive in, it’s important to clarify that we’re talking about emulators, not the traditional 3DS or PSP. These handheld consoles use ROMS to imitate old-school games that you can conveniently carry with you.

So, why are people interested in these retro handhelds? Well, it’s simple – we all want more classic games in the palm of our hands, without the hassle of purchasing them. Who wants to carry extra cartridges or wait for games to download at a coffee shop? And who wants to buy the same game over and over again?

Without further ado, here are the top contenders for the best retro handheld consoles that will give you a serious nostalgia rush wherever you go:

First, there’s the Steam Deck – a gaming powerhouse that can emulate almost every retro console from the past. Next up, we have the RG405M – an affordable yet powerful handheld with a metal shell and the ability to play some PlayStation 2 games. And last but not least, the PocketGo – hands down the best portable handheld console on the market, which can even emulate PlayStation 1 games for under $70.

With this ultimate list, you can satisfy your craving for retro gaming on the go, and never miss out on the fun!

1. Miyoo Mini

The Miyoo Mini is an awesome little handheld device. Although it was released in 2021, we got our hands on it this year and immediately knew it deserved a spot on our list of the best retro handhelds. It’s tiny but powerful, and has a nostalgic Gameboy feel to it.

Don’t be fooled by its size – the Miyoo Mini packs a punch with a 1.2GHZ CPU, 128MB RAM, and a 2.8″ IPS display with a resolution of 640 x 480. These specs may not seem impressive, but this little machine actually does a great job of emulating Playstation games.

What’s really cool about the Miyoo Mini is its design. The four mini flared shoulder buttons on the back are a pleasure to use, and the screen is super sharp. While there’s a slight haze to the display, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Plus, the firmware is incredibly user-friendly.

Overall, we think the Miyoo Mini is one of the best mini handhelds on the market. It’s powerful, looks and feels like a mini Gameboy, and is built to last. As a bonus, it’s one of Miyoo’s first branded handheld devices, and we’re excited to see what they’ll come up with next. Rumor has it that the Miyoo P60 will be launching later this year!

Oh, and there’s a new version of the Miyoo Mini, called the Miyoo Mini Plus. It has the same specs as the original, but comes with a larger screen and battery, as well as more comfortable shoulder buttons. Sounds like a win-win!

2. RG405M

ANBERNIC has released a new portable device that’s generating a lot of excitement in the community. The RG405M builds on the success of the RG353M and boasts a premium, metal exterior that feels great in your hands.

Inside, the RG405M is no slouch either. The device is powered by a Unisoc T618 2ghz CPU, a MaliG52 GPU, 4GB of RAM, and a 4” IPS display with a resolution of 640 x 480. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity are included, as well as a 4500mah battery. All of this is packed into a device that fits easily in your pocket.

But what sets the RG405M apart are the emulations. It can handle a variety of systems, including PSP, Dreamcast, Gameboy, NES, SNES, Wii, Nintendo DS, and even some PS2 and Gamecube games. While it may experience occasional lags, it still delivers a great gaming experience.

What’s even better is the affordable price. At only $179.99, the ANBERNIC RG405M is a powerhouse that won’t break the bank. With its impressive specs, solid Android operating system, and excellent build quality, it’s one of the top retro handhelds available in the market. We’ve reviewed it and now it’s my go-to for gaming on-the-go. Join me in this fandom and read our full ANBERNIC RG405M Review here.

3. Steam Deck

The Steam Deck is an amazing retro handheld emulator that I absolutely have to mention. It’s one of the best portable gaming PCs available, and it comes at a reasonable price of $399, leaving other $1000 gaming PC handhelds in the dust.

What really sets the Steam Deck apart is its performance and the supportive community of millions who are willing to help with emulation. The frequent updates and exceptional customer service from Steam ensure that the device works well, even if it’s a bit bulky.

Despite its larger size and shorter battery life, the Steam Deck is a fantastic device for retro gaming. After you install EmuDeck and add your ROMs, you’ll have access to a wide range of retro consoles like the Dreamcast, Gamecube, and most PS2 games. Combined with your Steam Library, it’s the perfect all-in-one device for gaming.

The beauty of the Steam Deck lies in its amazing versatility. This device can play new AAA games and retro consoles of the past all in one semi-portable form. With endless guides and community content, you can expect this device to remain useful for many years to come.

If you’re in search of a handheld that can do it all, then the Steam Deck should be at the top of your list. However, it’s crucial to note that its size, weight, and battery life may be a dealbreaker for some. If those don’t faze you, then this device is truly a game changer.

4. Retroid Pocket 3+

Introducing the Retroid Pocket 3+, a new and slightly bigger version of the already-beloved Retroid Pocket 3 portable gaming console that made a splash in 2021. What made it such a hit, you ask? For one, it’s priced at a tiny $149 and can emulate almost all retro games up to Gamecube.

The folks over at GoRetroid stepped up their game this time, equipping the new model with a more powerful Octa-core T618 CPU, 4GB RAM, and a stunning 4.7″ touch screen display. These impressive specs, paired with a sleek and comfortable design, make it one of the best retro handhelds available for those on a tight budget.

Straight out of the box, it’s incredibly user-friendly thanks to the handy launcher that installs all the necessary emulators with just a single click. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are new to handheld retro gaming – just add your ROMs and start playing! No need for complicated emulator settings – most retro games will work right away. Just keep in mind that Gamecube games are the cap.

However, we must be honest here – GoRetroid made some questionable decisions with their marketing tactics when launching this handheld. They announced the Retroid Pocket 3 in June/July, only to release the even better Retroid Pocket 3+ just two months later, leaving early customers feeling deceived. We do not condone such shady practices, and you can read our full thoughts on the Retroid Pocket 3+ in our official review.

5. Analogue Pocket

The Analogue Pocket is the most popular handheld of 2021, even beating the OLED Switch. Think of it as a new, improved Gameboy. You might know about Analogue already, as they’re the ones behind the Super Nt and other fancy products. This time, they’re entering the handheld market with cool FPGA technology. What this means is that they’re striving for hardware that’s identical to the original, leading to perfect gameplay. Normal emulation can be tricky, but FPGA avoids such issues.

The Analogue Pocket is designed to last long, with a wonderful 3.5″ LCD display featuring Gorilla glass and a PPI of 615. Its buttons are durable and responsive, and the build quality is impressive. At first, you might find it odd to use a new handheld with old cartridges, but you’ll get used to it quickly. And once you power it on, the breathtaking screen will captivate you.

AnalogueOS is the cherry on top, letting you easily navigate menus and change settings on the fly. Despite some problems with pre-ordering, Analogue has really hit the bullseye with this product. For the price of $219, it’s one of the best retro gaming items of 2021.

It’s true that the Analogue Pocket only plays Gameboy games, but you can use their adapters to enjoy top SEGA Game Gear, Atari Lynx, and Neo Geo games on your Analogue Pocket. Want to learn more? Check out our review of the Analogue Pocket, you won’t regret it.

6. AYN Odin Pro

The AYN Odin, a new handheld device, gained immense popularity in the tech world early in 2022. Originally funded on Kickstarter, this Android-powered gadget was able to collect over $1,000,000 more than its funding goal! Luckily for us, we were among the first to back this project, giving us an opportunity to test it before others.

The AYN Odin boasts some impressive specifications, including a Snapdragon SD845 processor, Adreno 630 GPU, and 7GB RAM. Its power is such that it can easily emulate Gamecube, PSP, Dreamcast, and even Playstation 2 games. After experiencing it for a few weeks, we were completely blown away by its performance.

To our surprise, setting up the device was a breeze. Utilizing Android 11, the setup process was simple. All we had to do was log in to our Google account, download our favorite emulators from the Play Store, install the ROMs on an external SD card, and we were all set!

With the AYN Odin, we were able to play retro classics like Crash Bandicoot on PS2, Zelda on the Gamecube as well as Sega Saturn games quickly and efficiently. Setting up the Playstation 2 games to run smoothly was easy, with a simple press of the “high-performance” button causing it to run at over 40 FPS.

What’s even more impressive is that this “mid-range” retro handheld retails at less than $300, making it the best option in the market. Other manufacturers such as ANBERNIC, Powkiddy, and GoRetroid should be keeping an eye on the AYN Odin’s impact. Additionally, a unique feature of the AYN Odin is its ability to load Windows, giving users an entirely new experience.

To know more about the Ayn Odin Handheld check out our comprehensive review where we share what we thought about the product!

7. PlayDate

We tested the PlayDate and we’re in love with it. As one of the first gaming websites to get our hands on this device, we were captivated by its unique design. What makes it stand out is the crank, which is an integral part of the gaming experience and truly sets it apart from other handheld gaming devices.

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring new avenues and approaches to gaming, then the PlayDate is a must-have gadget for you. This device offers game creators, both old-school and new, the chance to showcase their talents through weekly game releases that are designed specifically for the PlayDate.

Despite its lightweight design, the PlayDate was built to last, with a durable shell that can take a fair amount of wear and tear. The black and white reflective panel screen takes us back to the Gameboy DMG days, and though some may find it a bit old-school, we found it to add to the charm of the device.

The real highlight of the PlayDate, of course, are the games. The lineup is diverse and exciting, with two new releases each week to keep the fun going. With a total of 24 games that can be easily downloaded through WiFi, you’ll never run out of options to choose from.

We were impressed with many of the games offered and had a blast playing with it during our work breaks or on short bus rides. Although it may not be ideal for extended play sessions, it’s perfect for quick bursts of entertainment.

Kudos to Panic for pushing the boundaries of the handheld gaming industry and creating a device that is both nostalgic and innovative. We highly recommend the PlayDate to all gaming enthusiasts who want to try something new and unique.

8. Funkey S

Have you heard of the Funkey S? It’s a tiny video game console that’s been gaining popularity with retro gaming fans. And the best part? It can fit on your keychain!

For just €65, you can play classic games from various systems, including Playstation 1 favorites like Crash Bandicoot. The Funkey S was created by a group of passionate handheld gamers who wanted to make something durable and high-quality.

This device has a custom operating system that’s user-friendly and makes saving and loading games a breeze. Although it’s not ideal for long gaming sessions, it’s perfect for quick plays on the go. You won’t have to fret about breaking it either, as it’s designed to be compact and strong.

The Funkey S comes in a variety of colorful designs and looks great on display. We hope other companies take inspiration from this mini console and create their own versions. Who knows, maybe we’ll see a Funkey Gameboy Advance soon! Check out our Funkey S Review for the full scoop.

9. Retroid Pocket Flip

Get ready for the Retroid Pocket Flip, the newest addition to the world of retro handhelds! It comes from the team at GoRetroid, who also created the Retroid Pocket 3+. Retro gaming enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for this highly anticipated clamshell design, and now it’s finally here at an affordable price.

This device is packed with amazing features, including the ability to emulate Gamecube games and some PS2 titles (although this requires some tinkering with the emulation settings). It runs on Android 11 and has a T618 CPU, Mali G52 GPU, 4GB of RAM, and a whopping 5000MAH battery. You’ll also love its gorgeous 4.7″ Touchscreen HD display.

Setting up the Retroid Pocket Flip is super easy, thanks to the Android OS handling the emulator downloads. However, you’ll need to source ROMs on your own. GoRetroid has even included their own UI/app, which creates a Nintendo Switch-like game library for easy organization and navigation.

Since it’s Android-based, you can install your favorite Android games as well. But, if you’re proficient in key bindings, it can even handle some game streaming. Playing Gamecube, PSP, DS, and Dreamcast games is an absolute blast, making it a top recommendation for clamshell fans.

Of course, like all devices, there are some minor issues to note, such as average analogue sliders with poor R3/L3 feedback and a battery drain problem with the sleep mode. Thankfully, that’s quickly resolved by turning it off when not in use. Overall, the Retroid Pocket Flip is an incredible handheld device for retro gaming lovers, with a stunning screen and the ability to emulate most retro games (aside from the PS2). Don’t miss out on the full review – check it out now!

10. RG353M

ANBERNIC is known for making high-quality handheld devices that won’t break the bank, but they struggled to release any big hits in 2022. However, their latest offering, the RG353M, could be a game-changer.

One of the most impressive features of the RG353M is its metal shell, which houses the powerful RK3566 CPU. This chipset can handle Dreamcast games, and the RG353M can run these legendary games smoothly.

Users can choose between Android or Linux operating systems, and both options come with 2GB of RAM and a 1.8GHZ processor. The 3.5″ touchscreen display is also fantastic, and thanks to the 3500MAH battery, players can enjoy up to 5 hours of gameplay.

The device’s build quality is another standout aspect. It’s crafted entirely from metal and feels sturdy in the hand. But it’s not just about looks; the RG353M can play Dreamcast games flawlessly and is also great for emulating Gameboy Advance, N64, PS1, and most PSP games.

Overall, the ANBERNIC RG333M is one of the best retro handhelds on the market today. Its high-quality screen, user-friendly Linux OS, and incredible hall joystick controls make it a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts. Be sure to check out our full written review or video review on YouTube to learn more.

11. Evercade EXP

The Evercade EXP was released in 2022 and it’s a huge upgrade from the first Evercade handheld released in 2020. Instead of using emulation apps like other handhelds, the Evercade EXP uses cartridges, just like in the good old days.

It has over 300 classic games from big players in the gaming industry such as Bandai Namco, Capcom, ATARI, Intellivision, and many more. This is a great option for people who want to relive classic games without downloading them from sketchy websites.

The quality of this handheld is impressive. The D-PAD is top-notch which makes playing old school fighter games a dream. The two action buttons below the D-PAD allow for TATE mode gameplay, which most handhelds cannot do. The user interface that displays your game library is visually stunning. Additionally, all Evercade EXP devices come with some pre-loaded Capcom titles.

The shoulder buttons and sleek elongated design make for a comfortable gaming experience, even after hours of gameplay. Some retro games may not be available due to licensing agreements, but there are still plenty of options to choose from.

Overall, the Evercade EXP is perfect for individuals who would like a bit of nostalgia in their lives. You can collect and swap cartridges with friends or support retro game developers in an official and authentic way. To learn more about this awesome handheld, check out our full review of the Evercade EXP.

12. Miyoo Mini +

Get ready to meet the Miyoo Mini +, the latest addition to the handheld gaming market scheduled to hit shelves in March 2023. The original Miyoo Mini was already a favorite among gamers everywhere, and now Miyoo has upgraded it with a larger 3.5″ screen that retains the retro 4:3 aspect ratio.

Plus, Miyoo has listened to customer feedback and made some much-needed improvements to the shoulder buttons for increased comfort.

Powered by a dual-core 1.2ghz CPU, 128MB of RAM, and a 3000mah battery capable of 6 hours of gameplay (although our testing showed closer to 5 hours), the Mini + delivers the same specs as its predecessor, but with a little extra screen real estate.

Unfortunately, Miyoo has a history of struggling to meet demand for their devices, making it challenging for our readers to get their hands on the Mini + or the original Miyoo Mini. Whenever they add more units to their online store, scalpers and customers snatch them up within minutes, leaving many hopeful buyers disappointed.

Assuming the stock issues can be resolved, the Miyoo Mini + is the perfect pocket-sized device for any retro gaming enthusiast, capable of emulating all of your favorite retro games, up to and including Playstation 1.

13. KT-R1

Have you heard of the new handheld device that everyone’s been talking about? The creator of this gadget recently sent us an early development sample of their creation. And let me tell you, I’m pretty amazed by what I’ve seen so far. The KT-R1 boasts impressive features like a MediaTek G99 processor (usually found in high-end smartphones), up to 8GB of RAM, a 4.5″ IPS display with a resolution of 1620 x 1080, and a powerful 5000mAh battery.

However, it’s important to note that this impressive handheld is still being produced. According to reports, it’ll be available in various editions ranging from $169 to $259. If you want a metal shell version, it’ll cost an additional $50. At first glance, using the device is a pure joy. The creators even allow customers to choose where they want their preferred DPAD, which is a unique feature.

The device runs on Android 12 and, thanks to its impressive specifications, can play most console games, including Gamecube and PS2 games with ease. In fact, we tested God of War on it, and it functioned like a dream. From the look of things, this could be the future of gaming in 2023.

However, the handheld isn’t flawless, and there are some areas where it falls short. Please note that this is just a pre-production sample, and we have yet to offer a complete review. But don’t worry, we’ve given you a sneak peek into what to expect. So be on the lookout for the KT-R1. It’s a game-changer in the handheld gaming world, and you don’t want to miss out.

14. Retroid Pocket 2+

Introducing the Retroid Pocket 2+, an upgraded version of the Retroid Pocket 2 that is taking the retro gaming world by storm. This handheld device is priced under $100 and packs a powerful punch, surpassing other gadgets in its range that rely on the RK3326 chips.

Released in February 2022, the Retroid Pocket 2+ stands out with its impressive specifications. It boasts a Unisoc Quad-Core T320 CPU, GE8300 GBPU, 2GB RAM, a 3.5″ touchscreen with a resolution of 640 x 480, and a long-lasting 4000MAH battery.

Setting up the device is a breeze with the help of GoRetroid’s personalized launcher, which guides users through the process with ease. The launcher also installs retro gaming emulators, providing users with the support they need for an enjoyable gaming experience.

The Retroid Pocket 2+ is a great option for retro gaming enthusiasts, as it can run the best Dreamcast games and PSP games with ease. Its affordability is another bonus. However, it may not operate effectively for Gamecube emulation, PS2 emulation, or Nintendo Wii emulation due to its limited capacity.

But for just $99, the Retroid Pocket 2+ can run almost all retro games from Dreamcast all the way to N64, PSP, PS1, Gameboy Advance, and the best Sega Saturn games. This has cemented its place as a new front-runner in affordable handheld emulation.

Unlike other handheld devices that can be difficult to hold, the Retroid Pocket 2+ is designed for comfort. Its unique niche sets it apart from the rest and promises to be a game-changer in 2022.

For a more detailed review of the Retroid Pocket 2+, click here: Retroid Pocket 2+ Review.

15. Powkiddy Max 2

Get ready to be pleasantly surprised – we’ve actually found a Powkiddy product that’s enjoyable to play on! Yes, we know it’s hard to believe, but the Powkiddy Max 2 handheld has managed to stand out from the crowd, despite only being on the market for a few months. What makes it so special, you ask? Well, to start, it features a brand-new ergonomic design that’s comfortable to hold and play with for extended periods of time. Plus, the 5-inch display is large and vivid, with bright, saturated colors that pop.

Now, we know you’re probably wondering about the chip. While the RK3326 chip may not be cutting-edge technology, it gets the job done. It can emulate most of the retro consoles you know and love, up to the level of the PS1. And if you’re interested in tweaking settings, it can even handle a few N64 games without a hitch.

In terms of appearance, the Powkiddy Max 2 looks like a Nintendo Switch Lite, but it has the added bonus of being able to hold thousands of your favorite retro games. The user interface (UI) is clean and intuitive, allowing you to jump right into your classic gaming adventures without missing a beat. And did we mention the battery life is good, and the shell is masterfully crafted? Its matte plastic finish makes it feel like a high-end device, and the button placement is ideal. Add to that some of the best triggers we’ve seen on a handheld under $130, and you’ve got yourself a real winner.

To sum up, if you’re looking for an inexpensive handheld that has a stunning, spacious screen, the Powkiddy Max 2 is the one for you. Trust us, it’s not your typical Powkiddy product.

16. RG351V

ANBERNIC’s popular RG351V handheld device hit the market in March 2021, and it’s been a hit with retro gamers ever since. The device boasts a superb 4:3 ratio display that showcases many retro games in their original resolution. Despite its unassuming appearance, the RG351V packs a punch!

One standout feature of the device is its RK3326 1.5GHZ Chip and 1GB RAM. It can easily emulate games all the way up to N64 and provide up to five hours of gameplay on a single charge, thanks to its large 3900MAH battery. The console comes with thousands of preloaded games and an already installed Emulation Station. This means no button mapping, no firmware installation – just pick it up and start playing. Even those rare PS1 games that we love to demo won’t experience any frame rate drops.

17. RG351P

The RG351P is an amazing retro handheld gaming device that has changed the game. It has top-quality materials, a well-known brand, and impressive power. It came out in October 2020, and surpasses the RG350P, which is third on our list. It can handle almost any game, except the larger N64 games like GoldenEye.

ANBERNIC builds its devices with top-notch quality, and the RG351P is no exception. It has a strong shell, analogue sticks identical to those on the Nintendo Switch, and a vivid 3.5″ IPS display that is breathtaking.

But what makes the RG351P stand out is how easy it is to use. Unlike other handhelds on our list that require extensive setup, this one comes pre-loaded with thousands of games so you can start playing right away. There’s no need to update firmware, and the UI is stunning. Every emulator is already button-mapped for you.

For new buyers and those new to handheld emulator gaming, the RG351P is the ultimate recommendation. It’s even user-friendly for kids. While it cannot handle Dreamcast or PSP, it excels at everything else and is a must-have.

18. RG353V

ANBERNIC has just launched its latest handheld gaming device – the RG353V – in September 2022. But don’t think it’s just the same old thing with a different label. This one is unique with its vertical form factor, added analogue sticks, and best of all, a more affordable price tag.

The RG353V is available in two editions. The “VS” model works with Linux only and comes with 1GB RAM. But the original RG353V is a hybrid of Linux and Android, equipped with a touch screen display and 2GB RAM – talk about power!

While some people might say that the RG353V is competing with the Retroid Pocket 3, it’s still a remarkable piece of tech. Perfect for those who want a chic vertical form factor with two analogue sticks, it’s powerful enough to handle all retro gaming needs, including the likes of PSP. The RG353V can even play some Dreamcast games, but it may require a bit of tinkering.

Overall, the RG353V is a welcome addition to the ANBERNIC family and an excellent choice for handheld gaming. It’s true that 2022 hasn’t been a great year for handheld gaming consoles, but the RG353V is still a step ahead of the rest. It’s always thrilling to see new shapes and designs emerging in the handheld gaming world. Just be cautious of the dodgy shoulder buttons!

19. Evercade

In May 2020, a new handheld gadget was released that stands out from the rest. It’s called the Evercade, and it’s designed to bring back the nostalgic feeling of physically buying game cartridges. It’s not only incredibly fun, but also easy on the wallet, costing only £49.99 in the UK. Each cartridge comes with 10 to 20 games, with each cartridge costing around £19.99, so you’ll get more than your money’s worth.

What sets the Evercade apart from other retro handhelds is that the team behind it is committed to bringing you the real ROM files from the game developers themselves. This means that popular titles like Pac Man, Earthworm Jim, and Centipede can be enjoyed with outstanding authenticity.

While it would be nice to see SEGA and Nintendo games included in the Evercade’s collection, we mustn’t get our hopes up, as these giants have their own game consoles and licensing rights to contend with. However, the Evercade team is continuously adding new cartridges to keep your collection growing and endlessly entertaining. With its exceptional retro look and feel, the Evercade will have you feeling like you never left the golden days of gaming.

20. ANBERNIC RG35XX

Have you met the ANBERNIC RG35XX? It’s the newest player in the mini retro handheld game, making a big entrance in December 2022. While it’s a little bigger than other handhelds out there, it’s an average size and ready for your retro adventures. Plus, it’s hard to ignore the affordable price tag of $55.

The device boasts a 3.5″ IPS display with pixel-perfect graphics for your favorite retro games like NES, SNES, and Gameboy Advance. Its quad-core processor and 256MB RAM can handle PlayStation 1 games and below, but without an analog stick, it’s probably all you need.

The operating system isn’t perfect and the shoulder buttons aren’t the best, but the high-gloss action buttons and easy-to-understand interface make it perfect for beginners. Overall, the ANBERNIC RG35XX is definitely worth considering, especially if you’re a retro fan on a budget.

21. Powkiddy RGB10 Max

The RGB10 Max is Powkiddy’s newest handheld gaming console, offering a sizable 5.5″ display at an affordable price. This company has a history of producing satisfactory gadgets, but the RGB10 Max surpasses expectations.

The console’s shell has a smooth, rubbery texture that feels high-end, and the large screen is a visual pleasure, although not many games use its aspect ratio. The design features sleek bezels around the frame, without any flashy branding. The analog sticks resemble those on the Nintendo Switch, and the buttons are responsive and durable.

The only downside is that the screen isn’t as bright as other consoles, and the shoulder buttons are of lower quality. They feel flimsy and unresponsive.

In terms of emulation, the RGB10 Max uses the same RK3326 chip found in other high-end retro consoles on the market. It has a quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, a Mali 31 GPU, and a 4200 MAH battery. It can emulate most older consoles seamlessly, but struggles with larger games from N64, Dreamcast, and PSP.

Overall, if you’re looking for a larger screen to play retro games, the RGB10 Max is a great choice. It can handle games like Mario Kart 64 with ease, but may struggle with more demanding titles.

22. RG353P

Exciting news! ANBERNIC’s RG353P has finally hit the market. This little device, inspired by the popular PocketGO S30, is turning heads. And despite its classic SNES controller shape, it boasts a magnificent 3.5-inch touchscreen right in the middle. Plus, you can choose between Android or Linux as your operating system, giving you complete control.

But here’s the catch: the touchscreen only works with the Android port. However, it’s still more than enough to play your favorite Nintendo DS games. You can use the touchscreen for the second screen – a feature never seen before in affordable handhelds.

Additionally, the RG353P comes with impressive specs, including a powerful CPU and 2GB of RAM, making it possible to run some Dreamcast games smoothly. And it packs a 3500MAH battery and various ports, including a mini-hdmi out, thanks to its slightly larger size at the back.

While it may not be the most innovative handheld out there, it’s perfect for SNES fans and anyone looking to experience ANBERNIC’s top-of-the-line RK3566 handheld. Bottom line? Don’t overlook the RG353P – it’s the real deal!

23. RG350P

Looking for a retro handheld? Look no further than the RG350P. For just $80, this device is a steal. It’s a top contender in the market, with its ability to play PS1 ROMs flawlessly and its top-notch build quality.

ANBERNIC, the creators of the RG350, released an updated version in 2019 with minor improvements that take the gaming experience to the next level. One of the standout features is the RG350P’s comfortability, making it a joy to hold whether using one or both hands. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors to fit your personal style.

The dual analogue sticks and large 3.5″ glass display with a resolution of 320 x 240 make the RG350P a top performer, putting it at the forefront of the retro handheld world. You can tell that ANBERNIC has put a great amount of time and effort into making this device the best it can be for such an affordable price.

But that’s not all. ANBERNIC also released the RG351P, a newer version of the RG350P, and the RG350M, a metal version of the RG350 that feels like a premium Nintendo product at $129.99. The RG350M boasts a screen even crisper than the RG350P with a resolution of 640 x 480 and added grips on the back for added comfort during extended use.

Overall, the RG350 series of retro handhelds is a game-changer. If you’re looking for an excellent gaming experience on a budget, the RG350P is the perfect choice. If you’re willing to spend a little extra for a top-tier product, the RG350M is our top pick. Once you experience the RG350M’s metal feel, you won’t want to go back to plastic.

24. RG280V

The new RG280V handheld by ANBERNIC came out in November 2020. Even though we thought we wouldn’t be interested, it turned out to be an impressive device. This horizontal handheld may be small, but it’s loaded with features.

The RG280V has a powerful dual-core 1.0GHz processor, 512MB of RAM, and a 2100mAh battery. You can easily play up to PS1 games with this little guy. Its compact size and 2.8-inch glass-covered screen is perfect for gaming on the go.

ANBERNIC is known for creating high-quality products, and the RG280V is no exception. You can expect it to be durable, able to resist scratches and bumps. It’s also much cheaper than other handheld devices.

This handheld is perfect for gamers who love Gameboy emulators or those looking for a smaller device. It’s also a fantastic option for children because it is user-friendly and built to last. The only downside is that the tiny text on some games may be difficult to read for older folks. But that’s just how it goes.

25. PocketGo S30

In December, a new handheld gaming device called the PocketGO S30 was released, and it’s turning heads. It’s surprisingly affordable, coming in at just $59.99, and it can emulate games up to PS1 and even some PSP games.

The PocketGo S30’s design is sleek, taking inspiration from the classic SNES controller but with modern updates. The trigger buttons are flared and stand out from other handhelds on the market.

But how about battery life? This device boasts a 2600 MAH battery that can give you up to 5 hours of playtime. Plus, it’s ready to go right out of the box. No set up required, and the buttons are already mapped for you.

The 3.5″ IPS display is small but clear and easy to view. The gameplay is smooth, though the colors can sometimes appear muted. You can even save, load, and add your own ROMs to this device.

All things considered, the PocketGo S30 is the best handheld gaming device under $60 available today. It’s an excellent option for those who can’t afford the more expensive devices.

26. Powkiddy RGB20S

Introducing the Powkiddy RGB20S, a bigger and better version of the popular RGB20 handheld console. This new model has a taller design, more buttons, comfortable shoulder buttons, and an extra analog stick. We at Retro Dodo HQ are particularly fond of the vertical shape.

Despite being reasonably priced at $80, the RGB20S offers an impressive performance thanks to its RK3326 1.5GHZ Quad-Core CPU, 1GB RAM, and vibrant 3.5″ IPS Display. However, the device may feel slightly crowded and the exterior is made of cheaper plastic material. But overall, it’s a strong console that can handle PS1-level gaming.

Despite the analog sticks protruding slightly, the device is compact and easy to carry around. It’s a comfortable console that’s ready to use straight out of the box, whether you’re diving into the pre-loaded games or not.

27. Powkiddy RGB20

Introducing the latest handheld gaming device, the Powkiddy RGB20. Released in November 2020, it has already grabbed our attention. Now, we must disclose that we’ve had negative experiences with Powkiddy’s previous handhelds. However, we must say that the RGB20 is an entirely different animal.

In one word, the RGB20 can be described as “beefcake”. We don’t mean it’s pocket-sized, we mean it’s more like “backpack-sized”. Holding it in one hand may be a little challenging, but it packs a punch.

Let’s get into the specifics. The RGB20 boasts a 1.5GHZ CPU, 1GB RAM, a 3.5″ display, and a 300mAh battery capacity. In other words, it can handle games from the Dreamcast, N64, and PSP with ease. The display is stunning, taking up most of the device, but that’s the beauty of it. Additionally, the RGB20 is one of the first vertical handhelds to have an analog stick.

If you have experienced the RGB20, you will appreciate just how crucial a good analog stick is. Compared to the other handhelds on our list, the difference is night and day. It may not be able to play your favorite Nintendo DS games perfectly, but it can handle anything older than that.

The build quality is not perfect; some minor issues include the lack of volume buttons, and cramped shoulder buttons. Nevertheless, the power and display make up for any minor shortcomings. The Powkiddy RGB20 has our stamp of approval.

28. Powkiddy X18S

The Powkiddy X18S is an updated version of the X18, a handheld device that’s already got a loyal fanbase. With an Android operating system and a reasonable price tag, it’s a solid choice for gamers on a budget.

One thing that makes the Powkiddy X18S stand out is the size of its screen and its ability to perfectly emulate Dreamcast and PSP games. We tested it extensively and were really impressed—it can run a wide variety of games, from N64 to Gameboy to Dreamcast, all in a compact, Android-based package that’s easy to carry around.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The build quality of the device isn’t the best, and the operating system is far from perfect—you might be reminded of clunky old-school Windows 98. If you’re willing to tinker with the device and install a new version of Android, you can improve its performance, but that might not be something the average user is comfortable with. It’s a great choice for gamers who love Android handhelds and aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty—but watch out for the sharp backside of the clamshell casing, it can cut you if you’re not careful.

29. PiBoy DMG

The PiBoy DMG is a retro gaming device that comes with a powerful Raspberry Pi4 that has 8GB of RAM. This means it can handle all your favorite games, from Dreamcast to newer ones, without any lag. You can build your PiBoy DMG using the DIY kit, which requires a Pi3 or a Pi4, or you can purchase the fully assembled kit which comes pre-loaded with retropie so you can start playing right away. Be aware that it is expensive, with the DIY kit costing $89.95 (excluding the necessary components) and with the fully assembled kit costing $179.95.
The investment is worth it if you’re a retro gaming enthusiast who loves high-tech gadgets, as the PiBoy DMG has impressive computing power enabling it to handle games from any console, including PSP, N64, and Dreamcast. Additionally, it has WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities allowing you to connect to the internet or stream games from your PC to your PiBoy DMG.