Remember the joy of playing your favorite childhood games? Whether it was Pokémon on your Game Boy Color or Super Mario 64 on your Nintendo 64, those were golden times. Today, you can relive those memories on modern handheld consoles designed to run retro emulators. These little devices are packed with powerful hardware, cool features, and nostalgia!
TL;DR
Retro handhelds let you replay your favorite classic games on the go. Some are budget-friendly, others are built for serious performance. Our top picks include the Miyoo Mini Plus, Anbernic RG35XX, and the powerful Steam Deck. No matter your budget, there’s a handheld for you!
What Is a Retro Emulator Handheld?
A retro emulator handheld is a portable gaming device made to play classic console games. These devices run emulators – software that mimics the original gaming system. Instead of digging out a vintage console, just load your favorite titles onto one of these bad boys and you’re ready to go. They can play games from systems like:
- NES
- SNES
- Game Boy, Game Boy Advance
- Sega Genesis
- PlayStation 1 and even PS2 in some cases
- Nintendo 64 and PSP
Some devices are as tiny as a deck of cards, while others are full-featured and powerful enough to run modern games, too.
Why Use One?
There are lots of reasons:
- Portability: Play on the go or in bed. No TV needed.
- All-in-One: Access games from multiple systems on one device.
- Customization: Add your own ROMs, themes, and even different operating systems.
- Affordability: Many options are cheaper than modern consoles.
Some of these handhelds even have Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and external display support. Retro gaming has never been so flexible.
Our Favorite Retro Handhelds
1. Miyoo Mini Plus+ – Tiny, Cute, and Mighty
This one has become a legend in the retro gaming scene. It’s small, affordable, and super fun to play.
- Screen: 3.5″ IPS display – sharp and colorful
- Battery: 2000mAh – around 5–6 hours of playtime
- Performance: Up to PS1 games run smoothly
- Price: Around $60–$70
It comes with a great frontend called OnionOS that makes it easy to browse and launch your games. Plus, its pocket-size design is just adorable.
2. Anbernic RG35XX – Game Boy Style Retro Vibes
If you loved the OG Game Boy, this one will spark major nostalgia. It looks and feels great in your hands.
- Screen: 3.5″ IPS, same size as Miyoo Mini
- Battery: 2600mAh – lasts a bit longer
- Performance: Smooth up to PS1, N64 is hit-or-miss
- Price: Around $60
It supports GarlicOS, which is clean and easy to use. The RG35XX also comes in great color options. A great pick for beginners and collectors alike.
3. Retroid Pocket 3+ – A Balanced All-Rounder
Want to play more than just old-school NES and SNES games? This one’s for you.
- Screen: 4.7″ touchscreen – yes, touchscreen!
- Battery: 4000mAh – 6 to 8 hours
- Performance: Up to PSP, N64, and even some GameCube games
- Price: About $150
This device runs Android, so you can also install apps like Netflix, YouTube, or game streaming services. It’s like a tiny game tablet!
4. Anbernic RG405M – Premium Metal Build
This is one of the most solid and premium handhelds out there. It feels like a high-end device.
- Screen: 4″ IPS and very bright
- Battery: Huge 4500mAh – lasts nearly all day
- Performance: Great for PSP, Dreamcast, GameCube
- Price: Around $170–$200
Clad in metal, it feels like it came from the future to play the past. A little heavier, but super satisfying to hold and use.
5. Steam Deck – Not Just for Modern Games
Wait, Steam Deck for retro gaming? Oh, yes. It’s actually one of the best when it comes to emulation power.
- Screen: 7″ touchscreen – super crisp and vibrant
- Battery: 40Wh – not as long, but depends on the game
- Performance: Can emulate up to PS3, Wii U, and even Switch games
- Price: Starts at $399
The best part? Tools like EmuDeck and Steam ROM Manager make setting things up a breeze. It might be overkill for NES games, but it’s amazing if you want a one-stop device for everything retro and modern. Plus, it doubles as a PC!
Things to Think About Before Buying
Before you grab your new handheld, here are some quick tips to make sure you’re picking the right one:
- Budget: Some are $50, some are $500. Know what you want to spend.
- Game Systems: Want to play Game Boy only? Or include PSP and GameCube?
- Size: Small and portable, or big screen and comfy controls?
- Software: Some run Android, others use Linux-based custom OS.
- Community Support: Devices like Miyoo and Anbernic have huge online communities to help with tips and updates.
Customizing Your Experience
Once you have your device, the fun doesn’t stop!
- Install a custom OS for better performance and looks
- Add game box art for that stylish feel
- Use themes, bezels, and shaders to mimic CRT TVs
- Start collecting ROMs (legally, of course!)
Some devices like the Steam Deck even let you set up collections by genre or year. You can turn your library into a mini museum of gaming history.
Final Thoughts
No matter your favorite retro system, there’s a handheld emulator that can bring those games back to life. Whether you’re low on budget or looking for a powerful all-in-one device, the options are better than ever. Each year, new models come out with even more features and sleeker designs.
So pick your favorite, load up your childhood classics, and game on like it’s 1999!