The Best Retro Handheld Emulators with video

The Best Budget Retro Handheld Emulators:

RG35XX

The RG35XX is here to answer the call of retro gaming enthusiasts who crave an affordable handheld experience. This retro handheld emulator aims to go head-to-head with the elusive Miyoo Mini, and the battle is on! So, how does it fare? Let’s find out!

With a price that won’t break the bank, the RG35XX stands as a worthy alternative to the Miyoo Mini. While it may not be as pocketable, its slightly larger size offers a more comfortable grip during those marathon gaming sessions. Plus, it doesn’t skimp on features. From classic gaming buttons to Micro SD Card slots, a Mini HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headphone port, the RG35XX has you covered.

When it comes to performance, the RG35XX holds its ground. It tackles a range of gaming systems, from Arcade to GBA, SNES to PlayStation 1, delivering a solid retro gaming experience. Sure, there might be occasional speed ups or slow downs, but for the price, it’s hard to complain. So, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable retro handheld that can go toe-to-toe with the Miyoo Mini, the RG35XX is a solid choice that won’t disappoint. Get ready to embark on epic gaming adventures without breaking the bank on this retro handheld emulator!

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above.

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The Best Entry Level Retro Handheld Emulators:

Anbernic RG353PS:

Ladies and gentlemen, let me introduce you to the fabulous Anbernic RG353PS – the golden ticket for entry-level gamers looking to dive into the nostalgic world of retro handheld emulation. If you’re a first-time buyer, this little gem is as welcoming as a warm hug. It’s user-friendly, packs a punch with its specs, and is kinder on the wallet compared to other retro consoles. With its slick 3.5″ IPS display and dual analogue sticks, you’ll feel like you’ve got the keys to a treasure chest of gaming history.

Let’s talk easy-peasy setup. The RG353PS runs on a Linux OS which is smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. Don’t fret about complicated installs; just load your favorite classics onto a micro SD card, and you’re off to the races. This console is not just a portal to the past; it’s an all-access pass to platforms like Intellivision, Colecovision, SEGA, and PlayStation.

In a nutshell, the Anbernic RG353PS is the perfect wingman for those looking to take their first steps into the retro gaming world. It’s friendly for newcomers, has a plethora of games to choose from, and it’s ready to roll right out of the box. So, buckle up, new gamers! This retro handheld emulator is your VIP pass to an endless carnival of classic gaming magic. 🎮🕹️

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above.

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Retroid Pocket Flip

Ladies and Gentlemen, buckle up as we dive into the technicolor world of the Retroid Pocket Flip! Picture yourself unpacking this bad boy with giddy anticipation. The unboxing is like a speed date – swift and leaves you yearning for more. A quirky little card showing controls and tech specs winks at you like a flirty little secret. Just to keep you on your toes, there’s no micro SD card, so add it to your shopping list along with that fancy artisanal bread you like. Underneath, you’ll find a USB Type-C charging cable, because nobody likes a dead gaming device at a party.

Now let’s peek into this retro handheld emulator. The Retroid Pocket Flip does a nifty ballet pirouette, measuring about 5.4 x 3.2 x 0.9 inches when closed, and is lightweight like a feather at 270g. It’s almost like a pocket-sized genie! You can grab one in Black, 16Bit US, Indigo, Sport Red, and Watermelon, because who doesn’t love choices? The top half reveals a crisp 4.7” touchscreen with a resolution that’ll have your eyes singing hallelujah. On the lower deck, it’s got a classic D-pad, hall effect sliders that are clickier than tap shoes, and start and select buttons. Though the middle part looks like it’s wearing a plain tuxedo; a snazzy design or texture wouldn’t have hurt.

Hold on to your hats, let’s talk about the magic under the hood. The Retroid Pocket Flip struts the red carpet with its Unisoc Tiger T618 octa-core processor, 4GB of RAM, and an Android 11 OS. It’s also got Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a battery life that would make the Energizer Bunny proud. Dabble in Call of Duty with on-screen mapping, take a joyride with Forza Horizon 5 on Xbox Cloud Gaming, and relive your childhood with a plethora of emulators like Dolphin and Citra. The Retroid Pocket Flip will let you play, stream, watch videos, and take over the digital world. Just be mindful of the shoulder buttons, they’re a little shy and can be obstructed by the top half. So, whether you’re an emulator aficionado or an Android gaming wizard, this retro handheld emulator is like having an all-you-can-eat buffet at your fingertips.

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above.

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RG505

The Anbernic RG505 is here to steer you through a seamless retro gaming experience with this handheld emulator. The unboxing reveals the RG505 handheld, a MicroSD card, user manual, screen protector, and USB Type-C cable. It’s like opening a standard toolbox, complete with everything you need to get started. It comes in a couple of stunning colour choices, you can choose from yellow, my personal fave turquoise or a discreet grey.

Now let’s focus on the gaming. The RG505 comes equipped with a 4.95” OLED touchscreen which delivers clear, crisp visuals. The controls are remarkably responsive, thanks to hall effect sensor analog sticks. Standard volume controls, shoulder and trigger buttons, a 3.5mm headphone port, and a USB Type-C port all contribute to making your gaming experience both comprehensive and enjoyable.

Running on Android 12, the RG505 offers a refined interface with easy access to the Google Play Store. The inclusion of built-in screen controller mapping proves to be an essential feature for customized control setups. When it comes to emulators, the RG505 proves to be a capable contender, handling various platforms efficiently. If you’re looking for a reliable and competent handheld for retro game emulation, the RG505 deserves consideration.

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above.

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RG353V/RG353VS

RG353V and RG353VS retro handheld emulators are your ideal jump-start into the world of retro gaming. These sibling consoles are visually charming and user-friendly, offering a perfect mix of nostalgia and modern tech. The RG353V comes in four vibrant hues while the RG353VS offers two classic shades, both flaunting 3.5-inch IPS screens and traditional button layouts. These features are not just about design aesthetics; they provide a seamless gaming experience, making your entry into retro gaming as smooth as possible.

Let’s delve into what makes these consoles a must-have for beginners. The RG353V, with its 2GB RAM, and the RG353VS, armed with 1GB, can handle a vast array of emulators, spanning from the classic 8-bit to the 16-bit era. The RG353V steps it up with dual-boot functionality for Android and Linux, a feature that opens up a universe of customization possibilities. The RG353VS keeps it straightforward with Linux, suited for those who want a hassle-free plug and play experience, an attractive feature for first-time users.

Making a choice between the RG353V and the RG353VS comes down to your personal preferences. The RG353V is packed with extra features for those who want to explore and customize, while the RG353VS focuses on simplicity and convenience, delivering a no-nonsense gaming experience. Both devices come with the fabulous ArkOS custom firmware, enhancing their functionality significantly. So whether you’re a budding gamer or someone looking for a trip down memory lane, Anbernic’s retro handheld emulators are the perfect entry-level devices to kick off your retro gaming journey. Let’s game on!

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above.

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RG353M

Alright, gamers! The RG353M is here, and if you’re new to the retro gaming scene, this is a prime pick to get started. It’s a solid entry-level console, and while the internals haven’t seen much of an update compared to the previous models, the metallic case adds an impressive touch. It feels more durable and has a premium feel which is perfect for those who are just diving into handheld gaming.

Now, inside the box, you’re greeted with everything you need to get your gaming journey rolling. Along with the retro handheld emulator itself, there’s a 64GB Micro SD card included, which means you can start loading up on games straight away. A user manual ensures you have the guidance needed to get familiar with your new device. The USB Type-C charging cable is an essential, and they also throw in a screen protector with wipes to ensure your screen stays in tip-top shape.

The RG353M is available in two classic colors, Blue and Deep Purple. With its compact design, this handheld is ideal for gaming on the go. The controls are intuitive, perfect for newcomers. The device has a 3.5-inch display, dual analog sticks, a D-Pad, and gaming buttons. Additional features like shoulder and trigger buttons, a headphone port, Mini HDMI port, and two USB Type-C ports make this console versatile. For first-time buyers looking for an entry into the world of retro gaming, this retro handheld emulator is an excellent choice that combines functionality with a stylish design.

To learn more check out our review here or the YouTube video above

So you’ve got quite a few different choices for all sorts of work cases. which Retro Handheld Emulator are you choosing? If you’re still not sure take a look at last year’s choices to help make your mind.

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