Modern handhelds can play decades of games — from NES to GameCube. Whether you want something cheap for 8-bit classics or a powerhouse that handles PS2 and beyond, here are the best options right now.
Quick Picks (Best Overall Choices)
-
Best Overall:
Anbernic RG405M — power, build, and price in a sweet spot. -
Best Budget:
Powkiddy RGB30 — perfect for NES/SNES/GBA/PS1 without breaking the bank. -
Best Premium:
AYN Odin 2 Pro — tackles GameCube/PS2-tier emulation. -
Best for Tinkerers:
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro — Android, tons of emulator flexibility.
Why Emulation Handhelds Are Everywhere
They’re small, affordable, and run Android or Linux. Drop in a microSD card, install your emulators, and you’ve got decades of games in your pocket. Easy.
1. Anbernic RG405M — The Sweet Spot
Metal shell, clean sticks, solid battery life, and enough power for Dreamcast, PSP, and a chunk of GameCube. Great everyday carry if you want real buttons and zero fuss.
- ✅ Plays: NES/SNES/PS1/N64/Dreamcast/PSP/GC (tuned)
- ✅ 4″ touch, micro-HDMI out
- ❌ Not the smallest pocket carry
2. Powkiddy RGB30 — Best Budget
1:1 720×720 screen makes retro pixel art pop. Ideal for 8/16-bit and PS1. Lightweight, simple, and cheap — great starter handheld.
- ✅ Plays: NES/SNES/GB/GBC/GBA/PS1
- ✅ Crisp 1:1 display for older systems
- ❌ Struggles with N64/Dreamcast
3. AYN Odin 2 Pro — Premium Powerhouse
When you want headroom, this is it. Fast chip, sharp 1080p display, comfy grips. It’s overkill for 16-bit, but amazing for GameCube/PS2-class games.
- ✅ Plays: everything up to PS2 (and beyond with tuning)
- ✅ Fantastic screen and ergonomics
- ❌ Pricey
4. Retroid Pocket 4 Pro — For Tinkerers
Android handheld with tons of emulator/front-end options. Great if you like tweaking settings, shaders, and layouts to dial things in.
- ✅ HDMI/USB-C video out, Wi-Fi
- ✅ Strong PS1/Dreamcast/N64, good GameCube with tuning
- ❌ Setup takes time
Must-Have Accessory
- High-Speed microSD (128GB+): Faster loads, smoother states.
SanDisk Extreme 128GB microSDXC (A2, up to 190MB/s)
FAQs
Which handheld plays the most?
AYN Odin 2 Pro — the extra power handles tougher systems.
Best value?
Anbernic RG405M. Premium feel without the premium price.
Legal note
Use backups of games you own. Check your local laws.
Ready to Build Your Retro Kit?
Pick the handheld that fits your budget, add a fast SD card, and you’re set.
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a very well written article. I will make sure to bookmark it and come back to read more of your useful information. Thanks for the post. I’ll certainly comeback.