Best Retro Handhelds by Use Case

Not all retro handhelds are created equal. The perfect device for playing Game Boy games isn't necessarily the best for PS2 emulation. This guide will help you match your gaming preferences to the ideal device.

Use Case 1: Pure Game Boy Player

What You Need

For Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games, you want a device with a 3.5-inch screen that matches the original aspect ratio. These games were designed for small screens, and modern 4:3 displays of 3.5 inches recreate that nostalgic experience perfectly.

Why Screen Size Matters for Game Boy

Game Boy games have pixel art designed for 160x144 resolution. On a 3.5-inch screen, each pixel is crisp and visible without being too small. Larger screens can make pixel art look stretched, while smaller screens strain your eyes. The 3.5-inch sweet spot is perfect.

🎮 Best for Game Boy: Anbernic RG34XX ($59.99)

Designed to look and feel like an original Game Boy Advance, the RG34XX is THE device for GBA enthusiasts. The 3.5-inch IPS display is perfect for Game Boy games, GarlicOS makes setup easy, and the build quality is exceptional for the price. If you're primarily playing Game Boy games, this is your device.

Buy RG34XX →Read Full Review

Other Great Game Boy Options:

Use Case 2: SNES & Genesis Fan

What You Need

16-bit games run perfectly on literally any retro handheld. Your main considerations are screen size preference and form factor. SNES and Genesis games look great on 3.5-4 inch screens.

💡 Sweet Spot: Miyoo Mini Plus ($65.99)

For SNES and Genesis games, the Miyoo Mini Plus offers the perfect balance. The 3.5-inch screen showcases 16-bit graphics beautifully, it's ultra-portable, and OnionOS has excellent SNES and Genesis emulators pre-configured. Plus, WiFi makes getting ROMs easy.

Buy Miyoo Mini Plus →

Use Case 3: PlayStation 1 Enthusiast

What You Need

PS1 games need more power than 8/16-bit systems. You'll want a device with analog sticks for games like Ape Escape and Crash Team Racing. Screen size of 3.5-5 inches works well, with larger being better for detailed 3D games.

Performance Considerations

Budget devices can play many PS1 games but may struggle with demanding titles like Tekken 3 or Gran Turismo. Mid-range and premium devices handle the entire PS1 library flawlessly at 60fps.

🎮 Best for PS1: Trimui Smart Pro ($89.99)

The Trimui Smart Pro absolutely nails PS1 emulation. Every game runs at full speed, the 4.96-inch OLED display makes PS1 graphics pop, and the analog sticks feel great. CrossMix OS has PS1 emulation perfectly optimized out of the box. This is the best PS1 handheld under $100.

Buy Trimui Smart Pro →

Other Great PS1 Options:

Use Case 4: PSP & Dreamcast Player

What You Need

PSP and Dreamcast emulation requires significantly more power. You'll need at minimum a mid-range device, though premium devices offer better compatibility and performance. Larger screens (4-5 inches) are recommended for PSP's native 16:9 widescreen ratio.

⚡ Best for PSP/Dreamcast: Anbernic RG405M ($180)

The RG405M's metal build feels premium, the 4-inch screen is perfect for PSP games, and Android gives you access to the best PSP and Dreamcast emulators. Hall-effect joysticks prevent drift, and performance is consistently smooth on demanding games. Worth the premium price for PSP enthusiasts.

Buy RG405M →

Use Case 5: Everything Emulator (GameCube, PS2, 3DS)

What You Need

For 6th generation consoles and beyond, you need premium hardware. These systems demand powerful processors, good cooling, and Android for the best emulators. Expect to spend $200-$600+.

Understanding the Requirements

GameCube emulation is CPU-intensive. PS2 requires both CPU and GPU power. Nintendo 3DS needs dual screens emulated on one display. Only the latest Android handhelds and the Steam Deck can handle these consistently well.

🚀 Best for GameCube/PS2: Anbernic RG406V ($229.99)

The RG406V's 4-inch OLED display is stunning, Android 13 runs Dolphin (GameCube) and AetherSX2 (PS2) exceptionally well, and the vertical design is perfect for arcade games too. Hall-effect joysticks and premium build quality make this the best value in premium handhelds. Most GameCube and many PS2 games run full speed.

Buy RG406V →

Other Premium Options:

Use Case 6: Travel Gaming (Maximum Portability)

What You Need

If you travel frequently or want a device that fits in your pocket, ultra-compact devices with 3.2-3.5 inch screens are ideal. These sacrifice screen size for ultimate portability.

Other Ultra-Portable Options:

Use Case 7: Arcade Game Collector

What You Need

Arcade games were designed for vertical monitors. Vertical-oriented handhelds give you the authentic arcade experience without black bars. Look for devices with good D-pads and responsive buttons.

Budget Arcade Alternative:

Use Case 8: Couch Gaming (Home Use)

What You Need

If you're primarily gaming at home and portability isn't a concern, go for larger screens and premium builds. Devices with 5-7 inch screens provide the best visual experience and are more comfortable for extended play sessions.

Use Case 9: RPG Marathon Player

What You Need

Playing through long RPGs like Final Fantasy or Pokémon requires comfortable ergonomics, good battery life, and a screen size that lets you read text easily. Save state functionality is essential.

Best Options by System:

Use Case 10: Multi-System Collector

What You Need

If you want to play a bit of everything - from NES to PS2 - you need a premium Android device. The flexibility and power of Android handhelds lets you jump between systems seamlessly.

Quick Decision Matrix

Final Recommendations

The beauty of retro handhelds is that there's truly a perfect device for every use case. Don't feel pressured to buy the most expensive device if a $60 option plays the games you want. Match your device to your gaming library, not the other way around.

Next Steps