Retro Handheld Operating Systems Explained
The operating system (or custom firmware) on your retro handheld dramatically affects user experience, performance, and what systems you can play. Understanding the differences will help you choose the right device for your skill level and needs.
OnionOS - Beginner Friendly Excellence
OnionOS - The beginner-friendly firmware for Miyoo devices
What is OnionOS?
OnionOS is a custom Linux-based firmware developed specifically for Miyoo devices. It's designed to be incredibly user-friendly while offering powerful features under the hood. Think of it as the "it just works" option for retro gaming.
Key Features:
✅ WiFi ROM Transfer: No need to remove SD card, transfer games wirelessly
✅ Beautiful UI: Clean, modern interface with themes
✅ Pre-configured Emulators: Everything works out of the box
✅ RetroAchievements: Built-in achievement tracking
✅ Activity Tracker: See your gaming stats
✅ Easy Updates: One-click firmware updates via WiFi
Pros:
✅ Easiest to use for beginners
✅ Excellent community support and frequent updates
✅ WiFi features are game-changing
✅ Very stable and reliable
✅ Great performance optimization
Cons:
❌ Only available on Miyoo devices
❌ Limited to retro systems (no Android apps)
❌ Can't play modern games or use cloud gaming
🧅 Best OnionOS Device: Miyoo Mini Plus
Miyoo Mini Plus - $65.99
OnionOS was practically made for the Miyoo Mini Plus. The combination of this device and OS creates the smoothest, most user-friendly retro gaming experience available. WiFi ROM transfer means you'll never remove the SD card, and RetroAchievements adds modern gaming features to classic games. Perfect for beginners.
Buy Miyoo Mini Plus →GarlicOS - Simple & Stable
GarlicOS - Simple and stable firmware for Anbernic RG35XX devices
What is GarlicOS?
GarlicOS is a custom firmware for Anbernic devices (specifically the RG35XX family). It's focused on simplicity, stability, and excellent performance. Think "OnionOS for Anbernic devices" - it prioritizes retro gaming with minimal fuss.
Key Features:
✅ Clean Interface: Simple, easy to navigate menu
✅ Excellent Emulation: Optimized for Anbernic hardware
✅ Good Battery Life: Efficient power management
✅ RetroArch Integration: Advanced users can tweak settings
✅ Stable & Reliable: Rarely crashes, just works
Pros:
✅ Perfect for users who want simple retro gaming
✅ Very stable and well-tested
✅ Great performance on supported systems
✅ Active community development
✅ Works on affordable devices ($55-$90)
Cons:
❌ No WiFi features (must remove SD card for ROMs)
❌ Only for Anbernic RG35XX family
❌ Less flashy UI compared to OnionOS
❌ Limited to retro systems
🧄 Best GarlicOS Device: Anbernic RG35XX Plus
Anbernic RG35XX Plus - $89.99
The RG35XX Plus runs GarlicOS beautifully with enhanced features like WiFi support and longer battery life. The Game Boy-inspired design combined with GarlicOS's simplicity makes this the best "pick up and play" retro handheld. Excellent build quality, great D-pad, and perfect for Game Boy through PS1 games. Setup takes 5 minutes.
Buy RG35XX Plus →CrossMix OS - Power User's Choice
What is CrossMix OS?
CrossMix OS is a custom firmware for TrimUI devices that balances ease of use with power-user features. It provides excellent performance optimization and a clean interface without being overwhelming.
Key Features:
✅ Performance Focused: Optimized for TrimUI hardware
✅ Modern UI: Clean, responsive interface
✅ WiFi Support: Easy ROM management
✅ Good Emulator Selection: Well-configured out of box
⚙️ Best CrossMix Device: Trimui Smart Pro ($89.99)
CrossMix OS on the Smart Pro delivers outstanding PS1 and PSP performance. The OLED screen looks amazing, and the firmware is optimized specifically for this device's chipset. Great middle ground between simple Linux firmware and full Android.
Android - The Versatile Powerhouse
What is Android for Retro Handhelds?
Premium retro handhelds run full Android (usually version 11-14), giving you access to the Google Play Store, modern apps, and the most powerful emulators available. This opens up possibilities beyond just retro gaming.
Key Features:
✅ Google Play Store: Access to all Android apps and games
✅ Best Emulators: Dolphin (GameCube), AetherSX2 (PS2), Citra (3DS)
✅ Cloud Gaming: Xbox Game Pass, GeForce Now, Steam Link
✅ Media Apps: YouTube, Netflix, Spotify while you game
✅ Bluetooth Support: Connect wireless controllers, headphones
✅ Modern Games: Play actual Android games from Play Store
Pros:
✅ Most versatile - gaming device + tablet
✅ Access to the best emulators (constantly updated)
✅ Can play modern games and stream from PC/cloud
✅ Full ecosystem of apps and customization
✅ Future-proof (apps get regular updates)
✅ Can replace a tablet for media consumption
Cons:
❌ Steeper learning curve for beginners
❌ More expensive devices ($150-$650)
❌ Shorter battery life than Linux-based devices
❌ Requires more setup and configuration
❌ Can be overwhelming with too many options
🤖 Best Android Device: Anbernic RG406V ($229.99)
Android 13 on the RG406V is blazing fast, the OLED screen makes everything look stunning, and you get the full Android ecosystem. Install Dolphin for GameCube, AetherSX2 for PS2, or use Xbox Game Pass for cloud gaming. It's a retro handheld AND a capable Android device in one premium package.
Other Great Android Devices:
- RG405M ($180): Premium metal build, excellent value Android device
- Retroid Pocket 5 ($259): 5.5" screen, best all-around Android handheld
- RG476H ($249.99): Massive 7" screen for home gaming
Ark OS - Ultra Budget Option
Ark OS is a basic Linux firmware found on budget devices like the BATLEXP G350. It's functional but lacks the polish and features of OnionOS or GarlicOS. Good enough for casual gaming but not recommended if you have other options.
When to Accept Ark OS:
- Budget is extremely tight (under $40)
- You only play simple 8-bit games
- You're tech-savvy enough to work around limitations
SteamOS - The PC Gaming Champion
SteamOS (found on the Steam Deck) is a Linux-based OS optimized for PC gaming. It can also run emulators through desktop mode, making it the most powerful option for emulation AND modern gaming.
Best For:
Users who want to play modern Steam games AND emulate retro systems. The Steam Deck can literally play everything from NES to PS3, plus thousands of PC games.
Operating System Comparison
| Feature | OnionOS | GarlicOS | CrossMix OS | Android |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Setup Time | 5 minutes | 5 minutes | 10 minutes | 30-60 minutes |
| WiFi ROM Transfer | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| RetroAchievements | ✅ Built-in | ⚠️ Possible | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Android Apps | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Cloud Gaming | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Battery Life | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Customization | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Typical Price | $50-$70 | $55-$90 | $90-$100 | $150-$300 |
Which Operating System Should You Choose?
Choose OnionOS If:
✅ You're a complete beginner to retro handhelds
✅ You want WiFi ROM transfer
✅ You primarily play Game Boy through PS1
✅ You want the easiest possible experience
✅ RetroAchievements matter to you
Choose GarlicOS If:
✅ You want a classic Game Boy form factor
✅ Simplicity and stability are priorities
✅ You don't mind removing SD card for ROM management
✅ You want the most affordable quality option
✅ Battery life is important
Choose Android If:
✅ You want GameCube, PS2, or 3DS emulation
✅ You want cloud gaming capability
✅ You want a device that can also be a tablet
✅ You want access to modern Android games
✅ Customization and tweaking appeals to you
✅ You're willing to invest in a premium device
Can You Install Different Operating Systems?
Yes and no. OnionOS only works on Miyoo devices. GarlicOS only works on specific Anbernic models. Android devices usually can't run Linux firmware. Each OS is optimized for specific hardware, so your choice of device determines your OS options.
The Bottom Line
For beginners: OnionOS is unbeatable. The Miyoo Mini Plus with OnionOS is the smoothest, most user-friendly retro gaming experience you can buy. WiFi ROM transfer alone is worth it.
For classic gaming purists: GarlicOS is perfect. Simple, stable, and focused entirely on retro gaming. The RG34XX or RG35XX with GarlicOS is gaming nirvana.
For power users and GameCube fans: Android is necessary. The RG406V or Retroid Pocket 5 with Android gives you the full emulation ecosystem and modern features.
