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10 Best Retro Game Handhelds to Buy in 2025: Ultimate Gaming Guide
The world of retro gaming has experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially as technology continues to advance, allowing for the creation of handheld devices that replicate the gaming experiences of our childhood. Today, we explore the top 10 best retro game handhelds available on Amazon in 2025. These devices encapsulate nostalgic gaming while providing modern features that enhance gameplay. From classic Game Boy looks to feature-rich emulators, these are the must-have devices for retro gaming enthusiasts.
1. Anbernic RG351MP
Anbernic RG351MP Retro Handheld Game Console
The Anbernic RG351MP has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best retro game handheld devices on the market. With its solid build quality and an impressive library of games, it is perfect for anyone looking to relive the classics. Featuring a 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 480×320, this device provides sharp images and vibrant colors. It comes pre-loaded with over 3500 games from systems like the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and even arcade classics.
Best for: Retro enthusiasts who appreciate an extensive game library and solid performance.
Pros: Solid build quality, vast game library, excellent screen quality, user-friendly interface.
Cons: The battery life may be shorter than some competitors, and customization options are limited.
2. Powkiddy X18S
Powkiddy X18S Handheld Game Console
The Powkiddy X18S appeals mainly to gamers looking for a versatile handheld that can play both retro and modern games. It features a 5-inch touchscreen display, a powerful octa-core processor, and 2GB of RAM, making it capable of offering great performance for various gaming experiences. This device supports Android Emulators, giving access to a wide range of games, from classic to current titles. It even supports Wi-Fi functionality for online play and updates.
Best for: Gamers who desire versatility in gaming experiences.
Pros: Robust performance, wide compatibility with various game emulators, large display, good battery life.
Cons: The interface can feel clunky, and it may require some configuration for optimal use.
- 🎮 10,000+ Classics Preloaded Instantly play 8-bit to PSP-era gems across 20+ systems. No setup – unfold and relive childhood!
- 🔄 Fold & Go Anywhere Military-grade hinges survive 20K flips. Folds to pocket size (8.9x8.5cm) – 30% smaller than phones!
- 💾 Dual TF Slots for Upgrades Separate slots for OS (system) and games – update firmware without losing saves. Supports 512GB total!
- ⚡ Cartridge-Smooth Performance Quad-core CPU boots in 8 sec – faster than blowing NES cartridges. Zero lag on GBA classics.
- 🔓 Hack Your Childhood Install ArkOS/RetroArch for Dreamcast/PSP games. Includes USB-C cable & quick-start guide.
3. GPD Win 3
GPD Win 3 Handheld Gaming PC
The GPD Win 3 is a handheld gaming PC that transcends the boundaries of traditional retro gaming. It includes a slide-up display that reveals a full QWERTY keyboard, allowing for functionalities beyond gaming, such as productivity tasks. The device runs Windows 10, which means you can download various emulators for all your favorite retro games, and also play Steam or Epic Games titles. With an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a touchscreen, it is one of the most versatile handheld gaming devices in 2025.
Best for: Those who want an all-in-one device for gaming and productivity.
Pros: Powerful performance, Windows 10 compatibility, great screen quality, portable design.
Cons: High price point, and the battery may drain quickly during high-performance tasks.
- 【WIN600 Handheld PC Video Game Console】New 2022 PC handheld game console. A big change from other gaming consoles, the WIN600 features a 5.94" OCA full lamination screen, a larger screen for a better visual experience and a higher performance CPU for an even better gaming, entertainment and office experience.
- 【AMD Athlon Silver 3050e Dali APU up to 2.8GHz】WIN600 has AMD Athlon Silver 3050e CPU and AMD Radeon RX Vega3 GPU, built-in 256 GB M.2 SATA 2242 solid state disk. Because SSDs have no moving parts, they are less likely to fail due to severe vibration or excessive bumps.
- 【Win10 home edition, support steam OS】WIN 600 comes pre-installed with Win11 home edition. You can play many pc games on it and it also supports Steam OS. The machine weighs 490 g, so it won't be a problem to get out, it's lightweight and you can play games anywhere.
- 【Multi-purpose Machine Office Anytime】The WIN600 supports users in downloading office software and is a good choice if you find your laptop too heavy. In addition, the WIN600 features an OCA full lamination touch screen, dual speaker stereo speakers, support for multi-platform games in multiple formats, support for users to download their own games in relevant formats and support for vibration motors.
- 【Daxceirry Professional After-sales Service】Please read the user manual in the box before using WIN600. We will provide 1 year after-sales service, if there is any problem with the machine during the warranty period please feel free to contact us and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
4. Retroid Pocket 3+
Retroid Pocket 3+ Retro Handheld Game Console
The Retroid Pocket 3+ offers a blend of retro charm and modern performance. With a 4.7-inch touchscreen and a powerful chipset, this device allows for smooth gameplay on various emulators. Pre-loaded with games from multiple platforms, including PS1, NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis, the Retroid Pocket 3+ is known for its quick startup and excellent battery life, making it ideal for on-the-go gaming.
Best for: Gamers seeking a lightweight, portable option without sacrificing power.
Pros: Excellent battery life, lightweight design, smooth performance, user-friendly interface.
Cons: Build quality could be improved, and the screen may not reach the vibrancy of higher-end models.
- High-Performance Computing: Equipped with a Mediatek Dimensity 1100 Octa Core CPU, featuring 4xA78 cores at 2.6Ghz, and a G77 MC9 GPU at 836Mhz, the Pocket 4 Pro offers unparalleled gaming performance. Its 8GB LPDDR4X RAM enhances this experience, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay for even the most demanding games.
- Expansive and Flexible Storage Options: With a generous 128GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage, the Pocket 4 Pro provides ample space for an extensive game library. Additionally, the flexibility to expand storage via a Micro SD card slot ensures you never run out of room for your favourite games and media.
- Superior Display and Video Output: Boasting a 4.7” touchscreen display, this handheld offers vivid and crisp visuals for an immersive gaming experience. It also supports video output of 720P through HDMI and 1080P via USB Type-C, allowing for versatile gaming on larger screens, whether at home or on the move.
- Advanced Connectivity and User-Friendly Design: Featuring WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for seamless online gaming and device connectivity, this handheld is a gamer's dream. Its ergonomic design, weighing only 251g and measuring 18.4 x 8.2 x 1.5 cm, makes it easy to carry. Available in six attractive colours, it caters to every style.
- Long Battery Life with Efficient Cooling: The device's long-lasting 5000mAh battery supports extended gaming sessions and fast charging capability means less downtime. An innovative active cooling system with a fan ensures the device remains cool, enhancing performance and longevity. The Android OS 13 provides a smooth, user-friendly interface.
5. AYN Odin Base
AYN Odin Base Handheld Gaming Console
The AYN Odin Base is a gaming powerhouse that can handle everything from retro classics to modern AAA titles. It boasts a 7-inch HD display and is powered by a Snapdragon 845 processor, ensuring high-quality graphics and responsiveness. Additionally, with a large battery life and customizable controls, the Odin Base caters to both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts.
Best for: Gamers who want the best of both worlds—retro and modern gaming.
Pros: High performance, large battery life, excellent graphics, versatile design.
Cons: The size may be bulky for some, and it comes at a premium price.
- Cutting-Edge Processor: Equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, featuring 1x Kyro GoldPlus @3.2Ghz, 4x Kyro Gold @2.8Ghz, and 3x Kyro Silver @2.0Ghz, AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming delivers top-tier gaming performance, ensuring seamless gameplay and fast processing speeds for all your classic gaming needs.
- Superior Graphics and Display: Boasting a Qualcomm Adreno 740 GPU and a stunning 6" touchscreen with a 1920x1080 resolution, AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming offers crisp visuals and vibrant colours, enhancing the gaming experience with detailed graphics and immersive gameplay.
- Coming with 128GB of UFS 4.0 storage for swift game loading and smooth performance. A Micro SD card slot offers additional storage expansion, ensuring you never run out of space for your gaming library on your AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming device.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: Powered by an 8000mAh Li-Pro battery, the AYN Odin 2 provides extended hours of gaming enjoyment. Whether you’re commuting or on a long journey, the AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming ensures you stay entertained without constant charging worries.
- Advanced Connectivity and Audio: Featuring Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 for reliable online gaming and updates, along with dual speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack, the AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming ensures top-notch audio quality and seamless connectivity, elevating your gaming sessions to new heights.
6. Anbernic RG351V
Anbernic RG351V Retro Handheld Game Console
For fans of a more classic design, the Anbernic RG351V takes inspiration from the Game Boy Advance. It features a 3.5-inch display and comes with updated hardware for better performance. While it resembles the aesthetics of the old-school handhelds, it supports more than 30 emulators from systems like Sega, Nintendo, and Atari, providing countless gaming options in a nostalgic package.
Best for: Gamers looking for a classic feel without sacrificing technological advancements.
Pros: Attractive design, excellent compatibility with retro games, and reliable performance.
Cons: Limited internal storage, and some users may prefer larger screens.
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- Haihuang handheld game console: RG351V With vibrating motor ,and perfectly supports 20 kinds of games format. Support users to download the relevant format of the game.
- RG351V Handheld has too many games to play: RG351V with 64G TF card comes with 2521 classic games pre-installed.
- Anbernic RG351V Handheld Game Console: Double tf card, support the maximum expansion 256GB.
- Multi-functional game console: Support WIFI built-in online sparring/ 3D rocker/ Support 3.5mm earphones.
- RG351V Has exquisite appearance and comfortable feel will make you love it. 1: If you encounter problems with missing accessories such as SD cards, please consult the seller for a replacement. 3: If you encounter problems such as black lines on the screen is the reason for the software, you can contact the seller to send relevant information to you to refresh, we will try to handle and reply within 24 hours.
7. BittBoy Pocket Go V2
BittBoy Pocket Go V2 Retro Handheld Console
The BittBoy Pocket Go V2 is a compact handheld that appeals to gamers wanting something ultra-portable. Despite its tiny form factor, it features a 3.5-inch display and can run a multitude of retro games across many platforms. The internal storage supports microSD cards, allowing users to expand their game library seamlessly. With its lightweight design and impressive battery life, it’s perfect for gaming on the move.
Best for: Travelers and those wanting a pocket-sized gaming experience.
Pros: Highly portable, good battery life, seamless game storage expansion.
Cons: Limited hardware capabilities may restrict more demanding games, smaller screen size.
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8. Retrofreak
Retrofreak Retro Game Console
The Retrofreak is a unique handheld that supports cartridges from multiple retro consoles—including NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. It has an excellent 720p display, and the ability to save game states makes it a favorite among nostalgic gamers. The Retrofreak allows for versatile gaming and includes a built-in function to emulate game saves, so you can pick up right where you left off.
Best for: Collectors of retro cartridges looking to enjoy games without the original hardware.
Pros: Versatile compatibility with hardware, excellent display, save game functionality.
Cons: Limited community support compared to other devices, and it may be harder to find cartridges.
9. AYN Odin Pro
AYN Odin Pro Handheld Gaming Console
The AYN Odin Pro is another incredible entry from the Odin series, offering a high-end gaming experience. It features a 7-inch corner display, Snapdragon 865 processor, and multi-functional capabilities. It allows users to play retro games as well as modern titles with little to no lag. Users can also download a variety of apps, making it incredibly versatile for both gaming and general use.
Best for: Serious gamers looking for high performance and extensive capabilities.
Pros: Powerful hardware, high-resolution display, versatile functionality.
Cons: Higher price point and may have a learning curve for new users.
- No preload games: Please note that no games are preloaded on AYN consoles. Odin pro runs the Android 10 operating system which has full support for the Google Play Store
- Cutting-Edge Processor: Equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, featuring 1x Kyro GoldPlus @3.2Ghz, 4x Kyro Gold @2.8Ghz, and 3x Kyro Silver @2.0Ghz, AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming delivers top-tier gaming performance, ensuring seamless gameplay and fast processing speeds for all your classic gaming needs.
- Superior Graphics and Display: Boasting a Qualcomm Adreno 740 GPU and a stunning 6" touchscreen with a 1920x1080 resolution, AYN Odine 2 Android handheld gaming offers crisp visuals and vibrant colours, enhancing the gaming experience with detailed graphics and immersive gameplay.
- Robust Storage Options: Choose from Base (128GB), Pro (256GB), or Max (512GB) models, all featuring UFS 4.0 storage for swift game loading and smooth performance. A Micro SD card slot offers additional storage expansion, ensuring you never run out of space for your gaming library on your AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming device.
- Long-Lasting Battery Life: Powered by an 8000mAh Li-Pro battery, the AYN Odin 2 provides extended hours of gaming enjoyment. Whether you’re commuting or on a long journey, the AYN Odin 2 Android handheld gaming ensures you stay entertained without constant charging worries.
10. GameWave Handheld Console
GameWave Retro Handheld Console
The GameWave is a lesser-known yet impressive handheld device that supports a plethora of retro games. This console is geared towards those who want a good balance between performance and price. It features a bright LCD screen, user-friendly controls, and a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts for hours. With its ability to play various retro platforms, it provides a good entry point for new retro gaming fans.
Best for: Newcomers to retro gaming looking for an affordable and reliable device.
Pros: Affordable price, lightweight design, decent game compatibility.
Cons: Limited graphics quality compared to higher-end options, and the game library may not be as extensive.
- 【R36MAX New Retro Game System】The R36 MAX is a high-performance retro video game console, equipped with a 1.5GHz 64-bit RK3326 CPU and Linux system with a ARM64bit quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU. It offers a smooth and responsive gaming experience across a variety of emulators.
- 【4.0 inch HD Tempered Glass Screen】The R36MAX Retro features a 4.0 inch IPS screen covered with scratch-resistant tempered glass. The screen has a resolution of 720*720 pixels, presenting clear images and soft colors. Therefore, whether it's the delicate details of the game graphics or the light and shadow special effects in the intense battles, they can all be accurately displayed, effectively reducing visual fatigue and allowing players to immerse themselves in the game.
- 【64G Storage】This retro gaming console comes can be plugged and played without an internet connection. With its 64G storage capacity, you can enjoy a vast library of games, and there's an option to insert an additional TF card to expand your game collection even further.
- 【Portable Design with 4000mAh Battery】Designed for portability, this mini retro game console features a compact and lightweight design. The 4000mAh rechargeable battery offers up to 10 hours of playtime, making it perfect for gaming on the go. It also includes built-in speakers and a 3.5mm headphone jack for an immersive audio experience.
- 【Perfect Gift】This R36MAX game console takes you back to a filled with laughter and surprises. Here are the steps on how to adjust the rotating screen mode of the game handhelds: Step 1: Enter any game, Select + X, press "B" to return, you will enter the RetroArch menu, as shown in figure 1, enter the settings option, "A" is the confirmation key, "B" is the return key; Step 2: Go to Settings - Select "Video". Step 3: Select "Output". Step 4: Select "Video Rotation" Step 5: Select "Normal".
Buying Guide for Retro Game Handhelds
Retro game handhelds offer a nostalgic gaming experience, allowing players to enjoy classic titles on the go. With a variety of options available, this guide will help you choose the perfect device for your gaming needs.
1. Consider Your Gaming Preferences
a. Game Library
- Supported Platforms: Identify which retro consoles you want to play (e.g., NES, SNES, Game Boy, Sega Genesis).
- Available Titles: Research the games included or available for download on the device.
b. Game Types
- Determine if you prefer platformers, RPGs, or puzzle games, as some handhelds cater more to specific genres.
2. Display Quality
a. Screen Size and Resolution
- Look for a screen size that is comfortable for portable gaming, typically between 3-5 inches.
- Higher resolution (720p or more) can enhance the clarity of the visuals, especially for pixel art games.
b. Display Technology
- LCD vs. OLED: OLED screens offer richer colors and deeper blacks, while LCDs generally have better battery life.
3. Battery Life
a. Duration
- Look for a handheld with a battery life of at least 6-10 hours for extended play sessions.
- Check for quick charging capabilities, especially if you plan on using it while traveling.
4. Controls and Ergonomics
a. Button Layout
- Ensure the button layout feels comfortable and intuitive for your play style.
- Look for additional buttons or features (like shoulder buttons) that may enhance gameplay.
b. Build Quality
- Consider the materials used; a durable build is essential for portable devices.
- Test the feel of the device in hand if possible, ensuring it’s not too heavy or cramped.
5. Software and Features
a. Operating System
- Some handhelds have custom firmware, allowing for added features like save states or cheats.
- Check for user-friendly interfaces that make navigation easy.
b. Multimedia Capabilities
- Some devices may support video playback, music, or additional apps, which can enhance their value.
6. Connectivity Options
a. Wireless Features
- Look for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities, which allow for online play or connecting to other devices.
- Some models offer multiplayer modes or online game compatibility.
b. Ports
- Consider if the device has HDMI output for connecting to TVs or other devices.
- USB-C for charging and data transfer can be a modern convenience.
7. Storage Options
a. Internal Storage
- Determine how much built-in storage the device offers for downloading games and saving data.
b. Expandability
- Look for devices that support microSD cards or other forms of external storage for added capacity.
8. Price Range
a. Budget Considerations
- Retro game handhelds can range greatly in price; set a budget that reflects how much you’re willing to invest.
b. Value for Money
- Consider features, game availability, and build quality to ensure you’re getting the best value within your budget.
9. Brand Reputation and Reviews
a. Trusted Brands
- Look for well-known brands with positive customer reviews (e.g., Anbernic, GPD, Powkiddy).
b. Customer Service
- Consider the warranty and customer service reputation; this may be important if you encounter any issues.
10. Community and Support
a. Modding and Customization
- Check if the device has a community for mods or custom games, enhancing its longevity and enjoyment.
b. Forums and Online Groups
- Being part of a gaming community can provide additional support, tips, and a place to discuss your experiences.
Conclusion
Finding the right retro game handheld takes time and research. By considering your gaming preferences, desired features, and budget, you can choose a device that will provide an enjoyable gaming experience for years to come. Happy gaming!
