Blog
Guides, reviews, and comparisons for retro gaming handhelds and emulation.
Featured
Best retro handhelds under $100 in 2025
Every worthwhile retro handheld under $100, ranked. We tested screen quality, emulation performance, and firmware for each one.
Best retro handhelds in 2025: a buyer's guide
We tested every major retro handheld on the market. Here's what's worth buying in 2025, from $40 budget picks to $200 PS2-capable devices.
Retroid Pocket 5 vs AYN Odin 2 Mini: which one to buy?
We compare the Retroid Pocket 5 and AYN Odin 2 Mini side by side — PS2 performance, screen quality, build, and price. Here's which one makes more sense.
Miyoo Mini Plus vs Anbernic RG35XX H: which should you buy?
The ultimate comparison between the Miyoo Mini Plus and Anbernic RG35XX H. We compare specs, screen quality, firmware support, controls, and value for money — with a clear verdict for every type of buyer.
Best retro handheld under $50 in 2025
Looking for the best retro gaming handheld under $50? We compare the top budget options including the Miyoo Mini Plus and Anbernic RG28XX — specs, screen quality, firmware, and who each one is for.
All articles
AYN Thor review: price, specs, pros and cons for dual-screen fans
Our AYN Thor review covers price, specs, pros, cons, weight, software trade-offs, and whether this $249 dual-screen Android handheld is actually better than the Odin 2 Mini or Retroid Pocket 5.
Miyoo Flip review: the best clamshell retro handheld?
Miyoo Flip review — clamshell design, OnionOS support, 3.95" IPS screen. Is the GBA SP-inspired form factor worth $79? We tested it for two weeks.
Retroid Pocket Mini review: compact PS2 powerhouse
Retroid Pocket Mini review — Dimensity 1100, 4.7" AMOLED, PS2/GameCube capable. Is it better than the Retroid Pocket 5? We tested both.
Anbernic RG405M review: the best metal-body retro handheld?
Anbernic RG405M review — CNC aluminum body, Unisoc T618, 4" IPS screen, PS2 capable. Is the premium build worth $169? Full specs, performance, and verdict.
Best retro handhelds for kids in 2025
Looking for a retro handheld for your child? We pick the safest, most durable, and easiest-to-use options — with honest advice on what to expect.
Best custom firmware for retro handhelds in 2025
The complete guide to retro handheld custom firmware: OnionOS, GarlicOS, KNULLI, MinUI, ROCKNIX — which one is right for your device?
Best retro handhelds for PS2 games in 2025
Want to play PS2 games on a handheld? We rank every device that can actually run PS2 emulation — with real performance data, not guesswork.
How to install KNULLI on RG35XX H and TRIMUI Smart Pro (2025 guide)
Complete guide to installing KNULLI custom firmware on Anbernic RG35XX H, RG28XX, and TRIMUI Smart Pro. Includes SD card setup, ROM transfer, and troubleshooting.
Best retro handheld for beginners in 2025
New to retro gaming handhelds? We break down the best options for beginners by budget — from $40 starters to $200 powerhouses. No jargon, just honest picks.
GarlicOS vs OnionOS: which custom firmware should you use?
GarlicOS vs OnionOS compared side by side — features, compatible devices, ease of use, and which one is right for your retro handheld.
How to install GarlicOS on Anbernic RG35XX H (2025 guide)
Step-by-step guide to installing GarlicOS on the Anbernic RG35XX H. SD card setup, firmware download, ROM transfer, and troubleshooting tips.
How to install OnionOS on Miyoo Mini Plus (2025)
Step-by-step OnionOS installation guide for the Miyoo Mini Plus. SD card setup, firmware download, ROM transfer, and what to do when things go wrong.
How to set up Retroid Pocket 5 for retro gaming (2025)
Everything you need to get your Retroid Pocket 5 running: Android setup, emulator installation, PS2 configuration, controller mapping, and performance tweaks.
What is custom firmware for retro handhelds?
Custom firmware explained: what it is, why you'd want it, and which one to use. Covers OnionOS, GarlicOS, KNULLI, MinUI, and RetroArch.
What is OnionOS? A complete guide for Miyoo Mini Plus
OnionOS is the go-to custom firmware for the Miyoo Mini Plus. Here's what it does, how it compares to stock firmware, why most people use it, and answers to the most common questions.