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Multi-System Consoles That Bring Retro Back

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In setting up my classic gaming room with my wife, I’ve researched more multi-system retro consoles than I care to admit, and these are the ones that actually live up to the hype. Whether you want something plug-and-play for your living room, or you’...
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Plug-and-Play Legends

These all-in-one machines are perfect for casual retro lovers who just want to pick up a controller and go.

 
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A true retro hub, the Retron 5 plays NES, SNES, Genesis, Famicom, and Game Boy cartridges right out of the box. It supports HDMI output, has save states, and offers controller customization—perfect for streamlining your retro gaming setup.
Hyperkin RetroN 5
 
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Combining emulation with modular cartridge support, the Polymega handles CD-based consoles like PS1, Sega CD, and TurboGrafx-CD, while expansion modules support cartridge systems. With sleek UI, wireless compatibility, and patching support, it's a pr...
Polymega Base Unit
 
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Built for Game Boy fans, the RetroN Sq plays GB, GBC, and GBA cartridges in HD. Its small footprint, HDMI support, and simple UI make it ideal for handheld nostalgia on a big screen.
Hyperkin RetroN Sq
 
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Packed with 50+ emulators and over 40,000 games pre-installed, this Android-based system is HDMI-ready, compact, and totally plug-and-play. It's the absolute best in the large catalog of pre-installed systems for those don't want to fiddle with physi...
Super Console X Pro

Mod-Friendly Machines

These systems are for tinkerers and hobbyists who love to dig into settings, install custom firmware, or emulate across generations.

 
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An FPGA-based SNES system that’s beloved for its zero-lag accuracy and crisp 1080p output. No emulation here—just authentic SNES hardware built with modern tech. Perfect for modders and pixel purists.
Analogue Super Nt
 
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Portable and Linux-based, this pocket emulator handles PS1, SNES, GBA, and more. Its active modding community offers firmware upgrades and UI tweaks, making it ideal for people who love customizing every detail.
Miyoo Mini Plus
 
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This metal-bodied handheld supports Android and Linux dual-boot, runs up to PSP and Dreamcast, and allows extensive tweaking. It’s a powerhouse in a portable form, and a favorite among handheld modders.
Dosnura RG353M
 
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An open-source Linux-based handheld with support for many systems including N64 and PSP. Its community-driven software makes it a dream for DIY enthusiasts who love customizing every screen and shader.
Odroid Go

Build-It-Yourself Systems

For hardcore hobbyists who want to create a retro box from scratch or personalize their emulation station to the max.

 
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A favorite of the DIY crowd, the Pi 4 paired with RetroPie is endlessly customizable. Load up thousands of ROMs, configure shaders and controllers, and install Kodi for a full multimedia experience.
Pi 4 - RetroPie Docs
 
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Designed for tinkerers who like their emulation handheld and hackable. With open-source firmware, custom ROM support, and a SNES-style layout, it’s a retro build-it-yourself dream.
PocketGo
 
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Turn a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 into a Game Boy-inspired handheld. The build feels authentic, the emulation is solid, and the cartridge-style shell makes it a fun hands-on project.
GPi Case 2W
 
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Featuring a horizontal layout and built-in HDMI out, this affordable handheld is perfect for beginners starting their DIY emulation journey. It runs GarlicOS and supports lots of retro systems.
Anbernic RG35XX

Travel-Ready Consoles

Lightweight, compact, and perfect for portable play, these consoles let you take your retro library anywhere.

 
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An Android-based powerhouse that emulates up to GameCube and PS2 smoothly. With a bright 6" screen, ergonomic feel, and strong battery life, it’s great for retro on-the-go.
AYN Odin Lite
 
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This slim, Android-based device offers a great balance of power and price. Capable of handling N64, PSP, and Dreamcast, it’s a solid pick for portable play and cloud streaming alike.
Retroid Pocket 3
 
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Budget-friendly, compact, and loaded with emulators, this Linux-based handheld is ideal for playing PS1 and older games while traveling. With a sturdy shell and decent screen, it's a favorite among casual retro fans.
RGB20S Retro