Anbernic vs Retroid: Which Retro Handheld Brand Is Right for You?

Anbernic and Retroid are the two biggest names in retro handhelds, and most buyers end up choosing between them. They both make great devices, but they take different paths to get there. Anbernic floods the market with affordable Linux handhelds in every shape and size. Retroid focuses on a smaller lineup of powerful Android devices. Knowing how the two brands differ makes it much easier to pick the right one for you.

This guide breaks down how Anbernic and Retroid compare on price, software, build, and emulation power, then helps you decide which fits the way you play. We frame all of this around playing games you already own.

Affiliate disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Anbernic affiliate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

The Short Version

If you want a cheap, simple device for 8-bit through PS1 games, Anbernic is usually the better value. If you want a more powerful device for PS2, GameCube, and beyond, with an Android app ecosystem, Retroid is the stronger pick. Most people start with an Anbernic and later add a Retroid when they want more power.

Price and Lineup

Anbernic releases a huge number of devices, often several a year, across every price point and form factor. You can spend $40 on a tiny vertical handheld or $250 on a flagship. The sheer variety means there is almost always an Anbernic that fits your budget and the shape you want.

Retroid keeps a tighter lineup focused on a few well-considered models. Prices usually run from around $150 to $250. You get fewer choices, but each one is carefully designed and supported.

If budget is your main concern, Anbernic almost always wins on price.

Software: Linux vs Android

This is the biggest practical difference between the brands.

Anbernic devices mostly run Linux, either the stock firmware or a custom firmware like muOS or KNULLI. Linux boots fast, sips battery, and keeps things simple. It is fantastic for retro systems up to around the PS1 and PSP era. Some newer Anbernic devices run Android instead, which blurs this line. Our Linux vs Android handhelds guide explains the tradeoffs in depth.

Retroid devices run Android. That opens up standalone emulators, the Play Store, streaming apps, and the most demanding emulation cores. Android takes a little more setup, but it is far more flexible and handles tougher systems.

A simple way to think about it: Anbernic and Linux are about pick-up-and-play simplicity, while Retroid and Android are about power and flexibility.

Emulation Power

Anbernic covers the retro core beautifully. Its budget devices handle NES, SNES, Genesis, PS1, and most PSP games with ease. Its higher-end Android models reach further into PS2 and GameCube. For the classics, even a cheap Anbernic delivers.

Retroid aims higher. Models like the Retroid Pocket 5 and Retroid Pocket 6 handle PS2, GameCube, Wii, and even some Switch emulation. If you want to push past the PS1 era, Retroid gives you more headroom per dollar at the higher end.

For a full picture of what runs where, see our best handhelds for PS2 emulation and best retro handhelds guides.

Build and Design

Anbernic has improved a lot, and its recent devices feel solid, with some premium metal models at the top of the range. The huge variety also means more form factors, from tiny verticals to clamshells to widescreen slabs. If you want a specific shape, Anbernic probably makes it.

Retroid devices have a consistent, comfortable design with good ergonomics and increasingly nice screens, including OLED panels on recent models. The lineup is smaller, but the quality is dependable.

Affiliate and Support Notes

One practical point on buying. Anbernic sells directly through its own store, which is the most reliable place to get its devices. Retroid devices are widely available through major retailers. Both brands have active communities and strong custom firmware or emulator support, so you will find plenty of help either way.

Which Should You Buy

Choose Anbernic if you want:

• The best value, especially under $100
• Simple, fast Linux firmware for retro systems up to PS1 and PSP
• A specific form factor, like a tiny pocket device or a clamshell
• A first handheld to dip into the hobby

Choose Retroid if you want:

• More power for PS2, GameCube, Wii, and beyond
• Android with standalone emulators, streaming, and the Play Store
• A carefully designed device with a nice screen
• Room to grow into the most demanding emulation

Recommended Picks

For a great value Anbernic, the

For more help choosing, see our best retro handhelds guide and our Linux vs Android handhelds breakdown. Comparing specific models? Browse our device comparisons for head-to-head picks.