Buyer's Guides

Battery numbers on a spec sheet lie. A 7,000 mAh device can die faster than a 3,000 mAh one. Here are the longest-lasting retro handhelds in 2026, split by what you actually play.

The best retro handhelds for kids are cheap enough not to stress over, tough enough to survive a backpack, and simple enough to hand over without a tutorial. Here are six picks under $75.

Want to play retro games on the TV? Some handhelds have a real HDMI port; others output video over USB-C. Here are the best handhelds with TV output in 2026 and exactly what you need to connect each one.

The best handhelds for PS3 emulation in 2026 — which PC handhelds can actually run RPCS3 well, ranked by CPU power, ease of setup, and value.

AMOLED is the new $200 default in retro handhelds. Here are the seven premium AMOLED handhelds worth buying in 2026, ranked by use case and budget.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite is the next leap forward for Android handhelds. AYN Odin 3 leads the wave. Here is what the 8 Elite changes, which handhelds will ship with it, and whether you should wait.

Switch 2 emulation is the hottest topic in retro handhelds this year. Here is an honest look at where the projects stand in May 2026, which handhelds can realistically run them, and what to expect if you give it a try with games you already own.

The sweet spot of retro handheld gaming. These devices under $75 handle everything from NES to PS1 with room to spare — and a few push into Dreamcast and N64 territory.

Essential accessories for your retro handheld gaming device. Covers carrying cases, screen protectors, grips, stands, microSD cards, and charging solutions.

The best retro gaming handhelds of 2026 ranked by price tier. Budget picks under $50, mid-range options under $150, and premium Android powerhouses for PS2 and GameCube emulation.

The GBA SP form factor is back in a big way. Here are the best foldable retro handhelds for pocketability, screen protection, and nostalgia.

The $100–$200 range is the sweet spot for powerful retro handhelds. Here are the best devices for PS2, GameCube, PSP, and beyond.

The best microSD cards for retro handhelds in 2026 — reliable picks ranked by use case, with clear guidance on what size you actually need for your game library.

The best retro handhelds in the $60–150 range — where PS1 and N64 emulation is flawless, PSP gets viable, and some light PS2 starts showing up.

Not sure whether to spend $65 or $549? This guide breaks down three tiers of retro handheld so you can find the right device without the regret.

The best PC gaming handhelds of 2025 ranked: Legion Go S, ROG Ally X, Steam Deck OLED, and more — with emulation ceilings and honest price-tier picks.

The best retro handhelds under $50 — perfect cheap retro handheld gifts for 2025. Five tested picks with a clear top recommendation.

Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go — which premium Windows handheld is right for you?

The definitive ranked list of the best retro handhelds you can buy for under $100.

The best ultra-compact handhelds that slip in your pocket without compromise.