Beginner’s Guide to Unique & Retro Handhelds You’ve Never Heard Of
When people think of handheld gaming, the big names pop up first: the Nintendo Switch, the Steam Deck, and maybe the ROG Ally. But there’s a whole other corner of handheld gaming that flies under the radar. I’m talking about unique and retro handhelds.
Affordable little devices built for nostalgia, emulation, and quirky designs. They’re not mainstream, but they’re a great way for beginners to dip into handheld gaming without spending hundreds of dollars.
Let’s break down what these handhelds are, why you mostly see them on AliExpress, and which ones are actually worth looking at if you’re new to the scene.
These retro handhelds offer a unique experience for gamers looking to explore beyond mainstream offerings.
Table of Contents
What Are Retro/Unique Handhelds?
Retro handhelds are portable consoles designed to play older games through emulation. Think NES, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 1, even Dreamcast or PSP if you go higher end. Some run Android, which means you can add apps, stream games, or play indies.
They’re not trying to compete with modern handhelds like the Switch or Deck. Instead, they’re for gamers who want something cheap, portable, and packed with retro charm.
Why Most Retro Handhelds Are Sold on AliExpress
If you’ve noticed that a lot of these devices are linked to AliExpress, there’s a good reason:
- The main makers — Anbernic, Retroid, Powkiddy, AYN, and GPD — are all based in China.
- AliExpress is their main storefront. When a new handheld launches, it almost always drops there first.
- You can find some on Amazon or small specialty shops, but prices are usually higher, and the selection is limited.
- Retro handheld communities (Reddit, Discord, forums) typically just link AliExpress by default because it’s the cheapest and widest source.
That said:
- AliExpress = lowest price + biggest variety, but shipping often takes 2–4 weeks.
- Amazon = faster shipping + easier returns, but usually more expensive.
So for most beginners, AliExpress ends up being the first stop — it’s just the simplest way to test the waters without overspending.
Beginner-Friendly Options (AliExpress Picks)
Here are a few good starting points if you’re new to the retro handheld scene:
💡 Super Cheap ($20–$50) – Pocket-Sized Nostalgia
If you just want to see what the hype is about:
Powkiddy V90
A clamshell handheld that looks like a Game Boy Advance SP. Great for NES, SNES, and GBA classics. Check out the Powkiddy V90 here.
RG Nano
Tiny, keychain-sized handheld. More novelty than daily driver, but fun if you want something cool and cheap. Interested in a cool micro handheld? Get the RG Nano here.
⚖️ Mid-Range ($80–$150) – Solid Starter Handhelds
If you want decent build quality and a smoother experience:
Anbernic RG35XX
Popular with beginners, plays up through PS1 games, and has strong community support for custom firmware. See the Anbernic RG35XX in action here.
Retroid Pocket 5
Runs Android, so you can emulate, stream, or even install apps. A good balance of retro + modern features. Sleek mid-range quality in the palm of of your hands, Retroid Pocket 5.
🔥 Premium Entry ($150–$250) – Almost Console-Level Performance
If you’re ready to invest a little more:
Anbernic RG556
Sleek design, sharp OLED screen, and enough power to run PSP and even some PS2 games. Ready for premium handheld retro power? get the Anbernic RG556.
AYN Odin Base (older models)
Bridges the gap between cheap retro handhelds and full-on modern handhelds like the Ally. Check out true premium retro gaming with the AYN Odin Portal 2.
Pros & Cons for Beginners
Pros:
- Way more affordable than mainstream handhelds.
- Perfect for nostalgia trips and casual gaming.
- Unique designs and quirky styles.
- Easy to carry around.
Cons:
- Some setup required (loading games, tweaking settings).
- Build quality varies — super cheap ones can feel toy-like.
- Won’t play modern AAA titles.
Tips for First-Time Buyers
- Screen size matters. Tiny 2–3” devices look cool but can be uncomfortable for long play sessions.
- Battery life can be short. Expect 3–5 hours for most budget handhelds.
- Don’t chase the absolute cheapest option. Spending at least $60–$80 usually gets you a far better experience.
- Join a community. Subreddits and Discord groups for Anbernic/Retroid are super helpful for setup tips.
Handheld Gaming For Beginners?
If you’re curious about handheld gaming but don’t want to dive straight into a $400+ Steam Deck, retro handhelds are the perfect low-risk entry point.
Most people grab their first one from AliExpress, since that’s where the big brands launch and where you’ll find the widest selection at the best prices. Shipping might take a bit longer, but for beginners, it’s the most affordable way to jump into this side of gaming.
Bottom line: retro handhelds are a fun, budget-friendly way to explore handheld gaming — and AliExpress is where most players start.
Check out the site for more handheld gaming goodness at Koinlift.com.