The Best Retro Handheld Consoles in 2025: A Beginner’s Guide
Let’s be real—when most people think of handheld gaming, they think Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or maybe the ROG Ally. But if you’re like me and love digging into retro handhelds, the real gems are those small, quirky consoles that fit in your pocket and let you relive the classics anywhere.
If you’re new to retro handheld consoles, it can feel a bit overwhelming. There are so many brands, models, and specs thrown around, and it’s easy to get lost in all the numbers. That’s why I put together this beginner-friendly guide to the best retro handheld consoles in 2025. I’ll break down what each console can do, which systems they support, and give you tips for buying them—mostly from AliExpress, where you can often find the best deals.
Table of Contents
Why Retro Handhelds Are Still a Big Deal
Before we get into the consoles, let’s talk about why retro handhelds are still so popular.
- Nostalgia: There’s just something about picking up a small device and playing those classic NES, SNES, or Game Boy games again. It hits you right in the feels.
- Portability: These consoles are pocket-sized, which makes them perfect for commuting, traveling, or just chilling on the couch without hauling out a big console setup.
- Beginner-friendly options: Many of these devices are easy to set up. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to get started.
- Variety: From cheap, simple devices to high-end Android-based handhelds, there’s something for every type of gamer.
Retroid Pocket Series – Power Meets Nostalgia
If you want something that’s powerful, versatile, and beginner-friendly, the Retroid Pocket series is a great place to start. These devices are basically the rockstars of retro handhelds right now.
Want to browse more Retroid Pocket models? Check out our Retroid Pocket section on Koinlift. Or you can visit the site at Koinlift.com for more modern and retro handheld consoles.
Top models:
1. Retroid Pocket 5
- Retroid Pocket 5
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Sega Genesis, PS1, PSP, light Android games
- Why it’s awesome: This one is basically a mini powerhouse. Runs almost any retro game smoothly and has enough battery life to keep you playing for hours.
- Beginner tip: Stick with this if you want a device that just works right out of the box.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
2. Retroid Pocket Classic
- Retroid Pocket Classic
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Sega Genesis
- Why it’s awesome: Classic Game Boy vibes but with modern tweaks. Simple, clean, and easy to use for beginners.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
3. Retroid Pocket Flip 2
- Retroid Pocket Flip 2
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, PS1
- Why it’s awesome: Clamshell design gives off serious DS nostalgia. Perfect if you like a device that folds up and protects itself when you’re on the go.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
💡 Pro tip: For most beginners, the Retroid Pocket 5 or Classic is the safest bet. Powerful, reliable, and beginner-friendly.
Anbernic RG Series – Built Like a Tank
Anbernic is one of the most popular brands in retro handhelds—and for good reason. These consoles feel solid, look premium, and emulate most retro systems without breaking a sweat.
Check out our Anbernic section on Koinlift for other models and more.
Top models:
1. Anbernic RG351V
- RG351V
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1
- Why it’s awesome: Small, portable, and runs most games smoothly. Feels solid in your hands.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
2. Anbernic RG351MP
- RG351MP
- Supported systems: Same as RG351V, plus light PSP
- Why it’s awesome: Metal body gives it a premium feel. Great for longer gaming sessions.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
3. Anbernic RG Slide
- RG Slide
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1
- Why it’s awesome: Sliding screen, unique design, but slightly bulky. If you like screen space, this is cool.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
💡 Beginner-friendly tip: The RG351V or MP is the best starting point. Easy to use, solid build, no nonsense.
Miyoo Mini Series – Tiny but Mighty
The Miyoo Mini V4 and Mini Plus are perfect if you want something super portable, affordable, and beginner-friendly.
- What’s the difference?: The Plus has a larger but lower-PPI (pixels per inch) screen (this measures how sharp or detailed a screen looks) and a bigger, heavier body, while the V4 is smaller, lighter, and has a sharper display.
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo
- Why it’s awesome: Ultra-portable and easy to use. You can literally slip it in your pocket and start playing anywhere.
- Beginner tip: Carry a small microSD card for extra games. Perfect for casual play or quick gaming sessions.
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
💡 Pro tip: These are ideal for someone just starting out or looking for a second, lightweight console.
Ayn Odin Series – Android-Powered Retro
The Ayn Odin series is high-performance, Android-based, and perfect if you want to run more demanding emulators or even light Android games.
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1 & 2, PSP, Dreamcast (light), Android games
- Base model: Balanced price and performance, beginner-friendly
- Pro model: Higher-end, handles more demanding games and apps
- Beginner tip: Stick with the Base model unless you’re ready for more advanced features.
- Where to buy: Buy on Aliexpress
💡 If you want both retro and Android games, the Ayn Odin is the most versatile choice.
Powkiddy Devices – Budget-Friendly Fun
Powkiddy is perfect if you’re looking for something cheap, fun, and simple to use.
- Popular models: RGB20S, RGB10, V90
- Supported systems: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, Sega Genesis
- Why it’s awesome: Affordable, beginner-friendly, easy to pick up and play
- Where to buy: Buy on AliExpress
💡 Beginner tip: Don’t expect ultra-smooth performance on heavy games, but these are perfect for casual play or a backup retro console.
Playdate – Weird but Awesome
The Playdate is a quirky, fun-only device.
- Supported games: Exclusive Playdate titles
- Why it’s awesome: Hand-crank controller, unique games, creative play
- Beginner tip: Not about power or emulation—just pure fun and novelty
- Where to buy: The Playdate is a unique handheld console developed by Panic and is only available through the official Playdate store at play.date.
💡 Fun, creative, and different from anything else on this list. Great for a change of pace.
Tips for Beginners Buying Retro Handhelds
- Know what you want: Casual play, serious emulation, or quirky novelty?
- Check supported systems: Make sure the console runs the games you want.
- Buying from Aliexpress: Check seller ratings and reviews before purchasing, look for listings with real customer photos, and be patient with shipping times. Use buyer protection and verified stores to avoid clones or low-quality units.
- Consider accessories: Cases, microSD cards, grips, and chargers will make your experience smoother.
- Use online guides: YouTube, TikTok, and forums have beginner-friendly tutorials and tips for setup.
Not sure which retro handheld to start with? This table lays out all the key info from above so you can pick the perfect one in seconds.
Retro Handheld Consoles Comparison Table
| Console | Supported Systems | Beginner Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Retroid Pocket 5 | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, GBA, Sega Genesis, PS1, PSP, light Android games | Great all-around choice for beginners; handles almost any retro game |
| Retroid Pocket Classic | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, Sega Genesis | Classic Game Boy vibe, easy to use, beginner-friendly |
| Retroid Pocket Flip 2 | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, PS1 | Clamshell design; comfortable for long sessions |
| Anbernic RG351V | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1 | Portable and solid; good balance of performance and ease of use |
| Anbernic RG351MP | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1, light PSP | Premium metal feel; beginner-friendly setup |
| Anbernic RG Slide | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1 | Unique sliding screen; slightly bulkier, good for visual comfort |
| Miyoo Mini / Mini Plus | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo | Ultra-portable and easy to use; great for casual play |
| Ayn Odin Base | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1 & 2, PSP, Dreamcast (light), Android games | High performance for beginners; start with Base model |
| Ayn Odin Pro | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, Neo Geo, PS1 & 2, PSP, Dreamcast, Android games | High-end Android option; for serious enthusiasts |
| Powkiddy V90 | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBC, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance, Sega Genesis / Mega Drive, PS1 | Budget-friendly; perfect for first retro handheld |
| Playdate | Exclusive Playdate games only | Quirky, creative, and unique; not about power or emulation |
Final Thoughts
Retro handhelds are all about fun, portability, and nostalgia. Whether you want power, pocket-size portability, budget-friendly options, or something completely unique, there’s a console here for you:
- Retroid Pocket: Best all-around, powerful, beginner-friendly
- Anbernic RG Series: Premium feel, solid emulation
- Miyoo Mini: Tiny, portable, ultra-accessible
- Ayn Odin: High-performance, Android-powered
- Powkiddy: Cheap, casual, easy to start with
- Playdate: Quirky, creative fun
Which retro handheld catches your eye? Have a favorite console already? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear which device you’d pick first!