Retro handhelds — small devices built to play classic console and arcade games — have exploded in choice. Some fit in a pocket and play 8- and 16-bit games perfectly; others are powerful enough for much later consoles. The right one depends on which games you want to play and how you like to hold them.
1. Screen: size, shape and resolution
| Aspect ratio | Suits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4:3 | Most older home consoles and arcade games | Fills the screen without black bars |
| 3:2 | Some classic handheld systems | A balance between 4:3 and wide |
| 16:9 | Later consoles, Android games, streaming | Older games show with bars or stretched |
| 1:1 (square) | Some vertical, compact designs | Fun but specialised |
Look at resolution too: screens whose resolution divides evenly into the original games' resolution give sharper pixels ("integer scaling"). IPS panels have better viewing angles than basic TN panels; some higher-end devices use OLED.
2. Processor: how much power you need
- Entry-level chips handle 8-bit and 16-bit systems and many early handhelds perfectly.
- Mid-range chips add many early 3D consoles.
- High-end chips are needed for later 3D systems, and even then compatibility varies game by game.
Be wary of marketing that lists dozens of systems: "supported" can mean "some games run". Look for community reports on the specific systems you care about.
3. Operating system
- Linux-based
- Boots straight to a game menu. Lightweight, good battery life, often supported by community firmware. Less flexible for apps.
- Android
- Runs emulator apps, Android games, cloud and home streaming. More setup and more flexibility.
- Dual-system
- Some devices let you switch between the two.
4. Form factor and controls
- Vertical (portrait): classic handheld feel, very pocketable; may lack shoulder buttons.
- Horizontal (landscape): more comfortable for long sessions; room for sticks and triggers.
- Clamshell / flip: protects the screen in a pocket.
- Sticks and shoulder buttons: needed for many 3D games; check for two analogue sticks and four shoulder buttons if you play later systems.
5. Battery, storage and build
Check battery capacity and real-world runtime from reviews, not just milliamp-hours — bigger screens and stronger chips use more. Most devices store games on a microSD card; some include a card, but the bundled cards are often low quality, so many owners swap to a reputable card. Shells range from plastic to aluminium.
About Anbernic
Anbernic, founded in 2017, is one of the most prolific retro handheld makers: it says it has released more than 40 models, at a pace of around eight to ten a year. The brand lists a series of firsts for its range — an open-source handheld in 2017, a 4:3 IPS screen in 2019, an aluminium shell in 2020 and a dual-system device in 2021 — and sells vertical, horizontal and clamshell devices running Linux, Android or both. With so many models, use the checklist above to compare screen ratio, chip and controls for the systems you play.
Conclusion
Start with the games: pick a screen shape that matches them, enough processing power and no more, and an operating system that fits how much you like to tinker. Then choose a form factor that feels right in your hands and check real battery life. Stick to games you have the right to play, and a retro handheld can be one of the most fun gadgets you own.
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If you're ready to buy, Anbernic is worth checking — they currently have 10% off with code NEW5SAVE live right now.
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