Do you remember the first time you played Mario Kart, Street Fighter, Zelda or Pokémon? For many players, these moments are some of the most iconic gaming memories. The good news is that you no longer need to track down old cartridges or buy second-hand hardware. Modern retro gaming consoles bring the classics back to life, with thousands of games already installed and ready to play.
The real challenge is choosing the right console, since each one is designed for a different type of gamer. Here's a simple comparison to help you find the best retro console in 2025.
Retro handheld consoles – for gaming anywhere
Handheld retro consoles are perfect for players who want to carry their childhood with them. Whether you are commuting, traveling, or just relaxing away from the TV, these consoles fit easily in your pocket or bag and provide instant access to thousands of titles.
Most handheld models include over 15,000 preloaded games covering systems such as NES, SNES, Mega Drive, PlayStation 1, Game Boy Advance and more. They are designed with strong battery life, responsive controls, and compact screens that still deliver sharp visuals for classic games.
Discover the Retro Pocket – a portable console with thousands of classics in your pocket.
Retro mini consoles – simple and beginner-friendly
If you are new to retro gaming, or if you are buying a gift for children, a mini retro console is the best way to start. These smaller systems usually come with around 6,000 carefully selected titles. This means you still get all the classics, but without the overwhelming choice of tens of thousands of games.
They are also very easy to use, with simple menus, plug-and-play setup, and a lightweight design. Parents love them as a safe and affordable introduction to gaming for kids, while adults appreciate the chance to quickly revisit the highlights of the 80s and 90s without diving into massive libraries.
Check out the Mini Retro Pocket PRO – the perfect beginner-friendly console packed with 6,000 iconic titles
Plug-and-play retro sticks – for multiplayer fun
Some of the best memories from the past come from sitting with friends in front of the TV and competing in multiplayer games. Plug-and-play retro sticks recreate that same feeling, turning any modern television into a retro arcade in just seconds.
These systems usually come with 20,000 games, support multiple controllers, and are perfect for group sessions. Whether you are reliving heated Street Fighter tournaments, racing through Mario Kart tracks, or blowing up your friends in Bomberman, a retro stick makes social gaming fun again.
The 4K output also ensures that even on large modern screens, the games look sharp while staying true to their classic design.
Explore the Retro Stick 4K – a plug-and-play console designed for multiplayer fun with up to 20,000 games.
Full library retro consoles – for true enthusiasts
If you are a passionate gamer who wants the entire history of video games in one device, then a full library retro console is the ultimate solution. These consoles can include up to 90,000 preinstalled titles, covering almost every generation: NES, SNES, Sega Saturn, PlayStation, Dreamcast, Game Boy, Nintendo DS and more.
They are built with powerful hardware that guarantees smooth gameplay, even for systems that require more demanding emulation. This type of console is ideal for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who doesn't want to compromise when it comes to choice and performance.
Experience the Console X2 PRO – the ultimate system with up to 90,000 retro games
Conclusion
There isn't one single best retro console, but the right one depending on your profile. Portable players will enjoy handheld systems, beginners will appreciate mini consoles, social gamers will love plug-and-play sticks, and collectors will embrace full library consoles.
Start your retro journey today and rediscover the magic of the classics.
❓ Retro Gaming FAQ
Which retro gaming console is best for beginners?
Mini retro consoles with around 6,000 games are ideal for newcomers. They are easy to use, affordable, and cover the most iconic titles without overwhelming players.
Can retro consoles play multiplayer games?
Yes, plug-and-play retro sticks and larger consoles support multiple controllers, making them perfect for family nights or parties with friends.
Do retro consoles support modern TVs?
All of today's retro consoles are designed to connect to modern televisions, often with HDMI output. Some even support 4K displays while keeping the classic look.
Are handheld retro consoles powerful enough?
Handheld systems are thousands optimized for portability but still handle of classics with ease, from NES to PlayStation 1. They are perfect for gaming on the go.
Why choose a full library retro console?
A full library system is best for hardcore fans and collectors who want access to nearly every retro game ever made, all in one machine, with smooth performance and strong hardware.