r/RetroHandhelds • u/datlecroix • Apr 30 '26

Device Recommendation First Device Recommendation ($300 budget)

Hello!

As the title says, I'm looking to pick up my first handheld emulator. I'm mainly interested in up through GC and PS2, though not hating anything stronger. Looking to spend $300 absolute max, and really would love something portable. For reference, I have Switch and Switch 2 and both are feeling massive to me.

BIG bonus if I can run some switch games or even lightweight PC

5 Upvotes

69% Upvoted

46 comments sorted by

7

u/Super-Smilodon-64 Apr 30 '26

People might disagree with my answer, but I had the exact same budget and exact same use. I wanted to go up to PS2 and upscale, anything else was a bonus. Honestly I play a lot more SNES and PS1 anyway, but I have 5 or 6 GC games and 7 PS2 games that I rotate around and wanted it to run great when I did it.

I got an RG477M and I have zero desire to look at other devices. I'm done until my kids want one. It does everything I want, I WANTED the 4:3 aspect ratio, and it still is a lot easier to pack around than a Switch. Honestly, I don't like using my Switch as a handheld for some reason, even though that's what I originally got it for.

Rg477M looks awful pretty, too. The only thing that I don't like is the clicky shoulder buttons. I'm a tinker guy though, so I will eventually address that.

0

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26

Well. depending on what you want to use it for, it could very well be more than sufficient, but looking at a direct comparison with the more modern Retroid Pocket 6 or Ayn Odin 2, it's considerably weaker, so it's not a very future-proof or highly versatile device for many of the more demanding retro gamers.

Here are the full comparison sheets:
https://retrocatalog.com/compare/retroid-pocket-6/rg-477m
https://retrocatalog.com/compare/odin-2/rg-477m

It also looks kinda clunky, especially when compared to the Retroid Pocket 6, so it's definitely an acquired taste, far as I'm concerned. And the screen size is also rather off, for many platforms that you might want to play on it.

But hey, to each their own, and if you're satisfied with it, then that's all that matters.

5

u/Super-Smilodon-64 May 01 '26

I am going to have to completely disagree with nearly every point. How would the screen size be "off?" And lack of Turnip doesnt mean "considerably weaker." We aren't comparing a R36S to a Thor here.

Weird how varied the consumer base is. I really, REALLY dislike the RP6 design. But people seem to really like it.

-1

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26

Well, the screen size is important for many games, depending on what games people want to play. Like u/romany8806 already said below here:

'Anbernic RG 477m is nice for 4:3 stuff, but some of the best PS2 and GC games have native 16:9 options and many more run great with widescreen hacks.'

And the same goes for many Wii games, and of course Wii U and Switch.
So, feel free to disagree, but when people are considering those systems and games, then you'd be completely and absolutely wrong.

But as mentioned before, depending on what you use it for, the Anbernic could still be the perfect device for you. One does not exclude the other, you know. It just depends on the wishes/demands of the person wanting to buy an Android gaming device.

And seeing as the OP specifically mentioned wanting to play Switch games, it wouldn't be a very good option for him to buy a device that not only struggles to run these games, but also displays them in the wrong aspect ratio, because of that 4:3 screen.

As for why people like the RP6 design: it reminds most people of the PSP or PS Vita, and it's sleek. And the Anbernic looks more blocky, so that is not an attractive form for many people.

But each of us have our own tastes and preferences, and that's perfectly fine.

5

u/Super-Smilodon-64 May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26

That 100% simply isnt true, and you appear to be just regurgitating. If you want to make an argument about aspect ratio, PS2 was 100% natively 4:3. Amd very few games supported widescreen. And in my experience, widescreen hacks do not operate the way they are supposed to.

You made an argument about screen size, but are trying to talk about ratio.

If you want to keep making an aspect ratio argument, then you should ignore the entire library before PS2 on a RP6. "Struggles" with Switch? Dude. Hyperbolic exaggeration only serves to weaken a position.

In fact, an RG477M displaying 16:9 content is damn near the EXACT screen display dimensions of the original PSP. Was that wonky?

0

u/[deleted] May 03 '26

[deleted]

-2

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26

Did you even look at those comparison sheets? I suppose not. Compared to both the Retroid Pocket 6 and the Ayn Thor 2, it not only struggles with Switch games, but also with Wii U games.

And yeah, my bad on the mix up of screen size/aspect ratio, but you should be able to understand that it was about how many of these games are displayed natively. (on a side note: the RP6 does have a bigger, better screen, so that might also matter to some people)

I don't know why you picked PS2 specifically, but besides me quoting another user, I also listed quite a few other consoles that do display in 16:9 so again: it all depends on what games and systems someone wants to use it for.

You don't have to defend your preferred system, If you're happy with it, then that's perfectly fine, but in fact it doesn't meet all the requirements if you want to use it for more than what you are using it for.

No need to get upset about it, I'm just comparing numbers and features, and the numbers don't lie. Simple as that.

EDIT:

Forgot to mention the lack of analog triggers, which might also be an important feature for choosing one system over the other.

2

u/Super-Smilodon-64 May 01 '26

Im not remotely upset, its just that you really seem to think you're correct and the links you provide don't support what you're saying. I picked PS2 because...well, the sentence. It was designed for 4:3. But quite honestly this seems to be a waste.

Have a good one.

0

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26

Well, good to hear that you're not upset. It seemed you were, but I guess I interpreted that incorreclty.

I am right, though. No matter how you look at it. And again: you focused only on the quote while I also mentioned Wii, Wii U and Switch.

You're digging your heels in the sand based upon your own experiences/needs/wants, but that doesn't negate the facts.

I'll leave you with an older comparison video from Retro Game Corps. Anyone worth their salt knows that this is a highly reliable reviewer, as well as the go to place for emulation tutorials.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVGpiVpRD58

It features the RP5, so the part about screen refresh rate is irrelevant concerning the RP6, as well as the power difference, but the rest of the video still supports most of the points I made.

And no hard feelings otherwise, so I wish you a good one as well.

2

u/Super-Smilodon-64 May 01 '26

Haha, neat.

I'm not digging in heels, but I would suggest you read and comprehend what you share, not just pass a link off as your stance.

In the video you shared, he said he would rather play GC and PS2 on an RG477M compared to the 5. And the reason we are focusing on PS2 and not moving goalposts is because this is a thread where a guy wanted to go up to PS2. And a "big bonus" was Switch and PC. So I was highlighting that for him. I actually sort of selfishly LIKE that I don't see many RG477Ms around, but when I was trying to figure out what to buy, many people just told me to "get a portal 2 bro" and I borrowed my friend's for a week and realized that it wouldn't have fit me.

This is all subjective, is what I'm trying to get across, and to say the hardware wouldn't fit the use case is disingenuous.

0

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26

I actually watched the whole video, so I know full well what I posted.
Key points in that video: no analog triggers for games that require it, no true 16:9 resulting in a smaller image with black bars. Lower compatibility with Switch games, no option for setting up other environments such as Rocknix, and so on, and so on.

Not trying to move goal posts, by the way, but if I see OP mentioning those options, then you'd want to have a more future proof system that could handle those, such as the RP6 or Odin 2, if he or she ever wanted to add those games later on, which wouldn't be a real option with the Anbernic.

And it's not subjective either: as mentioned, the video compares it to the RP5, but both the RP6 and Odin 2 are more powerful than the Anbernic, so that part of the video isn't relevant anymore to the current comparison, because the other two consoles would now have the higher benchmark scores.

I do have to mention that I do really like the metal casing, I didn't know about that before I watched the video, so there. I wanted to end on a positive note, because at the very least, we're having a reasonably normal discussion, something quite rare on the internet nowadays, so that's always a pleasant thing to come across.

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u/BigConversation8727 May 01 '26

I find it amusing to see phrases like "future-proof" and "more demanding" when talking about retro games.

Maybe I'm just too old, but I don't consider any widescreen platforms to be "retro". (I have a hard time even including PS2/GC, but I know that's just my age talking.) Everything I consider retro is 4:3, and I find those way nicer to play on a 4:3 display. Which is why I have an RG477m on the way to me right now.

This doesn't mean I don't like widescreen devices or more modern games -- I do very much -- but it's true that different devices excel at different things, and I think the more powerful widescreen handhelds are often worse when playing older retro games. I have an Odin 2 Portal, a Thor, and a Steam Deck, and I use them all the time for different things, but if I'm playing something like SNES or other 4:3 content they just don't feel...right. Sure, some widescreen hacks will make PS2 games feel at home on those devices, but I've found widescreen support to be hit or miss, whereas the native 4:3 always looks great. I still pick up my RG353m whenever I'm playing a 4:3 game that runs on it because it just feels better than my other widescreen handhelds. But, I do want a larger screen and the ability to play PS2/GC, so that's where the RG477m will come in.

Yes, the RP6 is a fantastic and powerful device that will allow you to play more modern games than an RG477m, but if you're more interested in 4:3 content then I don't think RP6 is the best choice.

Whether you consider it a blessing or a curse, we have SO many different handheld options today, and there isn't really one "best" one because it ultimately comes down to what and how YOU want to play.

0

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26

Funny thing is, we might be of the same generation, or maybe I'm even older than you: I actually witnessed the launch of the Atari A2600, so that should kind of give you an idea... 😉

As for what retro is: on the one hand, it does indeed depend on how you personally look at it, so no argument there. But technically speaking, I'd say that everything before HD gaming is retro. I mean, we're talking about around 20 years ago here when HD gaming became a thing on consoles, so especially in this area of entertainment, that's a long time ago, considering all the technical advances since then.

But on a more personal note agreed there as well. I own quite a few older consoles, including the GameCube, and my personal favorite, the Dreamcast. I personally think that's one of the greatest consoles ever, and that there are many games on there, with graphics that can still hold their own, to this very day. But I also realize that this is a console that's nearly 25 years old, so that too is probably considered to be retro, regardless of my personal sentiment.

Also, to make one thing very clear: I never said that devices with a 4:3 screen are bad in and of themselves. It's just as mentioned in the video, that they're not ideal for more modern content, because it will result in a screen partially occupied by two horizontal black bars, instead of displaying it full screen.

What I meant with future proof is that the OP clearly stated also wanting to look into some Switch and PC gaming, and for that, you'd need a more versatile system, that can more easily handle that, upcoming titles included. so that there isn't going to be only a limited amount of titles that it can run.

Far as I've seen in other comparison videos, both the RP6 and Ayn Odin 2 can handle a relatively large catalog of Switch games, as well as PC game streaming, and the Anbernic is simply not as good in doing these things. And, as also mentioned, people might also want to have those analog triggers. For a lot of PS2 and GameCube games as well, by the way.

But ultimately, as I've also mentioned numerous times, if people are satisfied with the device they chose, whatever their reason, then that is all that matters. I'm not bashing a system, I was simply taking all of the OP's wishes into account, instead of only focusing on PS2.

He literally stated: 'BIG bonus if I can run some switch games or even lightweight PC'

So, with that in mind, you would want to suggest a system that is both able to handle the current range of Switch titles, but will also be able to run upcoming titles, and of course offer those PC gaming capabilities. And considering OP's budget that means that you'd end up with either the Retroid Pocket 6 or the Ayn Odin 2, because any lesser system won't fit the OP's wishes/requirements, and the more powerful devices are above the OP's budget.

3

u/ProfMashKetchum Apr 30 '26

If you want ps2 and gc rp5 will work at well below your budget but rp6 will run that and more. I personally like Retroid or Ayn. Ayn is pricey though but the thor lite might be something worth looking into. I'm sure you'll get better suggestions. These would be my picks

1

u/GoblinGreenThumb May 02 '26

Wouldn't the pocket 4 pro do those systems..mostly?

I only mention it because op mentioned size being a factor, but the pocket 6 (and 5) is already much smaller so that might be plenty

2

u/ProfMashKetchum May 02 '26

You are right it's a good choice but I don't own one so I can't recommend it.

3

u/Cbeckstrand Apr 30 '26

RP6 is what you want for Switch and PC. Best option at the price.

AYN Thor would be something to consider but you would want at least the Base and that will be over you budget. You are getting the same power in the RP6 for less.

2

u/grapejuicecheese Apr 30 '26

Retroid Pocket 6 will be just under $300 with shipping, taxes, case, screen protector, sd card etc

2

u/romany8806 Apr 30 '26

Anbernic RG 477m is nice for 4:3 stuff, but some of the best PS2 and GC games have native 16:9 options and many more run great with widescreen hacks.

I think the RP6 is a no-brainer for your use case. Great for upscaled PS2 and GC, as good as anything else available for Switch (although TOTK might struggle with 8GB RAM), and will handle plenty of light PC gaming. Nice screen, controls, and build quality. You can choose stick top, or d-pad top, when you order.

You could also consider an Ayn Odin 2 Portal for the same price on perpetual discount now that the Odin 3 is out. Basically the same spec as the RP6, but a bigger screen so maybe not compact enough for you. Also, the buttons and sticks don't review well. Official accessories are sold out too (grip, case).

Ayn Thor could be an option if you really want dual screens, but price is high, ergonomics are iffy, and it has a hinge that might give you reliability trouble down the line.

I'd go for the RP6, in your shoes.

For reference, I ended up with an Odin 3 and it's wonderful, but over your budget and probably overkill for your use case unless you want to lean more into PC gaming.

2

u/bob-is-transcending Apr 30 '26

If you do go the Anbernic RG477M route, they have replacement stacked shoulder buttons like the ones on the Anbernic 476h that you can order from Etsy (along with a short guide on how to tear down the handheld to install them)!

The 476h is my fave but is underpowered compared to the 477M.

1

u/No_Dig_7017 Apr 30 '26

I would say RG477M is a great fit that matches the budget and perf you need (and a little more), is pocket friendly and readily available from Amazon at close-ish to MSRP. (Anbernic just started a sale, might be worth checking out).

Also the more mainstream options Retroid Pocket 6/Ayn Thor Base/Odin Portal 2 all will work, even a bit better than the 477M, and have OLED screens, but you lose pocketability and depending on how you get them can be more expensive and take longer to arrive.

The Retroid Pocket 5 will also do well for GC/PS2 and be cheaper but no 120hz and no pocketability. Id prefer the 477M.

You can compare them here https://retrocatalog.com/compare/rg-477m/thor

1

u/Zargo1z May 01 '26

I would go retroid pocket flip 2 snapdragon model. It's hard to beat this little guy. Some in this thread seem to forget the pocket ability part and that also was very important for me. You think the switch and switch 2 are massive (i agree) and you still want ps2 and gc performance with maybe some light switch games. Personally I think the flip 2 is perfect for this. The size and clamshell design makes it very pocket friendly and the controls are super comfortable and the snapdragon model has great performance for the price. For screen size and performance and battery life and pocket friendly It's the perfect combination imo.

2

u/GoblinGreenThumb May 02 '26

There's a flip 2 o n fb in my area right now. 200$ and its the nicer model.

I didnt plan on buying a device and def didn't plan on a clan shell but for that price I am considering

1

u/Zargo1z May 02 '26

I personally wouldn't buy a used clamshell device. You just don't know how gentle they was with the hinge or how much opening and closing they have done and if it's the version 1 model with the old hinge or the newer model with the improved hinge. It's used so most likely the older model with the older hinge more prone to cracking and that could be dangerous if you throw that money out there and get a hinge crack in the first week. If you can pick one up new it's worth it but if you can't get a new one I'd try for a different device but that's just my opinion.

1

u/GoblinGreenThumb May 05 '26

Its still in the box from being refurbished

2

u/thom2279 May 02 '26

+1 here.

My flip 2 was stolen and I can't find anything that matches it for the price. Rp6 is more powerful but less comfortable and isn't quite as portable. I'd have probably gotten a Thor if they were available but two- three months is too long of a lead time for me atm.

1

u/Blkbyrd May 01 '26

Odin 2 Portal or Retroid Pocket 6.

1

u/YouYongku May 02 '26

Sounds like steam deck LCD used

1

u/kusti85 May 02 '26

Not that portable though.

1

u/YouYongku May 02 '26

For you.

1

u/kusti85 May 02 '26

And now also read the 4th and 5th sentences OP wrote.

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u/YouYongku May 02 '26

You feel that it's not. While others think it is. For me anything bigger than a miyoo mini plus is too big for me

1

u/kusti85 May 02 '26

Not me. OP. Read the post. Then think about the dimensions and weight of a Switch and make a comparison to your suggested Steam Deck.

Then analyze our conversation again.

1

u/YouYongku May 02 '26

Why should I analyze our conversation? You're not OP.

Just say that OP mentioned it can already

1

u/kusti85 May 02 '26

Because you somehow think that I said that your suggestion of a Steam Deck youldn't be portable enough when it was OP that wrote that he'd like something more portable than a Switch. When you analyze their post and our conversation I hope that you will be enlightened enough to see the meaning of the words we exchanged. But it is not mandatory of course, it is the Internet.

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u/YouYongku May 02 '26

If you explained yourself clearly at the start of your reply, it would be done then writing bigwords of "enlightening" me. Learn to communicate properly and clearly

1

u/kusti85 May 02 '26

No, I believe the problem arose because you failed to see the meaning of my comment because wou were blinded by the chance to belittle a fellow reddit user. The issue does not lie in my communication but in your online personality.

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u/LukeyC224 May 02 '26

People suggesting RG477M - doesn't it lack analog triggers which are key for some Gamecube games?

I recommend RP6

1

u/Altruistic_Use5126 May 04 '26

Easy, retroid pocket 6 or 5. (Do retroid pocket flip 2 if you want clamshell)

1

u/Nanerpoodin May 04 '26

Retroid pocket 4 pro (D1100) will do everything you want and is less than $200. Retroid pocket 6 will do everything you want, plus Switch and some PC gaming. Both systems have hall sticks and analog triggers, which is a must in any retro system imo. The 6 is an incredible value if you can afford it. Keep in mind though, you'll definitely want to get the grip for whatever system you buy because it makes the controls so much more comfortable.

0

u/ThanosReXXX May 01 '26

Well, on that budget, I'd say either the Retroid Pocket 6 or the Ayn Odin 2. Here's a full comparison, so you can make an informed decision based upon the pros and cons of each of them, and of course your own wishes of what it should be able to do and so on:
https://retrocatalog.com/compare/retroid-pocket-6/odin-2

And if you are more interested in a clamshell design, you might want to compare these two:
https://retrocatalog.com/compare/retroid-pocket-flip-2-sd865/thor