7 Best Retro Handheld Game Console 2025 in the United States

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is a solid choice for those looking for a retro handheld game console that can play a wide range of classic games. One of its standout features is the extensive game library, supported by a powerful Mediatek Dimensity 1100 CPU and 8GB of RAM, which ensures smooth gameplay even for more demanding titles. The 4.7-inch touchscreen display delivers vibrant visuals, enhancing your gaming experience. Plus, with 128GB of internal storage and support for Micro SD cards, you'll have plenty of space for games and media.

Battery life is another highlight, boasting around 16 hours on a single charge thanks to its 5000mAh battery. Fast charging and an active cooling system keep the device running efficiently during long gaming sessions. Connectivity options are also impressive, featuring WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for easy online gaming and device pairing.

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is a versatile handheld console that excels in performance, battery life, and connectivity, making it a great option for retro gaming enthusiasts.

The X12 Plus retro handheld game console offers a substantial game library with 1000 built-in games and supports a variety of formats including PS1, MAME, and GBA, making it ideal for nostalgic gaming enthusiasts. Its 7.1-inch TFT LCD screen provides an enjoyable viewing experience with a decent resolution of 800x480, ensuring vibrant colors and eye protection for extended play sessions. The console’s storage capacity of 16GB is sufficient for storing additional games and media, but it may fill up quickly if you download a lot of large files. The built-in 2500mAh lithium battery promises up to 5 hours of gameplay, which is suitable for short trips but might require frequent recharges during longer use.

The build quality, made of plastic, is durable enough to handle minor drops and scratches, although it may feel less premium compared to other materials. Ergonomically, the device is designed to be held comfortably thanks to its size and joystick inclusion, enhancing the gaming experience. Connectivity options are versatile, allowing for TV connection via USB and compatibility with Windows PCs. Additional features like music and video playback, camera, and e-book reader add value to this multi-functional device.

Despite its strengths, the X12 Plus may have limitations in game storage and battery life for intense users. Nevertheless, it stands out as a versatile option for casual gamers and those wanting to relive classic arcade experiences.

The RG Nano Retro Handheld Game Console is a compact and portable device that offers a substantial game library with 5405 built-in games across various formats like PS1, Arcade, GBA, and more. This diversity ensures you have plenty of gaming options. Its 1.54-inch IPS screen provides crisp and clear visuals, although the small screen size might be a drawback for some users who prefer larger displays for a better viewing experience.

The console also features an aluminum alloy CNC body, which gives it a stylish and durable build, ensuring it withstands everyday use comfortably. However, its battery life is limited to just 2.5 hours of continuous gameplay, which might require frequent recharging during extended gaming sessions. On the plus side, it supports TF card expansion up to 512GB, allowing ample storage for additional games and media.

Connectivity options include a USB interface for game additions via computer connection, enhancing its functionality. The built-in Hi-fi speaker offers decent audio quality, improving the gaming experience. Despite being very portable at only 0.165 lb, the ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling. In conclusion, the RG Nano is an excellent choice for retro game enthusiasts who value portability and a broad game selection but may need to manage its short battery life wisely.