10 Best Retro Video Game Consoles 2026 in the United States

The Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio HD Plus is an appealing option for retro gaming enthusiasts, offering compatibility with a wide range of original NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis games. With three dedicated cartridge slots, it allows you to play your old favorites without the need for multiple consoles. The ability to experience these classics in 720P HD clarity through its HDMI connectivity is a significant strength, enhancing the visual quality on modern TVs.

Game library compatibility is a major highlight, with the console being well-regarded for its ability to run original cartridges reliably. Additionally, it supports original accessories, meaning you can use your well-loved controllers and peripherals seamlessly. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The console does not mention any built-in save features, which could be a downside for games that require saving progress. While the build quality seems solid, some users might find the design slightly bulky compared to more modern compact consoles.

Finally, while the console is highly rated, it should be noted that it's mainly suitable for those who already own or can acquire original game cartridges and accessories. If you’re looking for a straightforward way to revisit retro gaming without compromising on game compatibility and visual quality, the Super Retro Trio HD Plus is a strong contender.

The Hyperkin RetroN 3 HD is a solid choice for retro gaming fans who want to play original NES, Super Famicom/SNES, and Sega Genesis/Mega Drive cartridges on modern TVs. One of its biggest strengths is the wide compatibility across three popular classic systems, making it convenient if you own games from multiple consoles. It outputs video and audio in HD (720p) with options for 16:9 or 4:3 aspect ratios, which helps games look better on newer screens compared to standard definition. The build quality feels sturdy enough for casual to moderate use, and the console’s weight and size are manageable for a dedicated gaming setup.

The console supports NTSC and PAL cartridges, but some users may find the lack of built-in save states or memory backups a drawback since you must rely on the original game saves. Connectivity is straightforward with HDMI output, but it doesn’t include modern wireless controller options out of the box, so you’ll likely use wired controllers or original ones. The controller design depends on original hardware since the console plays physical cartridges, so the feel will be authentic but not upgraded.

Additional features are minimal, focusing mostly on delivering a faithful multi-console retro experience without extras like downloadable games or online play. This model is ideal for gamers who want a plug-and-play way to enjoy their classic game collections on HDTVs without fussing with emulation or adapters.

The Sony Playstation Classic Console offers a nostalgic experience for retro gaming fans and newcomers eager to explore the origins of PlayStation. Featuring 20 pre-installed classic games, including titles like Final Fantasy VII, Grand Theft Auto, and Resident Evil Director's Cut, the game library is robust, although some may feel the selection is limited compared to the original PlayStation's expansive catalog.

Controller design mirrors the original with two wired controllers included, maintaining the retro feel but may lack the comfort and functionality of modern controllers. The connectivity options are straightforward with an HDMI cable for easy TV connection, but the absence of a USB AC adapter might require users to source their own, which could be inconvenient.

While the build quality is solid and the console mimics the original design, its reduced size (45% smaller) may appeal to those looking for a compact system. Save features are present but minimal, relying on in-game save points rather than advanced save functionalities seen in more modern consoles. Additional features are sparse, with the focus remaining on delivering a pure retro experience rather than offering new capabilities. This console is best suited for nostalgic gamers or collectors who value the historical significance of these classic titles.