My Favorite Retro Handhelds of 2024 (So Far)

We're halfway through 2024, so let's pause and talk about some of my favorite releases so far this year.
Favorite handhelds of 2023: • My Favorite Handhelds ...
Favorite handhelds under $100: • My Favorite Retro Hand...
FBGBC:
Review: • FPGBC Review: My Favor...
Purchase: funnyplaying.com/products/fpg...
RG35XXSP:
Review: • RG35XXSP Review: King ...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeH...
Starter guide: • Anbernic RG35XX Family...
RG35XX H:
Review: • Anbernic RG35XX H/Plus...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dej...
Miyoo A30:
Review: • Miyoo A30 Review: The ...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCI...
ra30: github.com/jimgraygit/ra30
Spruce: github.com/tenlevels/spruce
Anbernic RG Cube:
Review: • FUN + POWER = RG Cube ...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmM...
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro:
Review: • Retroid Pocket 4 Pro R...
Purchase: bit.ly/RGC-RP4
Honorable mentions:
GKD Pixel:
Review: • GKD Pixel Second-Look ...
Purchase: bit.ly/GKDpixel
Anbernic RG28XX:
Review: • Anbernic RG28XX Review...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DFR...
Anbernic RG556:
Review: • Anbernic RG556 Review:...
Purchase: s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DCt...
AYN Odin 2 Mini:
Review: • Odin 2 Mini Review: Ju...
Purchase: tinyurl.com/Odin2Mini
Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
00:54 ground rules
01:52 favorite Game Boy
03:50 favorite budget handheld
06:00 favorite micro handheld
08:31 favorite retro machine
10:25 favorite all-around handheld
14:10 summary and conclusion
Ways to support this channel:
YT channel membership: / @retrogamecorps
Patreon: / retrogamecorps
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/retrogamecorps
Find me on Discord! / discord
Theme song written by Jim Gray of Our Ghosts:
ourghosts.bandcamp.com/track/...
More music here: / posts
Keyboard shown in my videos: bit.ly/RGCnuphy
^^ use code "RGC10" for 10% off your order
Note that this description may contain affiliate links. By clicking on an affiliate link and buying something, I may earn a small commission of the sale at no extra cost to you. You can read more about that here: retrogamecorps.com/about/
This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
#Anbernic #Retroid #Miyo #retrohandhelds #emulation

[@JJxAguirre]

When you read this comment Anbernic will have released a new handheld.

[@Khunal1]

Too true. And another!!

[@mont-doggBeats]

And it is already outdated

[@RMillerism]

They just announced the RG40XX!

[@RomanBellicTaxi]

I mean, aren't they releasing a RG40XX soon?

[@Danrarbc]

40XX 😂

[@giannibtt]

I was almost convinced which device to buy, now I'm undecided again.

[@TheReferrer72]

You are not restricted to one.

[@Compic]

@@TheReferrer72 but what if his budget is

[@ajsyed4750]

When watching video like this. U will never buy. Same here 😂

[@TheRealAdachi]

Steam deck is on sale for the summer steam sale and it emulates really well

[@fillerbunnyninjashark271]

Rog Ally emulates better and easier

[@aprichman]

The year is 2028. The world has been overcrowded with Anbernic variants and is now out of room. Humanity dies drowning in a sea of mid-quality retro emulation.

[@zZiL341yRj736]

They're up to the RG 15272625262526XXXZZ variant now.

[@batmabel]

@@zZiL341yRj736 that must be a massive screen

[@hanchi8710]

they will be releasing robots

[@familhagaudir8561]

And still no double screen foldable handheld for 2DS emulation.

[@mousers21]

This whole space is only interesting for form factor and size because why would you pay so much for some of those models when you can get a refurb steam deck for less than $300

[@Nkmoon13]

Best reviews on KZbin. Thorough, Informative and honest. Russ is the best, thanks for all you do man

[@tenlevels84]

Dreams come true! I started in this hobby/community because of your videos. Now a little something I did is featured?! Wow. Thanks Russ! Cheers from K and the family.

[@jethrotejano2013]

I love my RP4P which I also ended up purchasing because of your recommendations. And while it has been an absolute blast to replay retro games, I underestimated how much use I get out of it from cloud streaming! I exclusively played Dragon's Dogma 2, Skull and Bones, Unicorn Overlord, Hades 2, and now Shadow of the Erdtree on this little beast and the experience has been nothing less than exactly what I wanted. Absolutely recommended!

[@NaGoddo]

What service do you use to stream? Nvidia?

[@jinstinky501]

Nice, I'm thinking I need one too.

[@freelunch9321]

right?! i been loving gamepass cloud streaming on it as well. it's amazing how far the cloud streaming tech has come. the latency & video quality reduction (even with great connection) used to bug the hell out of me, but I can barely notice it these days. so underrated

[@darth_dunedain106]

How does moonlight streaming work?

[@ckckck12]

Moonlight works amazing directly from GeForce experience. 2-3ms latency on my WiFi 6. You can't even tell it's over network. ​@@darth_dunedain106

[@galewind]

Super cool to meet you today at TooManyGames! Thank you for signing my Odin2!

[@oW0LFP4CKo]

Only thing worth signing! Nice!!!

[@RetroGameCorps]

Nice meeting you!

[@omegamanGXE]

Odin 2: Electric Boogaloo

[@ToyKeeper]

Yesterday I read RetroDodo's "best retro handhelds of 2024" article. It included devices like the Analogue Pocket (2021), Playdate (2022, doesn't play retro games), original AYN Odin (2022), Evercade EXP (2022), RG351V (2021), and Funkey S (2021)... but it didn't mention the RG35XX H/SP or RG Cube. And the article was published _last week._ So ... I just wanted to say thanks for making your 2024 list actually list 2024 products.

[@rp6193]

Just noticed how just hearing your intro music puts me into a great mood. Thank you for your work!

[@Feedcookiez]

The Miyoo A30 bouncing back! This little handheld has been winning me over.

[@jessica49arrow]

Same I kinda want it😂

[@paynomind81]

i kinda want it for the form factor alone.

[@-mhayes86]

It's great seeing some recommendations with how frequently these things seem to release. I have been loving the RGXXSP and the RG Cube, which your videos and setup guides have been a great help!

[@theglamthropologist]

that budget handhelds video was really great, but I was definitely looking forward to this one! always great that you release several videos reviewing multiple handhelds with a different focus

[@Conellossus]

I’m loving the Miyoo A30 redemption arc. Makes me feel validated for being one of the first wave buyers.

[@ToyKeeper]

The community keeps bailing out Miyoo, doing the company's work for them. Miyoo should have at least released source code, as required by the licenses of the code they're using... but they don't even do that.

[@unrequitedhate]

Redemption arc driven by community. Similar to how the Miyoo Mini was successful due to OnionOS. No company (Miyoo or Anbernic) should be rewarded for releasing half-baked products. They should release their source code, or just use the same SOC as Miyoo Mini Plus. Anbernic screwed up by not making the face buttons of 28XX bigger. I'm waiting for the next handheld in this space that combines the best of both A30 and 28xx (hopium).

[@lbnFadl]

​@unrequitedhate I'm huffing the same hopium, but I'm also starting to think they deliberately never release 'the' definitive device so they can keep dropping more lol

[@Bahamut69]

does miyoo a30 have built in drastic like 28xx?

[@eliasmares2929]

Killed it with this video. Been thinking of picking up one of these systems and this video made so easier to decide. Thank you kindly 🙏🏽

[@Shawn1302]

Just got my own RG SP in today, now I gotta watch your setup tutorial. Thanks Russ!

[@GameTechTalk]

Great content as always, love these compils!

[@sergeigarcia186]

RG Cube PSA regarding its joysticks: GammaOS creator just released a fix for the extreme cardinal snapping of the joysticks, fixing its biggest flaw.

[@foxhoundra64fr]

Oh what how do I do this?

[@closebutn0cigar763]

Works on the 556 too

[@JD96893]

I've seen people change out the sticks, is that what you are talking about?

[@kirabey8946]

Does it work with rg35xx h?

[@galestar6481]

Yet another excellent video. Thanks Russ!

[@nefariou5]

Every time I am tempted by the Odin 2 mini, I am reminded by how amazing the rp4 pro is at half the price. Really doesn't feel like the price difference is worth it (even more so as a steam deck owner too)

[@sjab5987]

sales 'bout to spike on Russ' favorites

[@bingegamer]

At first I was confused about your quotation marks, but then realized it was just an informal use case for one (about) and the other is you actually using the apostrophe correctly on a name ending in S, 😅

[@AlexPrevost]

Ended up ordering an RP4P last week after mulling over your videos. Can’t wait for it to arrive!

[@eduardogaxiola3907]

This channel is the reason I finally decided to get a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. And I'm truly enjoying it

[@robertkugler4387]

are the games pre loaded?

[@eduardogaxiola3907]

@@robertkugler4387 no, as shown in the video, it comes empty. No games or emulators

[@christianmercado5510]

I’ve been waiting for this video for months hahaha

[@Dansoo]

I originally wanted to get an RG35XXSP and Odin 2 mini, but got the RG35XXH and Odin 2 instead because of your recommendation and I couldn't be happier with my purchase ! Being able to play PS1 at 480p on a device that I can just slide into my pocket has been such a game changer for me, I actually feel inclined to play games again ! As for the Odin 2, I've only had it for a couple of days but this might be the best purchase I've made after the Steam Deck, it's such an incredible machine, and the fact that I can play switch on it is just incredible. Your channel has single handedly made me fall back in love with gaming again. Keep up the great work Russ, big fan of your stuff !

[@DonWeaselYeehawEdition]

Cant wait to watch this when I get home 😁

[@gadply]

Man i love your videos even when i don't want a handheld

[@Thiagovnd]

I like how short and and straight to the point this list was. I might get a a30 of the software keeps improving.

[@ashthegeek7400]

Just got my RG35xx a couple of days ago. Your videos convinced me to pull the trigger on it. Currently playing Cave Story on it, and I love the device!

[@gillett5565]

For anyone on the edge I bought a retroid pocket 4 pro when it released and haven’t regretted it one bit.

[@geniussnake497]

Looking extra sharp today, Russ. Love you and your content 😁

[@bazingafication]

I'm enjoying the RG35XX H. Ordered it after i saw your videos. It's been really fun playing the games from my childhood. Thanks for the reviews :)

[@washuai]

I'm not enjoying RG35xx-H. Mine was a lemon and two months later, still no refund.

[@nathaniles5456]

Amazing handheld, I think it's THE entry point for this hobby.

[@tylerwillems9358]

Hey awesome video, thanks!

[@stuntpope]

I got a RG35XX H about a month ago and I love it. It's cheep, fits in my pocket and plays 1000's of games.

[@ruffnutts]

Gamma as fixed the RG Cube analog problem ;) great video btw Russ ;)

[@Themolehole-xy2nn]

WTF how are we half way through already!?!?

[@fillerbunnyninjashark271]

Easily. Time never stops

[@rundown132]

dont remind me

[@omegamanGXE]

Time flies when you’re infected with ligma

[@reesetube]

@@omegamanGXE2014 is back?

[@kenmeadows444]

I am so happy with my RG556, you're spot on, just right for price and performance and the Amoled display is just stunning!

[@theguycanfly98]

The Anbernic RG405v has been my favorite so far, it's chunky but I'm all the right ways. Would love to see more content on it

[@mirizarko3093]

its like you read my mind! I swear this week I was thinking when will retro game corp upload a video about fav retro games of 2024! God I love this channel, you are the best :)

[@Brunoxid0]

Watching this with my rp4p right by my side. Definitely made the right choice.

nice vid, I just got my RP4P. I'm just loving it.

[@reesetube]

How do you just… not have a handle?

[@brandongabel]

I currently own a Steam Deck OLED and a recently purchased RP4P after deciding that the RP2S wasn't for me, mainly because of the screen being too small and ultimately giving me headaches after long uses. Loving everything else about the 2S, the 4 and 4P were on my radar and I decided to bite the bullet and go with the Pro. I couldn't be happier, even with the Odin 2 Mini releasing shortly after my purchase, which also looks solid. Overall, the pocketability, power, and price of the RP4P is still more appealing to me than the Odin 2 Mini, as well as any other emulation device. These two are my all time favorite gaming devices now, and they are perfect companions. Thanks for the rundown on your favorites, too!

[@pinatadonkey5934]

I built my FPGBC last night and absolutely love it. I love actually playing cartridges because it gets me to stick with one game. But down the road I definitely wanna get an ever drive cart.

[@roguegeek]

I really think you should do a revisit video for the A30. That thing deserves more love. As always, great content, Russ.

[@Rkiver]

The Funny Playing Game Boy is something I jumped on very fast once I saw the video Russ made. Arrived fast, easy build, and honestly,love it. Went all black myself, but now they have different coloured PCBs and all. Seriously, if you like GB and GBC, go get it. Worth it.

[@jayjayhooksch1]

I like this product. I'm hoping they do a GBA version, they already have the mobos and shells, they just need the chips and ram.

[@drew1921]

Definitely thinking about getting one Christmas because I love my deck for emulation but these handhelds like to flex 💪. Great video

[@ToPsYkR3Ts]

happy to see the RP4P getting love. For me, I owned both RP4P and an Odin 2. I always wanted something in between, and that sounds like the Odin 2 Mini for me

[@Setzer777]

The RGCube would have been my pick over the RGB30 if they had put the D-Pad on top and used Linux over Android. Also, the screen on the RGB30 is much better than the screen on the Cube.

[@fillerbunnyninjashark271]

Cube is pretty much a shmup machine. The only time I agree with the analog on top. Retroid pocket 4 for 4:3/16:9 gaming

[@rickyrns1059]

The screen on the RGB30 is the exact same display panel as the Cube, from the same manufacturer and everything. The issue with the Cube is an assembly issue on Anbernic messing up and putting too much pressure on the screen for some of the current stock, it’s not the screen panel itself that’s the problem.

[@ItsJustHenriHeck]

Awesome list right there, anbernic has been burning the midnight oil and churning these joints out!

[@Owens777]

Love my RP4Pro. Even with the shoulder button issues on pre-orders retroid's team had great customer service. So Glad I saw your review end of last year. It's my first and was the right choice

[@mattb6522]

Good video! Yeah, I picked up the Retro Pocket 4 Pro awhile back and it has been my absolute favorite pocketable handheld! I was looking for a handheld that went beyond the Dreamcast into PS2/GameCube territory and the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro really fits the bill nicely! The price is pretty amazing for the value of what you're getting! The only other device I own that I generally prefer is the Steam Deck, however, I never travel with my Steam Deck, so the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is a great travel companion!

[@MervinMedallo]

My RG351V&P are still running. Thank you, russ

[@CaminosCognitivos]

I just got a RG35XX H and Im super happy! I'm using muOS and is a great CFW. I'm pretty new in the retro gaming but I think that the H was the best way to start!

[@darrendyson8347]

Damn appreciate this video a lot very detailed. Makes me realize how well I have it with a switch lite and a mini decent library. I was telling the girl the other day that the switch might not look that well graphically but it's pushing out decent power for the price point.

[@raleighite]

I love my GKD Pixel. The metal body and buttons make it feel really well built, the speaker is great on such a tiny device. Also it's great when I'm giving the baby a bottle since it's easy to play one handed.

[@TunedByJ]

All great choices! I just bought my Odin 2, and seriously one of the best devices I purchase ever. Does everything I throw at it with ease. It’s a BEAST in this segment.

[@user-ir6zx3rv4w]

Good list Russ. I'd like to see you do some 'lets play' some time with some retro titles.

[@martinwalker6172]

My favourite so far is often overlooked - the KTR1 has the perfect screen for retro gaming and amazing battery life. Love it to bits!

[@danielvillanueva3792]

Retroid Pocket 4 + Analog Pocket is the best combo!

[@alfredosalza6328]

Nice video 👏

[@BigT87]

Great vid. Would have been hilarious if during the FPGBC segment you mentioned the LTT shortcircuit video like they did you. Just a little snip of their video saying " Our friends at LTT seems to like it also"

[@zalz]

How's your screen holding up on your retroid pocket 3? We'll the one that's transparent blue? Mines kinda bad with screen fades and all when switching apps

[@genblob]

The Miyoo A30 becoming your favorite micro handheld is very surprising. I went with the RG28XX after watching reviews on both devices and I'm pretty happy with it but it's good to know you can't go wrong either way.

[@robras2850]

A30 is so slept on, love that device and the rp4 pro my most used device this year 🔥

[@geekdomo]

Woot! R4P Pro won! So glad because you talked me into getting the 3 then the 4pro ;)

[@SilverKnight16]

Bought the RG556, and don't regret it one bit. Even with the dpad being beneath the analog stick, it's still super comfy to use. Perfect for me in basically every way.

[@malleus1881]

The A30 had a rough start but it has really shaped up into a great little handheld.

[@anthonysimpson6738]

I went with the Retroid pro 4 for my Zelda Wind Waker GameCube games, a30 for pocket portable gaming. I like the look of the Anbernic RG cube as I really would like a more compact form for Game cube games. Although I think I will wait for now see what comes out over the next year. I have enough to play with and I want to concentrate on perfecting the library. Plus with the new Switch expected in 2025 I am sure there plenty to do. Great review as always.

[@Cloud3214]

I love my RP4Pro I'm so excited to see the next iteration

[@Denis7117]

Anbernic Arc D made my year.. It's so special with that 6 button layout

[@jdmvette]

Loving the 'cube 👍

[@hetoriaansverbond5944]

Not released in 2024, but the two devices that I've bought this year (thanks to this channel) are a Retroid Pocket 3 Plus, and a RG ARC. Both are perfect for my needs, but I love the ARC just a little more, since I was a Sega kid. Great video!

[@EliasPfaiffer]

My all time Favs: Odin 2 Max RG 505 RG 351V RG 353M Trimui Smart Pro

[@UMvsC3DPFWPW]

I’ve always enjoyed watching your videos, it’s the reason why I got into the Retro Emulation Market. My Favorite by Far is the Retroid Pocket Series. Of course there are other Brands but never bothered getting them. Miyoo is a Linux OS and I don’t have Linux. Of course Retroid’s Rival: Anbernic, that Brand always Released Numberous Handhelds that I don’t know which one to pick. It’s annoying how Anbernic always have Newer Ones that has Different Look or Performance. Finally I’m considering getting the Ayn Odin 2 which is Stronger than the RP4 Pro & has a 6-inch Screen. There is an Odin 2 Mini but it’s Pricey. Then there’s the Holy Grail Steam Deck which is regarded as the Best but the MOST Expensive and Biggest. I’ll still do some Research and Save Money while I’m at it.

[@pablohalcon]

Just joined the handheld emulation scene a couple months ago. I have the Miyoo Mini+(2023) and the RP4Pro. Both are awesome. The RP4Pro is freaking amazing and I haven't even scratched the surface. Having trouble getting the BIOSs' straightened out due to my fear of heights...nah I'm just not very smart. Good video. Your breakdown of the previously mentioned handhelds were what I used to decide on both purchases.

[@PatriciaBrown-t6l]

HEY kisluxbag I have been watching you for years and im so proud of where you have made it! I love you so much! Also thanks for making my day

[@robotninja530]

Can you recommend a good carry case that will fit the rp4/pro with the grip? The one they sell on the site doesn't fit.

[@MidnightBoots]

It’s unbelievable we made it halfway through the year without a Retroid Flip 2 or AYN Flip. I really need it in my life.

[@fillerbunnyninjashark271]

Because horizontal devices with LED lights are the new hot

[@WFCLucas]

Brought a miyoo mini plus last year. Brought a anbernic rg35xxh a few days ago as I was finding the miyoo mini plus was not as comfortable for long play sessions as an original gba form factor would be. So affordable , pocketable and such a huge amount of games you can play.

[@calebks]

3ds at 2x res on the cube has been revelatory, getting the screens on top of one another as intended just feels so right

[@AdamBlue]

Love the RG Cube. My favorite handheld is an 8-inch android tablet with GameSir G8.

[@dasmejr6004]

Made me smile to see you use a game boy advance in place of the emulator for that one clip

[@aardvarkyo]

Anyone wonder if they're gonna make a Retroid Pocket 5? Like is there a need? The 4 and 2 are already great price to performance machines, and people suspect there's a connection to the Odin already. Assuming they just rebrand the 3 line to just be the flip exclusively, I don't see a need for a 5. Most they could do to make it stand out would be to make it Linux based, and that sounds like more work that Retroid would be willing to put in.

[@JfLSpawny]

Quick question, why did you change your intro music? (I know its ben changed for a long time) i think i prefer this version as its more chill, just wondering what made you decide to change it

[@ALNNN024]

Was going to pull the trigger for the A30 after seeing those nice software updates, good to know the controls are better, Will need to wait for a sale then, 1st July I think

[@Astromanaught]

I have a rp4 pro and the rg35xx sp. Both fill different niches, and I'm glad I bought them. I was surprised how good Vita emulation is on the rp4. Played through all of persona 4 golden. There was a weird camera glitch that happened sometimes, but it ran smooth.

[@FlayNAuToMaTa]

It is worth to get a rp4pro now ? Or maybe wait a few months for any new retro system

[@redhotbillypeppers]

I’ve been waiting for an updated favorites video like this one. It’s right on time.

[@MXTuber3000]

The Yellow powkitty in the line up is such a good looking device.

[@harrison9861]

great video, deliberating around miyoo mini plus or pow kiddy v10 like the look of the sp but seems bulky and pricey same with 35xx 28xx too small will the v10 play ds better you reckon since it has more power. haven't heard anything about the support either plus like the idea of wifi

[@solomonkane408]

Russ im gonna get a retroid pocket 4 pro what color do you recommend ?

[@J.A.Z-TheMortal]

Would love to see a similar video but for Budget handhelds - TRIMUI Smart Pro vs E6 Plus - R36S vs XU10 - Powkiddy RGB30 vs CloneRGB40 - RGB20SX vs M18/R43

[@Miniclash]

I have the FPGBC that I love, and the exact same Flash Cart, but it crashes when loading the game from the SD card to the Flashcart EEprom. It works on a real GBC and GBA though. Any clues? :)

[@WoollyMittens]

I'm having way too much fun with the Funny Playing FPGBC. It's nice to just have in your bag during travel and not worry about the battery life or whether its OS will get corrupted.

[@goofmauro]

I'm loving Miyoo A30 with Spruce. Playing everything just fine and is small and beautiful. I'm hoping they release FPGBA with GBA classic form factor, would be amazing!

[@thiagoaraujos]

I have most of these handhelds, but I'm surprised the A30 is my current favorite. It's well designed and you don't feel like playing on a small screen; also, it's comfortable for the size and the full size controls are great! It is immersive and just disappears, letting you focus on your retro game.

[@guldore6559]

For the Retroid Pro 4, it was mentioned that the fans can be aggressively loud for the device. Has this issue been improved with the retail release? Because those fan noises can be pretty annoying if they are too loud.

[@YoutubeAccount-qq7zj]

Love your content! Are you going to review the Scuf Nomad Telescopic mobile game controller? Love to get your opinion on it as im the market for one but not sure what to get. Full sticks is a must for me (dont like the small switch style). Keep up the great work!

[@TheDbG33K]

Would anyone here happen to have the link to that website that loads up a device's screen size and tells you what size a different aspect ratio is on that screen? For example, you can tell it like 4:3 on a AYN Odin Pro, and it shows a little example screen and gives the size that 4:3 content would display at on that display. I think RGC mentioned it in a previous video, but I don't know which

[@SSuperC]

Is the RP4 Pro the best retrohandheld with symmetrical sticks? Seems like anything else that could compare (Odin 2, Odin lite, Rg556, etc) has an asymmetrical (i.e. wrong) stick situation.

[@KrazyShark]

Powkiddy V10 review waiting room c: 7:57 nice to see that Spruce fixed the slow exiting game time that Joey initially showed in his vid. When I saw Spruce I immediately ordered the A30 cause the controls look and must feel so much better than the RG28XX. I wonder if I'll ge the "fixed" better d-pad version. Very excited to try it out :)