The Best Retro Gaming Handhelds of 2021 [Retroid Pocket 2+/x18s/RG552/AYA NEO]

[@TakiUdon]

For people wondering, the Max 2 is the only GPD device from 2021 that might have made this list, but I down own it. FE AYA NEO has an A+ because it had the best price vs. performance of a shipped product in 2021 (Win 2 is in my 2019 video in the #5 position for essentially the same cost and significantly worse performance). 2021 & 2021 Pro are a B- for price vs. performance, which I think is obvious. The Retroid Pocket 2+ and the FE AYA NEO are the only products on this list with an A+ for price vs. performance. Usage was used as a tie-breaker. What would make your top 10?

[@Bilal.Hussain.Shaikh]

Odin HandHeld

[@shantidaslisi8844]

My ps vita

[@gswilder]

OneXPlayer 1S

[@josephl3602]

I'll figure it out after I pick up a few more for comparison. By what I see here, RP2+ would be my choice.

[@axe6279]

The RP2+ ticks almost every box for me. Small, in my budget, power, good D pad and Android. Can't wait for it to arrive!

[@ryangarber5887]

The Retroid pocket 2+ looks like the winner for this year especially for the price! My God selllers, step up or get left behind! 😁

[@eddyhg8098]

If the next Retroid pocket has like a 5 inch screen I would be so tempted to buy one. (if the price stays relatively low)

[@brokensprites]

But with the RP2+ you can share profiles and use their custom settings... Taki has been posting and updating the work he has done and so far, so has the community. Also... If you simply add roms but don't have the right emulator, the device will search for the best one available, let you download and launch it. Riding on the shoulders of Giants only gets you so far.

[@toastyghosty489]

@@eddyhg8098 I’m not too worried about the screen size, but would love to see them release a rp2+ similar to the RP1 or 351v. I just really enjoy that style than the horizontal ones

[@senortonaste7340]

Anbernic fan's club 😢 but rg552 run snes full speed $230 Nice

[@markdarc0448]

@@eddyhg8098 the rp3 is rumored to be bigger like the rg552 or powkiddy rgb 10 max or max 2

[@dewbiedew]

I think the Retroid Pocket 2+ really is the one to beat in 2022. The high end devices featured are drool worthy, but not quite affordable for many. Thanks for putting together your list!

[@NoobixCube]

While the AYA Neo is the most powerful of the year, and definitely comes out on top in a lot of categories, I think it's almost unfair to include a _thousand dollar_ device in a list that ranges mostly from $70 to $200. It's almost like calling the latest Tesla the best bicycle of the year. Of course, I'm not going to begrudge it its moment in the sun, because unless the company does something special next year, it's going to be all over for them in the face of competition from the Steam Deck. Personally I'm hoping, much as the original Steam Machines were intended as reference designs, that handheld makers will treat the Steam Deck that way, and release competing Steam OS handhelds. I think that might be AYA's only hope, because they can't afford to come up worse in any comparison to the Steam Deck next year. I really think there's got to be a line between portable gaming PCs and budget emulation devices. If an emulation device comes in anywhere under $300, it's really not in the same class, nor aiming for the same market, as a portable gaming PC with a four digit price tag.

[@yewtewbstew547]

Yeah we're reaching a point with these devices, both reflected in the pricing and hardware being used, where they've strayed from being retro handheld emulators and are now more like underpowered portable gaming PCs. With the Steam Deck starting at $399, it's not even just going to be the $1,000 devices that get steamrolled (sorry lol) next year. Even the ones in the $200-300 range begin to look like a poor value proposition when you take things like price to performance, build quality, customer service, and probably most importantly the emulation options available into account. Well, that is assuming the Steam Deck is ever available at MSRP lol. Realistically even the cheapest version will probably be getting scalped for $800+ until at least 2025.

[@Mantenner]

The video is about the top 10 handhelds of 2021, and it'd a handheld of 2021.

[@ryecatcher25]

Agree 100 percent. I think this video lost credibility with that inclusion.i mean...why not just put a new i7 laptop on number 1?

[@mrkocsa]

@@Mantenner top to play retro games.. AYA Neo is good, but hardly a good idea to buy it for playing blue pakemon-)

[@TakiUdon]

Because an i7 laptop isn't a handheld device....

[@ange7928]

I was in love with the first retroid pocket 2, this huge update make me crazy and i must have it ! And happy new year everyone !

[@PongbyAtari]

I just ordered a RP2+ which I'm hoping will be my retro handheld of 2021 for me. I would love to own the Neo device but at over $1000 dollars there are way more important life happens items like new tires for my car. Regardless I love seeing these videos its very interesting the different takes that each one who makes a list has. Thanks for the video 👍.

[@realnerdethan]

100% agreed with you. I'm loving my RP2+ so far, hoping yours ships out fast for you!

[@PongbyAtari]

@@realnerdethan How long ago did you order yours and how long did it take to get it.

[@realnerdethan]

@@PongbyAtari Ordered on Nov 2nd, shipped DHL, shipping notification Dec 25th, arrived to Michigan US Dec 31st.

[@EmblemParade]

New in 2022: Taki reviews car tires!

[@PongbyAtari]

@@realnerdethan So looks I will have a bit of a wait . I had some issues with DHL with my Evercade VS so I didn't go with them. I'm in Michigan too by the way.

[@shade20x64]

My Aya Neo has replaced my laptop in my travel bag. The only major gripe I have is that there's significant glue bleed on the left side of mine, but Aya quickly responded to my issue and offered to send a fix kit with the upgraded shell when they send those out. Can't wait to get it and see how it improves the product.

[@antwango]

how much did you pay.... if aya dont try and bring costs down i feel steamdeck will mop up.... and something about steamdecks aesthetics that makes me not like it.... but aya teasing a new device sooo maybe its a cheaper sku???

[@xomm]

​@@antwango The original IGG version was about $850, but like Taki said they're all $1k+ now. Even so, Steam Deck won't really mop up the other Windows handhelds because the Deck isn't reservable in many countries including China. These companies also didn't sell very many units to begin with (like

[@mikelxanadu]

I really think price should have been taken into more consideration here. The *vast* majority of people (and I'd argue your fanbase, too) would never be able to casually buy a $1,000 device solely for emulation. It would never even enter their mind. The Retroid pocket is a tenth of the price and delivers on so many fronts, including the fabled PS2 emulation. I just can't agree with your number one pick this time around, Taki.

[@TakiUdon]

It was the second criteria that I used. FE NEO is the only one to match the price vs. performance of the RP2+ because of how cheap it was for what it can do.

[@mikelxanadu]

@@TakiUdon I get it was your criteria, I just disagree with how much weight was put into it. No sweat, though. The video was still very informative and interesting. Thanks for the upload!

[@VTuber_Central]

The galaxy fold3 cost more yet people would buy that so $1000 isnt unreasonable for "certain" people for emulation if they like expensive gadgets. I saw a youtube channel that had a portable console with win10 and has a touch screen and played gta4 (looked like gta5 tho) beats playing out of date games like snes or gba crap

[@ChrisW777]

It's essentially a pc in your pocket, it flawlessly runs skyrim, new doom game, borderlands 3 and more, that's very impressive, i agree 1k is way too expensive but people buy 1k phones all the time, only difference is they offer payment plans so it doesn't seem like that much, i could never afford it but i will fantasize lol

[@filippreiss]

Great list, well made video. I ordered RP2+ couple of days ago and I am really curious about that device. I have NIntendo Switch and I love it, but there something special about those old games and emulation. Thanks for another vid I really enjoy watching them.

[@Hightower2804TP]

The Retroid Pocket 2+ looks like an absolute steal

[@fcanudo_]

Because you like the AYA NEO so much, I would really like a Steam Deck review when it comes out. great video btw dude

[@TechRight]

Great video boss! Couldn’t have been any better 🔥

[@studioviper3016]

Steam Deck is probably gonna be number 1 next year I guess

[@Flaimbot]

considering the entry cost, while maintaining the same peak quality, that's a given.

[@jasper5945]

I wish you didnt include those $1000 pc handhelds.. Still good tgo

[@morphedrenegade]

The end was hilarious! What da f*** are you doing upstairs🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@TakiUdon]

Lol. There was a second clip, but I couldn't include it in the video.

[@weaponizedemoticon1131]

Solid video. Interesting top inclusion, but I get it. Something like that makes itself valuable by always being there and doing whatever you need. Similar concept to a good phone. Sure, you can get cheap ones that do the job, but if you use it a lot, it can be well worth it.. Can't wait for 2022's offerings!

[@JN20022]

The RP2+ is honestly my favourite of the Android/Retro handhelds this year. I can't wait to get my hands on one

[@apr2499]

That ending of your video was hilarious!

[@brokensprites]

I am glad to see how much you and others are loving the RP2+. I've heard rumors that the RP3 will use the same chipset but use a bigger case and screen. So hopefully those that want it bigger, will be happy as well.

[@nach0x]

I love my RP2+ but I think That would be disappointing for the RP3 I was expecting a better chipset at least...

[@spacerat0n]

I suspect the RP3 will basically be "less expensive RG552". Not a bad thing.

[@brokensprites]

I wouldn't mind if that's how they did the RP3, especially if they planned on doing the same thing and making an upgrade to RP3+ when a more powerful chipset is released.

[@WhiskeyAfterHours]

If that's the case then the 2+ is for me, My steam deck will be my bigger device.

[@kaos76ita]

Hi Taki and happy new year. I Purchase last year another very interesting Windows based handheld, tha One X Player, they sent me my unit at the end of august.I Bought the intermediate one, with i7 3.4 GHz CPU (with 4.2 boost option), 16 GB ram, 1 TB SSD and 2k touchscreen. I Baked it from their site for 805 euros, all included, taxes and shipping. Now Its price is about 1099. I'm very satisfied about this product and i use it very very much. Maybe consider it in the next video list. Go on with your excelent job. Marco from italy

[@EightPieceBox]

GPD Win Max is my personal favorite that I own from 2020. I wanted the OneNetbook when it first came out, but couldn't justify the price difference. I looked long and hard at the Aya Neo, but they were too new of a company. I look forward to what they do next. Currently I'm waiting for the Ayn Odin and Steam Deck to ship.

[@STR82DVD]

Which Win Max did you get? I snagged the OneXplayer 1195. Incredibly, as with the GPD Win Max, not on Taki's list but definitely tops mine.

[@EightPieceBox]

@@STR82DVD I got the first WinMax. The 2021 version wasn't enough of an upgrade for me to buy again so soon.

[@TakiUdon]

I don't own the 2021 Win Max. It would have probably been on this list.

[@spacerat0n]

It's pretty clear which product/company you were thinking of when setting the criteria to have actually shipped a product in 2021, and that your #1 spot might have looked different if not for product delays... I know you've had a lot of ups and downs working with that particular company. Still, hopefully 2022 brings good things!

[@StarCenturion]

Poor Steam Deck delay. I was so excited about getting mine during December. Either way, the clock is ticking for all of the other handheld PC devices once that drops. The specs for the Steam Deck should outclass all other currently existing handheld PCs. If you're getting the $399 base version, the price to performance is unmatched. Even getting the other two more expensive models, you're still getting good value.

[@Galohide]

I feel the same with the AYN Odin. Was meant to launch in November but hopefully we get it in the next few weeks

[@velveteenv76]

Poor Aya, with that price steamdeck is going to kill it.

[@MJosephJr]

Very neat comparing this video with Retro Game Corps.

[@c-bass9367]

The last couple seconds of this video are the best.

[@cameronshelley2719]

Thank you now I know what console I am going to buy

[@leobx5479able]

The video ended at the retroid 2plus for me lol

[@vero_niqi]

Happy new year Taki! Nice list 👍 The drama surrounding the Aya Neo made me reluctant on buying it so I didn't but man.. the ones you have look so good!

[@MithosDagon]

I am tempted to get the RP2+ but I will probably not use it IMO. If it could play PS2, and GC games seamlessly I would have gotten it in a heartbeat (probably unrealistic for a $100 device). I am excited for the steam deck tho. I’m curious to see how it does with PS2 and GC.

[@TerryZeng]

My most favorite handhelds device in 2021 is Miyoo Mini.

[@antwango]

i might get one just because its 40 and actually pocketable.... i just got the max2 and love it having shunned and looked down on anything with powkiddy name.... then they balls it up with the x18s.... x18s in a max2 shell would be killer for me

[@juanamador9136]

Great comprehensive list of the best devices of last year all around. Amazing video!

[@wordsmith451]

Awesome to see the Aya Neo get its due :)

[@bdiddy1138]

It's funny that your top 2 in this video are what I ended up purchasing this year 👍 the Neo has traveled and been used extensively over the holidays and I love it. I'm still waiting on my RP2+ upgrade kit tho, seems there has been some delays in my shipment. Other than my Neo the device I've used the most this year is still my Vita. Thanks for all the great reviews and content this year Taki, all the best to you and everyone for 2022 ✌️

[@awdrifter3394]

I reserved a Steam Deck, so hopefully that lives up to the hype in 2022.

[@Handheld_TECH]

Nice video Taki! Thanks 👍👾

[@TehAbdullah]

nice video loved the outtakes

[@marco91rei]

Hello I am interested in buying one that supports me both playstation 2 and citra which one do you recommend for low cost and convenience?

[@Mailmartinviljoen]

13:59 - What the F are you guys doing upstairs! :-) Funny

[@VatoLoco91]

I can't make the decision to get an Aya for 1000 when the steam deck is going to be released so soon. Likely better performance, and support for less than half the cost. My hands are sweaty in anticipation for the steam deck.

[@Hightower2804TP]

Yup, same for me. I am shocked that I got a pre order for the steam deck.

[@Eunostos]

Different calculus for those of us in countries Valve doesn't like to send hardware to. (It still feels like they have a grudge against Australia for enforcing refunds :p)

[@jellepoort6574]

wich handheld would you recommend to a newcomer who is looking to spend about 100+ euros. so far the retroid pocket 2+ looks interesting

[@michaelmcclintick9541]

So with all these handhelds that are out. Where does the retro pocket 2 plus compare to moqi i7s and the soon to be an odin in terms of power and playability of ps2, gamecube and dreamcast and saturn?

[@SEVENTEENPOINT1]

My favorite devices are the AYA NEO, and the GPi Case 2.

[@morphedrenegade]

I reserved Steam Deck 512GB but I really want Aya Neo Pro 21. What would you do if you were in my position?

[@SEVENTEENPOINT1]

@@morphedrenegade I also reserved the Steam Deck, but I don’t know if I will actually go forward and complete the order. All the games I want run perfectly on the Neo Pro. I would try to wait it out, but the only good options at this point are the Neo or the SD. I have a GPD Win 3 and every time I try to play something new on it, I have to cross my fingers for it to run.

[@morphedrenegade]

@@SEVENTEENPOINT1 Thanks for your reply. Now I shall rethink about SD and may even go ahead with ANP.

[@EmblemParade]

Can't wait to see how the Steam Deck compares to the Aya Neo.

[@TheyCallMeSledge]

It'll come down to performance between the two because on price, the Steam Deck has Aya Neo beat in spades, even with the highest Steam Deck tier.

[@Pridetoons]

@@TheyCallMeSledge That and the size of both handhelds.

[@minimoe2807]

Great video!

[@CloudStrife165]

So will the Retroid Pocket 2+ be the last and highest performing retro handheld to come out with fanless, passive cooling?

[@Qce-i6d]

Awesome video Taki. As more info becomes available, could you please make a video about how to upgrade the software or firmware of the AYA NEO 2021 without accidentally bricking it?

[@Lomotilian]

Am I understanding correctly @4:41 that there is a 9-10% commission for an affiliate purchase through Anbernic?

[@TakiUdon]

Yes

[@Lomotilian]

@@TakiUdon I appreciate the honesty in your videos. Has to be tempting for reviewers to overlook critiques.

[@codylester9081]

I ordered a RP2+ but I am kind of thinking about an Odin Lite, should I preorder one or should I wait until it’s actually released at this point?

[@johnduncan5117]

I just don't see how 1000$ + is workable tbh for the Aya neo. I can't see how it will resist once the Steam Deck launches.

[@TakiUdon]

That's the big question.

[@Bilal.Hussain.Shaikh]

happy new year Taki Udon

[@TakiUdon]

Same to you!

[@Bilal.Hussain.Shaikh]

@@TakiUdon 😊😁

[@joshvanmoorsel7460]

I don't think any product over 300 bucks should be a contender for the "retro handheld" genre. If I am getting a thousand dollar product, i expect to be able to play most modern games.

[@Costinmusca]

An important metric that seems to escape every review or reviewer that I know of and very rarely mentioned at random if ever is the "parasitic" (St-By) drain.. not the idle drain when the system is On and idling, but the actual drain when the system is powered Off. It's an important metric especially if you have a couple of them to chose from. It's not like these devices are your emergency flashlight or something like that and are going to sit there for months or years on end doing nothing, but they're also not your phone that's seeing daily usage and charging no matter what. I've sold my RG350P because it was draining my battery from 100% to almost 10% in a matter of weeks sitting in the box doing nothing.. My GKD350H on the other hand stood for months barely going down 1% ~ 2%, reason why I've kept it until I'll decide for a decent upgrade. Thus far, Anbernic with their RK chips are out of the equation..

[@WhiskeyAfterHours]

From what ive read in the retroid discord the sleep mode on the RP2+ is godlike when it comes to conserving battery life.

[@jdisdetermined]

@@WhiskeyAfterHours rp2+ is incredible all around for battery life. 👍

[@CAPMAX_Gaming]

Is the RP2+ even shipping yet? The site still shows them as pre-orders. Maybe once the holidays are over with...

[@Seph817]

Mine is supposed to be here in a day or two.

[@ninjason57]

It's been near impossible to find a retroid pocket 2+ with delivery over a month out.

[@tylerwhitney3443]

I've actually been considering getting a gaming laptop/media station/workhorse around $500-600...so it opens up the option for Retroid Pocket 2 or the Max2 for dedicated retro gaming in me hands.... Does RP2 come with preloaded games?

[@Nesrak]

There's a thing called the piboy dmg that's about $110 for kit not including rp4 but it has a joystick and two extra buttons.

[@baratacom]

Out of curiosity, what was the device that threatened the Aya Neo's position? I presume it's the Steam Deck or whatever it's called, but would like to know for sure.

[@TakiUdon]

Odin Pro

[@WarrenCBennett]

I guess my two packs would beThe RG 351V and Nintendo switch. Those are the two mobile units I use the most per retro gaming. It’s really the only two I own, heh

[@calebb7012]

Why is the Odin not up here?

[@BlockABoots]

Not sure how the Aya Neo can get a A+ for price vs performance at $1000, you might as well get a Steam Deck

[@TakiUdon]

It is not an A+ at $1000, it's an A+ at $630. It's colored green to show that.

[@BlockABoots]

@@TakiUdon But it cant be bought for that price anymore no??

[@TakiUdon]

@@BlockABoots Founders Edition isn't sold anymore.

[@MithosDagon]

Ps vita hacked is still my fave handheld retro system

[@Sabebo13]

RP2+ ordered! Its the perfect price to performance pocketable device. The RG552 was a letdown with that price and performance. The Ayaneo is a nice device but is too large and expensive for me to consider buying as a small portable retro handheld.

[@gldoorii]

I keep hearing how bad input lag is with Android handhelds. Does the RP2+ suffer from this like the others do?

[@pork6811]

Taki, are you still planning to do the Miyoo Mini guide which you mentioned in your earlier video?

[@TakiUdon]

Yes

[@BTS-nw9es]

great comparisons!"

[@antwango]

lol soooooo the most expensive device is the best i also like the idea of the aya neo BUT did you consider price range for everyday people.... not saying youre wrong lol but ive come from russ's top 10 and i also heard that it was contentious.... hmmm did you getting founders edition and being connected to people at aya sway your decision... if you were given this product, the most expensive and most capable and versatile product that also i assume doubles as a working pc of course its going to be used everyday but what if you had to pay for it out of your own pocket???? i have absolutely no idea if you did or not i have the max 2 and it only plays old games lol! i have no problem with the max 2 being 4th 3rd 2nd place.... id also argue the aya neos or gpd devices need to be in a different category as theyre literally handheld puters not retro gaming devices, surely a budget poco or realme phone would also be just as everyday and retro and more affordable than a neo?..... im guessing the steamdeck would instantly be no1 on your list too?? i dont really have a problem with top ten lists but i find the reasons tenuous.... you had the founders edition last year? or you were involved with the prelaunch? or beta? and it was obvious from this vid you wanted it to succeed just my thoughts.... the aya neo is also a device that i like the look of compared to the steamdeck?? but at 1000+ and being a handheld computer i assume.... its in a different category or universe compared to a powkiddy lol.... rp2+ right now seems a steal at sub 100 but i prefer a large screen and symmetrical layout as well as proper sticks both have stacked shoulders over the 552 which is waaaay more than the rp2+ you could buy 2 rp2+ and get change for the price of a 552! but the 552 has dualboot and anbernic quality going for it all the devices barring the 552 are sub 200 kids toys then the massive jump to a premium premium 1000+ does everything handheld computer..... im also assuming the neos the biggest and heaviest device here.... i get toptens are subjective.... im just highlighting what i see in this vid ahhh the end of year topten gaming lists lol and i cant believe i got involved lol

[@TakiUdon]

The AYA NEO Founders edition is the only expensive device that I own that I would have gladly paid for out of pocket. I was going to say as much last year when the campaign was going on, but super sketch shit happened and they sold the company (hence why I never felt like I could tell anyone I liked the device). When I was preparing this video, I added up all the hours that I've spent on Steam with their usage info (I only use the FE for Steam) and it was nuts.

[@jedewitz]

Ahh. About the Miyoo Mini- Miyoo did send over some stuff, and that's been distributed to a few individuals. It's not a full source and it wasn't everything, but enough to poke around. There's a limited cfw/updates in beta testing and it runs great. Give it a few months and it will probably turn out more like the A66. A lot of the Bittboy and A66 software works, but needs to be recompiled.

[@Spectrewave]

That video ending...what were your neighbors doing upstairs to get you to break char like that???😂

[@TakiUdon]

They do that shit every time I need to record!

[@stan599]

When Will be Powkiddy a20 new firmware android released? Its not so bad console.... Quality is not best but chio is very good

[@matrioshkabrainn]

"Wtf are you guys doing upstairs?" 😆

[@jay-easy311]

Where are you guys getting the 2+? All I can find are preorders

[@TakiUdon]

They ordered it when it first started selling in November

[@timegame4016]

Nice list i wish for aya neo

[@TheLinkhawkins]

Dang it, I have not used my Retroid Pocket 2 much this past year because of moving and other life things but your reviews of the 2+ makes me want to upgrade mine 😂

[@hugoruda9049]

Has the Odin not came out yet? I haven't heard anything from it

[@TakiUdon]

It's supposed to ship in two weeks.

[@hugoruda9049]

@@TakiUdon thanks for the response taki. Best handheld youtuber, no contest 🤘

[@TXFDA]

I wish they made an alternative Retroid Pocket 2 with the vertical Game Boy aesthetic. Like, the exact same product with the same specs and compatibility, but vertical.

[@buddybleeyes]

I just ordered a miyuu mini last week- managed to get a drop on ali. I think I do want to order a rp2+ at some point though... when they are available rather than an upgrade kit. I want an aya neo Pro, but dam the price stings too much. Excited for the steam deck, and want to see the competition on performance and price when it launches

[@thokothoko3739]

My Top just came at Christmas from china... It's the Miyoo Mini... a real successor for the Bittboy. It's a everyday everywhere console and real pocketfriendly. I love the Addition of 4 shoulder buttons, the Volume Wheel and the changeable battery. Only downer is the Display. Even it's a laminated Lcd one, the Black is a bit too bright and goes into grey, also the viewing angle is not the best. I live the Integration of retroarch with the mgba core (super Gameboy enhanced mode now possible -yeahy)

[@PongbyAtari]

I think a firmware update was just released that helps the display significantly from what I have read.

[@I_SuperHiro_I]

The Steam Deck will blow Aya out of the water.

[@NIVO1972]

Large screen is a must now. I am ok with not fitting in a pocket. I dont intend on using it anywhere but around the house. Also like to have headphone AND BT support. There are times when I wanna go wireless earbuds for music or something i want to drown out the background noise. Also 2 analog sticks. NO SLIDERS! If the price fits and performance is solid, I buy said product.

[@mathieumolitor2847]

So, Anbernic was not happy?

[@Kiobao]

Aya neo sounds cool and all, but I feel I'd rather Just have the Retroid Pocket 2+ then look at the steam deck and if it can emulate everything. I'd personally really love a small pocketable handheld emulator that can play PS2 and GC games at 60fps or more with it not being $1000. I could do $500 though. Won't be for awhile probably but still what I look forward to. I may honestly just get a controller or something for my Pixel 6 since that seems to emulate well, for ps2-wii then RP2+ for everything else. Aethersx2 seems to be doing good lately.

[@leqesai]

Absolutely this. Steam Deck has already been shown to be superior to the Aya Neo (especially with heat dispersion) at a more reasonable price point. Don't waste money on the Aya Neo at this point. Steam Deck is leagues ahead.

[@reactking7093]

Me personally I think I'll sell my gameboy advance and DS for a retroid pocket 2 and use it up to N64. Than ill use my LGv60 for everything else. Ill probably get the steam deck as well to play PC games.

[@jnerdsblog]

Thanks for this! Helped me to rethink what system I wanna pick up. But a $1,000 item at #1? Oooooof...not a buying guide that I can follow.

[@miguelastico93]

Prices can vary a lot, between countries etc Vídeo says Retroid pocket 2+ can cost 65/99$, I just tried to buy it and final cost to Spain it's 135$ exactly the double...

[@istherenooneleft]

Why havent you reviewed the analogue pocket

[@TakiUdon]

Can't get one (free or paid). I even live close to the company.

[@istherenooneleft]

@@TakiUdon hmmm I understand. Just interesting since it seems like everyone is saying that's the best... It'll be interesting how it compares to this list once you get your hands on it

[@sundjinnkari]

Firstly, I want to say I for the most part agree with your choices. I would have put the WIN 3 on this list as its price/performance had been stable for the entire year. However, that's not really a calculation you made, so I understand why its not on the list. Speaking from experience using the WIN 3 (now my main machine vs a gaming laptop), its definitely a contender in terms of build quality, post release product support, and performance. Intel Xe graphics probably isnt the best in the world, admittedly I do miss playing Space Engineers quite a bit, but for emulation it rocks. In terms of an every day driver, the device blows the water out of my laptop, the limit of ports is easily rectified by just getting USB hubs and dongles to break out the various ports. The community around it have also been very busy in designing the want list of features. While I am not entirely understanding the thing between you and GPD, or if that made it a factor of the WIN 3 or any GPD product to hit the list, I can understand that if I had purchased an AYA NEO, I probably would be in the same camp as you. I did however, want that 'physical' keyboard and sidekick-esq form factor. Either way. Thanks again Taki for putting out such great reviews in 2021, I look forward to more in 2022.

[@TakiUdon]

I think Max 2 is a better device, but I don't own it. I would never pick the Win 3 over the Max 2, because the Max 2 is more usable than my Gx1.

[@sundjinnkari]

@@TakiUdon I can totally see your opinion on that one. My reasoning for not purchasing the OneGX1 was build quality (based on your early review), and performance. As for the Max 2, I didnt need another laptop, I wanted a handheld, and the Max 2 qualifies to me as a netbook in terms of form factor.

[@laurent1120]

@@sundjinnkari the Win3 has a way too small screen vs its performance, anything under 6* is not usable as a windows device and I own every gpd win product except the 3 and also win max 1st gen.

[@oyxnova4519]

I might be the only one liking the x18s at this point lol yea it has its flaws but I still enjoy it. If only the RP2+ had a slightly bigger screen..

[@spacerat0n]

Long-standing rumor is that the RP3 will have a 5" screen... hopefully we'll know more by the end of this year.

[@PlayStationology]

Taki = The Best 💗

[@anduril38]

*cries in Moqi i7s* Good list overall. I've used my i7s the most by far since I got it in 2020, but I'm looking to pick up a RP2+, Steam Deck and hopefully an Odin this year.

[@th8440]

Maybe they'll come out with an XL model with a larger screen someday.

[@gohan3448]

Can you do a gameplay of dbz bt3 on PS2 on the Odin and dbz b3

[@mikemikemikemikemikemeup]

I feel like the number 2 and 1 spots are so drastically different in price that comparing them is kinda silly. The number one spot is $1000-$1200 and the number 2 is $100. 😅 having them on the same list doesn’t even make sense. Also I would like to know if this list is taking into consideration buying the device. Like would he pay the thousand for the handheld over the hundred? Maybe he would but to some the better performance is not worth the price tag.

[@bobdawkins7473]

12:40 One looks like it came from a professional company One looks like it came from some children LOL

[@Deltax5]

Hoping good things. Retroid pocket 2+ looks good thou. I want a nice one that fits in the pocket thou. Looking for a bit more power. Next year is another year. I almost don't need one at the moment. Just something there to have just in case. They should of put components of a gaming phone they didn't sell. So we get the most out of it. I kinda don't want to keep buying them. Want a model that does GameCube and Wii. ps2 still needs some power. The upgrades on the site for retroid is included with this model?

[@erraddict]

I expect the Steamdeck to be on your 2022 list 😉

[@SteinarLundemo]

Love the looks and upgrades of the rp2+, but with shipping and tax, it's almost 200$ in my country.

[@TakiUdon]

That's nuts, where do you live?

[@gpareyawithmeohyeah1219]

I paid $69 shipped (nice) for the s30 but it doesn't play n64, so that's a bit of a bummer. My phone handles Dreamcast but struggles with GameCube, so adding another device with that same ability doesn't make sense. If retroid's next gen is capable of those systems while my phone isn't I'll have to reconsider, but for now I'll wait.

[@AdnanCucak]

Its got to be the The Retroid pocket 2+ for me

[@ohhgeez865]

Hard to believe the $1000 device is better than all those

[@Doublepulse]

For awhile, I never understood the appeal and market for these kinds of devices, and it kind of hit me one day that not emulation or hardware is handled equally. Especially when you start going past PS1 emulation. Man, the AYA NEO is nice, but that price point lol - makes me hyped for the steam deck a bit more.

[@antwango]

aya teasing a new device