What is the best retro handheld 2024 R36S?

As of 2024, the R36S is one of the most popular retro handheld consoles, but there are several other options on the market that offer a similar or enhanced gaming experience. To determine whether the R36S is the best retro handheld in 2024, we can compare it to other top contenders. Here's a breakdown of the R36S and some other notable handheld retro consoles:

R36S Retro Handheld (2024)

• Game Library: The R36S typically offers over 1000 pre-loaded games from consoles like NES, SNES, GBA, PS1, and Sega Genesis. You can also expand the library by adding your own ROMs (through SD cards).
• Design: Compact, handheld design with a 3.5-inch screen, making it highly portable.
• Build Quality: Generally good, though the materials used might feel a bit lightweight.
• Display: Typically features an LCD screen with decent resolution for retro games, though not as sharp as newer handhelds with modern screens.
• Battery Life: Depending on usage, the R36S usually provides around 5-6 hours of playtime on a single charge.
• Price: $50-$150 USD, depending on the version and features.
• Emulation Quality: Good for most 8-bit and 16-bit games; however, performance on more demanding systems like PS1 or N64 may be less optimal in some cases.
• Customization: You can add more games via SD card, making it versatile for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Alternatives to the R36S (2024)

1. GPD Win 3

• Game Library: Supports a wide range of games from retro to modern PC titles.
• Design: Small but with a 5.5-inch screen, similar to a mini-laptop. Features a built-in keyboard.
• Emulation: Excellent for retro games and can handle modern titles as well.
• Battery Life: Around 4-5 hours for retro games; less for modern titles.
• Price: Starts at around $799 USD — much higher than the R36S, but for those looking to play both retro and modern games, it's a great choice.
• Customization: Offers full control to install different emulators and ROMs.

2. Anbernic RG351V

• Game Library: Comes with over 1000 pre-loaded games across various retro consoles.
• Design: 3.5-inch screen with a vertical form factor (ideal for GBA and Game Boy games).
• Build Quality: High-quality, durable construction.
• Display: IPS screen for better color accuracy and viewing angles compared to the R36S.
• Battery Life: Long battery life of around 6-8 hours.
• Price: Around $100 USD.
• Emulation Quality: Excellent for most retro systems, including PS1, Dreamcast, and N64.
• Customization: Expandable game library via SD cards.

3. AYN Odin Base

• Game Library: Can run games from virtually any console, including modern systems through emulation.
• Design: 5.98-inch screen with a sleek, modern design.
• Emulation Quality: Great performance for retro and indie games, as well as PC gaming.
• Battery Life: Around 6-8 hours of retro gaming.
• Price: Around $250 USD — higher than the R36S, but offers modern features like Android and Linux OS for versatility.
• Customization: Huge potential for game installation and emulators.

4. Retroid Pocket 2+

• Game Library: Over 1000 pre-loaded games.
• Design: 3.5-inch screen, ergonomic design with traditional button layout.
• Emulation Quality: Good support for older systems like NES, SNES, GBA, and PlayStation 1, but also handles PSP and Dreamcast fairly well.
• Battery Life: Around 6-7 hours of playtime.
• Price: Around $120 USD.
• Customization: Can be customized with additional games via SD card.

Comparing the R36S to Other Retro Handhelds (2024)

Advantages of R36S:

• Affordable: With prices ranging from $50 to $150 USD, the R36S offers an affordable entry point for retro gaming.
• Compact and Portable: The small, handheld design makes it ideal for on-the-go gaming.
• Large Game Library: Pre-loaded with a wide selection of games from classic consoles.
• Customization: Expand the library with your own ROMs through SD cards.

Disadvantages of R36S:

• Display Quality: The LCD screen may not be as sharp or vibrant as newer handhelds that use IPS or OLED screens.
• Emulation Limits: Performance on more demanding systems like PS1 or N64 may be less optimal.
• Build Quality: While decent, the materials may not be as durable or premium as other models like the Anbernic RG351V or Retroid Pocket 2+.

Conclusion: Is R36S the Best Retro Handheld in 2024?

The R36S is a great option if you're looking for an affordable, compact, and easy-to-use retro gaming handheld. It offers over 1000 pre-loaded games, a customizable game library, and decent build quality. However, it might not be the best choice for gamers who prioritize display quality, emulation performance, or those looking for a more premium experience.

For serious retro gaming enthusiasts who want a more premium build, better display, and expanded features, handhelds like the Anbernic RG351V, Retroid Pocket 2+, or even the GPD Win 3 may offer better value despite their higher prices.

The R36S remains an excellent budget option, but if you're willing to spend more, the alternatives may provide a better all-around experience for gaming in 2024.