The world of handheld consoles has never been as exciting as it is in 2025. With a massive variety of emulation devices and affordable models, it’s now possible to relive classics from multiple generations without breaking the bank. Even with a tight budget, you can enjoy dozens of systems and revisit thousands of retro titles, keeping nostalgia alive while expanding access to gaming history.
This guide highlights the 10 best handheld consoles under $50, carefully evaluated for performance, build quality, and battery life. Prices and availability were checked across platforms like AliExpress, and Amazon, ensuring practical and relevant comparisons for budget-conscious gamers.
Evaluation Criteria
Before diving into the models, here’s what we considered essential:
- Performance: Ability to run games from different generations smoothly.
- Build quality: Finish, button durability, D-pad precision, and comfort during long sessions.
- Display: Size, technology, and resolution of the screen.
Comparison Table – The 10 Best Handheld Consoles Under $50
| Console | Screen | Battery | Emulation Up To |
|---|---|---|---|
| R36S | 3.5” IPS | 3500mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| R36H | 3.5” IPS | 3000mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| Powkiddy V90 | 3.0” IPS | 1020mAh | PS1, GBA, SNES |
| Powkiddy V90S | 3.5” IPS | 3000mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| R43S | 4.3” IPS | 2000mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| U8 Console | 4.0” IPS | 3500mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| Miyoo Mini+ | 3.5” IPS | 3000mAh | PS1, GBA, SNES |
| R36 Ultra | 4.0” IPS | 3000mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| M22 Pro | 5.0” IPS | 3000mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
| G28 | 4.3” IPS | 2100mAh | PS1, N64, GBA |
Note: Prices may occasionally exceed $50 due to stock fluctuations, exchange rates, and import taxes.
1. R36S – The Best Value Champion
The R36S line has become a go-to favorite on entry-level handheld lists, thanks to its perfect balance of solid hardware, a crisp 3.5" IPS screen, ergonomic comfort, a massive community, and an unbeatable price under 50 USD. With a 3500mAh battery that lasts up to 6 hours of gameplay, it runs 8 to 32-bit platforms like Super Nintendo, Mega Drive, PlayStation 1, and Nintendo 64 smoothly—and even dares to tackle select Dreamcast and PSP titles. Expanding your library is a breeze with ROMs via SD card. Ideal for anyone just getting into handheld gaming, it stands out for its insane availability on sites like AliExpress, Shopee, and Amazon, where you’ll find it quickly and hassle-free.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 3.5” IPS, 640x480
- RK3326 Cortex-A35 quad-core (1.5GHz)
- 1GB RAM DDR3L
- 3500mAh battery
- Linux ArkOS/EmuELEC
- microSD expandable storage
Pros:
- Excellent emulation up to PS1/N64, partial Dreamcast/PSP
- USB-C charging
- Dual analog sticks.
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi/Bluetooth.
2. R36H – Horizontal Comfort
The R36H is the perfect pick for those with larger hands or who simply don’t vibe with the vertical layout of the R36S. It delivers the same raw performance as its sibling, but with superior ergonomics that turn long gaming sessions into pure joy. Powered by a 3000mAh battery that holds up to 5 hours of emulation, it runs 8 to 32-bit classics like Super Nintendo, Mega Drive, PlayStation 1, and Nintendo 64 with ease—and even handles select Dreamcast and PSP titles without a hitch. You still get the easy ROM expansion via SD card and the budget-friendly price that makes the R36 series unbeatable in the entry-level segment.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 3.5” IPS, 640x480
- RK3326 quad-core
- 1GB RAM DDR3
- 3000mAh battery
- Linux ArkOS
Pros:
- Superior ergonomicsstrong emulation
- USB-C charging
- Excellent emulation up to PS1/N64, partial Dreamcast/PSP
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi.
3. Powkiddy V90 – Maximum Portability (GBA SP Style)
The Powkiddy V90 is known as the most affordable clamshell console on the market, with a design that nods to the iconic Game Boy Advance SP. Its lightweight, compact body makes it ideal for anyone looking for portability and everyday convenience. Capable of running Atari, Game Boy Advance, Super Nintendo, and Mega Drive games, it delivers a solid experience within its scope. Priced well under 50 uSD, the V90 stands out as an excellent entry point into retro emulation, offering nostalgic fun in a way that’s simple, functional, and budget-friendly.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 2.8” IPS, 320x240
- Allwinner F1C100S
- 32MB RAM
- 1020mAh battery
- Foldable design
Pros:
- Ultra-portable
- Nostalgic design
- USB-C charging
Cons:
- Small screen
- Weak battery
- No Wi-Fi
4. Powkiddy V90S – The Premium Upgrade
The Powkiddy V90S is perfect for fans of the GBA SP-inspired clamshell design who want better performance and comfort. It fixes the main flaws of the original model, offering more power, a larger screen, and battery life on par with pricier devices—all while keeping the foldable, compact look that appeals to those who value stylish portability.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 3.5” IPS, 640x480
- Allwinner A133 Plus
- 1GB RAM
- 3000mAh battery
Pros:
- Bigger screen
- Removable battery
- Emulation up to Saturn/PS1.
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi
5. R43S – High-Definition on a Budget
The R43S is a great choice for those who want the best screen possible without sacrificing portability, full controls, or a low price. With solid performance on platforms like PS1, Super Nintendo, Game Boy Advance, Mega Drive, and even select Nintendo 64 and PSP titles, it delivers a comfortable and versatile experience. Plus, it features an HDMI output, letting you enjoy your games directly on the TV and expanding how you can use it.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 4.3” IPS, 1920x1080
- RK3128
- 1GB RAM
- 2000mAh battery
- HDMI output
Pros:
- Full HD display
- HDMI out
- Dual analogs.
Cons:
- Smaller battery
- No Wi-Fi.
6. U8 Game Console – The All-Rounder
The U8 stands out by combining a high-resolution screen with a horizontal design, offering a comfortable experience for those who prefer that layout. Its high-capacity battery ensures long gaming sessions, while its performance is strong enough to run platforms like PS1, Nintendo 64, and even some PSP titles smoothly. All of this comes at an affordable price, making the U8 Game Console a compelling option for retro gaming fans.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 4.0” IPS, 800x600
- RK3326
- 1GB RAM
- 3500mAh battery
Pros:
- Dual analogs
- Solid resolution
- USB-C charging
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi
7. Miyoo Mini Plus – The Community Favorite
The Miyoo Mini Plus is one of the top references among compact and lightweight consoles, standing out for its tiny size and a strong customization community that offers a wide range of custom systems and interfaces. With solid performance across all 8 and 16-bit platforms like NES, SNES, and Mega Drive, it also runs many PlayStation 1 titles with impressive smoothness—making it a smart pick for anyone who values portability above all else.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 3.5” IPS, 640x480 (OCA laminated)
- SigmaStar SSD202D
- 128MB RAM
- 3000mAh battery
- Wi-Fi
Pros:
- Extremely portable
- Strong modding community
- Wi-Fi support
Cons:
- Small for big hands
- Price fluctuates.
8. R36 Ultra – The Enhanced R36S
The R36 Ultra is now considered the most complete vertical console in its category, with a setup so well-tuned it’s hard to find any flaws. Its precise controls, 4-inch screen, and consistent performance let you run platforms from Atari all the way to PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64, and a wide range of PSP titles smoothly. On top of that, its competitive price, often under 30 USD, makes it one of the best choices for those seeking quality, versatility, and great value in a retro handheld.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 4.0” IPS, 720x720
- RK3326
- 1GB RAM
- 64/128GB microSD
- 3000mAh battery
- Wi-Fi
Pros:
- Wi-Fi
- HD display
- Dual analogs
- USB-C charging.
Cons:
- Price varies due to high demand.
9. M22 Pro – Big Screen Experience
The M22 Pro is the perfect choice for those who prefer a larger console, featuring a Full HD screen that delivers excellent clarity and visual comfort. Its strong performance allows smooth gameplay from Atari up to PlayStation 1, and its standout feature is the RGB-lit analog sticks, adding a touch of style to the experience.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 5.0” IPS
- RK3326
- 1GB RAM
- 3000mAh battery
Pros:
- Large screen
- Smooth emulation
- USB-C charging.
Cons:
- Bulkier than other models
- No Wi-Fi.
10. G28 – Balanced and Affordable
The G28 is a rugged console with full, well-built controls that’s been gaining attention lately for delivering a solid and comfortable experience. Its performance handles games up to PlayStation 1 smoothly, making it a great option for those looking for a reliable handheld with responsive controls and a durable build—perfect for daily use and ideal for kids.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Specs:
- 4.3” IPS display
- 2100mAh battery
- RK3326 processor
- 1GB RAM
Pros:
- Mid-sized screen
- Decent emulation up to PS1/N64
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons:
- Smaller battery compared to competitors
- No Wi-Fi.
