By the end of 2025, the mid-range handheld console scene is buzzing with excitement and variety. Advances in hardware tech and the rising popularity of emulators have made it possible for gamers on tighter budgets to dive into classic games—and even some modern titles—without sacrificing visual quality, solid performance, or ergonomics for those marathon sessions.
This guide rounds up the 10 most recommended handheld consoles up to $100, based on key factors like performance, build quality, and battery life. Price ranges and availability were double-checked on popular platforms like AliExpress and Amazon.
Evaluation Criteria
Before jumping into the models, it’s crucial to get why and how each console was judged. The budget handheld market demands a sharp eye on these points:
- Screen: Size, tech, and resolution.
- Performance: Ability to run games from various generations without noticeable lag.
- Build Quality: Finish, button durability, D-pad precision, and comfort for extended play.
Comparison Table: The 10 Best Handheld Consoles Up to $100
| Console | Screen | Battery | Emulates Up To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miyoo Flip V2 | 3.5” IPS, 640x480 | 3000mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| Anbernic RG35XX Pro | 3.5” IPS, 640x480 | 3200mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| TrimUI Smart Pro | 4.96" IPS 1280x720 | 5000mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| Anbernic RG Cube XX | 3.95” IPS 720x720 | 3800mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| Retroid Pocket Classic | 3.92” AMOLED 1240x1080 | 5000mAh | PS2/PSP/DS |
| GAMEMT E6 MAX | 5.0” IPS 1280x720 | 5000mAh | PS2/GC/PSP |
| Anbernic RG ARC-S/ARC-D | 4.0” IPS 640x480 | 3500mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| Trimui Smart Brick | 3.2” IPS 1024x768 | 3000mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| Anbernic RG34XX | 3.4” IPS 720x480 | 3500mAh | PS1/N64/GBA |
| MagicX Zero 40 | 4.0” IPS 480x800 | 4300mAh | Saturn/NDS |
Note: Some prices may creep over $100 depending on the day due to stock fluctuations, exchange rates, taxes, and whether the item is already in the country.
1. Miyoo Flip V2
The Miyoo Flip V2 steps up as a worthy spiritual successor to the iconic Game Boy Advance SP, rocking a clamshell design that screams retro nostalgia. Its responsive, high-quality controls deliver precision and comfort, especially in 2D games from the 8- and 16-bit eras, plus rock-solid PlayStation 1 performance. The IPS screen pumps out vibrant colors and sharp detail, naturally protected by the foldable body for extra durability and pocketability.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.5" IPS, 640x480 resolution
- Processor: RK3566
- RAM: 1 GB
- Battery: 3000 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4/5G, Bluetooth
- Build: Foldable
- System: Linux
Pros:
- Nostalgic design echoing the Game Boy SP
- Lightweight and compact
Cons:
- Tiny analog sticks
2. Anbernic RG35XX Pro
The Anbernic RG35XX Pro has cemented itself as the go-to vertical console for unbeatable value, packing dual analog sticks and top-tier buttons in the classic Anbernic layout. Its IPS screen stays true to the brand with punchy colors and a 4:3 ratio perfect for preserving retro game aesthetics. You get 6–7 hours of battery life for epic sessions, while Wi-Fi and Bluetooth handle updates, online achievements, and accessory pairing with ease. Powered by a beefy chipset, the RG35XX Pro smoothly runs everything from 8- to 64-bit platforms, plus a bunch of PSP titles and even some GameCube games with surprising finesse.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.5" IPS, 640x480
- Processor: Allwinner H700 Quad-Core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 1 GB LPDDR4
- Battery: 3200 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4/5G, Bluetooth 4.2
- System: Linux
Pros:
- High-quality buttons
- Strong performance
- Compatibility with multiple OS options
Cons:
- No mini HDMI output
3. TrimUI Smart Pro
The TrimUI Smart Pro has been winning over gamers since launch, thanks to its 5-inch HD screen that delivers stunning visuals for retro titles. It supports all classic platforms up to Nintendo 64 and PlayStation 1 with solid performance in a sleek, portable package. The 5000mAh battery keeps you playing for ages, while Bluetooth makes pairing controllers and wireless headphones a breeze. Built-in Wi-Fi enables online multiplayer and RetroAchievements unlocks.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 4.96" IPS, 1280x720
- Processor: Allwinner A133P
- RAM: 1 GB LPDDR4
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth
- System: Linux
Pros:
- Large, crisp screen
- Massive battery
- Huge community support
Cons:
- No HDMI output
- Button quality doesn’t wow picky players
4. Anbernic RG Cube XX
The RG Cube XX breaks the mold with a square form factor and a 1:1 HD screen, tailor-made for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Neo Geo Pocket, and similar systems. It brings Anbernic’s signature build quality and comfy buttons for a premium feel. The generous battery lasts for hours of play, and the powerful chipset flies through everything from Atari to PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64, plus plenty of PSP and select GameCube games.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.95” IPS, 720x720
- Processor: Allwinner H700 Quad-Core 1.5GHz
- RAM: 1 GB LPDDR4
- Battery: 3800 mAh
- System: Linux
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
Pros:
- 1:1 screen ratio
- Solid battery life
- Unique design
- Top-notch build quality
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than average for the category.
- Not ideal for widescreen games due to the aspect ratio, but perfect for classic handhelds.
5. Retroid Pocket Classic
The Retroid Pocket Classic sits in a league of its own when it comes to build quality, delivering a refined, sturdy experience for anyone chasing performance and style. It runs everything from Atari to PSP with jaw-dropping visuals, plus a solid chunk of PS2, GameCube, Wii, and 3DS titles (with some limits), pushing way beyond pure retro. With massive battery life, killer portability, a top-tier AMOLED screen, and the full freedom of Android, this console stands out as one of the most complete and versatile options on the market right now.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.92" AMOLED 1240x1080
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon G1 Gen 2
- RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4X
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- System: Android 14
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
Pros:
- Vivid, razor-sharp AMOLED screen
- Next-gen processor: Smooth emulation up to PS2, Dreamcast, GC, and parts of 3DS.
- Premium build
Cons:
- No analog sticks
6. GAMEMT E6 MAX
The GAMEMT E6 MAX was built to pair a 100% sRGB HD screen with raw power capable of running plenty of PlayStation 2 games smoothly. Its 5000mAh battery delivers excellent uptime for marathon sessions. Wi-Fi 6 support ensures rock-solid downloads and better cloud gaming connectivity, while TV output opens up big-screen play.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 5.0" IPS 1280x720
- Processor: Allwinner A527
- RAM: 4 GB
- Battery: 5000 mAh
- System: Android 13 and Linux
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6
Pros:
- Large, high-quality screen
- Strong performance
- Hall Effect controls
- Huge battery
Cons:
- Analog stick design feels odd at first
7. Anbernic RG ARC
The Anbernic RG ARC was crafted to win over arcade and Sega Saturn fans, featuring a classic 6-button layout straight out of the fighting game golden age. Its nostalgic circular D-pad delivers precision and comfort, while solid battery life supports long play sessions. Portable and laser-focused on faithful emulation, the RG ARC is the go-to pick for anyone who loves the look and feel of those iconic platforms.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 4.0" IPS, 640x480
- Processor: RK3566
- RAM: 1GB (ARC-S) / 2GB (ARC-D)
- Battery: 3500 mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
- System: Linux (ARC-S), Android 11/Linux (ARC-D, Dual Boot)
- Layout: Inspired by Sega Saturn controller
Pros:
- Iconic ergonomics
- Great performance for its target platforms
Cons:
- Layout feels awkward on other systems
8. Trimui Smart Brick
The Trimui Smart Brick nails value with premium vibes, blending high-grade plastic and metal accents for a sleek, sturdy look. Its HD+ IPS screen delivers crisp detail, while solid performance keeps PS1 and N64 emulation buttery smooth. Online Netplay and RetroAchievements support add modern flair to an affordable, pocket-friendly package.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.2" IPS, 1024x768
- Processor: Allwinner A133P
- RAM: 1 GB LPDDR3
- Battery: 3000 mAh
- System: Linux
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 2.1
Pros:
- Excellent screen
- Truly compact
- Premium build for the price
- Good battery life
Cons:
- No analog sticks
9. Anbernic RG34XX
Anbernic’s mission is reviving classics with a modern twist, and the RG34XX nails it as a 1:1 tribute to the Game Boy Advance—now upgraded with a better screen, tougher build, and strong emulation across multiple platforms. For anyone who grew up with the GBA and wants to relive childhood memories in comfort and style, this is a nostalgia-packed powerhouse.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 3.4” IPS, 720x480
- Processor: Allwinner H700
- RAM: 1 GB LPDDR4
- Battery: 3500 mAh
- System: Linux
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
- Form Factor: Inspired by Game Boy Advance
Pros:
- Familiar, comfy design
- Solid battery life
- Insane value
Cons:
- Not practical for emulation beyond Dreamcast
10. MagicX Zero 40
The MagicX Zero 40 stands out with its quirky modern 2DS-inspired design, making it a dream for DS and 3DS games while staying true to their original form factor. It also boots into Android for extra versatility, letting you play vertical titles with ease and comfort. This mix of shape, compatibility, and flexibility makes it a killer choice for reviving those generations with a fresh spin.
Best Deals at Top Stores:
Technical Specs:
- Screen: 4.0" IPS, 480x800
- Processor: Allwinner A133P
- RAM: 2 GB DDR4
- Battery: 4300 mAh
- System: Android 10 / Linux
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 4.2
Pros:
- Vertical screen perfect for Nintendo DS/3DS
- Hall Effect analogs
Cons:
- Not recommended for other platforms
