This review has been updated 13 times since it was first published in October of 2017. If you long for the days when your greatest concern was whether or not you would ever beat your big brother’s top scores, then one of these retro gaming consoles will serve as a veritable time machine, whisking you back to those carefree years. Many of them can play old cartridge games, which is great if you’ve kept your collection, and some even have some of the most fun titles built in. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Review. Skip to the best retro gaming console on Amazon.
10. Retro-Bit Super Retro-Cade
One of the more interesting options, the Retro-Bit Super Retro-Cade isn’t dedicated to a single platform, but instead spans a wide range of classics. In addition to extensive preprogrammed software, its SD card slot allows you to run nearly any legally-obtained titles.
- Comes with a 6-foot hdmi cable
- Two controllers and a power adapter
- Lacks the most popular games
9. Nintendo Super NES Classic
The Nintendo Super NES Classic is a compact, yet faithful, replica of the original device, right down to the instantly recognizable grey and purple plastic body. Its controllers are similarly accurate, except for their 5-foot-long cables, which are a welcome upgrade.
- Comes with 21 titles built-in
- Transmits video and audio over hdmi
- A bit pricey for the selection
8. Retro-Bit Trio
Definitely one of the most versatile, the Retro-Bit Trio is among the very few reliable ways to enjoy your favorite Sega Genesis adventures. It also supports cartridges from both early Nintendo systems, as well as more obscure Famicom releases, with the right adapter.
- Outputs in a 720p resolution
- Works with third-party multi-carts
- Exhibits minor emulation glitches
7. Super Nintendo
Considered by many one of the best systems ever produced, the Super Nintendo is, to this day, quite a lot of fun to play, and its massive library is still available at relatively low prices, making it easy to revisit how you burned so many hours as a kid.
- Uses rca audio and video plugs
- Rather costly for such an old unit
- Controller cables are only 3 ft long
6. Nintendo 64
Hands-down one of the most important pieces of gaming history, the Nintendo 64 was the last major, solid-state console, and remains the only way to experience some of the first 3D titles just like they were so many years ago — including the hand cramps.
- Allows up to 4 players at once
- Relatively awkward controllers
- Doesn't include any software
5. Nintendo Switch
While it’s built with the most advanced, modern hardware, the Nintendo Switch is the only one currently on the market that is still actively supported by one of the original manufacturers. Its slate of replicated, remastered, and brand new titles is constantly growing.
- High-contrast 720p display
- Exceptional overall performance
- By far the most expensive option
4. Commodore 64 Mini
Reaching into entertainment history, the Commodore 64 Mini brings back to life the record-setting computer that introduced many to the idea of video games. It retains the beautiful, 1980s-inspired, brown-on-tan color scheme, but inside, it’s made with modern components.
- Two versatile input ports
- Powered via micro usb
- An impressive selection of software
3. NeoGeo Mini
The latest evolution of a long line of huge, quarter-eating machines, the NeoGeo Mini will help you save your change, by taking the 8-bit magic of yore and putting it in the palm of your hand. It also connects to modern TVs when it’s time for player 2 to enter the game.
- 40 old-school arcade classics
- 3-and-a-half-inch screen
- Integrated joystick and buttons
2. Retro-Bit Duo
If, like many nostalgic gamers, you’ve run into trouble getting your old hardware to work properly, the Retro-Bit Duo can come to the rescue. It acts as a combination first- and second-generation Nintendo console, and reproduces the experience almost perfectly.
- Outputs to standard analog av plugs
- Includes two ergonomic controllers
- A particularly well-priced option
1. NES Classic
For pure, unadulterated, plug-and-play fun, it’s hard to top the NES Classic, which is a miniaturized version of the iconic 8-bit machine. As a product of the original system’s manufacturer, you can be certain that it provides a completely authentic experience.
- Preloaded with thirty games
- Comes with one controller
- Built-in progress-saving function
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