Retro Game Consoles
Last updated: June 14, 2026
Look, if you're tired of modern 'live service' nonsense and just want to play a game that actually works, you've come to the right place. I've sifted through the loft-finds and the cheap knock-offs to find the only retro handhelds worth your hard-earned quid in June 2026. No micro-transactions, no 50GB updatesβjust pure gaming.
How we rank these products
Our rankings combine real-time UK consumer interest data from PriceSpy with structured analysis of key specs like video quality, stabilization, battery life, and value for money. We continuously update rankings to reflect both market trends and product performance. We also highlight key trade-offs and use cases to help you choose whatβs actually right for you.
What changed this month?
Updated for June 2026 to reflect the current market's obsession with physical media and the reliability of original Nintendo hardware. We have prioritised devices with sustainable battery solutions and screen longevity for the modern collector.
Nintendo DS Lite
π Best All-Rounder
The pinnacle of Nintendo's dual-screen era, offering a backlit display and a slot for GameBoy Advance cartridges.
If you want one device to rule them all, this is it. It bridges the gap between the 90s and the 2000s perfectly.
Reasons to buy
- βBrilliant backlit screens that still look sharp in 2026
- βNative support for both DS and GBA libraries
- βCompact, foldable design protects the screens from scratches
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe hinge mechanism will eventually develop a hairline crack that makes the top screen wobble like a loose tooth
- βThe glossy finish is a fingerprint magnet that looks greasy after five minutes of play
Nintendo DS
π Best for Durability
The original 'Phat' DS. It's chunky, it's silver, and it's built like a tank.
Before Nintendo went for 'sleek', they went for 'indestructible'. This is the console for those with larger hands or a clumsy disposition.
Reasons to buy
- βExtremely comfortable ergonomics for adult-sized hands
- βTactile buttons that feel more substantial than the Lite version
- βBuilt to survive a drop onto a concrete pavement
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe screens are noticeably dimmer and have a narrower viewing angle than later models
- βFinding a replacement proprietary charger in 2026 is a right faff
Nintendo GameBoy Color
π Best for Battery Life
The 8-bit legend that brought colour to the masses without killing your AA batteries in an hour.
A pure hit of 90s nostalgia. It doesn't have the bells and whistles, but it has the soul.
Reasons to buy
- βRuns on two AA batteries, meaning no worrying about dead internal lithium cells
- βMassive library of iconic games that still play brilliantly
- βInstant-on gameplay with no loading screens or firmware updates
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe lack of a backlight means you'll be squinting under a lamp like a Victorian scholar
- βThe internal speaker is tinny and will likely start crackling by month three of heavy use
R36S Retro Handheld Video Game Console 128gb
π Best for Emulation
A budget-friendly Linux handheld that comes pre-loaded with more games than you could play in a lifetime.
For those who don't want to hunt down expensive cartridges, this Chinese-made emulator is a surprisingly capable alternative.
Reasons to buy
- βHigh-resolution screen for the price point
- βSupports multiple consoles from NES up to PlayStation 1
- βOpen-source software allows for extensive customisation
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe included SD card is cheap rubbish and will likely corrupt within the first 90 days
- βThe shoulder buttons are so clicky they will annoy anyone sitting next to you on the train
Nintendo Game & Watch: Super Mario Bros.
π Best for Desk Display
A modern tribute to the 1980s classics, featuring a full-colour LCD and USB-C charging.
It's more of a collectible than a primary console, but it's a lovely bit of kit for a quick Mario fix.
Reasons to buy
- βBeautiful, bright colour screen that puts the original hardware to shame
- βUSB-C charging makes it easy to top up at your desk
- βIncludes a digital clock mode with hidden animations
What will annoy you (The brutal truth)
- βThe D-pad is a bit mushy, making precise platforming harder than it should be
- βOnce the novelty of the three included games wears off, it usually just ends up as a glorified paperweight
Still not sure which one to buy?
Join the Smart Spenders community! Talk to real buyers, ask questions about specific models, and make sure you are getting the absolute best deal.
Ask the Community βHow to avoid buying a plastic brick
Buying retro gear in 2026 is a minefield of failing capacitors and yellowed plastic. Here is what you actually need to look for before parting with your cash.
The Screen Struggle
In the 90s, we played by the light of a streetlamp. Today, you shouldn't have to. If you're buying an original GameBoy, factor in the cost of a backlight mod. If you want 'out of the box' visibility, stick to the DS Lite or modern emulators like the R36S.
Battery Reality Check
Lithium batteries from 2006 are reaching the end of their natural lives. If you buy a DS, check for a 'bloated' battery cover. For true longevity, the GameBoy Color is king because you can just pop in fresh AAs and keep going until the heat death of the universe.
Emulation vs. Original Hardware
Original hardware is an investment, but the cartridges are getting expensive. Emulators like the R36S give you thousands of games for the price of a pub lunch, but the build quality is often questionable. Decide if you're a collector or just someone who wants to play Tetris on the loo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play these on my 4K TV?
No, and why would you want to see 160p stretched across 55 inches? These are handhelds; keep them in your hands.
Are the batteries safe after 20 years?
Usually, but keep an eye out for swelling. If the back of your DS looks like it's been stung by a bee, stop using it immediately and replace the cell.
Where do I get games in 2026?
Car boot sales, specialist retro shops, or the dark corners of the internet if you're using an emulation handheld. Just be prepared for the 'retro tax' on popular titles.
Transparency & Data: Prices and availability are updated regularly using data from PriceSpy and retailers.
We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on user activity and data β not paid placements. Read our full methodology here.