There are a lot of retro handhelds, and a lot of them can’t run Nintendo 3DS properly. So here’s my list of retro handhelds that have 90% or more Nintendo 3DS compatibility and are safe to purchase for Nintendo 3DS specifically.
However, the best way to play Nintendo 3DS right now is still on an actual Nintendo 3DS. Emulation is not completely there yet, with some ways to go, so the most consistent and best experience will be on original hardware.
Here’s the list (from cheapest to most expensive):
- Budget Pick: $170 US – Anbernic RG Cube
- OLED Pick: $219 US – Retroid Pocket 5
- Top Performer: $299 US – AYN Odin 2
Anbernic RG Cube – $170 US
Buy the Anbernic RG Cube here: https://joeysrh.link/ANB_RGCUBE
Retroid Pocket 5 – $219 US
Buy the Retroid Pocket 5 here: https://joeysrh.link/RP_5
AYN Odin 2 – $299 US
Buy the AYN Odin 2 here: https://joeysrh.link/AYN_ODIN2