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R36S 128GB Retro Handheld Game Console
I picked up the R36S 128GB handheld console because I wanted a budget-friendly alternative to the pricier models like the Anbernic or Trimui devices. The product promised a Linux-based open-source experience, a 3.5″ IPS screen, and a whopping 20,000+ retro games out of the box. I chose the orange version for that nostalgic Game Boy feel.
The package arrived in just under 3 weeks, well-packed with no visible damage. First impression: it’s sturdier than I expected. The buttons have decent travel, and the screen is surprisingly crisp. I booted it up and was instantly taken back to childhood — the emulators cover everything from NES, SNES, PS1 to GBA and even some Dreamcast games.
Pros: vibrant screen, tons of games pre-installed, supports save states, customizable settings. Cons: no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the UI could be more polished, and the battery lasts around 3.5–4 hours max.
For $50, it’s honestly a steal compared to something like the Retroid Pocket or Analogue Pocket in the US which go for $100+ without games. Totally exceeded my expectations — feels like a solid starter retro console.
US $30.23
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Trimui Smart Pro Handheld Game Console
I bought the Trimui Smart Pro because of its sleek, futuristic design and the larger 4.96″ IPS screen. The RGB lighting around the buttons and its lightweight build were a huge draw.
Shipping was a bit slower (about 25 days), but worth the wait. It looks premium, with a modern UI and decent button layout. The screen is sharp with excellent brightness. Performance-wise, it’s best for 8-bit and 16-bit consoles — it struggles a bit with PSP or Dreamcast.
Pros: stylish build, responsive D-pad, good UI, customizable RGB lighting. Cons: shoulder buttons feel mushy, and sound output is average.
It cost around $60 — in the US, similar devices with this design aesthetic run around $120. I’m genuinely impressed. A great gift for casual gamers or collectors.
US $74.33
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ANBERNIC RG40XX H 64-Bit Console with HDMI Output
The ANBERNIC RG40XX H attracted me with its solid 4” screen, HDMI-TV output, and 5K+ games. I wanted something compact but powerful for both handheld and big-screen gaming.
It arrived in 15 days — fast for AliExpress. The console feels premium, with an Anbernic signature build quality. Emulation is near perfect up to PS1. The HDMI feature works flawlessly — I connected it to my TV and was playing SNES classics within minutes.
Pros: TV output, strong battery, clean UI, smooth performance. Cons: no built-in Wi-Fi (for updates), and the L2/R2 buttons are a bit small.
I paid about $65. A US equivalent like the Powkiddy RGB20S with HDMI costs closer to $90 and still lacks this level of polish. It fully met my expectations.
US $68.6
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ANBERNIC RG40XX H with RGB Light & 5K+ Games
This variation of the ANBERNIC RG40XX H has slightly different styling with added RGB lights and better tactile buttons. I was curious if the extra dollars were worth it.
Arrived in perfect condition in 17 days. The RGB lights look amazing in a dim room — really adds to the immersion. The gameplay is smooth as expected, and the UI is clean. It comes with around 5K+ games and boots up quickly.
Pros: gorgeous RGB lighting, clean interface, solid build. Cons: screen glare outdoors, no Bluetooth.
At about $70, it’s still cheaper than many handhelds in the US with similar specs. It delivers what it promises — and looks cool doing it.
US $63.55
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KINHANK K36 Retro Console 16000 Games
The KINHANK K36 was a spontaneous pick because of its claim to support PS1/PSP/N64/SS and 16000+ games. I’ve never tried KINHANK products before, so I wanted to test the quality.
Shipping was lightning-fast — 12 days. First impression: it’s compact but a bit heavier. The screen is vivid and the UI is clean. It runs PS1 and N64 games smoothly. PSP titles lagged here and there.
Pros: good compatibility, large game library, screen brightness. Cons: audio crackles sometimes, joystick feels cheap.
Price was around $52 — something like this in the US (e.g., Retroid Pocket 2) would cost $90+. It mostly met expectations, though build quality is average.
US $31.1
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MIYOO Mini Plus V2
The MIYOO Mini Plus V2 caught my attention for its tiny size, portability, and minimalist Game Boy-style design. I wanted something pocketable with solid GBA/SNES performance.
Took 3 weeks to arrive. It’s unbelievably cute and lightweight. The screen is sharp and bright. Buttons are responsive, and emulation is flawless up to PS1. It’s perfect for commuting.
Pros: compact, retro aesthetic, reliable performance. Cons: small screen (expected), lacks analog sticks.
At ~$60, it’s cheaper than the Analogue Pocket or Evercade EXP. It absolutely met my expectations — now my go-to for quick gaming sessions.
US $40.93
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ANBERNIC RG35XXSP Flip Console
This ANBERNIC RG35XXSP is a clamshell handheld, and nostalgia hit me hard. I loved the GBA SP growing up and had to try this updated version.
Arrived in 2 weeks. The flip design is very solid, with a bright 3.5” screen and responsive controls. It handles everything up to PS1 with zero lag. Battery life clocks in at around 5 hours.
Pros: nostalgic design, pocket-friendly, good emulation. Cons: speaker is tinny, hinge could be tighter.
Paid ~$68. If you want a modern take on the GBA SP, this is it. Totally satisfied — it’s fun just to flip it open again.
US $61.17
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R36 PRO 128GB Console
The R36 PRO 128GB stood out for its balance of power and price. A simple design but promised solid retro gaming performance.
It shipped in 16 days. It feels light but sturdy. Buttons are responsive, and the Linux-based OS boots fast. Game selection is diverse, and performance is smooth up to PS1. No HDMI, though.
Pros: straightforward UI, lightweight, great screen. Cons: no HDMI or wireless features.
Cost me about $55. It competes with $100 devices in the US. A great pick for budget-conscious retro gamers.
US $28.84
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R36H Retro Handheld Console 64GB
The R36H 64GB is like a cousin to the R36 PRO. I wanted a backup device and liked its clean layout.
Arrived in 18 days. It’s a functional unit — does the job. The performance is on par with the PRO version, though it has a slightly older shell design. Good for NES, SNES, GBA, and PS1.
Pros: reliable, clean interface, lots of games. Cons: older design, battery drains a bit faster.
$45 price tag makes it a worthy backup. Not fancy, but dependable.
US $38.51
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R36S 128GB Orange Edition
This R36S 128GB in orange was my second R36S, and I just loved the color. I wanted to gift one to a friend and this was ideal.
Same great experience: clear screen, nice D-pad, decent emulation. Runs everything it should. This version has a slightly better-feeling D-pad than the first one.
Pros: nostalgic design, good build, solid performance. Cons: UI still a bit clunky.
Cost me $52. Just as good as the first — a perfect beginner’s retro handheld.
US $31.48
Final Thoughts
I honestly wasn’t expecting every single console to be this decent, but AliExpress surprised me. The quality, game selection, and screen clarity across these handhelds really impressed me. None of them feel like “cheap junk,” and most could rival $100–$150 devices in the US. If you’re into retro gaming, these are absolutely worth checking out. I’ll definitely be ordering more — maybe a vertical form factor next time. Highly recommend for both casual players and collectors.
