What are YOUR essential handhelds? Do you think this list can be further refined down to just 6, 3, or someday....even ONE handheld to rule them all? Notes: There are a few things I didn't touch on in the video that I will here. Beyond just having less handhelds, less debt, and less "stuff". There is also the monthly maintenance of having over 100 devices that is not sustainable for me (and they should be loved, not just maintained). 🍃 To keep the collection in fine health, you must charge the batteries and keep them in their healthy zone of about 20 - 80%, and keep them clean from dust and debris. In the end, when not filming, I've had them in cases lately to combat dust, for instance. 🎮 It also can't be underestimated the physical time it takes to upkeep the hoard, which could be time better spent with my family or actually like, playing games on these things, and appreciating each one more fully. More custom firmware, modding, and performance exploration, with accompanying videos. Beyond that, I told myself for a long time that I needed to keep so many so id have them for comparisons in my videos, but they just tended to make my videos bloated with so much screen time dedicated to comparing them, instead of focusing on just the topic at hand (with a few key comparisons, which could also be relayed experience without physically seeing them). While I didn't intend on narrowing from 100 to 25 as being a joke, I get why that's kind of funny. If you're a collector like me, 25 seems near painful. However, I see a fun personal challenge forming after reading all your comments. My next goal is 10 handhelds... stay tuned for that video in the future Also, like I started to say in the description, I've had more handhelds show up for review since making this video. I'm not discounting the Pocket DMG, Pocket Evo, Odin 2 Portal, 406H, or TrimUI Brick. They are still being evaluated and tested, likely I will be making some swaps soon, but again, I'll let you know where I land.
It really depends on your use case scenarios. I think a lot of people could get by with just one, but I think 3 or 4 is probably a realistic number for most people who have an interest in retro gaming. Above that, you're looking at collectors.
I've got frustrated with the Miyoo mini+. It has very bad sound quality, with a lot of crackling, and it's also a little underpowered. It struggles to play even some simple 2D games... I'm thinking about replacing it with a Trimui brick eventually
New 3DS XL - I've got a new unlocked one, and have a spare on the way. I'll be playing it till I'm in the old folks home. Nothing can really emulate it. Other than that, I've got an RGB20sx and am looking to get a 406v. I've got a switch lite that I use occasionally. Those pretty much cover all my handheld gaming needs.
Nice choices. Mine would be O2 portal, Switch Lite, RG406H, TrimUI Brick. For me I don't want to mobilize my pc games, so that's why the Portal is the perfect main device
@@retrohandhelds It's PowKiddy's Steam Deck if you ask me. Large 7 inch display, stacked triggers and a set of stereo speakers. PowKiddy's only 7 inch display handheld with decent enough power to run decent emulation up to PSP. I stil have he review clip on your facebook channel. Also, the handhelds within my list are the ones I wont depart and I plan on not purchasing anymore. Instead I'm purchasing accessories for those handhelds in my list. Bigger micro sd cards, hard carrying cases, upgraded charge cables and etc. Just purchased four 1.5TB Sandisk Ultra micro sd cards from Amazon and a few fancy carrying cases from Etsy.
"Just keeping the things we absolutely love in our lives.." That's one deeeeeep ass quote right there. I wish we could keep all our families and friends that we absolutely love in our lives. Aside from all the weird psycho-babel nonsense I just typed, I mostly miss owning a Sega Nomad with a battery pack and a copy of Shadowrun.
Essential Handhelds: 1. Anbernic RG Nano (All day gaming one handed ✌️ with a wrist strap) 2. Powkiddy Q36 mini (All day gaming two handed 👐 with a wrist strap) 3. R36S (How I play everything else, no wrist strap)
I only need three handhelds. A PC handheld for modern games (Steam Deck), a retro handheld for emulation (RP5), and a mini handheld to slip into my pocket and carry it around with me (Miyoo mini+). I also like having original consoles like Gameboy, Game Gear, PSP etc, but they aren't strictly necessary
Great list. You showcased a lot that were very interesting. My essentials are: OG Miyoo Mini v2 - Best pocketable handheld with OnionOS. Modded New 3DS XL - Plays 3DS games with those wild 3D effects and the entire NDS library. Modded Vita - Handles the entire Vita, PSP, and PS1 library with ease. Modded Switch - Large Switch library and handles Dreamcast amazingly well. RG35XX-H - Best budget-friendly handheld you can buy. Great price to performance device. Steam Deck - Very comfortable, can play most of the latest games in bed or on the couch. OneXPlayer - Windows handheld. Larger screen than Steam Deck. Handles PS3 better than SD. With these 7, I am capable of playing the majority of games from the PS3 era and below that ever existed on the go.
That blue GPD XD was also what really got me into retro emulation as well. No colour on any handheld since has matched my love for the blue on that XD. These days I just use the Odin 2 mini. Great screen, great size, great ergos and it plays everything I want and more
I’m only keeping 3 emulation handhelds as I’m pragmatic about it. - AYN Portal (preordered) - RG Cube - Miyoo Mini+ Portal is going to be for streaming in my house and everyday use. RG Cube is dedicated for portable systems (everything up to 3DS except PSP and Vita). Miyoo Mini+ is for travel & the kids
I'm proud of you Stubbs. It's hard to let go. I still regret selling my PSP 1000 to offset the cost of my PSP 3000, and that was well over a decade ago. It's not that I miss the 1000 in general; rather, I miss it solely because it was MY 1000. I can't imagine letting go of 75 handhelds like that. I'm sure most of them probably didn't matter; but, I bet there were a couple that moistened your eyes when you parted ways with them. I'm picturing you being like that one Woody Harrelson GIF, the one from "Zombieland", where he's wiping his tears with hundred dollar bills. My current handhelds: • Nintendo GBA - Launch version. I keep it because it was a Christmas gift from my parents. It was my friend + traveling companion for a long time. The Power slider is a little wonky and I need to fix it. These weren't rechargeable so I can safely store it forever. • Nintendo DS Lite - The DS might as well stand for DiSappointment. My two beefs with it is that it wasn't very comfortable and many of the games I wanted to play were expensive, even used. I've kept it because of GBA backwards compatibility and because occasionally I end up sniping a DS cart on eBay or Marketplace for cheap. I actually had a lot of fun beating "James Bond: Bloodstone" recently-ish on it. • Sony PSP 3K - After a year of DS Lite ownership I wanted a new daily driver. I picked up a PSP 1000. I loved it. A little bit later I sold it off to offset the cost of a 3000. The 3K had a much better screen, a bunch more features, and so on. I was big into the PSP modding scene and pretty much used it as a pseudo smartphone for years and years. I keep it charged and break it out every so often when I want those original hardware vibes. Much of my PSP ROMs collection are legit copies from my own UMDs. You can plug a hacked PSP into a phone or PC and simply copy your discs over. That's pretty cool, I think. • LG V35 - Yes, it's a phone. However, unlike the devices listed above, I use this one regularly as a gaming/emulation handheld. I use a GameSir X2 Pro controller with it. It also has video out for that TV console experience. When plugged into a bigger screen I use it with the wonderful Gulikit KK3 Pro that Stubbs + AKNES sent me a while back. The LG + KK3 are a perfect pairing; like peanut butter & jelly, Jackie Chan & Chris Tucker, cowboys & horses, Stubbs & Rob on the Podcast... I've taken care of this phone (it was ungodly expensive when new in 2018 - and has proven to have been worth every penny) and it's still capable; but, it's starting to show its age. I don't use it as a phone in 2024 because it is an AT&T only handset and I'm on Verizon now; it's strictly a WiFi tablet and dedicated "game console". I'd love to upgrade to an uplevel Android handheld at some point. The Pocket 5 is the obvious pick; but, even the T820 powered Anbernic 556 is a big step up in performance. The Odin 2 Mini and regular Odin 2 are amazing; but, are still too expensive for my budget, even on Black Friday. • Anbernic RG35XX-SP - Zu + GoGameGeek ran a joint giveaway during the 4th of July weekend and I won. I won! It's great on the go and can be docked at home. I use a phone for uplevel emulation; but, everything PS1 and below is done on the SP now. It pairs perfectly with my aforementioned Gulikit KK3P controller because the KK series spoofs as an Xbox controller. My GameSir Nova Lite will work with it; but, it's a pain in the rump for reasons. Also, I've had no luck with 2.4gHz dongles from any of my controllers. As long as your controller outputs X-input over Bluetooth you'll have a great time using Anbernic's XX handhelds as a TV box console. TL;DR - I currently have five handhelds. Of those five, two of them are frontline handhelds that I use regularly. The other three are dry docked first party units from my youth that I don't want to part with.
ROG Ally, Odin 2, RGB30, 3DS XL, DSi, Switch and Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 with Gamesir G8 Still trying to sell an RG Nano, Miyoo Mini V4 17:42 and RG40XXV. But thinking to buy a Miyoo Mini Plus as soon as I've sold the MMV4 (would miss Onion OS terribly)
For me the Odin 2 Mini is my main retro/android handheld, really love that thing. I keep my miyoo mini + because it would be pointless to sell, ROG Ally X and Steam Deck OLED are for PC games and some higher end emulation. Then I have 3 hacked Vitas, a non-XL N3DS hacked (had 2 and sold my white one). I also have a Switch OLED, and 2 Switch Lites hacked (one is the Zelda version) I sold my Pocket Air for the Odin 2 Mini. And I managed to resist all the other Aya Neo devices, Odin 2 and trying to resist the Portal. I also skipped the RP5 and Mini even though I was interested, as I couldn’t see myself playing it more than the Odin 2 Mini. And I’m thinking about getting the TrimUI Brick, but I have to keep reminding myself that I won’t use it lol. If Ayn makes a Odin 2 Mini OLED, that would be my Android end game.
My rotation: Steam Deck: PC gaming RG406V: Emulation of 4:3 consoles Retroid Pocket 3+: PSP only Miyoo Mini: Portability for PS1 and under PS Vita: I just have a ton of physical Vita games Switch: Nintendo first party games and indies
I'm pretty satisfied with my lineup of handhelds right now: OLED Steam Deck, Switch, PS Vita, Analogue Pocket, RG35XX SP, Retroid Pocket 5, and TrimUI Brick. I feel like that covers all my bases. Might spring for a smaller handheld than the RP5 to play N64 on the go but I don't really need it lol.
My handheld keepers are a bit more OG oriented - FPGBC, DS Lite, DSi XL (modded), New 3DS XL (modded), Vita (modded), Switch Lite, Switch OLED, Retroid Pocket 2 (pink), Retroid Pocket 2+, RGB30 and Trimui Brick. The others I can live without. Home consoles and PC cover the rest for me.
For me, i have the steam deck, RGCubeXX, A30 and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. They all have their reasons and its worked great for me (SD for steam and heavier emulation, CubeXX for pico8 and to-go comfort retro, A30 for even more pocketable retro, and RP4pro cuz i got it for $100 lol). I tried downsizing even from that, i dont have a switch anymore. Really all i should have is CubeXX and SD, but i sank into the rabbit hole for a bit... Outside of handhelds, I also was able to get a Beelink GT King for $25 and it is such a great tv retro device. Cant help a good deal. I also like using my amazon fire stick as a retro device sometimes. Upgrading my old gen 2 to a 4K Max thanks to Black Friday. Setting up is kind of a game in itaelf for me, but im trying to just play the games lol.
As a painter, I will attest that the color is, in fact, Cadmium Red Light. Coral is generally a semi-transparent peach-toned red. That device color is a full pigment, slightly yellowish red.
@RyanRetro1 Do you have an Amazon link for that foldable shelf? I’d like to purchase it through an affiliate. Do you have a link for your console or (plate) racks? I bought some of those holders, but mine are too wide for smaller handhelds. The ones you’re using look perfect.
@retrohandhelds next up please make Odin 2 portal vs RP5 review I want to see how performance and battery life holds up on both devices especially for newer Wii U and Switch games!
I'm waiting for mine (I have 35XX H and 28XX already). Also I'm getting rid of the A30 again, Spruce can't save it. I'll keep my 2 MM+ though, Onion is amazing.
May come as a surprise but the best GBA SP-like clamshell out of all others to me is the PowKiddy V90. The V90 has the best overall design with it's button placement and 2 speaker system.
@@cym0npeter As well as it can, the Vita emulator is still in early phases so it only works as well as that emulator currently does. In other words, the hardware isn't holding it back at the moment.
Awesome video and discussion, thank you! My current three are my only three; a GPD XD+, an RG556 and an Odin 2 Pro Rainbow variant with SlugWorks thumb sticks. The Odin 2 is definitely the most drop dead incredible hand held I've ever played. It's such a legit thrill that blows me away every time I pick it up, and everything you throw at it runs perfect. It never leaves my living room, and I curl up with it the way people curl up with a good book, coffee and all. Mine is set up with a library of 480 of my all time favorite PS2 games plus my GooglePlay games, that's it. But that alone is still an awful lot of awesomeness. PS2 is my favorite console and I just can't get over how every PS2 game looks completely remastered on the Odin 2. Everything else goes on the RG556 and that's my EDC hand held that goes with me everywhere. It's comfortable, capable and a great bang for the buck, even more so now that the Pocket 5 is out.
Hoping to use my fav Retroid, Ayn, Miyoo and PowKiddy handhelds for many years, but I’m concerned about battery life over the long term. DS / 3DS batteries are easily obtainable. Can we source spare batteries for any of these?
You should purge much more tbh lol. I could get it down to 3: Trimui Brick for pocketability (it just killed my Miyoos), RG406V (for up to PS2) and Legion Go for anything 16:9
Just got my first handheld i picked up the Ambernic Rg405m and so far love it!! Still got some tweaking to mess with but so far seems like a solid device
The purge you did is what I would call a good initial sweep. Tearing the bandaid off to see that you can get rid of things. However, this video shows you still have some unplayed, some that you aren't actually a big fan of, etc. Now it's time to *actually* purge. Odds are you are only actually playing with 1 or 2 of these with any regularity.
I'm basically doing all my gaming on the steamdeck. But i'm looking to add something vertical that I can keep in my pockets. Either a miyoo mini or a flipzizzle.
Currently, my retro handhelds of choice (not counting my GBA SP or my DS Lite) are the Miyoo Mini+, the TrimUI Smart Pro, and the R36S. My Mini+ and TrimUI Smart Pro are my go-to options, while I keep my R36S as a solid plan B.
I’m down to Steam Deck OLED, RP Mini, and I have a TrimUI Brick just because lol. I personally think SD/Ally/Claw and a RP5/Mini is basically all anyone needs
This is just en awesome video! haha. I just started collecting and playing! so these are my favorits off course haha, but yeah the R36s is so great for the price and orange and the screen is good buttons bit stiff but not bad at all and yeah arkos works awesome on all my devices that have it! but i also love my Powkiddy rgb 10x it just feels so good, and my first 35xx plus, that one is just good, mine came somewhat broken tho, but its playable. And the 35xxsp i love that one but play the least on it, because of the buttons, my 40xxV with orginal software and Muos, this one is my favorite vertical in my collection because of the build and bigger screen (started buying sd cards and new software experiments) . And the Powkiddy rgb 20sx is magical with that beautiful screen( super into arcade shooters and this is just great, but even upscaling some systems to 1:1 isnt that bad! that supriced me the most) , all my 2 powkiddys (3th almost here the V10) have much more screen bleeding, i think the best looking is the R36S if it goes by screenbleeding. 40 has a bit of it but the pows the most. O yeah the Rocknix yellow version 20sx works great with rocknix and arkos, but the weird battery bug came after 2 days and if im charging it the indicator doesnt show anymore lol, its weird. had one time the 1%, but after a hard power off it works again. the battery goes fast too. okay ssry for the long text hahahah, english is not my native language.
I don't feel the need to get anything else after getting the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. It plays all the PS2/GCN games I wanted to be able to play on a small portable.
I go through this as well, constantly looking for the goldilox device(s) for me. I like small pocketable options for around town. I've kept the MM, pixel, OG 35xx and will be adding the brick to that group. Bigger around the house I have the 40xxV, 406v, RGB20sx and analogue pocket. Then I have my 2 big setups, a OLED switch and lenovo y700 2023 that both share a gamesir g8+. Of course I have one of every gameboy made for a collection but the AP has replaced all of those in terms of getting used. I do use my n3DSXL that's modded. I've sold 2~3x what I've kept for reference.
The only handheld I would keep is my GP2X and that's purely for nostalgia. It's the machine that got me into retro gaming and in the almost 20 years since I bought it I've taken it all over the world with me. It still works fine, but is now retired.
I just sold many handhelds as well. And I think there are still many of these left that I should sell also. However, I will keep these for sure: Steam Deck OLED, Odin 2 Mini, Retroid Pocket mini, RG35XX-H
Once you start in this hobby it is very addictive. Current crop: Gameboy DSi XL Sony PSP Nvidia Shield Portable Anbernic 280V Miyoo A30 Miyoo Mini + Powkiddy RBG30 Anbernic RG556 Lenovo Legion Go I love them all. Missing a clamshell though....
I feel like 2-3 at least could be exempt from your count. And another 2-3 could be retired to just storage or just out of commission due to age and not counted as well.
Me over here trying to get my retro handheld collection down to maybe 2 or 3 (but ending up w/ 6... on top of my Switch, Logitech G Cloud and Steam Deck)... then watching Stubbs "narrow" his collection down to "only" 25 😆 I'm keeping: 3x H700 Anbernics (SP, 40XXV, 40XX H) because "form factors" or something (I haven't quite figured this one out yet, honestly) 1x Powkiddy X55 (this one MIGHT go) 1x Miyoo Mini V4 1x RG406V The TrimUI Smart Pro was probably the one I danced back and forth the most on in terms of deciding whether or not to sell or keep it. Miyoo Mini Plus was a close runner-up.
I’ve got my daily driver rgb30 and I’m waiting on my RP5 for every thing else. I’m not a fan of vertical form factors so that’s an easy 2 handhelds. 1 cheap one for the basic stuff and 1 more expensive one for the heavier stuff.
I know what you mean, for some reason I just don't use the 3ds, I've played it for more years on emulation than the real thing, but I loved it back in the day 😅
It's not my favorite device but the trimui smart is the one I value the most. I can reliably throw it in my pocket and not worry about it. If it drops I'm not afraid of it breaking. And it's discreet so I don't feel like a weirdo playing gb in public
Ps5 portal, Switch Oled, and miyoo mini are my primary 3. I do own others but they are not in regular rotation. Testing out the A30 with Spruce to see if I like it more than the miyoo mini. Everyone’s got me interested in the Brick though.
I own (* = still in use): - GPD XD (also with Win 2 buttons) - GPD Win - GPD Win 2 - GPD Win Max (2020 upgraded)* - Retroid Pocket 4 Pro* I may get the RP5 succesor next year, but otherwise I'm content as is.
I have the Miyoo Mini, Mini plus, 2xA30's, RG28xx, RG Arc-D, Powkiddy RK2023, TrimUI Smart Pro, original 3ds, original ps vita, RP5, Switch, Steam Deck. I just realized I have a problem as well, especially considering I've been fighting to not get the GKD Bubble and TrimUI Brick.. I think I can part with the RG28xx, RK2023, ARC-D, and Smart Pro. That still leaves too many, but the struggle is real.
I feel like as long as it plays any ps2 game well enough, has good ergonomics, a nice screen and long battery life, whilst being portable enough, that would be the perfect device. I can understand people wanting different screens for different aspect ratio systems, but I think a large enough OLED screen makes that redundant.
I recently had a purge and have left my GPD XD and XD+, Retroid Pocket3+, and an Anbernic Arc-S. I don't actually play that often on any of them as I find my phone better for pretty much everything.
Just bought that Switch oled bundle for $278 . Couldn't pass it up .. I only have a Vita 1000 , 2DS and Switch . These emulation devices are freaking dangerous. I am already addicted to the thought of buying one LOL . Seems I'm entering the world at a good time, the RP5 looks amazing.
You need to get the Legion Go. It spanks the MSI and Deck so bad...the screen ratio and size brings a new level of retro gaming immersion and it has plenty of power. I sold everything except the 36s to have as a small device for those cases where my Legion Go is too much. The Deck OLED, Ally etc are all gone after getting the Legion Go.
Ah I've had it a few times! I love that screen, but the speakers are very thin sounding, but I know that's not a priority for many, so put me in three minority of Claw enjoyers for how good it sounds 😅
My 16:9 devices: Small - Retroid Pocket 5. Large - Ayaneo Pocket EVO - Retro Edition. My 4:3 devices: Small - Retroid Pocket Mini. Large - Ayaneo Pocket DMG. I also have: Anbernic RG Nano GKD Pixel Powkiddy V90 Miyoo A30 Miyoo Mini - Metal shell Miyoo Mini+ TrimUI Brick (Metal shell on the way) Nintendo New 3DS LL - pure white. Asus ROG Ally Z1E
I appreciate your honesty and opinion. Okay, I have a surprise dilemma this black Friday. I was all set on the retroid Pocket 5 and that's what I wanted. I won a 100 dollar off coupon for Ayn for the Odin series in a drawing. I am now at a loss. Should I consider an Odin 2 or Odin mini over the RP5? I never looked into the Odin series due to price but now it is within reach. What does everyone think? I need to know by Dec 2nd!
Oh wow, if you can use that $100 off coupon on the og Odin or Lite, you get a handheld for like $20 with the sale 😲 But Odin 2 will have the best performance, of the options available there without Portal yet, I'd go for Odin 2, Mini has a nice screen but in the end of O2 wins for me in comfort and heat management
@retrohandhelds thanks 👍 yeah it's a weird struggle. Honestly AYN was never on my radar and I had all but convinced my family to get me an RP5 when this happened. I love this community and watch this group, Russ, TechDweeb, walls, Vlad you name it. However the price of the Odin series was so high compared to value I never watched a single video about the Odin mini until yesterday!
I have an LCD Steam Deck and an Anbernic RG35XX+. I don't have time or money to blow on anymore handhelds than that. I don't know how you guys find time to play all these things.
I’m very seriously contemplating trying to cut down to just the TrimUI Brick, RP5 and SteamDeck Meaning I need to sell a miyoo v4, MM+, powkiddy V10, RG35XXH, 2x RG28XX, RG405M, RGCube, RPMini and Odin 2
Retroid pocket 2s and Nintendo switch never getting rid of my DS 3ds or vita almost forgot about my analog pocket love that over priced thing rp2s has pretty much replaced it but i cant seem to let it go and i still have all my gameboys the dmg color gameboy lite and the advance white thats about everything but mostly pocket 2s and switch are my daily drivers making this comment on my 2s lol
Did all the reviewers come up with a script to follow? Im getting sicknof hearing there is too many handhelds coming out. Wide selection is good for the consumer. Dumb people with no impulse control are the only ones complaining.
I'm waiting for my SP (I have 35XX H and 28XX already). Also I'm getting rid of the crap A30 again, Spruce can't save it. I'll keep my 2 MM+ though, Onion is amazing.
Thanks for the vid, Stubbs. Nice watch 😄 You can do it! You can further shave down that personal list of ones you're keeping 💪 Get that down to 10 like you're hoping. I have a green Retroid Pocket 2S with grip, a black Miyoo Mini+ with grip, and a black Retroid Pocket 5 on the way ...after being in the hobby for almost 15 months. So I'm set with those 3 for now I think 🙂👍 I hope the AYN Odin 2 Portal turns out great for people though!
Ah I need more time with the Brick, but I think once software is firmed up, it might get used more than the R36S. I really enjoy the R36S though. A lot.
What are YOUR essential handhelds?
Do you think this list can be further refined down to just 6, 3, or someday....even ONE handheld to rule them all?
Notes: There are a few things I didn't touch on in the video that I will here.
Beyond just having less handhelds, less debt, and less "stuff". There is also the monthly maintenance of having over 100 devices that is not sustainable for me (and they should be loved, not just maintained). 🍃
To keep the collection in fine health, you must charge the batteries and keep them in their healthy zone of about 20 - 80%, and keep them clean from dust and debris. In the end, when not filming, I've had them in cases lately to combat dust, for instance. 🎮
It also can't be underestimated the physical time it takes to upkeep the hoard, which could be time better spent with my family or actually like, playing games on these things, and appreciating each one more fully. More custom firmware, modding, and performance exploration, with accompanying videos.
Beyond that, I told myself for a long time that I needed to keep so many so id have them for comparisons in my videos, but they just tended to make my videos bloated with so much screen time dedicated to comparing them, instead of focusing on just the topic at hand (with a few key comparisons, which could also be relayed experience without physically seeing them).
While I didn't intend on narrowing from 100 to 25 as being a joke, I get why that's kind of funny. If you're a collector like me, 25 seems near painful. However, I see a fun personal challenge forming after reading all your comments. My next goal is 10 handhelds... stay tuned for that video in the future
Also, like I started to say in the description, I've had more handhelds show up for review since making this video. I'm not discounting the Pocket DMG, Pocket Evo, Odin 2 Portal, 406H, or TrimUI Brick. They are still being evaluated and tested, likely I will be making some swaps soon, but again, I'll let you know where I land.
1 per size and use scenario ! so 6 is a good number 😅
That's an entire shelf of handhelds 😅 behind you.
It really depends on your use case scenarios. I think a lot of people could get by with just one, but I think 3 or 4 is probably a realistic number for most people who have an interest in retro gaming. Above that, you're looking at collectors.
RG35xx plus, RG Cube, RG 556 or Retroid Pocket 5 ( on the way ) and the last one the steam deck oled 😊
PSP, PS VITA 1000, Odin lite, Odin 2 max.
One to rule them all would be Odin 2, but I still need my PSP or PSV to play Gangs of London, so... 🤷
We have very different definitions of “just a few” 😝
🤣😅😆
I REALLY want to agree....but my collection has grown so much this year I'm worried about getting smacked with the hypocrite bat.
I was thinking the same thing, “just a few” isn’t “twenty five” 😂😂
I only kept the essentials
**Shows 25 handhelds**
Next personal challenge is 10 🤣😅
Dude has a serious problem.
Miyoo Mini+ and Odin 2 is my endgame machines.
I've got frustrated with the Miyoo mini+. It has very bad sound quality, with a lot of crackling, and it's also a little underpowered. It struggles to play even some simple 2D games...
I'm thinking about replacing it with a Trimui brick eventually
@diogoepronto coo
@@diogoepronto You can buy an upgraded speaker.
@@toycoma98 yeah, I know, and I considered doing that for a while, but it sucks that I need to mod the device to make it enjoyable to me...
You made a tiny mistake: In this video you were supposed to show your handhelds AFTER you reduced the amount. Not before.
Happens to the best...
Hahaha that is very fair
“this one sucks, i can’t get rid of it, i love it” for like 10 of them😂
Sometimes it do be like that 🤣🤣
New 3DS XL - I've got a new unlocked one, and have a spare on the way. I'll be playing it till I'm in the old folks home. Nothing can really emulate it. Other than that, I've got an RGB20sx and am looking to get a 406v. I've got a switch lite that I use occasionally. Those pretty much cover all my handheld gaming needs.
Essentials: Steam Deck, Switch Lite, RP Mini, RG28XX
I have 3 of those 4. I have an RG Cube instead of the RP Mini. My Switch Lite is hacked now and I’m not really playing anything else.
Nice choices. Mine would be O2 portal, Switch Lite, RG406H, TrimUI Brick. For me I don't want to mobilize my pc games, so that's why the Portal is the perfect main device
Such a clean list 🥰
I love my RG28XX and 35XX H. They're solid horizontal options from Anbernic. Modified Stock OS is quite good. Waiting for my SP to arrive.
@@rebeccakonig9703 are there many games/consoles the steam deck can’t emulate?
I used to have a total of around 35 handhelds. I have narrowed down my collection quite a bit, keeping only the handhelds I really really like:
ANBERNIC RG406V (Super Famicom Edition)
ANBERNIC RG405V (Wood Grain)
ANBERNIC RG351V (Wood Grain)
ANBERNIC RG505 (Gray)
ANBERNIC RG353P (SNES Edition)
ANBERNIC RGARC-D (Gray)
ANBERNIC RG280V (silver)
ANBERNIC RG300X (silver)(gold)
ANBERNIC RG28XX (SNES Edition)
PowKiddy RGB20SX (White)
PowKiddy X17
PowKiddy X16
PowKiddy V90 (Black)
PowKiddy V10 (SNES Edition)
PowKiddy X55 (Pure black)
PowKiddy RGB10MAX2 (Pure Black)
Trimui Brick (Red)
Trimui Smart (Pure Black)
CoolBaby RS-18
GPD-XD PLUS
Valve Steam Deck
Fusion 5 Tablet
LG G-Pad 5
Lenovo Tab Plus
Oh wow, an X17! Curious your thoughts on it! First time I've seen it show up on an end game list.
@@retrohandhelds It's PowKiddy's Steam Deck if you ask me. Large 7 inch display, stacked triggers and a set of stereo speakers. PowKiddy's only 7 inch display handheld with decent enough power to run decent emulation up to PSP. I stil have he review clip on your facebook channel. Also, the handhelds within my list are the ones I wont depart and I plan on not purchasing anymore. Instead I'm purchasing accessories for those handhelds in my list. Bigger micro sd cards, hard carrying cases, upgraded charge cables and etc. Just purchased four 1.5TB Sandisk Ultra micro sd cards from Amazon and a few fancy carrying cases from Etsy.
"Just keeping the things we absolutely love in our lives.."
That's one deeeeeep ass quote right there. I wish we could keep all our families and friends that we absolutely love in our lives. Aside from all the weird psycho-babel nonsense I just typed, I mostly miss owning a Sega Nomad with a battery pack and a copy of Shadowrun.
I mean it, on all levels! 🫂 awesome nostalgia with the nomad!
Essential Handhelds:
1. Anbernic RG Nano (All day gaming one handed ✌️ with a wrist strap)
2. Powkiddy Q36 mini (All day gaming two handed 👐 with a wrist strap)
3. R36S (How I play everything else, no wrist strap)
I only need three handhelds. A PC handheld for modern games (Steam Deck), a retro handheld for emulation (RP5), and a mini handheld to slip into my pocket and carry it around with me (Miyoo mini+).
I also like having original consoles like Gameboy, Game Gear, PSP etc, but they aren't strictly necessary
Odin 2 and steam deck
The SF-2000 is the single most comfortable handheld I have ever held. Just fit the guts of an RG28XX or something in there and it would be phenomenal.
It IS comfy!
Imo the RP5 replaces all of these.
Not the ones on the end of the list.
@@kumarsalib722 I give you that. That's why I have an SD Oled and a RP5
If i had 25 handhelds id be filled with crippling anxiety and choice paralysis. You are a true handheld gladiator Stubbs 😉
It's a real struggle! 🤣
Great list. You showcased a lot that were very interesting. My essentials are:
OG Miyoo Mini v2 - Best pocketable handheld with OnionOS.
Modded New 3DS XL - Plays 3DS games with those wild 3D effects and the entire NDS library.
Modded Vita - Handles the entire Vita, PSP, and PS1 library with ease.
Modded Switch - Large Switch library and handles Dreamcast amazingly well.
RG35XX-H - Best budget-friendly handheld you can buy. Great price to performance device.
Steam Deck - Very comfortable, can play most of the latest games in bed or on the couch.
OneXPlayer - Windows handheld. Larger screen than Steam Deck. Handles PS3 better than SD.
With these 7, I am capable of playing the majority of games from the PS3 era and below that ever existed on the go.
That blue GPD XD was also what really got me into retro emulation as well. No colour on any handheld since has matched my love for the blue on that XD.
These days I just use the Odin 2 mini. Great screen, great size, great ergos and it plays everything I want and more
Oh wow, another Blue XD enjoyer! Love to hear that. Odin 2 Mini is a nice daily driver!
I’m only keeping 3 emulation handhelds as I’m pragmatic about it.
- AYN Portal (preordered)
- RG Cube
- Miyoo Mini+
Portal is going to be for streaming in my house and everyday use.
RG Cube is dedicated for portable systems (everything up to 3DS except PSP and Vita).
Miyoo Mini+ is for travel & the kids
I'm proud of you Stubbs. It's hard to let go. I still regret selling my PSP 1000 to offset the cost of my PSP 3000, and that was well over a decade ago. It's not that I miss the 1000 in general; rather, I miss it solely because it was MY 1000. I can't imagine letting go of 75 handhelds like that. I'm sure most of them probably didn't matter; but, I bet there were a couple that moistened your eyes when you parted ways with them. I'm picturing you being like that one Woody Harrelson GIF, the one from "Zombieland", where he's wiping his tears with hundred dollar bills.
My current handhelds:
• Nintendo GBA - Launch version. I keep it because it was a Christmas gift from my parents. It was my friend + traveling companion for a long time. The Power slider is a little wonky and I need to fix it. These weren't rechargeable so I can safely store it forever.
• Nintendo DS Lite - The DS might as well stand for DiSappointment. My two beefs with it is that it wasn't very comfortable and many of the games I wanted to play were expensive, even used. I've kept it because of GBA backwards compatibility and because occasionally I end up sniping a DS cart on eBay or Marketplace for cheap. I actually had a lot of fun beating "James Bond: Bloodstone" recently-ish on it.
• Sony PSP 3K - After a year of DS Lite ownership I wanted a new daily driver. I picked up a PSP 1000. I loved it. A little bit later I sold it off to offset the cost of a 3000. The 3K had a much better screen, a bunch more features, and so on. I was big into the PSP modding scene and pretty much used it as a pseudo smartphone for years and years. I keep it charged and break it out every so often when I want those original hardware vibes.
Much of my PSP ROMs collection are legit copies from my own UMDs. You can plug a hacked PSP into a phone or PC and simply copy your discs over. That's pretty cool, I think.
• LG V35 - Yes, it's a phone. However, unlike the devices listed above, I use this one regularly as a gaming/emulation handheld. I use a GameSir X2 Pro controller with it. It also has video out for that TV console experience. When plugged into a bigger screen I use it with the wonderful Gulikit KK3 Pro that Stubbs + AKNES sent me a while back. The LG + KK3 are a perfect pairing; like peanut butter & jelly, Jackie Chan & Chris Tucker, cowboys & horses, Stubbs & Rob on the Podcast...
I've taken care of this phone (it was ungodly expensive when new in 2018 - and has proven to have been worth every penny) and it's still capable; but, it's starting to show its age. I don't use it as a phone in 2024 because it is an AT&T only handset and I'm on Verizon now; it's strictly a WiFi tablet and dedicated "game console". I'd love to upgrade to an uplevel Android handheld at some point. The Pocket 5 is the obvious pick; but, even the T820 powered Anbernic 556 is a big step up in performance. The Odin 2 Mini and regular Odin 2 are amazing; but, are still too expensive for my budget, even on Black Friday.
• Anbernic RG35XX-SP - Zu + GoGameGeek ran a joint giveaway during the 4th of July weekend and I won. I won! It's great on the go and can be docked at home. I use a phone for uplevel emulation; but, everything PS1 and below is done on the SP now.
It pairs perfectly with my aforementioned Gulikit KK3P controller because the KK series spoofs as an Xbox controller. My GameSir Nova Lite will work with it; but, it's a pain in the rump for reasons. Also, I've had no luck with 2.4gHz dongles from any of my controllers. As long as your controller outputs X-input over Bluetooth you'll have a great time using Anbernic's XX handhelds as a TV box console.
TL;DR - I currently have five handhelds. Of those five, two of them are frontline handhelds that I use regularly. The other three are dry docked first party units from my youth that I don't want to part with.
Epic list and comment my friend!
ROG Ally, Odin 2, RGB30, 3DS XL, DSi, Switch and Lenovo Legion Tab Y700 with Gamesir G8
Still trying to sell an RG Nano, Miyoo Mini V4 17:42 and RG40XXV.
But thinking to buy a Miyoo Mini Plus as soon as I've sold the MMV4 (would miss Onion OS terribly)
For me the Odin 2 Mini is my main retro/android handheld, really love that thing. I keep my miyoo mini + because it would be pointless to sell, ROG Ally X and Steam Deck OLED are for PC games and some higher end emulation. Then I have 3 hacked Vitas, a non-XL N3DS hacked (had 2 and sold my white one). I also have a Switch OLED, and 2 Switch Lites hacked (one is the Zelda version)
I sold my Pocket Air for the Odin 2 Mini. And I managed to resist all the other Aya Neo devices, Odin 2 and trying to resist the Portal. I also skipped the RP5 and Mini even though I was interested, as I couldn’t see myself playing it more than the Odin 2 Mini. And I’m thinking about getting the TrimUI Brick, but I have to keep reminding myself that I won’t use it lol.
If Ayn makes a Odin 2 Mini OLED, that would be my Android end game.
The Powkiddy v90 is the best gift you can give anyone , anytime.
You sold them to make space for 2025, be honest with yourself
🫣
My rotation:
Steam Deck: PC gaming
RG406V: Emulation of 4:3 consoles
Retroid Pocket 3+: PSP only
Miyoo Mini: Portability for PS1 and under
PS Vita: I just have a ton of physical Vita games
Switch: Nintendo first party games and indies
I'm pretty satisfied with my lineup of handhelds right now: OLED Steam Deck, Switch, PS Vita, Analogue Pocket, RG35XX SP, Retroid Pocket 5, and TrimUI Brick. I feel like that covers all my bases. Might spring for a smaller handheld than the RP5 to play N64 on the go but I don't really need it lol.
I got a lot of handhelds but My top definitely will be
PSVita
DSi XL
Trimui Smart Pro
Switch Oled
My handheld keepers are a bit more OG oriented - FPGBC, DS Lite, DSi XL (modded), New 3DS XL (modded), Vita (modded), Switch Lite, Switch OLED, Retroid Pocket 2 (pink), Retroid Pocket 2+, RGB30 and Trimui Brick. The others I can live without. Home consoles and PC cover the rest for me.
For me, i have the steam deck, RGCubeXX, A30 and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
They all have their reasons and its worked great for me (SD for steam and heavier emulation, CubeXX for pico8 and to-go comfort retro, A30 for even more pocketable retro, and RP4pro cuz i got it for $100 lol).
I tried downsizing even from that, i dont have a switch anymore. Really all i should have is CubeXX and SD, but i sank into the rabbit hole for a bit...
Outside of handhelds, I also was able to get a Beelink GT King for $25 and it is such a great tv retro device. Cant help a good deal.
I also like using my amazon fire stick as a retro device sometimes. Upgrading my old gen 2 to a 4K Max thanks to Black Friday.
Setting up is kind of a game in itaelf for me, but im trying to just play the games lol.
As a painter, I will attest that the color is, in fact, Cadmium Red Light. Coral is generally a semi-transparent peach-toned red. That device color is a full pigment, slightly yellowish red.
I am using this name from now on, incredible 💥
Love the rack you've got your devices in! Reminds me of my guitar rack. Looks like you've got a really awesome collection!
Hey thanks Ryan man! Yeah I recommend this setup, shelf is foldable and on wheels, I think $75 on Amazon or so.
@RyanRetro1
Do you have an Amazon link for that foldable shelf? I’d like to purchase it through an affiliate.
Do you have a link for your console or (plate) racks? I bought some of those holders, but mine are too wide for smaller handhelds. The ones you’re using look perfect.
@Theeccentricautistic hey there! Sure let me grab a few links, check thr description in about 5 minutes. I appreciate that 🫡
@ Thank you!
@@retrohandhelds That's so cool!
No Odin 2? Interesting!
Odin 2 = GOAT
I'm all in one the Odin 2 Portal!
@@retrohandheldsPreordered Pro version for me and base for wife!
Right? I play switch games on it of I can .it's form factor is better.
@retrohandhelds next up please make Odin 2 portal vs RP5 review I want to see how performance and battery life holds up on both devices especially for newer Wii U and Switch games!
Trying to debate on my third handheld now the SP is calling my name
I'm waiting for mine (I have 35XX H and 28XX already). Also I'm getting rid of the A30 again, Spruce can't save it. I'll keep my 2 MM+ though, Onion is amazing.
@E.Cristian7 i have a 35xxh and plus model but want a third considering the sp or 40xxH for bigger screen
SP is awesome 👌
My retro device Rg40xxh
My android device Odin 2 pro
My pc handheld Steam deck
The perfect combination
May come as a surprise but the best GBA SP-like clamshell out of all others to me is the PowKiddy V90. The V90 has the best overall design with it's button placement and 2 speaker system.
My favorite is the Odin Mini 2, feels like a Vita which I still love and use today.
Absolutely awesome choice
Does the Odin 2 Mini play Vita games well?
@@cym0npeter As well as it can, the Vita emulator is still in early phases so it only works as well as that emulator currently does. In other words, the hardware isn't holding it back at the moment.
I like a 5-6 inch screen, so it's the rp5, the ps vita, and the switch lite for my top 3.
Awesome video and discussion, thank you! My current three are my only three; a GPD XD+, an RG556 and an Odin 2 Pro Rainbow variant with SlugWorks thumb sticks. The Odin 2 is definitely the most drop dead incredible hand held I've ever played. It's such a legit thrill that blows me away every time I pick it up, and everything you throw at it runs perfect. It never leaves my living room, and I curl up with it the way people curl up with a good book, coffee and all. Mine is set up with a library of 480 of my all time favorite PS2 games plus my GooglePlay games, that's it. But that alone is still an awful lot of awesomeness. PS2 is my favorite console and I just can't get over how every PS2 game looks completely remastered on the Odin 2. Everything else goes on the RG556 and that's my EDC hand held that goes with me everywhere. It's comfortable, capable and a great bang for the buck, even more so now that the Pocket 5 is out.
XD+ love!!! That's a cool lineup
Stubbs you still have too many 😂
Love these videos where y’all talk about what you use irl
Hahaha I agree 🤣😅
Hoping to use my fav Retroid, Ayn, Miyoo and PowKiddy handhelds for many years, but I’m concerned about battery life over the long term. DS / 3DS batteries are easily obtainable. Can we source spare batteries for any of these?
For budget handhelds the RG40XXH is a great form factor. The heat is pretty negligible and it's good for single screen DS, GBA, and etc
You should purge much more tbh lol. I could get it down to 3: Trimui Brick for pocketability (it just killed my Miyoos), RG406V (for up to PS2) and Legion Go for anything 16:9
Just got my first handheld i picked up the Ambernic Rg405m and so far love it!! Still got some tweaking to mess with but so far seems like a solid device
Steam Deck and RG35XX H for me, but I'd like to add a mid range device. Waiting on Anbernic to release the RG556 H.
556H would be incredible 😲
There's already an RG556H, it's called the RG556. 😂
There's a RG406H, sounds like what you wanted?
I use the Steamdeck for newer console games, the rg 35xx h for nes, snes, gb , gbc, and those era emulators, and the rg552 for GBA exclusively
The purge you did is what I would call a good initial sweep. Tearing the bandaid off to see that you can get rid of things. However, this video shows you still have some unplayed, some that you aren't actually a big fan of, etc. Now it's time to *actually* purge. Odds are you are only actually playing with 1 or 2 of these with any regularity.
I'm basically doing all my gaming on the steamdeck. But i'm looking to add something vertical that I can keep in my pockets. Either a miyoo mini or a flipzizzle.
Officially calling it s Flipzizzle 😆, great combo!
@retrohandhelds Techdweeb is a worlwide treasure
My current Daily Drivers RG-CUBE, Powkiddy RGB10 Max 3 and Pro, RG40XXH, RG35XX SP.
Steam Deck, Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, RG Cube XX and Trimui Brick. A30 too I guess.
I have the exact same handhelds minus the trimui brick.
Nice lineup!
Currently, my retro handhelds of choice (not counting my GBA SP or my DS Lite) are the Miyoo Mini+, the TrimUI Smart Pro, and the R36S. My Mini+ and TrimUI Smart Pro are my go-to options, while I keep my R36S as a solid plan B.
I’m down to Steam Deck OLED, RP Mini, and I have a TrimUI Brick just because lol. I personally think SD/Ally/Claw and a RP5/Mini is basically all anyone needs
Very much!
Not gonna lie, I frantically searched through the video to make sure the Steam Deck was still in there 😅
Hahaha it's a staple in the collection for sure 🤣🤣
This is just en awesome video! haha. I just started collecting and playing! so these are my favorits off course haha, but yeah the R36s is so great for the price and orange and the screen is good buttons bit stiff but not bad at all and yeah arkos works awesome on all my devices that have it! but i also love my Powkiddy rgb 10x it just feels so good, and my first 35xx plus, that one is just good, mine came somewhat broken tho, but its playable. And the 35xxsp i love that one but play the least on it, because of the buttons, my 40xxV with orginal software and Muos, this one is my favorite vertical in my collection because of the build and bigger screen (started buying sd cards and new software experiments) . And the Powkiddy rgb 20sx is magical with that beautiful screen( super into arcade shooters and this is just great, but even upscaling some systems to 1:1 isnt that bad! that supriced me the most) , all my 2 powkiddys (3th almost here the V10) have much more screen bleeding, i think the best looking is the R36S if it goes by screenbleeding. 40 has a bit of it but the pows the most. O yeah the Rocknix yellow version 20sx works great with rocknix and arkos, but the weird battery bug came after 2 days and if im charging it the indicator doesnt show anymore lol, its weird. had one time the 1%, but after a hard power off it works again. the battery goes fast too. okay ssry for the long text hahahah, english is not my native language.
Hey Thanks! Loved reading through this, and yeah r36s is fun!
I don't feel the need to get anything else after getting the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. It plays all the PS2/GCN games I wanted to be able to play on a small portable.
So you're only keeping 25? Are you becoming a monk?
How did you know? 🤣
I go through this as well, constantly looking for the goldilox device(s) for me. I like small pocketable options for around town. I've kept the MM, pixel, OG 35xx and will be adding the brick to that group. Bigger around the house I have the 40xxV, 406v, RGB20sx and analogue pocket. Then I have my 2 big setups, a OLED switch and lenovo y700 2023 that both share a gamesir g8+. Of course I have one of every gameboy made for a collection but the AP has replaced all of those in terms of getting used. I do use my n3DSXL that's modded. I've sold 2~3x what I've kept for reference.
Essentials: Steam deck, odin 2 pro, rg40xxh. I have a feeling the rp5 gc may become essential when it arrives. Also love my rg cube!
Awesome lineup!
Keep the ones that spark joy
On this episode of the Handheld Minimalist...
The only handheld I would keep is my GP2X and that's purely for nostalgia. It's the machine that got me into retro gaming and in the almost 20 years since I bought it I've taken it all over the world with me. It still works fine, but is now retired.
Essentials: Switch, RP4Pro, Miyoo Mini +
I just sold many handhelds as well. And I think there are still many of these left that I should sell also. However, I will keep these for sure: Steam Deck OLED, Odin 2 Mini, Retroid Pocket mini, RG35XX-H
How many games you play on them? How many hours? Are you playing modern games?
Only 25? I kept just 3 handhelds. I can't play more than that... How I miss my childhood 😂
Curing the sickness is a journey 🤣
Still considering an RP2s..... but I've got pretty much all of the ones you're keeping as well
Ah great to hear! There are dozens of us, dozens! In that case I'd say you can safely skip the RP2S 😆
Once you start in this hobby it is very addictive. Current crop:
Gameboy
DSi XL
Sony PSP
Nvidia Shield Portable
Anbernic 280V
Miyoo A30
Miyoo Mini +
Powkiddy RBG30
Anbernic RG556
Lenovo Legion Go
I love them all. Missing a clamshell though....
This tbh! Fantastic list, now I miss my Shield Portable!
I feel like 2-3 at least could be exempt from your count. And another 2-3 could be retired to just storage or just out of commission due to age and not counted as well.
I agree! Part 2 in the works
Me over here trying to get my retro handheld collection down to maybe 2 or 3 (but ending up w/ 6... on top of my Switch, Logitech G Cloud and Steam Deck)... then watching Stubbs "narrow" his collection down to "only" 25 😆
I'm keeping:
3x H700 Anbernics (SP, 40XXV, 40XX H) because "form factors" or something (I haven't quite figured this one out yet, honestly)
1x Powkiddy X55 (this one MIGHT go)
1x Miyoo Mini V4
1x RG406V
The TrimUI Smart Pro was probably the one I danced back and forth the most on in terms of deciding whether or not to sell or keep it. Miyoo Mini Plus was a close runner-up.
3 is the magic number! I like what you've got going so far 😆
I can’t get rid of my Powkiddy V90 something about it I just love holding it it was like $20 but I treat it like a baby I love it
I’ve got my daily driver rgb30 and I’m waiting on my RP5 for every thing else. I’m not a fan of vertical form factors so that’s an easy 2 handhelds. 1 cheap one for the basic stuff and 1 more expensive one for the heavier stuff.
Excellent collection to keep❤. I would add the RG40XXV also
I might!! Thank ya
wow, it's wild that the Switch is your only OEM. I can understand the Vita getting mostly surpassed now but the 3DS feels like a keeper.
I know what you mean, for some reason I just don't use the 3ds, I've played it for more years on emulation than the real thing, but I loved it back in the day 😅
It's not my favorite device but the trimui smart is the one I value the most. I can reliably throw it in my pocket and not worry about it. If it drops I'm not afraid of it breaking. And it's discreet so I don't feel like a weirdo playing gb in public
That's a great way to think about it
Ps5 portal, Switch Oled, and miyoo mini are my primary 3.
I do own others but they are not in regular rotation. Testing out the A30 with Spruce to see if I like it more than the miyoo mini. Everyone’s got me interested in the Brick though.
I own (* = still in use):
- GPD XD (also with Win 2 buttons)
- GPD Win
- GPD Win 2
- GPD Win Max (2020 upgraded)*
- Retroid Pocket 4 Pro*
I may get the RP5 succesor next year, but otherwise I'm content as is.
Woah! Love that list and seeing the XD and Win models get love
Odin 2 Pro and Miyoo A30 for me. I have a Trimui brick coming for vertical goodness
I have the Miyoo Mini, Mini plus, 2xA30's, RG28xx, RG Arc-D, Powkiddy RK2023, TrimUI Smart Pro, original 3ds, original ps vita, RP5, Switch, Steam Deck. I just realized I have a problem as well, especially considering I've been fighting to not get the GKD Bubble and TrimUI Brick.. I think I can part with the RG28xx, RK2023, ARC-D, and Smart Pro. That still leaves too many, but the struggle is real.
Steam Deck
RP4Pro
Switch Lite
(Though seriously considering ordering a Brick)
Brick is so good for its use case! Love the compact list you have here. An All-in-one, an android mid range, and a corpo! Nice 🎉
I feel like as long as it plays any ps2 game well enough, has good ergonomics, a nice screen and long battery life, whilst being portable enough, that would be the perfect device. I can understand people wanting different screens for different aspect ratio systems, but I think a large enough OLED screen makes that redundant.
I recently had a purge and have left my GPD XD and XD+, Retroid Pocket3+, and an Anbernic Arc-S. I don't actually play that often on any of them as I find my phone better for pretty much everything.
1. Miyoo Mini Plus
2. Trimui Smart Pro / RG505
3. Odin 2 Max
this way and no other!!
I'm proud of your restraint! 🤩
XX devices rule my life. 35XX , SP, and 40XX got a cubexx on the way... although until I cave for Retroid pocket 5 I use RGB10MAX3 as well
I plan to get the miyoo flip probably two of those and a trimui brick as well other then those imma wait to see what unique comes out
Just bought that Switch oled bundle for $278 .
Couldn't pass it up ..
I only have a Vita 1000 , 2DS and Switch . These emulation devices are freaking dangerous. I am already addicted to the thought of buying one LOL .
Seems I'm entering the world at a good time, the RP5 looks amazing.
You need to get the Legion Go. It spanks the MSI and Deck so bad...the screen ratio and size brings a new level of retro gaming immersion and it has plenty of power. I sold everything except the 36s to have as a small device for those cases where my Legion Go is too much. The Deck OLED, Ally etc are all gone after getting the Legion Go.
Ah I've had it a few times! I love that screen, but the speakers are very thin sounding, but I know that's not a priority for many, so put me in three minority of Claw enjoyers for how good it sounds 😅
My 16:9 devices:
Small - Retroid Pocket 5.
Large - Ayaneo Pocket EVO - Retro Edition.
My 4:3 devices:
Small - Retroid Pocket Mini.
Large - Ayaneo Pocket DMG.
I also have:
Anbernic RG Nano
GKD Pixel
Powkiddy V90
Miyoo A30
Miyoo Mini - Metal shell
Miyoo Mini+
TrimUI Brick (Metal shell on the way)
Nintendo New 3DS LL - pure white.
Asus ROG Ally Z1E
I've bought and returned 6 Anbernic devices, none beat the Miyoo Mini Plus with Onion OS for me personally.
I appreciate your honesty and opinion. Okay, I have a surprise dilemma this black Friday. I was all set on the retroid Pocket 5 and that's what I wanted. I won a 100 dollar off coupon for Ayn for the Odin series in a drawing. I am now at a loss. Should I consider an Odin 2 or Odin mini over the RP5? I never looked into the Odin series due to price but now it is within reach. What does everyone think? I need to know by Dec 2nd!
Oh wow, if you can use that $100 off coupon on the og Odin or Lite, you get a handheld for like $20 with the sale 😲
But Odin 2 will have the best performance, of the options available there without Portal yet, I'd go for Odin 2, Mini has a nice screen but in the end of O2 wins for me in comfort and heat management
@retrohandhelds thanks 👍 yeah it's a weird struggle. Honestly AYN was never on my radar and I had all but convinced my family to get me an RP5 when this happened. I love this community and watch this group, Russ, TechDweeb, walls, Vlad you name it. However the price of the Odin series was so high compared to value I never watched a single video about the Odin mini until yesterday!
first hand held so far so good lol
I have an LCD Steam Deck and an Anbernic RG35XX+. I don't have time or money to blow on anymore handhelds than that. I don't know how you guys find time to play all these things.
I’m very seriously contemplating trying to cut down to just the TrimUI Brick, RP5 and SteamDeck
Meaning I need to sell a miyoo v4, MM+, powkiddy V10, RG35XXH, 2x RG28XX, RG405M, RGCube, RPMini and Odin 2
Great video. I'm down to my win 4, unicorn 😉, rp5 , 406h, mm+ and switch of course
Gpd Win Max 2 (2024), Nintendo Switch and 3ds, Odin 2 portal, Anbernic rg35xxH and the oldies Psvita, PSP, DS, GG, Xperia play
Ooo a Win Max 2 enjoyer! The Phawx is proud 😍
Wow! That's a few?
I have a few, like 5, but only play on the Steam Deck and the Odin 2.
You're so close to the Holy trinity of 3!!
Retroid pocket 2s and Nintendo switch never getting rid of my DS 3ds or vita almost forgot about my analog pocket love that over priced thing rp2s has pretty much replaced it but i cant seem to let it go and i still have all my gameboys the dmg color gameboy lite and the advance white thats about everything but mostly pocket 2s and switch are my daily drivers making this comment on my 2s lol
Did all the reviewers come up with a script to follow? Im getting sicknof hearing there is too many handhelds coming out. Wide selection is good for the consumer. Dumb people with no impulse control are the only ones complaining.
The youtuber hive mind up to its old tricks again 😂
I'm waiting for my SP (I have 35XX H and 28XX already). Also I'm getting rid of the crap A30 again, Spruce can't save it. I'll keep my 2 MM+ though, Onion is amazing.
Oh absolutely!
Man said you sold them all and has a few.. comes out woth a dozen or so 😉
25 🤣😅
Thanks for the vid, Stubbs. Nice watch 😄
You can do it! You can further shave down that personal list of ones you're keeping 💪 Get that down to 10 like you're hoping.
I have a green Retroid Pocket 2S with grip, a black Miyoo Mini+ with grip, and a black Retroid Pocket 5 on the way ...after being in the hobby for almost 15 months. So I'm set with those 3 for now I think 🙂👍 I hope the AYN Odin 2 Portal turns out great for people though!
Thanks!! Ive got this. Part 2 soon. That green 2S is a classic!
RG351P is still most time I play with...
Do you prefer the R36S or the Trimui Brick?
Ah I need more time with the Brick, but I think once software is firmed up, it might get used more than the R36S. I really enjoy the R36S though. A lot.
You'd have to pry my GKD Pixel from my cold, dead hands.
Bahahaha