YOUR GUIDE TO RETRO GAMING GEAR

Honest reviews and buying guides for retro handhelds, arcade machines and controllers. Written by someone who was there the first time around.

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▶ TOP PICKS 2026WHO'S WRITING THIS?

A little hello from Playhouse — clear the bricks, then scroll for the good stuff.

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RETRO HANDHELDS

Miyoo Mini, R36S, RG35XX and more. The best pocket emulators reviewed.

NEW GUIDES

MINI ARCADE MACHINES

Desktop arcade cabinets that actually deliver. We cut through the noise.

RETRO CONTROLLERS

8BitDo and beyond. Classic feel, modern compatibility.

FEATURED GUIDE
BUYING GUIDE 2026

BEST RETRO HANDHELDS: MIYOO MINI PLUS vs R36S vs RG35XX

We put the three most popular budget retro handhelds side by side. Here's what actually matters when you're choosing between them.

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DEVICEPRICESCREENRATING
Miyoo Mini+~£603.5" IPS★★★★★
R36S~£353.5" IPS★★★★☆
RG35XX~£453.5" IPS★★★★☆
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TOP PICK
Miyoo Mini Plus retro handheld console

MIYOO MINI PLUS

Best overall retro handheld under £100

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8BitDo SN30 Pro wireless controller

8BITDO SN30 PRO

Best retro-style Bluetooth controller

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BUDGET
R36S budget retro handheld console

R36S HANDHELD

Best budget retro handheld under £40

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Desktop mini arcade machine

MINI ARCADE MACHINE

Best desktop arcade machine for gifting

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