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

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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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