Best Android Handhelds of 2025

  • Retroid Pocket 5 dominates with its power and compact design
  • AYN Odin 2 offers the best performance for modern emulation and gaming
  • Models like the Pocket Micro or RG Cube opt for unique retro formats.
  • Retroid and ANBERNIC continue to lead in quality-price balance

Android handheld consoles

In recent years, Android handheld consoles have experienced a true revolution. What began as an option for nostalgic fans looking to relive retro classics has become a booming market, with options ranging from compact 2D gaming devices to authentic performance monsters capable of emulating recent-generation consoles like the PlayStation 2 or Nintendo GameCube. Today we bring you a list of the best Android handhelds of 2025.

If you're thinking about getting one of the best Android handhelds in 2025, prepare for a catalog as extensive as it is impressive. Below, we've selected the best consoles. current Android laptops, their features, advantages, and the type of gamer they're designed for. Whether you're looking for emulation, mobile gaming, or an all-around console, here's all the information you need.

Retroid Pocket 5

RP5

La Retroid Pocket 5 has arrived to mark a before and after. It was launched at the end of 2024 and represented a notable leap in quality in all aspects. This model stands out for its a modern design, outstanding performance and an interface tailored to maximize the user experience from the first power-up.

With a 5,5-inch AMOLED display, 8GB of RAM, 5000 mAh battery and Android 13, this console is capable of emulating consoles as demanding as PlayStation 2 without the need for complicated adjustments. It comes equipped with joysticks with LED sensors, and its Snapdragon 865 CPU, accompanied by an Adreno 650 GPU, guarantees fluidity even in heavier titles.

Its main advantage is its portability and power in a single product. Despite its performance, it has a compact size that allows you to take it anywhere without attracting too much attention.

AYN Odin 2

El AYN Odin 2 It's positioned as the most powerful and comprehensive Android console currently available. It's designed for demanding gamers willing to invest between $300 and $450, as it offers top-level technical specifications.

Incorporates a Qualcomm Kyro CPU, an Adreno 740 GPU, up to 16GB of RAM, and a massive 8000mAh battery. Its 6-inch 1080p IPS LCD display is ideal for retro and modern gaming. It's also designed with ergonomics in mind, though it won't fit in your pocket like other, more compact options.

Among its outstanding features we find joysticks with LED lighting, analog triggers, a silent cooling system, and buttons specially designed for Android. It supports the use of Google Play, emulators, and cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud or GeForce Now.

Retroid Pocket 2S

Retroid Pocket 2S

La Retroid Pocket 2S It's a highly capable, affordable option for those looking for a pocket-sized retro console. It was released in September 2023 and is an evolution of the previous model (2+), with notable internal improvements but no obvious aesthetic changes.

It comes equipped with a 3,5 inch touch screen, T610 processor, 4GB RAM, 4000mAh battery and Android 11. The most notable thing is its ease of configuration thanks to the GoRetroid assistant that even installs emulators automatically.

It can run Game Boy, NES, PS1, PSP, Dreamcast, and GameCube games fluently, although it struggles with demanding Wii and PS2 titles. It's currently discontinued by the manufacturer, but can still be found on eBay.

AYANEO Pocket Micro

AYANEO Pocket Micro

This AYANEO model is a true gem for collectors and lovers of premium finishes. AYANEO Pocket Micro It is a compact device that shines for its design and internal power within a body the size of a smartphone.

It features a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and Android 13. The metal casing and 3,5-inch IPS display make it feel like a luxury product. It can seamlessly emulate up to 64-bit consoles and even some PS2 games.

The weak point is its battery (2600mAh), which offers between 4 and 6 hours of play. But if you're into Game Boy Advance games, this model plays them in 4x resolution, which makes them look spectacular on your screen.

AYANEO Pocket DMG

Inspired by the classic Game Boy, the AYANEO Pocket DMG It's a high-end vertical device aimed at the most nostalgic yet demanding gamers. It features a robust construction, a 3,9-inch OLED display, and a powerful Snapdragon G3X processor.

The big advantage is its custom software, which displays your ROMs organized by platform. It can run games from PSP, PS2, and other systems, although its square screen format it is not the most suitable for widescreen games, which results in black bars on the side.

It also stands out for offering extra buttons on the back and its compatibility with Android apps and platforms such as GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud.

Retroid Pocket Mini

Retroid Pocket Mini

Perfect for those looking for a model light and powerful, the Retroid Pocket Mini includes a 3,7-inch AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 865 chip. Internally, it shares many features with the Retroid Pocket 5 but in a smaller body.

You can emulate GameCube, Dreamcast, N64, PS1 and PSP games without breaking a sweat. However, for some users this screen may be a bit confusing. too small for the experience offered by games like those on PS2.

An ideal choice if you're looking for portability and don't mind sacrificing screen size. The design and ergonomics are very well thought out, making it a one of the most comfortable to hold.

ANBERNIC RG Cube

La ANBERNIC RG Cube It features a 1:1 design with a 720-inch square screen (720x4). It's ideal for retro games with adaptable aspect ratios like the Game Boy Color or NES, and is also useful for emulating the Nintendo DS, as it allows the two screens to be placed on top of each other.

The Unisoc T820 chip and 8GB of RAM allow it to run Dreamcast, GameCube, and PSP games. It's priced at around €170, which isn't cheap, but it's geared toward niche users who value the square format.

One drawback is that many Android games They don't scale well with this aspect ratio. Still, if you're interested in a unique and different console, this could be a good choice.

No products found.

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro

Launched in early 2024, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro It maintains the classic design of the series but introduces technical improvements such as softer buttons, updated 3D joysticks and an improved interface with its own Nintendo Switch-style launcher.

Its heart is a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 processor with a Mali G77 GPU, 8GB of RAM, and Android 13. It has a 4,7-inch touchscreen and a 5000mAh battery. It is capable of emulating Wii and GameCube games in good quality for a price under $180.

It shares many features with the Retroid Pocket 5 model, although the latter has taken the lead with significant improvements in display and design.

ANBERNIC RG556

La ANBERNIC RG556 It is the main direct competitor of the Pocket 4 Pro. It arrived on the market quietly, but its price-performance ratio has made it an attractive option.

It includes a 5,4-inch AMOLED display with 1080p resolution, Unisoc T820 chip, 8GB of RAM, and a 5000mAh battery. Its high-quality transparent plastic casing and well-positioned buttons make this console one of the most comfortable to use in this price range.

It does not have an interface as polished as GoRetroid, which can make initial setup a little difficult, although in the hands of experienced users it will not be a problem.

No products found.

AYN Odin Pro

AYN Odin Pro

The original model of the Odin series remains a more than valid option. The AYN Odin Pro It can run on both Android and Windows, making it one of the most versatile on the market.

Snapdragon SD845, Adreno 630, and 8GB of RAM, allowing it to run PS2 and GameCube games with very good performance. Its 6-inch Full HD display and ergonomic design remain relevant today, although its price has dropped considerably with the arrival of AYN Odin 2. Ideal if you're looking for a powerful option for under $300 on the used market.

No products found.

ANBERNIC RG405M

La RG405M de ANBERNICS It stands out for its metallic body, which gives it a premium feel and robustness that is hard to match. Its 4-inch screen has a 640x480 resolution, while the interior houses a Unisoc T618 chip, 4GB of RAM and 4500mAh battery with Android 12.

Despite being more modest in power than others, it can perform reliably Dreamcast games, PSP, and a selection of PS2 titles. It's a great option if you prioritize hardware quality over performance.

AYANEO Pocket Air

This device marks AYANEO's entry into the high-end segment under Android. The AYANEO Pocket Air It comes with a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 1200 chip, 5,5-inch AMOLED display and a large 7300mAh battery.

Its construction is excellent, with comfortable buttons, good grip, and a superior visual experience thanks to its screen. It's one of the most complete Android handheld consoles for those who want to enjoy modern games, advanced emulation, and cloud streaming. Of course, this level of quality is also reflected in its price, closer to the premium range.

The Android handheld console market offers a variety of options for all tastes: from discreet, affordable options ideal for retro emulation to truly high-performance devices capable of competing with a Steam Deck in compact size. It all depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of games you want to enjoy on the go.


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