The Best Retro Handheld Game Consoles in the UK – 2025 Edition
Retro gaming is booming in the UK, and handheld consoles offer a perfect mix of nostalgia, portability, and modern convenience. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? Below are the top contenders—from premium, cartridge-based systems to affordable all-in-one emulation devices—with guidance to suit every UK gamer’s needs.
⭐ Editor's Top Picks
Miyoo Mini Plus
Ultimate pocketable classic—under £80
$77.99
RetroSnap™ Play
Easy‑play nostalgia starter
$69.90
Miyoo Mini Plus
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Design & Feel: Handheld as compact as a Game Boy; vertical tank-style design is pocketable and durable.
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Performance: Genuinely capable of PS1 emulation with OnionOS and a community that enhances usability and firmware.
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Winner For: Ultimate on-the-go retro experience under £80; perfect for travel and commuters.(GamesRadar+, New York Magazine, Consolevintage)
RetroSnap™ Play
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Simple & Charming: Plug-and-play throwback with preloaded classics, ideal for family-friendly gaming or gifting.
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Accessibility: No setup, no downloads—just instant retro fun.
Other Notable Options in the UK Market
Evercade Series
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Evercade EXP (Handheld) – Cartridge-based, licensed collections from Capcom, Atari, Namco, and more. Appeals to collectors who want authenticity over emulation.(Retro Dodo, Wikipedia)
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Evercade VS (Home Console) – Plug into a TV and play with friends using Evercade carts. A great retro living-room option.(Wikipedia)
Analogue Pocket
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An FPGA-powered premium handheld that plays original Game Boy, Game Gear, Atari Lynx, Neo Geo Pocket carts—and more via adapters. Offers unmatched accuracy and flexibility.(Wikipedia)
Super Pocket
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A Game Boy–style handheld from the same UK lineage as Evercade, accepting Evercade cartridges while remaining highly compact. One of the best budget options for UK gamers.(Wikipedia)
R36S & VELPAX V40
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R36S – Linux-based with thousands of preloaded games. Affordable and portable with solid UK support.(8bitstation.com, Best UK)
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V40 Max – Huge 40,000-game library, 4″ IPS screen, great battery life—excellent value for money.(toproducts.co.uk)
UK-Specific Recommendations
| Use Case | Best Option | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Nostalgic cartridge collector | Evercade EXP / Analogue Pocket | Real physical media, authenticity |
| Versatile, modern emulation | Miyoo Mini Plus | Strong performance in compact shell |
| Pocketable and stylish | Super Pocket | Slim, sleek, Evercade compatible |
| Massive library, great value | VELPAX V40 / R36S | Huge preloaded libraries, great price |
Expert Insights & Trends in 2025
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GamesRadar highlights the Anbernic RG35XX Plus as a top budget emulation device. They also underscore the Super Pocket as a standout low-cost, cartridge-based option.(GamesRadar+, New York Magazine)
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TopProducts UK gives high marks to the Hyper Mega Tech Capcom Super Pocket (Great build, Evercade compatibility) and the R40S Pro (blew reviewers away with 30,000 games, Wi-Fi, and HDMI support).(toproducts.co.uk)
Final Takeaway
For UK gamers diving into retro handhelds:
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Best overall balance: Miyoo Mini Plus—compact, capable, affordable.
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Best for cartridge nostalgia: Super Pocket (handheld) or Evercade EXP (cartridge-based) for a premium, authentic experience.
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Best for variety on a budget: VELPAX V40 Max or R36S offer vast libraries at friendly prices.
Let me know if you’d like help comparing specifications, picking up UK retailers, or finding the perfect handheld for your game collection.