Analogue Pocket is a retro-style handheld gaming device that allows people to play old video games such as Game Boy games.
While a modern device, it has the style of an old handheld gaming device and is compatible with thousands of Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance games, giving you a chance to use those old game cartridges which have been sitting in your attic for years.
It also supports cartridge adapters for other retro games.
While Analogue Pocket has become incredibly popular for playing retro games, as it doesn’t require any software emulators like other retro handheld devices, not everyone likes it. For example, the power and volume buttons are incredibly small, which can frustrate your gaming experience.
Also, Analogue Pocket is known for taking an incredibly long time to ship, and it also isn’t that cheap.
In this article, I will be sharing five alternatives to the Analogue Pocket. Some of the best alternatives to the Analogue Pocket include the Anbernic RG315V, the Miyoo Mini and Mini Plus, and the Retroid Pocket 3+.
Let’s now learn more about the specifics of these devices and why I have chosen them.
Criteria for Evaluating Alternatives
The Analogue Pocket is unique in that it is compatible with Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges – but most importantly, that it uses hardware emulation. That means you don’t need any software emulation to use it.
That is because the Analogue Pocket, or the AP as many people call it, is FPGA-based. FPGA is a technology that stands for field-programmable gate array, which basically means the hardware is programmable to work with different cartridges without any software emulation.
However, while most retro handheld game systems use software emulation, that doesn’t mean they don’t do their jobs well.
So, what were my criteria for evaluating the different Analogue Pocket alternatives and choosing the specific ones on this list?
Compatibility With Retro Games
The first thing I looked at was compatibility with different retro games, as that is probably one of the most important factors to consider when looking for an Analogue Pocket alternative. If it is not compatible with a wide range of retro games, why buy it in the first place?
If it is only compatible with Game Boy Color games, for example, you might as well go on eBay and find yourself a used Game Boy Color.
The alternatives I list in this article are all compatible with many game styles and cartridges.
Portability and Design
The next things I looked at were portability and design, two very important factors to consider when choosing a handheld retro device.
A portable device will be easy to carry around in your pocket and use while traveling. A clunky and big device means it will be difficult to play games on the go.
Battery life is one part of the portability issue, as if the battery device is poor, you will need to keep charging it. That means you will end up using it near an outlet half the time or carrying around a power bank so you can use it more often.
Also, the general design is important. Does the device feel comfortable in your hands?
Are the buttons easy to reach with your fingers and press? I mentioned that the Analogue Pocket has small buttons; what about the alternatives? How durable is the design? Will it withstand basic wear and tear and the occasional drop on the floor?
These are all things that I kept in mind when considering which alternatives to include in this list.
Features and Capabilities
I also considered the features of the alternatives. For example, how is the audio – are the speakers powerful, and what is the audio quality like?
What about the digital screen? Are the graphics clear and sharp?
How well does the handheld retro play different types of games? Even if support for a specific game type is technically included, does it perform well, without significant lags, delays, and freezing?
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Price Range and Affordability
Finally, the last major factor I considered was price. The Analogue Pocket is a bit expensive due to the advanced hardware it requires.
If you can’t afford an Analogue Pocket, or if you are looking for a cheaper alternative as a backup, we have your back. The alternatives in this list are generally affordable, so they make for good budget AP alternatives.
With that said, let’s get into the list of the best Analogue Pocket alternatives for casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Best Analogue Pocket Alternatives
1. Anbernic RG351V
The Anbernic RG351V is a handheld retro game console from Anbernic, a major player in the Chinese market for handheld retro consoles.
Unlike the previous version, the Anbernic RG351M, the Anbernic RG351V has a vertical form factor, similar to the Analogue Pocket, not a horizontal form factor.
I really like the sleek and beautiful design of the Anbernic RG351V. Personally, I prefer the wood-grain color, but it is available in black and gray as well if wood-grain is not your thing and you want more of a “Game Boy” look.
Key Features and Compatibility
The Anbernic RG351V is quite a powerful emulation device. It is bigger than most of the other models from Anbernic, but it still isn’t that large, so it still falls into the handheld pocket retro console category.
In terms of compatibility, it’s pretty good for all games from PlayStation 1 and beforehand. Here are just some of the games you can play on the Anbernic RG351V:
- PSP
- N64
- NEOGEO Pocket
- MSX
Around 20 game consoles are supported in total.
However, as I said, for newer games, it just won’t perform that well. For example, it wouldn’t be the best choice for N64, but for PS1, it is absolutely fantastic.
The screen is pretty large, which does add to the overall size of the device. but the graphics are sharp and just amazing.
The 3.5-inch IPS Screen comes with full lamination. The tempered glass on the screen helps protect it and makes sure it will last even if it falls, and it is also scratch proof.
While the graphics are good, the screen was designed to reduce eye strain as well.
The buttons are easy to reach and press and very responsive. In fact, the buttons were designed to increase button life by three times.
It felt good in my hands, and your fingers won’t get tired; it offers an overall comfortable gameplay experience.
Not only are the colors on the screen amazing, but the two loudspeakers offer an amazing sound experience as well, with lossless sound support.
The two SD card slots allow you to load games using an SD card of up to 256 GB, (the device itself has 64 GB of memory), while there is a USB port – type C – for charging. The battery can last up to six hours without charging – the device features a powerful 3900mAh high capacity lithium battery.
The open source Linux software is powerful, as is the Mali-G31 GPU. With a weight of just 0.2 kg (less than half a pound), it won’t feel too heavy in your hands.
In case you are wondering, the console has a length of 14 cm (around 5.5 inches) and a width of 9.4 cm (around 3.7 inches).
Another cool feature is the support of online sparring with a friend over Wifi.
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Pros and Cons
Is the Anbernic RG351V right for you? Here are some pros and cons of this device.
Pros
- It is relatively affordable.
- It supports a wide range of games.
- It has a powerful GPU and a great screen with awesome graphics.
- The design is stunning.
Cons
- It is a bit bigger than what you are used to getting from Anbernic and bigger than the Analogue Pocket, so if you are used to small handheld retro devices, it might take some time getting used to.
- Support for newer games is shaky. While official support for N64 is included, it might not work that well.
- It doesn’t come preloaded with games by default unless you pay for the more expensive version that comes with an added card.
Price Range
This particular device is relatively affordable, ranging from $80–120 when you purchase it from Anbernic.
That depends on where the device is being shipped from and whether you are getting it with an extra TF card for added memory or without the card.
If you buy it with the card, it will come preloaded with around 2400 games. If you buy it without the card, you will have to load games yourself, so I recommend paying a bit extra for the card.
You can also buy it off Amazon, ranging from around $90 to $120, together with the sim card. Depending on shipping, you may get a better deal than on the official site.
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2. Miyoo Mini/Mini+
Next on our list is the Miyoo Mini, which is much smaller than the Anbernic RG315V. It was so popular that it kept selling out of stock after it was released.
The newer version is the Miyoo Mini Plus, which is larger than the original Miyoo Mini. This is a lot easier to find, so I will focus on both.
Key Features and Compatibility
The Miyoo Mini is actually even smaller than the Analogue Pocket, so if the AP felt too big for you, it might be the right choice.
The 2.8-inch IPS screen has a 640×480 display and provides exceptional graphics and colors. This particular screen is actually one of the reasons you will often find the Miyoo Mini out of stock – it is hard to manufacture.
The only downside, perhaps, is that when you tilt the screen a bit, the quality of the graphics goes down, so it’s best viewed from a straight viewing angle.
It supports a wide range of games, such as FBA, GBA, PS1. Usually, it will come with a 32 GB MicroSD card that is loaded with games, but it supports a maximum expansion of up to 128 GB.
When you buy the Mini Plus from AliExpress, though, you have more options:
- No card
- A 32 GB card with 9,000 games
- A 64 GB card with 15,000 games
- A 128 GB card loaded with 25,000 games
On the bottom, you will find the MicroSD slot, along with the earphones port and a USB charging port. On the side, you will find the audio control.
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Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Miyoo Mini and Mini Plus.
Pros
- It comes preloaded with games if you buy a version with a storage card. .
- It is small and pocket sized.
- It has excellent graphics.
Cons
- For people with large hands, the size of the Miyoo Mini might be a bit too small.
- It is hard to find the Miyoo Mini, as whenever a retailer gets it in stock, they get snatched up pretty quickly.
- The screen has limited viewing angles.
Price Range
The Miyoo Mini is usually around $60, give or take a few dollars, which makes it incredibly cheap and affordable. Prices may vary depending on whether you get it with or without a MicroSD card and of which size.
However, due to the incredible demand that outweighs the supply, some sellers jack up the prices, so as hard as it is to find the Miyoo Mini, it could be even harder to find it at the original price.
The problem of the Miyoo Mini being out of stock has led to the creation of a subreddit that focuses entirely on this issue, with updates from stores that have it in stock. Check out the Miyoo Mini Stock subreddit and subscribe to get updates about stock availability.
You can also search on AliExpress, Amazon, and eBay, as there are sometimes retailers who have it in stock.
The newer Miyoo Mini Plus version is a lot easier to find, as the larger screen is easier to manufacture, but it is larger than the original.
You can get the Miyoo Mini Plus from the official Miyoo Store on AliExpress or on Amazon. It has a 3.5-inch screen with a battery life of up to seven hours, and it is just a few dollars more expensive than the original – around $65.
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3. PowKiddy A20
The next alternative to the Analogue Pocket on our list is the PowKiddy A20. It actually has a very similar design, in many ways, to the Analogue Pocket, but when you take a closer look, you will notice the differences.
It is cheaper, though, so let’s take a closer look at it.
Key Features and Compatibility
The PowKiddy A20 can support around 18 game styles, including newer ones like N64, but N64 games work well only in 480p. It runs on Android, and it supports the addition of a MicroSD card with 256 GB of expansion.
The Android system allows you to download games online and spar over Wifi. You can also connect up to four controllers via Bluetooth or wire.
Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of using the A20.
Pros
- It is like a cheaper version of the Analogue Pocket.
- It has six front-facing buttons.
- It runs on Android, and you can install standalone emulators.
- You can tweak it. Here is a guide on how to customize the A20 and get the most out of it.
Cons
- A cheaper price (compared to the Analogue Pocket) comes with cheaper quality.
- The bezels are quite big, reducing screen size.
- To get the most out of it, you need to put in some work and customize it properly.
Price Range
The PowKiddy A20 costs around $11–$160 when you purchase it directly from PowKiddy. It could cost a bit less if you buy it used on Amazon, eBay, AliExpress, or elsewhere, but it should usually be in the $80-110 range.
4. Retroid Pocket 3+
The Retroid Pocket 3+, which runs on Android, is another fantastic Analogue Pocket alternative. Despite only having 4 GB of RAM, it actually performs quite well.
The Retroid Pocket 3 Plus is an upgrade on the previous version, the 2 Plus. It is larger and has a better screen and graphics, and it also looks nicer.
Key Features and Compatibility
The Retroid Pocket 3+ has Android 11, and while there are no preloaded games, it supports Google Play Store, allowing you to download Android apps. In addition, it supports all games that the 2+ did, up to N64 and Dreamscape and even beyond that, with a wide range of emulators included.
It has 4 GB of RAM, double that of the 2+, and uses a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor with a Mali G52 MC2 GPU that runs at 850 MHz.
With a 4500mAh battery, it can last around six hours on a charge. It has a 128 GB internal eMMC 5.1 storage, with the option of expanding with a MicroSD slot.
Pros and Cons
Here are pros and cons of the Retroid Pocket 3+.
Pros
- With native support for Android apps, you can install Android games, game streaming apps, emulators, and more.
- It can handle Dreamcast and N64 games.
- It has a slim design that helps with heat dissipation.
Cons
- It can’t handle large PS2 games very well.
- It is a bit large.
- It supports 720p output via HDMI.
Price Range
The Retroid Pocket 3+ costs around $150 from Retroid Pocket. Shipping is extra, and add-ons cost extra as well.
On Amazon, it can go up to $180 or so, but shipping may be free.
5. FunKey S
The last Analogue Pocket alternative on our list is the FunKey S, which is the tiniest handheld retro console I have seen so far. It is keychain sized, which means you can take it around wherever you go – it certainly wins the portability contest.
Key Features and Compatibility
The FunKey S folds in two, which allows you to save space during transport while also avoiding minimizing the screen and buttons too much. Don’t get me wrong, though, it is incredibly small, with a 1.54-inch screen (240×240).
It has a single speaker, a single micro USB connector, decently-sized buttons that are easy to press, and an indicator that tells you when the battery is low. If you liked the design of the Game Boy Advance SP, this will likely remind you of that.
It has a nice snap when you close it, too. Overall, it’s a great option if you are looking for something tiny for on the go playing.
It supports a wide range of games (over 10 consoles), including Neo Geo Pocket, PS1, NES, SuperNES, and others.
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Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Funkey S.
Pros
- It is incredibly small, so it is easy to carry on your keychain.
- It has a decent display.
- It is affordable.
- It will save your game automatically when you close the lid, and it will boot up in just five seconds.
Cons
- It only has two shoulder buttons, which means some PS1 games won’t really work.
- It plays up to PS1, but large PS1 games might not work well.
- Since it is so small, your hands will hurt if you play on it too much.
Price Range
It costs around $70-75, or €65, when you buy from the FunKey S Project. You can buy a case for an additional price.
Comparison and Analysis
Overall, I prefer the Anbernic RG351V and the Retroid Pocket 3+. If you have the extra money, buy the Retroid Pocket 3+, as it will give you the widest range of games; the RG351V isn’t as advanced but is still pretty good, runs on Linux, and is a lot cheaper.
The Miyoo Mini is awesome, but it’s kind of hard to find, and the Miyoo Mini Plus just isn’t as good as the original. Meanwhile, the PowKiddy A20 is just okay – like a cheap copycat of the Analogue Pocket – and while the FunKey S is cute, it is too small for serious gaming.
Final Word
While the Analogue Pocket is unique in its hardware-based emulation, don’t dismiss software-based emulators – they have been the standard, and they work well.
While these are the best Analogue Pocket alternatives, there are some others as well. You can look on Amazon for additional ones, but prices and gaming quality may vary.
If you can, buy the Retroid Pocket 3+ (or the 2+ if you want something smaller). Otherwise, get the Anbernic RG315V.
