Best Retro Handhelds Under $100
This list is for buyers who want a capable retro handheld without spending more than $100, whether they are new to the hobby or looking for an affordable second device. All 40 picks on this page sit at the entry power tier, meaning they handle older 8-bit and 16-bit systems comfortably, with the stronger options reaching as far as Dreamcast or Nintendo DS emulation. Two of the most popular choices here are the Miyoo Mini Plus at $70, which tops out around Nintendo DS, and the Anbernic RG-35XX SP at $65, which can handle Dreamcast. Every device on the list represents a practical starting point for emulating classic consoles without a significant financial commitment.
The HandheldWiki Take
The Chipset Bottleneck
Almost everything in this bracket runs one of three chips: the Allwinner H700 (the 35XX/40XX family), the RockChip RK3566 (PowKiddy RGB30, Miyoo Flip, the ARC series), or the older RockChip RK3326 (R36S). The H700 and RK3566 comfortably max out PS1, DS and most Dreamcast; the RK3326 wheezes past N64. The RK3566 is the one to favour if you want headroom — it is the strongest silicon you'll find under $100.
Display Realities
A sharp 4:3 IPS (Miyoo Mini Plus, RG-35XX) beats a bigger 16:9 panel for the 8- and 16-bit libraries that dominate this tier. The RGB30's 1:1 720×720 screen is a cult favourite precisely because it frames vertical and square content perfectly.
Firmware & Software Reality
Stock firmware is fine; the community runs muOS and Knulli, which cost you one evening and transform the device. If "plug in and play" matters more than polish, the Mini Plus's OnionOS is the friendliest.
Ergonomics & Build
Verticals pocket well but cramp adults on landscape games; horizontals (RG-35XX H, TRIMUI Smart Pro) are comfier for PS1/DS. Treat everything here as a 16-bit-first machine — don't buy for the sticks.
The Verdict — Price-to-Performance
The Miyoo Mini Plus ($70) is the safe default. But the RG-35XX SP ($65) is the smart-money pick: a few dollars less, a satisfying clamshell, and enough for Dreamcast. If you want the most raw power under $100, the PowKiddy RGB30 ($90) and its RK3566 are the answer.