Hand-held emulators are getting back in trends. While they might seem a bit old fashioned, they represent a portable way to kill a bit of time and play your favorite games when on the go. Moreover, nothing compares to the nostalgia of old school games. Now, what are the top hand-held emulators in 2020 and what makes them so special?

IPEGA PG-9083S

This hand-held emulator is compatible with both iOS and Android devices. There are, of course, a few restrictions. Given the latest Apple upgrade, it does not work with iOS 13.4. As for Android, it only works with 6.0 or newer versions.
​​
The gadget comes with a 4.0 wireless system and it works with almost every game out there. It has an ergonomic design and intuitive buttons. Everything is specific and there is lots of room between buttons for a comfy experience.

Pros

• Compatible with both iOS and Android devices
• 15-hour continuous use battery
• Comfortable to use
• Convenient buttons

Cons

• Controls may feel a bit stiff during the first few uses

MJKJ RG300

The new console has been recently upgraded and comes with a three-inch HD screen and solid glass to prevent damage and scratches. It has a solid battery that can take up to six hours of continuous gaming and can be recharged via USB.

You can use it as a video player, music player, and even an electronic reading console. It also has built-in speakers and a 3.4mm headphone jack. The system is compatible with pretty much everything, including PSI, CPS1, CPS2, GBA, GBC, and so on. You can also get games over Gamulator.

Pros

• Compatible with most systems
• Good battery life
• Can resist scratches
• Can be used for other activities

Cons

• No data card included

IQ Toys Handheld Arcade Game Zone Player

This is one of the top hand-held emulators in 2020 and comes with 200 games and a 2.7-inch display. Games are categorized by type — puzzles, racing, adventure, action, sports, and so on. You also have a built-in speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The maximum resolution is 960×240 pixels. You also get a recharging USB cable, but the unit works with three AAA batteries as well. Buttons are convenient and the overall unit is lightweight and comfortable to use — just over seven ounces.

Pros

• Lots of games to play
• Speakers and headphone jack
• Multiple power options
• Low power indicator

Cons

• Games cannot be deleted

MJKJ RG350

MJKJ is one of the front runners when it comes to hand-held emulators. This version represents an upgrade of a previous device. It comes with intuitive buttons and a small 360-degree joystick for full controls.

The unit features a 3.5-inch screen, tempered glass for protection, and compatibility with PSI, GB, MD, MSX, PCE, and other systems. You can download lots of games, yet the unit features a 32GB card with over 2,500 games.

Pros

• Can be used to read, play videos or music
• Lots of available games
• Durable battery
• Joystick

Cons

• Instructions are a bit vague

GPD XD Plus

This hand-held emulator takes things to another level. It is compact, it flips and features a powerful processor. It runs on Android 7.0, so you can use it for pretty much any game available on this operating system.

The device comes with Vulkan Engine support for performance, wireless connectivity, and a rechargeable battery. It has 32GB of storage memory, so you can download dozens or even hundreds of games to enjoy.

Pros

• Solid processor
• Compact
• Flip design
• Wireless connectivity

Cons

Some games may feel a bit slow

The bottom line

Choosing the best hand-held emulator is up to you and your expectations, but any of the above-mentioned products can add a bit of entertainment to your life.