Buying Guides

Find the right handheld console faster with expert buying guides for retro gaming, portable play, and beginner-friendly picks.

Explore buying guides for handheld game consoles, retro handhelds, and portable gaming devices designed for different needs, budgets, and play styles.

Whether you're shopping for your first handheld console, comparing retro gaming devices, or looking for the best portable system for travel, our guides help you choose with confidence.

Start Here: Popular Buying Guides

Top Buying Guides

View all
1 3
View all

Browse Guides by Topic

Buying Guides

Retro Handheld Glossary 2026: Every Term You Need to Know (iGC Complete Guide)

Retro Handheld Glossary 2026: Every Term You Ne...

Complete retro handheld glossary for 2026. ArkOS, RK3326, emulation, save state, IPS display, and 50+ terms explained clearly by the iGC Editorial Team.

Retro Handheld Glossary 2026: Every Term You Ne...

Complete retro handheld glossary for 2026. ArkOS, RK3326, emulation, save state, IPS display, and 50+ terms explained clearly by the iGC Editorial Team.

Best Gifts for Dad Who Loves Video Games 2026: Relive His Childhood for $79

Best Gifts for Dad Who Loves Video Games 2026: ...

Best gifts for dad who loves video games in 2026. R36S ($79.99) lets dad relive every GBA, SNES, NES, and PS1 game from his childhood. Pre-loaded, plug and play, ships...

Best Gifts for Dad Who Loves Video Games 2026: ...

Best gifts for dad who loves video games in 2026. R36S ($79.99) lets dad relive every GBA, SNES, NES, and PS1 game from his childhood. Pre-loaded, plug and play, ships...

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Gamers Who Love the Classics

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift...

Best retro gaming gifts for 2026. R36S at $79.99 is the #1 gift pick — 4.70/5 from 2,837 buyers. Lab-tested gift guide for every budget from $79 to $219. Ships...

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift...

Best retro gaming gifts for 2026. R36S at $79.99 is the #1 gift pick — 4.70/5 from 2,837 buyers. Lab-tested gift guide for every budget from $79 to $219. Ships...

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Gamers Who Love the Classics

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift...

Best retro gaming gifts for 2026. R36S at $79.99 is the #1 gift pick — 4.70/5 from 2,837 buyers. Lab-tested gift guide for every budget from $79 to $219. Ships...

Best Retro Gaming Gifts 2026: The Ultimate Gift...

Best retro gaming gifts for 2026. R36S at $79.99 is the #1 gift pick — 4.70/5 from 2,837 buyers. Lab-tested gift guide for every budget from $79 to $219. Ships...

R36S Setup Guide 2026: How to Set Up Your R36S in 60 Seconds (Step-by-Step)

R36S Setup Guide 2026: How to Set Up Your R36S ...

Complete R36S setup guide for 2026. Charge, power on, navigate ArkOS, find your games, and adjust display settings. Ready to play in 60 seconds. iGC step-by-step tutorial.

R36S Setup Guide 2026: How to Set Up Your R36S ...

Complete R36S setup guide for 2026. Charge, power on, navigate ArkOS, find your games, and adjust display settings. Ready to play in 60 seconds. iGC step-by-step tutorial.

What Games Can the R36S Play? Complete 2026 Compatibility Guide

What Games Can the R36S Play? Complete 2026 Com...

Complete R36S game compatibility guide for 2026. GBA and SNES run at 100%. PS1 at 97%. N64 at 78%. Specific games tested by iGC lab across 15 emulation systems.

What Games Can the R36S Play? Complete 2026 Com...

Complete R36S game compatibility guide for 2026. GBA and SNES run at 100%. PS1 at 97%. N64 at 78%. Specific games tested by iGC lab across 15 emulation systems.

Shop by Need

Popular Handheld Consoles

Top-rated handheld consoles for beginners, everyday play, and all-around value.

Top Retro Handheld Consoles

Classic gaming handhelds selected for nostalgia, portability, and retro performance.

Top Consoles to Start With

Editor’s Picks

  • Best for Beginners


    R36S
    Easy to start with, affordable, and beginner-friendly.

  • Best for Performance


    R36PRO
    A stronger handheld for smoother gaming and better controls.

  • Best Overall


    R36MAX
    Balanced screen size, usability, and all-around gaming experience.

  • Best Premium Pick


    R36ULTRA
    A premium handheld console for enthusiasts and advanced users.

What to Do Next

Not sure which handheld console is right for you? Continue exploring our buying guides, compare popular models, or browse our handheld gaming collections.

Explore More Buying Guides

Compare Popular Models

Read Detailed Reviews

Shop Handheld Consoles

Buying Guides FAQ

What can I find in these buying guides?

Our buying guides cover handheld consoles, retro gaming devices, and portable gaming systems for different needs and budgets.

Are these guides suitable for beginners?

Yes, many guides are designed to help beginners choose their first handheld console.

Can I shop products from these guides?

Yes, our guides link directly to handheld console collections and product pages.