Linux handhelds
53 handhelds that ship with Linux firmware. Linux handhelds boot straight into an emulator menu: copy your games to the card and play, with no app store or account in between. The trade-off is less flexibility than Android.
53 handhelds
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- 3.5″ 4:3 IPS screen, drawn to scale
- 2.4″ 4:3 IPS screen, drawn to scale
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- 3″ 4:3 IPS screen, drawn to scale
- 4″ 1:1 IPS screen, drawn to scale
- 3.5″ 4:3 IPS screen, drawn to scale
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Prices updated Oct 4, 20:13 UTC. Shop links may be affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
How to choose
Most Linux handhelds use budget chips, so check the emulation ratings for the heaviest system you want first. Many also run community firmware that adds features over the stock system; each model's page shows what the stock firmware runs according to the reviews we cite.
Questions
Linux or Android for a retro handheld?
Linux is simpler: it boots into a game menu and needs little setup. Android takes more setup but adds app-store emulators, streaming apps and native Android games.