Choosing the right retro gaming handheld can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. To make things simple, we have compared our three best-selling consoles side by side: the R36S, the R36S Max and the R36S Ultra.
Each of these handhelds plays over 40,000 classic games from more than 20 systems, including PlayStation, Sega Mega Drive, Game Boy Advance, SNES, Arcade and many more. The differences come down to screen size, battery life, connectivity and price. Let's break it down.
Quick Specs Comparison
| Spec | R36S | R36S Max | R36S Ultra |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 3.5" IPS | 4.0" IPS | 4.0" IPS |
| Battery | 3500mAh (6+ hrs) | 5000mAh (8+ hrs) | 3500mAh (6+ hrs) |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB | 128GB |
| WiFi | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Bluetooth | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Games | 40,000+ | 40,000+ | 40,000+ |
| Form Factor | Vertical | Horizontal | Horizontal |
| Free Case | ✔ | ✘ | ✘ |
| Price | £44.89 | £49.48 | £58.67 |
1. R36S — Best Budget Option
The R36S is our number one seller for good reason. At just £44.89, it offers incredible value with a sharp 3.5-inch IPS screen, 128GB of storage loaded with over 40,000 games, and a solid 6-hour battery life. It comes with a free protective hardcase, which is a nice bonus you won't find with the other two.
The vertical form factor is compact and pocketable, reminiscent of the original Game Boy. It is available in eight different colours, so there's something for everyone.
Best for: First-time buyers, gift-givers, and anyone who wants a reliable retro handheld without spending a fortune. With 327 reviews and a 4.9-star rating, it's proven itself to be a crowd favourite.
2. R36S Max — Best Battery & Bigger Screen
The R36S Max steps things up with a larger 4.0-inch IPS display and a massive 5000mAh battery that lasts over 8 hours on a single charge. If you plan on long gaming sessions — whether commuting, travelling or just relaxing on the sofa — the Max has the stamina to keep going.
It uses a horizontal (landscape) layout, similar to a PSP or Nintendo Switch Lite. This makes it particularly comfortable for side-scrolling games and fighting games where you need quick access to all buttons.
Best for: Gamers who want a bigger screen and longer battery life, or anyone who prefers a horizontal grip. At £49.48, it's only a few pounds more than the R36S.
3. R36S Ultra — Best Features
The R36S Ultra is the feature-packed option. It matches the Max's 4.0-inch screen but adds WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, something neither the R36S nor the Max offers. WiFi means you can transfer files wirelessly and keep your game library updated without fiddling with SD cards. Bluetooth opens up the option for wireless headphones or external controllers.
The Ultra also features a premium build quality with a refined finish that feels a step above the standard models. Despite the extra features, it comes in at £58.67 — a worthwhile step up from the base R36S.
Best for: Tech-savvy gamers who value wireless connectivity and a premium feel, or anyone who wants the most features for their money.
So, Which One Should You Pick?
- Choose the R36S if you want the best value, a compact vertical design, and a free protective case included.
- Choose the R36S Max if battery life and a bigger screen matter most to you.
- Choose the R36S Ultra if you want WiFi, Bluetooth and a premium build at an excellent price.
Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of them. They all play the same massive library of 40,000+ retro games across 20+ classic systems. The real question is which features matter most to you.
All three handhelds come pre-loaded and ready to play out of the box. No setup, no downloads, no hassle — just turn it on and start gaming.
If you're still unsure, the R36S is the safest bet. It's our best seller for a reason, and with the free case included, it's the best overall package for most people. Browse the full range in our shop and see which one catches your eye.
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