Digiretro Digi RetroBoy

The Digiretro Digi RetroBoy is a horizontal retro handheld launched in 2018 for players who want to relive classic games simply, without modern complications. Instead of a general-purpose chip, it uses a proprietary SoC built around ARM7 and ARM9 cores running at 16.7 MHz, paired with DRAM and a dedicated GPU targeting 60 fps. This hardware-based approach makes Game Boy Advance its ceiling. Its library covers Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance, plus the Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Master System, Sega Game Gear and Sega Genesis / Mega Drive.

The 3-inch TFT display runs at 480 x 320 (HVGA) with a 3:2 aspect ratio, about 192 ppi and a 60 Hz refresh rate. The 3:2 shape suits Game Boy Advance titles particularly well, delivering a clear image for classic 2D games. The screen sits behind a plastic lens.

The controls follow a traditional layout, with a cross-style D-pad in the upper position, four face buttons and L1/R1 shoulder buttons. There are no analog sticks and no rumble. Dedicated buttons handle brightness, switching between LCD and TV output, and turbo, while volume uses a slider and power uses a physical switch. The plastic body measures 130 x 65 x 19 mm and weighs just 110 g, so it slips easily into a bag or a large pocket.

Power comes from a 1000 mAh battery, which is enough for short sessions on the go, and charging is via Micro USB. Sound comes from a single front-facing mono speaker, with a 3.5 mm headphone jack for private listening. AV out lets you play on a TV, and a GBA Link Cable port is included for linked play.

Games are loaded from a microSD card, and the RetroBoy runs proprietary firmware designed for plug-and-play use: insert the card, power on and play. Because the system is closed, there is little room for tinkering or modding compared with Linux- or Android-based handhelds.

Ideal for: nostalgic players and collectors who want a light, simple handheld focused on Game Boy Advance and classic 8-bit and 16-bit Nintendo and Sega games, with TV output and link-cable support, at a price of around $104.