TrimUI Smart Pro The TrimUI Smart Pro is a fantastic 16:9 handheld that can reach below $50 on sale. It can handle everything up to the PS/N64, and you'll have to pay double for anything better.
As someone who grew up playing retro games, I was over the moon when I first found out I could install emulators on my Android phone years ago. What could possibly be better than playing the classics on the same device I use dozens of times a day for every other task?
Well, it turns out that a smooth rectangle isn’t the best for gaming. I still dabbled in emulation, but in general, I found myself favoring native Android games over my favorite retro titles.
So on a whim, I bought a cheap gaming handheld, the TrimUI Smart Pro ($95.99 at Amazon), and it’s been a transformative experience. At this point, I have uninstalled every emulator on my phone in favor of an incredibly simple Linux device that cost me just under $50 on sale.
Note: This review was first published in November 2024, but the device may now cost more in the US due to the removal of the de minimis exemption and additional tariffs levied on products from China.
The perfect retro companion
Nick Fernandez / Android Authority
While my phone runs games far better than my new budget handheld, at the end of the day, it’s just a phone. I don’t like playing retro games with touchscreen controls, so I usually attach a Razer Kishi or connect a Bluetooth controller. This is convenient, but it adds friction to the experience. To make matters worse, my sessions are often interrupted by notifications or the pull of other addictive apps.
Now, I should point out that I already have an ASUS ROG Ally, but for me, that feels like a much heavier experience, both on the hardware and software side. The limitations of Windows mean I can’t really pick it up and play for short periods of time, and the lack of a sleep state for emulation adds even more friction than my phone. It’s an incredible device, but it’s overkill for retro gaming.
So when the TrimUI Smart Pro was on sale for $45 earlier this month, I took a chance. Even if I only played for a few hours a week, it was easy to justify the expense. After all, it’s cheaper than a Razer Kishi and most other mobile-first controllers. It’s actually even cheaper than my phone case!
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