You remember that warm glow of a CRT TV and the satisfying click of a cartridge slot. But your modern flat-screen has never seen a pixelated plumber or a pixelated dragon. The problem is that most new TVs lack the inputs and the soul for classic gaming. That is where these retro gaming consoles step in. They plug directly into your TV’s HDMI port and bring back thousands of titles from the 80s and 90s. In this guide, we review two top-rated options that let you relive those memories without hunting down old hardware. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, these devices will turn your TV into a time machine.

For more on pairing your TV with the right gaming gear, check out our best gaming TVs for PS5 guide. But for retro gaming, you need a console that handles the classics.

Buying Guide

Game Library Size and Variety

The heart of any retro console is its built-in game collection. Look for a unit that offers at least 20,000 titles and supports multiple emulators. Both products here pack that many games, covering arcade, NES, SNES, Sega, and more. A larger library means you will never run out of classics to explore.

Video Output Quality

Your TV’s resolution matters. A 4K HDMI output ensures crisp visuals on modern screens, while 1080p still looks great. The consoles we reviewed both support 4K upscaling, so pixel art appears sharp without losing that retro charm. For more on display performance, see our best 4K gaming TVs article.

Controller Comfort and Connectivity

Wireless controllers free you from tangled cables. Both products include dual 2.4 GHz controllers with low latency. Make sure the controllers feel good in your hands and have a decent range (around 40 feet). You want to play from the couch without lag.

Ease of Setup

You should be gaming within minutes, not hours. Look for a plug-and-play stick that requires no downloads or network. Just connect to HDMI, power it up, and the game menu appears. Both consoles we reviewed offer this simplicity. For a broader look at gaming TVs, visit our best gaming TVs page.

Final Thoughts

Both the Wireless Retro Gaming Console Built-in 20,000 and the Retro Gaming Console 4K HDMI for TV deliver a fantastic trip down memory lane. The ANGFA model stands out with its slightly larger build and extra game variety, while the Cesanto version offers a compact, budget-friendly alternative. Whichever you choose, you will transform your modern TV into a retro arcade. If you need a new TV to pair with it, check out our TVs category for top recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use these retro consoles on any TV?

Yes, as long as your TV has an HDMI port. Both consoles support 4K and 1080p output, so they work with most modern TVs. Just plug them in and switch to the correct HDMI input.

Do I need an internet connection to play the games?

No, all games are stored on the included TF card. No downloads or Wi-Fi required. You can play offline immediately after setup.

How many players can play at once?

Both consoles come with two wireless controllers, supporting two-player simultaneous play. You can enjoy classic multiplayer games with a friend or family member.

Will these consoles work with my 4K TV in 2026?

Absolutely. They output up to 4K resolution, so they look great on the latest 4K TVs. The upscaling ensures pixel art remains crisp without blurring. For more on 4K gaming, see our best 4K gaming TVs guide.