The 90s were a magical time in gaming. From Super Mario World and Donkey Kong Country on the Super Nintendo, to Sonic the Hedgehog and Streets of Rage on the Sega Genesis, the era was packed with classics that shaped generations. Thankfully, you don’t have to track down old hardware to relive those moments — today’s retro consoles make it easy to play the games you love with modern convenience.
Here are the best retro consoles you can buy in 2025 to bring the 90s gaming experience back to life.
Quick Comparison Table
| Console | Price | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenpos SNES Classic Edition | ~$159 | Best Nintendo Nostalgia | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Sega Genesis Mini | ~$199 | Best Sega Experience | ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ |
| Atari Flashback 12 Gold | ~$89 | Best Variety Pick | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| WELLST·G Portable Handheld | ~$35 | Best Budget-Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
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Lenpos SNES Classic Edition – Best Nintendo Nostalgia
Nintendo’s SNES Classic defined the 16-bit generation, and this licensed Lenpos edition recreates the magic with a modern twist. Preloaded with 21 original SNES games, including Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and the once-unreleased Star Fox 2, it’s as authentic as it gets.
This console connects to any modern HDTV via HDMI, delivering sharper visuals and more vibrant colors than ever before. It also includes a save/load function so you don’t have to start over every time.
If you want a quick ticket back to the golden Nintendo days, this is the must-have retro console.
Sega Genesis Mini – Best Sega Experience
For anyone who grew up shouting “Sega!” when the logo flashed across the screen, the Sega Genesis Mini is the ultimate retro trip. With 42 built-in games, including Sonic the Hedgehog, Golden Axe, Virtua Fighter 2, and Streets of Rage 2, this little console packs a massive punch.
It includes two wired Genesis controllers and connects directly to your TV via HDMI, making it plug-and-play ready. The design faithfully recreates the original Genesis system, right down to the look and feel of the hardware.
Perfect for Sega loyalists, this is the closest you’ll get to reliving those classic 90s battles.
Atari Flashback 12 Gold – Best Variety Pick
If you want sheer volume of retro games, the Atari Flashback 12 Gold is unbeatable. It comes preloaded with 130 classic titles like Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, Pitfall, and River Raid.
The bundle includes both joysticks and paddle controllers, giving you authentic gameplay for different titles. HDMI output makes setup quick and easy, and save/load functions mean you can pick up exactly where you left off.
While Atari predates the 90s, many of these classics were still staples in the arcades and homes of the decade, making this a fantastic value option for anyone wanting a massive retro library.
WELLST·G Portable Handheld – Best Budget-Friendly
Not every retro console needs to sit under the TV. The WELLST·G handheld console is a compact, kid-friendly system that includes 220 built-in games. Styled with a mini-arcade look, it’s lightweight, rechargeable, and perfect for travel.
The handheld has a 3.0-inch LCD screen, loud speakers, and an ergonomic design that’s easy for both kids and adults to enjoy. It’s not tied to a specific platform like Nintendo or Sega, but as a budget-friendly option under $40, it’s a fun and affordable way to introduce younger gamers to retro-style play.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Retro Console
Before picking up a retro console, here’s what to think about:
- Library of Games: Nintendo and Sega focus on iconic franchises, while Atari offers huge variety. Handhelds pack in casual classics.
- Setup: Do you want a plug-and-play TV console, or a portable handheld?
- Controllers: Authentic feel matters. Sega and Nintendo mini consoles come with original-style controllers, while budget handhelds keep things simple.
- Budget: Prices range from $35 for handhelds to nearly $200 for top-tier consoles.
The 90s were one of the greatest decades in gaming history, and thanks to these retro consoles, you can relive it without hunting for old cartridges. Whether you’re loyal to Nintendo, grew up with Sega, or just want hundreds of games in one box, these consoles deliver nostalgia in the best way possible.
