Oct 27, 2026
Gaming does not have to be expensive. Whether you want to play modern console games, revisit your classic favourites, or keep children entertained with interactive activities, Gadinsider has rounded up five gaming consoles worth considering in 2026.
Each option offers a different gaming experience, so the right choice depends on your budget, preferred games and how you plan to play.
Best affordable gaming consoles at a glance
- Best overall: Xbox Series S
- Best for portable retro gaming: Wsifybt Retro Handheld Gaming Console
- Best for TV-based retro gaming: LIUWEI New Retro Gaming Console
- Best value: RG34XX Retro Handheld Game Console
- Best for kids and family play: ULOVINGST AR Motion Gaming Console
1. Xbox Series S
The Xbox Series S is a perfect choice for gamers who want a modern console experience without paying for a premium gaming system.
Its compact design, solid-state storage and support for a broad digital game library make it suitable for casual players and those who want to play more demanding titles.
Specs
- Storage: 512GB custom NVMe SSD
- Gaming performance: Up to 120 FPS in supported games
- Game format: Digital downloads; no disc drive
- Key features: Quick Resume, Xbox Velocity Architecture, DirectX ray tracing support and backward compatibility
- Connectivity: HDMI and wireless connectivity
- Included accessories: Xbox Wireless Controller, HDMI cable, power cable and two AA batteries
Performance
The Xbox Series S offers a substantial step up from basic retro consoles, with faster loading times and access to modern games. Its custom SSD and Xbox Velocity Architecture help reduce waiting times, while Quick Resume allows players to switch between supported games and pick up where they left off.
Pros
- Offers modern gaming performance
- Quick Resume and SSD storage
- Includes wireless controller and essential cables
- Provides access to large digital game library
Cons
- Does not support physical game discs
Today's best deals
Xbox Series S — View at Amazon
2. Wsifybt Retro Handheld Gaming Console
The Wsifybt Retro Handheld Gaming Console is designed for those who prefer classic-style gaming in a portable format. Its compact body, square display and dual joysticks make it an option for gaming during commutes, travel or quiet breaks at home.
Specs
- Processor: RK3326 64-bit quad-core processor, according to the listing
- Display: 4-inch HD IPS screen
- Resolution: 720 × 720 pixels
- Operating system: Linux-based
- Battery capacity: 4,000mAh
- Battery life: Six to eight hours
- Controls: Dual 3D joysticks and physical buttons
Performance
The Wsifybt handheld combines a relatively large 4-inch display with a portable design. Its square screen can suit certain retro gaming formats, while the dual joysticks provide additional control options for games that benefit from analogue input.
Pros
- Portable design for gaming away from home
- Four-inch IPS display with 720 × 720 resolution
- Dual joysticks for more flexible controls
- Large battery capacity
Cons
- Game compatibility and performance may vary
Today's best deals
Wsifybt Retro Handheld Gaming Console — View at Amazon
3. LIUWEI New Retro Gaming Console
The LIUWEI New Retro Gaming Console is a plug-and-play game stick intended for players who want to revisit classic games on a larger screen. Instead of carrying a handheld device, users connect the console to a compatible display and play using the included wireless controllers.
Specs
- Game library: More than 20,000 games
- Video output: HDMI
- Resolution: 4K output
- Controllers: Two 2.4GHz wireless controllers
- Setup: Plug and play
- Internet requirement: No internet connection is needed for its preloaded games
Performance
The LIUWEI game stick focuses on convenience. Its HDMI connection is intended to make setup straightforward, while two wireless controllers allow two people to play together without needing separate accessories.
The preloaded library may appeal to families and nostalgic gamers who want quick access to a variety of older titles.
Pros
- Connects to compatible TV or display through HDMI
- Includes two wireless controllers for local multiplayer
- Designed for quick setup
Cons
- 4K output does not guarantee native 4K gaming
Today's best deals
LIUWEI New Retro Gaming Console — View at Amazon
4. RG34XX Retro Handheld Game Console
The RG34XX Retro Handheld Game Console is a compact handheld console built around a classic gaming-inspired design. Its 3.4-inch display, listed 96GB storage configuration and lightweight body make it an option for players who want to carry their games in a pocket or bag.
Specs
- Display: 3.4-inch IPS screen
- Resolution: 720 × 480 pixels
- Processor: H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53
- Storage: 32GB internal memory card and 64GB external memory card
- Operating system: Linux
- Battery life: Up to eight hours
- Connectivity and features: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth controller support, wired and 2.4GHz wireless controller support
Performance
The console combines a portable form factor with hardware intended for retro gaming. Its 3.4-inch IPS display offers a 720 × 480 resolution, while the H700 processor and 1GB of RAM are designed to run compatible games and emulation software.
The 32GB and 64GB memory cards provide room for system files and games, although usable capacity and the preinstalled library should be checked with the seller.
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design for travel
- Quad-core processor and 1GB of RAM
- 96GB storage configuration
Cons
- 3.4-inch screen may feel small for some players
- Not designed to match performance of modern home consoles
Today's best deals
RG34XX Retro Handheld Game Console — View at Amazon
5. ULOVINGST AR Motion Gaming Console
The ULOVINGST AR Motion Gaming Console takes a different approach to affordable gaming. Instead of relying entirely on traditional button controls, it uses a motion-sensing camera to let players interact with games through body movements.
Specs
- Target age group: Children aged four to 12
- Included games: More than 20 preloaded games
- Game types: Sports, puzzles, adventure and educational activities
- Players: Single-player and two-player modes
- Connection: HDMI
- Motion control: Camera-based movement tracking
- Subscription: No subscription required
Performance
The ULOVINGST console is designed to encourage movement through interactive games. Its camera-based controls allow players to use body movements rather than relying solely on a conventional controller.
This could make it an entertaining option for family game nights, indoor play or short activity breaks when outdoor play is not practical.
Pros
- Motion-based games
- Includes more than 20 games
- Supports solo and two-player modes
- No paid subscription
Cons
- Motion-sensing experience depend on room layout and lighting
Today's best deals
ULOVINGST AR Motion Gaming Console — View at Amazon
