Kyle is a retro gaming enthusiast and lifelong gamer with over 10 years of experience in gaming peripherals. He is a contributor to several gaming media outlets, where he shares his love for the latest technology and developments in the gaming industry. He lives in California with his lizard, Dwayne.
Do you remember the golden age of video games? Browsing the colorful artwork behind the glass casing, obsessively reading the back of the box on the way home, and finally hearing the satisfying click of the cartridge snapping into place—that pure joy. No downloads, no internet—just hours of pure fun, right out of the box.
Now, you can relive the golden age of retro gaming and even satisfy your craving for the feel and nostalgia through a high-quality gaming stick! Grab a Capri Sun, relax, and let's take a trip down memory lane to see why gamers are so fascinated with all-in-one gaming devices.
So which retro gaming stick is right for you? Before spending a hefty sum on a compact device that lets you enjoy nostalgic games, what do you need to consider?
That's where we come in. We are dedicated to providing you with authentic, in-depth reviews of retro gaming sticks. We focus on the number of games, output resolution, wireless controls, types of emulators, portability, ease of setup, and compatibility to rank products, giving you the best references for your choice.
Our Top 5 Retro Gaming Sticks
Top 1
Boltz Retro Stick
4.8/5.0(3,681 reviews)
Pros
#1 on the Market
Up To 40,000 Games
Wireless Controllers
High-Definition 4K HDMI Output
No Internet Required
Easily Portable Design
Easy to Setup
Nostalgic Gaming for All Ages
Enhanced Visuals
User-friendly Interface
Gaming Anytime, Anywhere
Emulator Variety
Multiplayer Support
30-Day Money Back Guarantee
Supports multiple output such as TV, monitor and projector
Best Price for the Money, According to 96% of Verified Positive Reviews
Cons
Frequently sold out
Price:$59.99$119.98
50% OFF Now
2
Generic
4.1/5.0(2,921 reviews)
Pros
Wireless Controllers
4K HD Output
30 days Money Back Guarantee
Easy to Setup
Cons
Controller Not Sensitive
The controller has low battery life
Fewer games supported
Price:$79.99
3
Actualia Y6
3.8/5.0(2,235 reviews)
Pros
Rich Games
Wireless Controllers
4K HD Output
Easy to Setup
Good Battery Life
Cons
Poor Graphic Quality
Outdated design
High interface latency
Price:$58.99
4
Zhikulong Mini Box
3.4/5.0(1,942 reviews)
Pros
Retro Design
Wireless Controllers
4K HD Output
Easy to Setup
Good Battery Life
Cons
Games is not Rich
The controller is easily damaged
Price:$39.99
5
Bearway X2
3.1/5.0(1,521 reviews)
Pros
Wireless Controllers
4K HD Output
Rich Games
Easy to Setup
Cons
Poor Graphics
Stucks and lags
Sound Issues
Expensive
Price:$118.99
How do we review?
Our comparisons of products go through a rigorous review process, combining internal expertise with external research like product reviews and expert opinions. We rate them based on number of games, output resolution, wireless controls, types of emulators, portability, ease of setup, and compatibility, and customer service. So you can trust our recommendations.
We buy and test the most popular Retro Gaming Sticks products, that's why Boltz is #1
We tested all the popular retro gaming sticks on the market, and finally pick Boltz Retro Stick as the BEST product, as it offers you with the 20,0000 option in high-resolution 4K output, supports multiplayer, has compact and portable design, which is perfect for anyone, any place.
Highlighted Features of Boltz Retro Stick:
Vast Game Library with 20,000+ Classics
With over 20,000 classic games and 9 preloaded emulators, you can revisit the golden age of gaming without needing an internet connection.
Game Save Slots
Allows multiple save slots per game so you can switch between different saves files and share progress with others.
Bonus Cheat Features
Has built-in cheat features that let you easily unlock hidden levels and extra content.
Wireless 2.4GHz Controllers for Multiplayer Fun
Wireless controllers offer a low-latency, responsive gaming experience, eliminating clutter.
Crystal-Clear 4K HDMI Output
The 4K resolution ensures every pixel is crisp and clear for more immersive and visually engaging gaming sessions.
Designed for Gaming Anytime, Anywhere
Its compact, portable design allows you to take it on the go, whether you're heading to a friend's house, a family gathering, or a camping trip.
User-Friendly Setup
Anyone can start playing right away.
Multiplayer Supported
It allows for thrilling multiplayer action across a wide range of classic titles.
No Internet Required
No limitation before you enter the world of retro games.
Affordable price
especially with attractive time-limited 50% discount.
Perfect Gift
A nostalgic gift for gamers of all ages.
Just 3 steps to start the game
Step 1: Connect to TV, projector, or monitor
Plug the HDMI cable into the Boltz Retrostick and connect it to your TV's HDMI port.
Step 2: Power Up
Connect the console to a power source.
Step 3: Start Gaming!
Switch your TV to the correct HDMI input, navigate the menu, select a game, and start playing!
What do Boltz Retrostick users say?
VALUE FOR MONEY! MY SON LOVED IT!
"Very happy with this console purchase. Its price was very fair considering the large amount of games included and how easy it is to use."
BEST RETRO GAMING CONSOLE!
"It works well and definitely gives that nostalgic vibe! The controllers are also great. 100% recommended!"
A MUST FOR EVERY 90s KID
"If anyone is looking to give someone that used to play games in the 90s or early 20s a gift, this is it! It took me wayyyy back! Amazing!"
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does shipping take?
This is an American-owned business that doesn't believe it should take 45 days to receive your product from China. Orders are sent from our New Jersey warehouse via USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL for international customers depending on speed and efficiency of delivery. Product will be shipped within 48 business hours. Please allow between 5-7 days for standard delivery. You will be emailed a tracking link after your order is shipped. Thank you for your purchase!
How does the money back guarantee work?
Simply return your product and we'll give you a refund for 30 days.
How does the Boltz Retro Stick work?
Plug in the Stick: Connect Boltz Retro Stick to your TV or computer monitor's HDMI port.
Set Up the Controllers: Insert the USB receiver into the stick. Make sure to turn on the controllers with the on/off button.
Power Up: Use the micro USB cable to power the stick. You can plug it into a wall outlet, your PC, or directly into your TV.
Automatic Startup: Once powered, the console will start up on its own.
Navigation: Use the menu to select and organize your games, search for specific titles, or add favorites.
Save Your Progress: Never lose your game progress with the built-in save feature.
Memory Card: Ensure that the memory card, which contains the games, is securely plugged into the USB receiver. This step is crucial for accessing the game library.
What's included?
1* retro stick
1* Wireless Controllers
1* Wireless Signal Receiver
1* USB Charging Cable
1* HDMI Extension Cable
1* Memory Card
1* User Guide
Does it support multiplayer?
Absolutely! Our consoles support up to 4 controllers, allowing for thrilling multiplayer action across a wide range of classic titles.
What is the resolution?
Experience premium visuals with our console, boasting breathtaking 4K HD display, seamless gaming at 60Hz, and ultra-sharp resolution of 1280*720p.
Do these work on other televisions without 4K?
They work on any TV as long as it has an HDMI input.
Do I have the ability to save my progress?
Yes, pressing select + start during gameplay brings up a menu to continue, exit, save, and load a game state.
Does it require an internet connection of any kind?
You can play without any internet connection.
What are the differences between the game bundles?
The 8,000 option includes a basic selection of popular classic games, offering a wide range of genres and consoles.
With the 20,0000 option, you'll find an expanded library that includes all games from the 8,000 package plus additional games. This package includes all of the consoles but some with limited games. This is perfect for the dedicated gamer who wants the most comprehensive gaming library.
Don't Leave Classic Gaming Stuck in The Past!
The Boltz Retro Stick is a perfect mix of nostalgia and modern technology. With its 40,000+ built-in games, high-quality 4K output, and wireless controllers, it provides an immersive, convenient, and flexible retro gaming experience. Whether you're playing solo during your daily leisure time, entertaining family and friends, or enjoying it during outings, the Boltz Retro Stick ensures endless gaming fun without needing an internet connection.
Whether you're revisiting your favorite childhood games or discovering them for the first time, Boltz Retro Stick is a worthy, no, the perfect choice.
The best part is, the Boltz is offering a time-limited discount on its website - 50% OFF - based on the original price $119.98. With this discount, you can get your at ONLY $59.99!
However, be cautious of counterfeit products online. To ensure you're getting the genuine Boltz Retro Stick and not some cheap knockoff, make sure to order only from their official website. Click the button below and you'll be navigated to their website.