Which Retro Console Should You Buy in 2026? Top 5 Picks

Retro gaming continues to grow in popularity as more players discover the incredible libraries of previous console generations. From classic Nintendo multiplayer games to PlayStation adventures and Sega arcade hits, there's never been a better time to explore retro gaming.

But with so many systems available, which retro console should you buy in 2026?

At Gamers Go Retro, we buy, sell, test, and refurbish retro video game consoles every day. We've put together five of our favorite systems, comparing their games, features, affordability, and what makes each one special.

Best Retro Consoles in 2026: Quick Comparison

Not sure where to start? Here's how our five picks compare. Prices are starting prices referenced in this guide and may vary depending on availability and condition.

1. PlayStation 2 (PS2) – Best Overall Retro Console

The almighty PlayStation 2. Widely considered one of the greatest consoles of all time, the PS2 earned its reputation through an enormous library of high-quality games, impressive hardware, and a design that helped define an entire generation of gaming.

The PS2 helped bridge the gap between early 3D gaming and the increasingly ambitious worlds that followed. It remains the best-selling video game console of all time, and it's easy to understand why.

Our PS2 consoles are fully refurbished, including replacement lasers as part of our refurbishment service, thorough internal cleaning, testing, and a 90-day warranty. With consoles starting around $149.99, the PS2 is our top recommendation for anyone looking to get into retro gaming.

Our favorite model is the PS2 Slim. Smaller and lighter than the original console, it offers excellent portability while retaining access to the incredible PS2 game library.

If you're a horror fan, the PS2 is a fantastic place to start. Games like Silent Hill 2 and Silent Hill 3 deliver unforgettable psychological horror, while Resident Evil 4 offers a more action-oriented experience.

The PS2 is also backward compatible with the vast majority of original PlayStation games, opening the door to classics like Final Fantasy VII and Parasite Eve. With roughly 1,800 North American PS2 releases, there's an extraordinary amount to explore.

Our verdict: If you're buying just one retro console in 2026, the PlayStation 2 is our number one choice for its huge library, versatility, and overall value.

2. Nintendo 64 (N64) – Best for Multiplayer Gaming

Nintendo's leap into fully 3D console gaming gave us the Nintendo 64, named after its 64-bit processor. Although the N64 has a relatively small game library compared with the PlayStation 2, it more than makes up for it with unforgettable Nintendo classics.

One of the N64's greatest features is its four built-in controller ports. Unlike many consoles of its era, the N64 made local multiplayer incredibly accessible without needing an additional adapter.

We sell refurbished, tested, and thoroughly cleaned Nintendo 64 consoles starting around $134.99, including a controller and the necessary cables.

Another reason we love the N64 is its durability. Its cartridge-based design eliminates the optical disc drive found in many later consoles, removing one common point of failure. Like any aging electronics, power supplies, connectors, and internal components can still require maintenance.

The N64 uses a Jumper Pak or Expansion Pak in its memory expansion bay. Most games work with the standard Jumper Pak, while certain titles benefit from or require the Expansion Pak.

For platforming, it's difficult to beat Super Mario 64, one of the most influential 3D games ever made. Bomberman Hero is another excellent choice for players looking for something different.

For multiplayer, Mario Party 2 and Mario Party 3 remain fantastic party games. If you're feeling competitive, the original Super Smash Bros. introduced the legendary Nintendo fighting series that continues today.

Our verdict: If you want a retro console to enjoy with friends and family, the Nintendo 64 is one of the best choices you can make.

3. PlayStation Portable (PSP) – Best Handheld Retro Console

Sony's first handheld gaming system arrived with a bang. The PlayStation Portable wasn't just a portable gaming console; it was also a multimedia entertainment device years ahead of its time.

The PSP allowed players to enjoy music, videos, UMD movies, and even browse the internet. At launch, its graphics were remarkably impressive for a handheld system.

Three main UMD-based models became particularly popular: the PSP-1000, PSP-2000, and PSP-3000.

The original PSP-1000 has a thicker, more substantial design and 32MB of RAM. The PSP-2000 introduced a slimmer body, 64MB of RAM, and TV output support. The PSP-3000 further improved the display, including enhanced color reproduction, and added a built-in microphone.

Our personal favorite is the PSP-3000, thanks to its vibrant screen, lightweight design, and excellent overall experience.

The PSP features an impressive collection of original games alongside portable adaptations of popular home-console franchises. LittleBigPlanet captures the creativity of the late 2000s, while games like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII demonstrate just how capable the handheld was.

Compared with its main competitor, the Nintendo DS, the PSP emphasized more powerful graphics and a home-console-style gaming experience. Both systems have excellent libraries, but the PSP remains especially impressive from a technical perspective.

Our refurbished PSP consoles typically range from $139.99 to $159.99, depending on the model and condition.

Our verdict: If you want to take your retro gaming collection anywhere, the PSP is an excellent choice, especially the PSP-3000.

4. Nintendo GameCube – Best for Nintendo Exclusives

Few consoles inspire as much nostalgia among our customers as the Nintendo GameCube. Although it struggled to compete commercially with the hugely successful PlayStation 2, the GameCube has since become one of Nintendo's most beloved retro systems.

Nintendo focused heavily on creating memorable first-party games, resulting in classics like Pikmin, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.

The GameCube featured a compact, distinctive design complete with a carrying handle. It used Nintendo's proprietary small optical discs rather than standard DVDs, and unlike the PS2, it wasn't designed to play DVD movies.

The system didn't include built-in online connectivity, although optional broadband and modem adapters supported networking features in a limited selection of games.

What makes the GameCube special in 2026 is its unique library. Games like Pikmin, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles still offer memorable experiences today.

And then there's the controller. Its unusual button layout might look strange at first, but its ergonomic design has become iconic. The original GameCube controller remains a favorite among competitive Super Smash Bros. players.

Our cleaned, tested, and refurbished GameCube console bundles start from around $139.99.

Our verdict: If you love Nintendo's first-party games, colorful adventures, and unique hardware, the GameCube deserves a place in your collection.

5. Sega Genesis – Best Budget Retro Console

The Sega Genesis represents the glory days of Sega's legendary rivalry with Nintendo. During the early 1990s, Sega and Nintendo battled for gaming dominance, producing some of the most memorable games and consoles ever made.

The Genesis was all about bringing the arcade experience home. Its fast-paced action games, distinctive sound, and sleek black design made it stand out from the competition.

One of our favorite things about the Genesis is its simplicity. Insert a cartridge, switch on the console, and start playing. No downloads, updates, or loading screens.

It's also a remarkably durable system. The cartridge-based hardware has fewer moving parts than disc-based consoles, and its dark exterior often ages more gracefully than the light-colored plastic used on some competing systems.

The Genesis is particularly strong when it comes to arcade-style action and beat 'em ups. Games like Streets of Rage 2, Spider-Man and Venom: Maximum Carnage, and The Punisher offer tremendous replay value.

And of course, no Genesis collection would be complete without mentioning Sonic the Hedgehog, one of gaming's most recognizable icons.

Our fully serviced Sega Genesis consoles start from just $59.99, including a controller, cables, and our 90-day warranty.

Another collecting tip: Genesis versions of certain games released on both Sega and Super Nintendo can sometimes cost less than their SNES counterparts. It's always worth comparing prices before purchasing.

Our verdict: For affordable retro gaming, arcade action, and classic cartridge-based fun, the Sega Genesis offers exceptional value.

So, Which Retro Console Should You Buy?

Every console on this list has something special to offer. The right choice depends on the games you enjoy, your budget, and how you plan to play.

• Best overall: PlayStation 2, for its enormous library and backward compatibility.
• Best for multiplayer: Nintendo 64, for unforgettable four-player gaming.
• Best handheld: PSP, for impressive portable PlayStation gaming.
• Best Nintendo exclusives: GameCube, for its unique first-party library.
• Best budget option: Sega Genesis, for affordable arcade-style classics.

If we had to recommend just one, we'd choose the PlayStation 2. Its incredible selection of games, backward compatibility, and affordable hardware make it one of the best starting points for retro gaming.

There are so many incredible retro consoles that narrowing the list down to five wasn't easy. Whether you're rediscovering childhood favorites or exploring classic games for the first time, there's a retro console waiting for you.

Browse our available consoles at Gamers Go Retro , and follow us on Instagram @gamersgoretro for inventory updates, sales, and retro gaming content.