R36S Console

Introduction to the R36S console

The R36S is much more than just a portable retro console. It quickly established itself as one of the benchmarks in the world of retro-gaming thanks to its catalog of more than 15,000 integrated games , its high-definition IPS screen and its versatility in terms of emulation .

Unlike other competing consoles, the R36S was designed to offer an experience faithful to the original consoles, while remaining practical, modern and accessible.

In a rapidly growing market, where players are looking to recapture the magic of the 80s, 90s and 2000s, the R36S has become the preferred choice for fans of video game nostalgia .

History and origin of the R36S

The R36S emerged from the open-source console movement and the community of retro-gaming enthusiasts.

Originally, these consoles were reserved for experienced users, capable of installing their own firmware and adding their own games. But the R36S democratized this concept by offering a product ready to play right out of the box , with a clear interface and a huge pre-installed game library.

The presence of ArkOS and RetroArch makes it an open and customizable machine, which appeals to both beginner gamers and experts who like to modify their systems.

The technical specifications of the R36S in detail

The R36S console is not limited to its game library. Its solid technical specifications place it among the best current portable retro consoles:

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  3.5-inch IPS screen – 640×480 px resolution, optimized brightness and wide viewing angles.
  
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  Powerful processor – Sufficient to emulate consoles ranging from the NES to the PSP.
  
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  Dual operating system (ArkOS + RetroArch) – Easy to use, flexible and customizable.
  
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  Expandable storage – Available in 64GB or 128GB, with the option to add SD cards.
  
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  Removable and rechargeable battery via USB-C – Up to 5 hours of continuous playtime.
  
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  Stereo sound – Built-in speakers and headphone jack for complete immersion.
  
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  Connectivity – HDMI port for playing on a big screen, USB connectivity for updates.
  

These specifications show that the R36S is not just a “nostalgia” console, but a technically robust product designed to last.

R36S and retro-gaming: why is it so appealing?

The success of the R36S rests on several key elements:

1. 
   Nostalgia for gamers : reliving Mario, Sonic, Zelda or Pokémon means rediscovering childhood emotions.
   
2. 
   A huge catalogue : more than 15,000 games covering around thirty consoles.
   
3. 
   Total portability : lightweight, compact and robust, the R36S can be taken anywhere.
   
4. 
   An experience without ads or microtransactions : unlike current mobile games, the R36S offers pure and distraction-free immersion.
   
5. 
   Unbeatable value for money : with its performance and content, it rivals much more expensive consoles.
   

R36S vs other retro handheld consoles

The market for portable retro consoles is booming, with several brands like Anbernic, Retroid, and Miyoo . Let's compare the R36S with its main competitors.

R36S vs RG35XX (Anbernic)

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  R36S : HD IPS screen, dual OS, longer battery life, 15,000 games included.
  
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  RG35XX : good build quality, but more limited catalog by default.
  
  👉 Verdict: the R36S is more complete right out of the box, while the RG35XX often requires more configuration.
  

R36S vs Retroid Pocket

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  R36S : simple to use, clear interface, ideal for beginners and families.
  
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  Retroid Pocket : more powerful for some 3D games, but more complex interface and higher price.
  
  👉 Verdict: the R36S is the best choice for those who want to play quickly without complicated settings.
  

R36S vs Miyoo Mini+

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  R36S : Extended battery life, more memory, brighter screen.
  
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  Miyoo Mini+ : even smaller size, very portable but reduced battery life.
  
  👉 Verdict: the R36S is more balanced and versatile, the Miyoo Mini+ focuses on ultra-portability.
  

These comparisons show that the R36S offers the best compromise between simplicity, performance and price .

Consoles supported by the R36S

One of the R36S's greatest strengths is its broad compatibility with retro consoles . Here's an overview of the supported systems:

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  Nintendo : NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo 64, DS.
  
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  Sony : PlayStation 1, PSP.
  
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  Sega : Mega Drive, Master System, Game Gear, Dreamcast (depending on certain titles).
  
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  Capcom & Arcade : CPS1, CPS2, CPS3, MAME, Neo Geo.
  
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  Others : Atari, PC Engine, Wonderswan, MSX and more.
  

This versatility makes the R36S a portable library of video game history , capable of satisfying all generations of gamers.

User experience with the R36S

The R36S was designed to offer a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience.

From the moment you pick it up, you notice the quality of the build : a solid ABS casing, responsive buttons, and precise joysticks. Its compact size (3.5 inches) fits comfortably in the hand, for both adults and children.

The HD IPS screen is a real advantage compared to many competitors. The colors are vibrant, the contrasts are balanced, and the viewing angles allow for comfortable gaming, even outdoors.

In terms of battery life, the removable battery offers up to 5 hours of continuous gameplay . And thanks to the USB-C port, charging is fast and universal.

In summary, the R36S combines portability, comfort and durability , making it ideal for impromptu gaming sessions, while traveling or at home.

How do I add games to the R36S?

One of the advantages of the R36S is its flexibility . Although it comes with over 15,000 pre-installed games, it is possible to add new titles.

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  Via SD card : simply transfer the compatible game files into the designated folders.
  
• 
  RetroArch compatibility : Advanced users can install other emulators or customize settings.
  
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  Easy organization : games are classified by console, making it easy to quickly find your favorite titles.
  

👉 Warning: It is recommended to only add games for which you hold the legal rights. The R36S is a powerful tool, but its use must remain responsible.

R36S for children and families

The R36S isn't just for retro-gaming enthusiasts. It's also a family console that appeals to all generations.

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  For children :
  
  The controls are simple, the interface is clear, and the games have no ads or in-app purchases. It's a safe console that introduces young children to the world of video games.
  
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  For parents :
  
  This is an opportunity to share their childhood memories with their children, by playing Mario, Zelda, Sonic or Pokémon together.
  
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  For families :
  
  The R36S becomes a travel console, perfect for keeping young and old entertained during journeys or holidays.
  

With its robust design and ease of use, the R36S is suitable for all ages .

The R36S community

Beyond the product itself, the R36S benefits from a strong community of enthusiasts . On forums and specialized groups, users share their tips, configurations, and gaming discoveries.

This active community allows the console to constantly evolve:

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  Firmware updates are offered regularly.
  
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  Installation guides help beginners customize their console.
  
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  Graphics and sound mods enhance the experience.
  

👉 For a player, joining this community means accessing a world of sharing and continuous improvement.

Why choose the R36S in 2025?

In 2025, retro gaming is more popular than ever. While modern consoles focus on performance and 4K graphics, the R36S offers something different:

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  An authentic, gameplay-focused experience .
  
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  Immediate simplicity : turn it on and play, without endless updates.
  
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  A unique added value : thousands of games accessible in your pocket, for a very competitive price.
  

The R36S is therefore positioned as the ideal choice for anyone who wants to relive their childhood memories or discover the golden age of video games without breaking the bank.

Tips for using the R36S properly

To get the most out of your console, here are a few simple tips:

1. 
   Optimize the battery
   
   
   Avoid playing while charging.
   
   
   Easily replace the battery if it loses capacity.
   
   
   
2. 
   Organize your games
   
   
   Create folders by genre or console to quickly find your favorites.
   
   
   Remove duplicates to simplify the interface.
   
   
   
3. 
   Save your games
   
   
   Take advantage of the save state features offered by RetroArch.
   
   
   Back up your files to your computer to avoid any loss.
   
   
   
4. 
   Maintaining the console
   
   
   Clean the screen regularly with a soft cloth.
   
   
   Protect it with a cover when travelling.
   
   
   

These small actions prolong the life of the R36S and ensure an optimal experience.

R36S: an original and timeless gift

The R36S is also an excellent gift idea. Unlike a modern console, which can cost several hundred euros, it remains affordable while offering a rich and universal experience .

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  For a birthday : surprise your loved ones with a console full of memories.
  
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  For Christmas : the R36S is the ideal gift to put under the tree, which will appeal to both children and adults.
  
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  For a couple or a family : a fun and friendly way to share moments together.
  

With its huge catalog and portable format, the R36S is a timeless gift that never goes out of style.

Conclusion

The R36S isn't just a retro console: it's a true time machine . With its thousands of built-in games, compatibility with iconic consoles, and compact design, it stands out as one of the best portable retro consoles of 2025.

Whether you are a video game enthusiast, a parent wishing to introduce their children to gaming, or simply a nostalgia lover, the R36S is the perfect choice .

It combines accessibility, performance and authenticity , while remaining affordable.

👉 The R36S is not just a console: it's a gateway to unforgettable memories and hours of shared fun.