Should I buy a used Nintendo 3DS or a retro handheld console?

If your main goal is to play Nintendo DS and 3DS games, a used Nintendo 3DS is usually the better buy. It gives you the right hardware features for those games: dual screens, touch input, microphone support, and the native 3D effect. It’s also the most straightforward way to play physical DS and 3DS cartridges, though setup and game compatibility can still vary depending on what you own and how you plan to use it.

If you want to play classic single-screen systems like PS1, GBA, SNES, Genesis, or PSP, a retro handheld console is usually the better fit. Devices from brands like Anbernic, Miyoo, and Retroid often offer nicer modern screens, USB-C charging, and good value, but they are generally a weaker choice for DS and 3DS titles because those games were designed around two screens and touch controls.

One important caveat: the Nintendo 3DS eShop is closed, so if you buy a used 3DS today, your experience may depend on whether you already own cartridges or are comfortable setting the system up for homebrew use. Also, exact availability and pricing can change, so it’s worth checking current listings before you buy.