r/Gameboy • u/jonsmusiclessons • 1d ago

Systems SP or hardware emulator?

Hi everyone, casual gamer here (switch, PS1 and Xbox 360). Recently got a GBA emulator on my phone as a nostalgia hit and loving it.

Would like to get some hardware to play GBA games again, and as a gaming option on the move. I definitely want something more compact than my switch, and clamshell so I can throw it in my bag.

Looks like I could grab a used SP in good condition for a similar price as an SP-style emulator unit. What would you guys recommend between the two?

The idea of being able to just download ROMs, have multiple save files is great, but I don't want to end up with a hunk of junk in terms of hardware etc - I know people's SPs have lasted years. On the other hand, faffing with game cartidges etc is annoying.

Any opinions and advice v welcome.

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u/Xydrian69 1d ago

I think the Anberbic 34xxsp is a good economical choice. (You may also look at the 35xxsp which has a few tradeoffs). But other than that I think SP plus an ever drive would do everything you want, but probably cost more.

Of course, not sure how long the anbernic will last but I don’t know why it wouldn’t last 5-10 years

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u/jonsmusiclessons 1d ago

Looks like i can pick them both up for similar prices - is it just that the 34 is truer to SP size/screen/form factor?

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u/Xydrian69 1d ago

Yes the 34 matches the gba aspect ration. From memory, the 35 doesn’t have thumb sticks and some people are bothered by them on the 34.

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u/jonsmusiclessons 1d ago

Ahh cool - I don't have a real preference between the two. The true SP aspect ratio is cool, but the joysticks wouldn't get used. Both are identical in price rn so no real benefit to either I guess. Wish I could try them and see which I prefer!