How to Build the Ultimate Retro Gaming Setup on a Budget
CRT TVs, flash carts, HDMI mods, and more — everything you need to build a sick retro gaming corner without breaking the bank.
Why Build a Retro Setup?
There's something special about playing retro games the way they were meant to be played — on a CRT, with a real controller, in a dedicated space. Modern emulation is convenient, but a proper retro setup is an experience.
Choosing Your Display
For the authentic look, nothing beats a CRT television. Check Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores — Sony Trinitrons are the gold standard. If you prefer modern convenience, a RetroTINK 4K will upscale analog signals beautifully to your flat panel.
RECOMMENDED GEAR
8BitDo Pro 2 — Our Top Controller Pick
View on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, DoubleFury earns from qualifying purchases.
Controllers & Adapters
- Original pads — Clean and recap if needed. OEM controllers still feel the best.
- 8BitDo Pro 2 — Our top pick for wireless retro gaming across platforms.
- Raphnet adapters — Use original controllers on PC via USB.
Flash Carts & ODEs
Flash carts like the EverDrive and FXPak Pro let you load your entire library onto one cartridge. For disc-based systems, optical drive emulators (ODEs) like the GDEMU and MODE are game-changers.
Frequently Asked Questions
RECOMMENDED GEAR
8BitDo Pro 2 — Our Top Controller Pick
View on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, DoubleFury earns from qualifying purchases.
CONTINUE READING
Stay in the same lane with a few more deep cuts from the DoubleFury archive.
The 25 Best SNES RPGs of All Time, Ranked
From Chrono Trigger to Final Fantasy VI — our definitive ranking of every SNES RPG worth playing in 2026.
Miyoo Mini Plus Review: Still the Best Budget Handheld in 2026?
We test the Miyoo Mini Plus against the latest crop of retro handhelds to see if it still earns our top pick.
20 Pixel Art Games on Steam You Need to Play in 2026
The best new and overlooked pixel art games on Steam right now — from roguelikes to narrative adventures.