Hyperkin SupaBoy vs RetroN 5
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Hyperkin SupaBoy is a handheld retro gaming device that runs original Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges. It features a 3.5‑inch IPS display, HDMI output for TV play, and a rechargeable USB‑C battery. Designed for both on‑the‑go and couch gaming, SupaBoy includes modern conveniences like save‑state support, fast forward, and a built‑in speaker, while preserving the authentic feel of classic handhelds.
The RetroN 5 is a compact, all‑in‑one retro gaming console that lets you insert original NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance cartridges and play them on an HDMI‑compatible TV. It supports save states, screen filters, and wireless controller pairing for a seamless nostalgic experience. Designed for both collectors and casual gamers, the RetroN 5 offers a low‑latency HDMI output, USB‑C power, and a sleek aluminum shell, making it a portable solution for home or on‑the‑go play without the need for emulators or ROMs.
- Authentic cartridge compatibility
- HDMI output for TV play
- USB‑C fast charging
- Save‑state and fast‑forward features
- Plays original cartridges without ROMs
- HDMI output up to 1080p
- Multiple save slots per game
- Wireless controller support
- Battery life limited to ~6 hours
- No built‑in Wi‑Fi or online features
- Screen size may feel small for TV mode
- No built‑in battery, requires external power
- Limited to five supported systems
- No native Wi‑Fi or online features
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Hyperkin SupaBoy
View all →
Alternatives to RetroN 5
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataIf you want a portable, battery‑powered Game Boy‑only device with save‑states, go with the Hyperkin SupaBoy; if you prefer a cheaper dock‑style console that plays multiple cartridge families but needs external power, choose the RetroN 5.
Key differences
- •Battery: SupaBoy has a built‑in rechargeable battery (~6 h); RetroN 5 has none and must stay plugged in.
- •Cartridge compatibility: SupaBoy supports only Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and Game Boy Advance; RetroN 5 supports five systems (NES, SNES, Genesis, Game Boy, plus one unspecified).
- •Price: SupaBoy costs $199; RetroN 5 costs $99.
- •Save functionality: SupaBoy offers a single save‑state; RetroN 5 provides up to 10 save slots per game.
- •Portability: SupaBoy is a handheld console; RetroN 5 is a stationary hub meant for TV use.
Pricing & value
RetroN 5 is $99 versus SupaBoy $199, offering half the price for multi‑system support.
Battery life
SupaBoy includes a USB‑C rechargeable battery lasting up to 6 hours; RetroN 5 has no built‑in battery.
Ecosystem & compatibility
RetroN 5 supports five cartridge families, while SupaBoy only supports Game Boy line.
Key features
SupaBoy adds save‑state, fast‑forward, and portable HDMI output; RetroN 5 lacks these handheld‑specific features.
Comfort & design
SupaBoy is an ergonomic handheld with D‑pad, buttons, and shoulder triggers; RetroN 5 is a stationary dock.
Durability
Both are plastic/aluminum devices with no durability claims; no data to differentiate.
Connectivity
RetroN 5 offers HDMI 2.0, USB‑C power, and optional Bluetooth controller; SupaBoy offers HDMI 1.4 and USB‑C only.
Choose Hyperkin SupaBoy if…
Portable gamers who want to play Game Boy cartridges on the go with battery power.
Choose RetroN 5 if…
Home users who need a cheap, multi‑system console for TV play and don’t need portability.
Common questions
Which device is cheaper?
RetroN 5 costs $99; SupaBoy costs $199.
Can I play Game Boy Advance games on RetroN 5?
No; RetroN 5 does not list Game Boy Advance compatibility.
Do either of these consoles have built‑in Wi‑Fi or online features?
Both list no built‑in Wi‑Fi or online capabilities.