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Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The Vectrex Mini is a half-size, modern tribute to the 1982 Vectrex, built around a 5-inch IPS screen rather than the original’s CRT. Its makers list 14 built-in games, physical overlays, a Bluetooth controller, and microSD expansion, but it has no cartridge slot and cannot use the original Light Pen or 3D Imager. The Kickstarter campaign and pre-orders have ended; the maker targets sales through its own online store toward the end of 2026, with no confirmed retail price or guaranteed availability date.
What is the Vectrex Mini?
The Vectrex Mini is a compact, playable tribute to the Vectrex, the distinctive 1982 console known for its built-in display and vector graphics. The maker describes the Mini as about half the size of the original, with an injection-molded plastic shell and packaging inspired by the original box. It is intended to make the design accessible for play, not to replace or duplicate original hardware.
In its July 12, 2025 announcement, the project team put it plainly: “Let’s be clear: the Vectrex Mini isn’t meant to replace the original.” The team also called it “more of a love letter to the original machine.”
How does the Mini compare with the original Vectrex?
| Feature | Original Vectrex | Vectrex Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Display | Built-in CRT display | Built-in 5-inch IPS display, 800 x 480 resolution, according to current official product details |
| Size | Full-size original console | Maker describes it as about half the original’s size |
| Games | Original cartridge ecosystem | 14 built-in games; additional games and homebrew can be loaded from microSD |
| Original cartridges | Designed for Vectrex cartridges | No cartridge slot; original cartridges cannot be used |
| Original accessories | Supports accessories such as the Light Pen and 3D Imager | Light Pen and 3D Imager are not compatible; original Vectrex controllers can connect through DB9 |
| Availability | Vintage hardware | Campaign and pre-orders have ended; maker targets direct online-store sales toward the end of 2026 |
This is a comparison of the stated design and compatibility, not a measured performance comparison. The official materials do not establish independent results for image quality or emulation accuracy.
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#1 Best Overall
- MASSIVE 20,000 CLASSIC GAMES: Built-in 20,000 classic video retro stick with 4k hdmi, games and 23 emulators console for retro gaming, game emulators support arcade, tv game, video gaming nostalgia.
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- DUAL 2.4G WIRELESS CONTROLLERS: Wireless controllers for game console, 2.4g wireless tv game console with low-latency response, play video game console for tv with family, no tangled cables.
- EASY PLUG & PLAY SETUP: Plug and play video games for tv via hdmi tv gaming console with 4k hdmi game experience, connect the retro game console to hd hdmi tv in seconds, ideal for all ages.
- WHAT YOU GET: Retro wireless gaming console stick video retro stick built-in, console stick with 23 emulators, dual 2.4g controllers, hdmi cable, user guide, compact white retro stick for travel.
What screen and hardware does it use?
The current official product details specify a 5-inch IPS display with 800 x 480 resolution. Earlier project material described a 5-inch AMOLED screen; the current product page’s IPS specification is the latest stated version and should not be confused with the earlier description. The FAQ says the project aims for an accessible tribute rather than a perfect copy, noting that consumer CRTs are no longer produced.
The product page says the motherboard is being redesigned around a custom solution, with dedicated components integrated onto the PCB. Earlier materials described an ESP32 for an initial version, but that is not the current board description.
Rank #2
- 【Core Highlights】80s & 90s Retro Home Console, Arcade & Handheld Games; 20,000+ Classic-Era Games in 1 Console; Plug & Play on TV – No Downloads or Installation; 1080P HDMI Output for Crisp Retro Gaming; Dual 2.4G; Wireless Controllers for Multiplayer Fun
- 【Vast 20,000+ Preloaded Game Library & 23 Emulators】You can start enjoying nostalgic retro gaming right away. This retro gaming stick covers classic 80s–90s home console, arcade, and handheld titles. The library includes 10,000+ unique games, plus additional US, Japan, World, and Asia regional versions of many titles, bringing the total to 20,000+. It’s plug and play on your TV—no downloads or installation required. Great for retro gaming fans and kid- friendly for younger players
- 【Impressive HD HDMI Output for Immersive Play】Play vibrant, stutter-free 1080P video games via HDMI cable. Connect effortlessly to any TV and enjoy crisp retro gaming experiences on this game console. Great choice for retro players wanting enhanced modern visuals
- 【Dual 2.4G Wireless Controllers & Interactive Multiplayer Fun】Enjoy competitive and cooperative gaming sessions! Comes with two 2.4GHz wireless controllers offering responsive gameplay up to 40 feet away. Perfect for gatherings with this built-in game console
- 【Simple Plug & Play Setup】Power the game stick, plug it into your TV, and switch HD channel to load the game list. Easy 3-step setup: connect HD output to TV, insert TF game card, and connect power adapter. Controllers require 4 AAA batteries. (Note: Charging adapter and batteries are not included.)
The display and rendering have not been independently tested in the available published information. The project team described the device as a prototype still being refined in its August 30, 2025 Gamescom recap, so treat performance and production readiness as unverified rather than as established review findings.
What games and accessories are included?
The current product page lists 14 built-in games, mostly from the General Consumer Electronics catalog, with a physical overlay for each game. Additional games and homebrew can be added through microSD. The page also describes a Wi-Fi Vector Clock mode that displays time, date, and weather, plus an alarm.
Rank #3
- Retro game stick Pro – Plug & Play Fun: Enjoy endless gaming with 40,000+ pre-installed games and 23 emulators on a 64GB system—no downloads or setup required. Relive retro gaming nostalgia instantly with a simple plug-and-play experience
- Stable 2.4GHz Wireless Controllers – Zero Lag, Up to 40ft Range: Experience smooth, uninterrupted gameplay with advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology. The ergonomic controllers provide a comfortable grip, ultra-responsive buttons, and a stable connection up to 40 feet—perfect for solo or multiplayer gaming
- Stunning 1080P & 4K HDMI Output – Extended Cable Included: Immerse yourself in crystal-clear visuals with 1080P and 4K output support. The HDMI interface ensures seamless connection to TVs, projectors, PCs, and set-top boxes—bringing your favorite classics to the big screen
- Save & Load Game Progress – Play Without Limits: Never lose your progress! Our retro gaming console supports game saving and loading, allowing you to pick up right where you left off. Say goodbye to frustrating restarts and enjoy a smooth gaming experience
- The Perfect Gift for All Ages – Fun for Family & Friends: A great holiday or birthday gift for parents, kids, couples, and gaming enthusiasts! Whether for weekend fun, family bonding, or travel, this console delivers endless entertainment. Plus, we offer reliable customer support to ensure a worry-free experience
The included controller is Bluetooth, with four action buttons and a self-centering analog joystick. A second controller can connect for multiplayer. The stated connections and ports are:
- USB-C power
- USB port for compatible controllers
- DB9 connection for original Vectrex controllers
- Video output; the current product details do not name the connector
- 3.5 mm headphone jack
The project page lists campaign rewards such as an animated sleep mode, cartridge-style accessory, overlay storage box, decorative wrap sticker, extra games, dust cover, and five-pin set. Those are campaign rewards, not a confirmed list of what every future retail package will contain. The FAQ’s package description is specifically for Kickstarter backers.
Rank #4
- The YEBGMS Retro Gaming Console Stick isn't just a device — it's a time machine. Designed for gamers who remember the thrill of inserting a cartridge and for newcomers eager to discover where it all began, this sleek little stick packs decades of gaming history into one seamless experience
- With over 43,000 games and 28 emulators built right in, you'll never run out of adventures. From pixel-perfect platformers to button-mashing fighting games, every classic you loved is waiting for you — all at your fingertips
- Old games deserve new glory. Our 4K HDMI upscaling transforms vintage visuals into sharp, vibrant masterpieces on your big-screen TV. The pixels you remember have never looked this good
- Two wireless controllers mean you're always ready for company. Challenge a friend, team up with family, or enjoy a solo journey — the choice is yours. And when you're done, the compact design tucks away effortlessly until your next session
- Zero setup. Zero downloads. Zero subscriptions. Plug in, power on, and let the good times roll. Whether you're 8 or 80, the magic of retro gaming is just an HDMI connection awa
Can it play original Vectrex cartridges or use the original accessories?
No. The Mini has no cartridge slot, so original Vectrex cartridges cannot be inserted. The original Light Pen and 3D Imager are also incompatible. The machine uses a different display and hardware design. Original Vectrex controllers are the exception: the product page says they can connect through the Mini’s DB9 port.
When can you buy the Vectrex Mini?
The Kickstarter campaign has ended and pre-orders are closed. The maker says the console remains in production and targets sales through its own online store toward the end of 2026. This is a target, not a guaranteed release or shipping date, and the maker says it does not plan to sell through major retailers.
Best Value
- 【50,000+ RETRO GAMES】Enjoy 50,000+ classic games with 48 built-in emulators and a 128GB TF card. This retro gaming console brings a wide variety of nostalgic games to your TV for hours of entertainment.
- 【4K HDMI OUTPUT】Connect the retro gaming stick to your TV via HDMI and enjoy clear 4K output with smooth gameplay and low latency. Its compact design makes it easy to set up and use at home.
- 【DUAL 2.4GHz WIRELESS CONTROLLERS】Includes two 2.4GHz wireless controllers for multiplayer gaming. Play classic games with family and friends and enjoy a fun, nostalgic gaming experience together.
- 【PLUG & PLAY SETUP】Simply connect the console to your TV via HDMI, insert the TF card, connect the included power adapter, and switch your TV to the corresponding HDMI input. The two controllers require 4 AAA batteries, not included.
- 【GREAT GIFT】A fun gift for adults and retro game lovers, perfect for family gatherings, parties, or relaxing at home. Enjoy classic gaming with family and friends or take the compact console with you while traveling.
The Kickstarter campaign page reports 6,069 backers and €1,211,184 pledged, and says it was last updated September 2, 2026. Those are figures reported by the campaign page, not independently audited market data.
The official FAQ lists €149 for the Regular Edition and €229 for the Limited White Edition, excluding tax and shipping, as 2025 campaign prices. These are historical campaign figures, not confirmed retail prices. The White Edition is described on the product page as limited, with a unique serial number and certificate of authenticity; its final retail price and availability have not been confirmed.
Is the Vectrex Mini a substitute for a collectible original?
No: the Mini makes different trade-offs. It is smaller and uses modern display and electronics, while the original’s CRT, cartridge system, and compatible accessories are part of its distinct hardware experience. The makers position the Mini as a way to play a Vectrex-inspired system without risking vintage electronics, but it cannot preserve the full original experience or accessory compatibility. Whether its display and gameplay feel convincing remains a question for independent testing.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
