Download Dolphin Emulator from the official Dolphin download page, then choose the build for your device. For most people, the latest release is the better starting point because it is the stability-oriented option; development builds arrive more often but are less tested.
Which Dolphin download should you choose?
The official download page lists a September 2026 release, version 2609, for Windows x64, Windows ARM64, universal macOS, Android, and Linux Flatpak for x86_64 and aarch64. Download listings can change, so use the page itself to confirm the current version and available builds.
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VILCORN 4 inch Retro Handheld Game Console Support Open-Source Linux System | $89.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| Device | Build to choose | Compatibility notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | Choose x64 or ARM64 to match your computer. | Windows 10 version 1903 or newer. The official download page also requires the 64-bit Visual C++ v14 redistributable if it is not already installed. |
| Mac | Universal ARM/Intel build. | macOS 11 Big Sur or newer. |
| Android | Android build from the official page. | Android 7.0 or newer, a 64-bit-capable processor, and a GPU that supports OpenGL ES 3.0 or higher. Performance also depends on the device and graphics drivers. |
| Linux | Official Flatpak release repository; the project also offers a development repository. | The project lists desktop Linux support. The download page provides Flatpak setup commands. |
Compatibility requirements are listed in the Dolphin project README; build choices and Linux setup are on the official download page.
How do I install Dolphin on my device?
Windows
- Open the official download page and select the Windows x64 or Windows ARM64 build that matches your computer.
- Install the 64-bit Visual C++ v14 redistributable if it is not already present. Dolphin’s download page identifies it as a Windows requirement.
- Follow the downloaded build’s installation or launch instructions.
macOS
- Download the universal ARM/Intel macOS build from the official page.
- Use it on macOS 11 Big Sur or newer.
Android
- Choose an Android build from the official download page.
- Check that the device meets the Android, processor, and graphics requirements above. Actual performance varies by device and driver quality.
Linux
- Open the official download page and follow its commands for the release Flatpak repository.
- Select the development repository only if you specifically want development builds and accept that they are less tested.
Should you get a release or development build?
Choose the latest release if you want the stability-oriented option. Dolphin says releases are created every few months, usually accompanied by a Progress Report article. Development versions arrive several times a day and contain newer changes, but receive less testing. The project describes releases as the choice to prefer for stability.
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Does downloading Dolphin include games?
No. Dolphin is the emulator; game files are a separate step. The project’s game-ripping guide explains how to dump GameCube and Wii discs using CleanRip on a Wii or a Wii U in vWii mode, with an SD card or external USB storage. It also explains how Dolphin can read ISO files created through that workflow. Consult the guide for instructions that fit your console and storage setup. Check the laws and rights that apply to you and your games in your jurisdiction.
Do you need a special controller?
No. Dolphin documents controller configuration using a keyboard or another controller, as well as setup for a Wiimote. If you want to use original GameCube controllers, the project also documents native support for the Official GameCube Controller Adapter for Wii U. See the official controller guides; the adapter is optional and is not needed to download or install Dolphin.
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