So, you’ve finally secured that trusty Retroid Pocket 5 or maybe you’re still rocking the legendary Miyoo Mini Plus (still one of my all-time favorites). You’ve spent hours curating your ROM library, scraping box art, and tweaking RetroArch settings to perfection. But let’s be real – the device is only half the battle. It’s all about the gaming accessories!
To truly get the most out of your handhelds – whether you’re commuting, flying, or just lounging on the couch – you need the right gaming accessories. I’ve put together a shortlist of the absolute best accessories I’m using right now in 2026.
While you can sometimes save a few bucks importing these from overseas, I’ve linked the Amazon options below because, honestly, sometimes you just need that Prime shipping to get it tomorrow.
Here are my top picks to level up your setup.
The Storage King: Samsung EVO Select 256GB microSD
Look, my life is a bit of a circus, and the last thing I want to worry about is a corrupted SD card wiping out all my Zelda progress. The “stock” cards that come with these Chinese handhelds can be ticking time bombs. Replace them immediately. Unfortunately SD card prices are caught in the “ramageddon” of price increases, so I’m suggesting the 256GB model for now, but keep an eye on the 512GB version as it can come down in price significantly.
I’ve switched almost exclusively to the Samsung EVO Select line. They are fast enough for anything up to Switch emulation and incredibly reliable.
Amazon Price: ~$30
Verdict: This is non-negotiable. It’s the cheapest insurance policy for your save files. Grab the 512GB version if it’s on sale.
Audio Upgrade: Moondrop Chu II In-Ear Monitors
Most retro handheld speakers are… fine. But if you want to really hear that crunch in Street Fighter II or the atmospheric soundtrack of Metroid Fusion, you need IEMs (In-Ear Monitors).
The Moondrop Chu II punches way above its weight class. They are wired (zero latency, which is critical for rhythm games) and they sound better than earbuds that cost three times as much. Plus, they look slick in that gunmetal finish.
Amazon Price: ~$23
Verdict: For less than $25, this is the best audio upgrade you can make.
Infinite Power: Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K)
We’ve all been there – stuck on a 6-hour flight with a dead Steam Deck or Odin 2. It’s a nightmare.
The Anker 737 is a beast. It outputs up to 140W, meaning it can fast-charge your laptop, your phone, and your handheld simultaneously. It also has a smart display that shows you exactly how much juice is left and how fast your devices are pulling power (which appeals to the nerd in me).
Amazon Deal: $109 (Often on sale for $89)
Verdict: It’s an investment, but it’s built like a tank. If you travel as much as I do, this is an essential part of your everyday carry.
The Docking Solution: 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth Controller with Charging Dock
One of the best features of modern retro handhelds like the Retroid Pocket G2 is the ability to output to a TV via HDMI or USB-C. But you don’t want to be tethered to the TV with a short cable.
The 8BitDo Ultimate is, in my opinion, the gold standard for third-party controllers right now. It has Hall Effect joysticks (so no drift, ever), back paddles, and it comes with its own charging dock. It connects seamlessly to Android, Windows, and even the Switch.
Amazon Price: $59.99
Verdict: The perfect companion for “Console Mode.” It feels premium, matches the retro aesthetic, and the charging dock keeps your desk looking clean.
The “Must-Have” Cable: UGREEN 100W USB-C to USB-C (Right Angle)
This sounds boring, but hear me out. Most handhelds have the charging port on the bottom. If you try to play while charging with a standard stiff cable, it digs into your stomach or rests awkwardly on your chest.
A high-quality right-angle cable changes the game. It routes the cable away from your hands for a much more comfortable grip. UGREEN’s braided cables are super durable and support 100W charging, so they work with everything.
Amazon Price: ~$12
Verdict: A tiny quality-of-life improvement that you will appreciate every single time you pick up your device.
That’s what’s in my bag for 2026! Whether you’re trying to squeeze a few more hours of battery life out of your device or just want better sound, these 2026 gaming accessories go a long way.
Let me know in the comments or over on Twitter/X if you have a favorite accessory I missed. I’m always looking for new gear to test out.
