Side by side
ares vs bsnes
Both stand on snes emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+1
ares offers playback controls, display options, and a broad listed range of systems in a free, open-source package. Linux users should note the project’s preference for source compilation or third-party packages.
Visit ares
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
bsnes provides SNES emulation with visual options, save-state tools, and support for several controller types. It is free and listed for desktop and mobile platforms, though Android setup goes through RetroArch.
Visit bsnesThe facts
| ares | bsnes | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 2 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | ares-emu.net | bsnes.org |
| On snes emulators | #1 of 30 | #5 of 30 |
ares: what it does well
- Free and open-source under the ISC license
- Supports save states, rewind, and fast-forward
- Offers pixel shaders and optional color correction
- Virtual Game-Pads adapt configured controls across systems
- macOS binaries support Intel and Apple Silicon
What to know first
- Some listed systems are experimental
- No official Linux binaries are provided
- Android is not supported
- A BIOS is required
bsnes: what it does well
- Free and open-source
- Available on five listed platforms
- Multiple speed settings with smooth audio output
- Save-state previews, naming, undo, and redo
- Supports several controller types
What to know first
- Android setup requires RetroArch
- The listed emulator is specific to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System