Side by side
Azahar vs BlastEm
Both stand on game console emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
Azahar brings 3DS emulation together with homebrew, research, and preservation uses. Check the platform requirements and treat compatibility reports as potentially outdated.
Visit Azahar Free plan Open source LinuxMacSelf-hosted+2
BlastEm combines Sega system emulation with gameplay and debugging tools, including source-level debugging support. Compatibility varies, and Yamaha Copera music and the listed macOS package have specific limitations.
Visit BlastEmThe facts
| Azahar | BlastEm | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | azahar-emu.org | retrodev.com |
| On game console emulators | #6 of 35 | #2 of 35 |
Azahar: what it does well
- Free and open-source.
- Standalone apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
- Supports higher resolutions, modern controllers, and save states.
- Libretro cores support RetroArch and similar frontends.
- Mobile app policy says no registration is required.
What to know first
- Native iOS support is not planned for the foreseeable future.
- Android requires version 10.0 or later on 64-bit devices.
- Compatibility reports may be outdated.
BlastEm: what it does well
- Free and open-source.
- Supports a wide list of Sega systems.
- Includes save states and turbo and slow modes.
- Integrated debugger supports conditional breakpoints and scripting.
- GDB remote debugging supports C or C++ projects.
What to know first
- Sega CD and 32X compatibility is not perfect.
- Yamaha Copera games generally lack music.
- Listed macOS download is x86-64 and not notarized.
- Web version is experimental.
Alternatives to Azahar Alternatives to BlastEm The whole list