Side by side
DOSBox-X vs PPSSPP
Both stand on emulator software. 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
Pick DOSBox-X if you need a configurable, open-source emulator for DOS software, DOS-based Windows, preservation, testing, or DOS development. Look elsewhere if your work depends on emulating Pentium 4 or faster CPUs or post-2000 PC hardware, which the project lists as non-goals.
Visit DOSBox-X
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+3
PPSSPP covers PSP emulation across mobile and desktop platforms, with graphics enhancements, multiplayer, and flexible controls. Check its system limits and provide your own game files before choosing it.
Visit PPSSPPThe facts
| DOSBox-X | PPSSPP | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | PPSSPP Gold for Android: $4.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | dosbox-x.com | ppsspp.org |
| On emulator software | #1 of 39 | #2 of 39 |
DOSBox-X: what it does well
- Runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Supports DOS-based Windows guests, including Windows 3.x and Windows 9x/Me.
- Includes DOS/V and NEC PC-98, AX, and J-3100 emulation.
- Offers up to 100 save slots and automatic saving options.
- Supports guest networking through PCAP and Slirp backends.
What to know first
- Android is not supported.
- Emulating Pentium 4 or faster CPUs is a stated non-goal.
- Emulating post-2000 PC hardware is a stated non-goal.
PPSSPP: what it does well
- Free plan across supported platforms
- Runs games at full HD resolution or higher
- Supports save states and turbo
- Offers ad hoc and infrastructure multiplayer
- Open source under GPL 2.0 or later
What to know first
- Does not run PS1 games or UMD Video discs
- Users must provide their own PSP game files
- Gold is unavailable for Linux and Steam Deck
Alternatives to DOSBox-X Alternatives to PPSSPP The whole list