Side by side
JSMoo vs RetroArch
Both stand on multi-system emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
JSMoo offers a free browser-based emulator project with several supported systems and an educational aim. Running it requires the specified server and HTTP-header setup, and some systems need BIOS files.
Visit JSMoo Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
RetroArch combines a broad core library with game organization, graphics options, netplay and recording or streaming. Check the limits of the specific platform or store version you plan to use.
Visit RetroArchThe facts
| JSMoo | RetroArch | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | github.com | retroarch.com |
| On multi-system emulators | #37 of 54 | #33 of 54 |
JSMoo: what it does well
- Describes support for six retro systems
- Users can upload ROM files and remap controls
- Distributed under the MIT License
- Project welcomes fixes and optimizations
What to know first
- Requires special HTTP headers to run
- Sega Master System and ZX Spectrum require BIOS files
- ZX Spectrum keyboard input was noted as temporarily broken
RetroArch: what it does well
- Free and open source under GPL version 3.
- More than 200 cores are available.
- Controllers configure automatically when plugged in.
- Built-in netplay includes spectator mode.
- Can record gameplay or stream it.
What to know first
- Browser version has reduced performance and capabilities.
- Steam version lacks Core Updater and thumbnail scraping.
- Features vary by platform and store version.
Alternatives to JSMoo Alternatives to RetroArch The whole list