Side by side
MAME vs OpenEmu
Both stand on turbografx-16 emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
MAME combines broad system emulation with tools for examining and developing vintage software. Users should account for the absence of most BIOS and copyrighted software files, and for varying emulation fidelity.
Visit MAME
Free plan Open source Mac
OpenEmu offers a library-focused way to manage game backups and use multiple emulation systems on a Mac. Check the Intel-only release detail and BIOS requirement before choosing it.
Visit OpenEmuThe facts
| MAME | OpenEmu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | mamedev.org | openemu.org |
| On turbografx-16 emulators | #8 of 33 | #4 of 33 |
MAME: what it does well
- Emulates over 32,000 systems
- Includes an interactive low-level debugger
- Can save states and record inputs
- Supports Lua plugins
- Free under the listed plan
What to know first
- BIOS dumps and copyrighted software are generally not included
- Lua API may change without notice
- Some systems may not emulate perfectly or at full speed
- Windows binaries require Windows 10 or later
OpenEmu: what it does well
- Free and open-source software.
- Organizes backups with box art and collections.
- Lists support for 31 systems.
- Recognized HID controllers can map automatically.
- Save states, cheats, and CD audio are supported.
What to know first
- Available for macOS only.
- BIOS files are required.
- Latest listed binaries are Intel-only.
- Online netplay is not supported.