Side by side
Mednafen vs RetroPie
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 LinuxWindows
Mednafen combines support for multiple systems with save, rewind, and capture features. Note its command-line approach, disc-image requirements, and warnings about untrusted save states.
Visit Mednafen Free plan LinuxSelf-hosted
RetroPie offers a free route to a customizable retro gaming system, with a ready-made Raspberry Pi image and manual setup options. Users need to provide their own copyrighted game and BIOS files.
Visit RetroPieThe facts
| Mednafen | RetroPie | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Windows | Linux, Self-hosted |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Not published |
| Plans published | None | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | mednafen.github.io | retropie.org.uk |
| On turbografx-16 emulators | #18 of 33 | #22 of 33 |
Mednafen: what it does well
- Supports systems including NES, SNES, and PlayStation.
- Offers save states and real-time rewinding.
- Can record QuickTime movies and WAV sound.
- Input mapping supports keyboards and joysticks.
- Free and distributed under the GNU GPLv2.
What to know first
- Command-line-driven rather than described as graphical.
- Physical CD support was removed in version 0.9.38.
- Network play requires an external dedicated server.
- Untrusted save states may pose security risks.
RetroPie: what it does well
- Free to use.
- Offers a bootable Raspberry Pi image.
- Additional emulators can be installed within RetroPie.
- Configuration tools support customization.
- First-boot menu helps configure controls.
What to know first
- ROMs and BIOS files are not included.
- Manual setup supports only listed environments.
- Installation guide lists several required hardware items.
- Project is maintained by a few enthusiasts in their free time.
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