Side by side
Nelkano vs retroemu
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.
Nelkano combines local game organization, configurable controls, and save states for supported systems in a free Android app. Its beta availability and variable compatibility are important considerations, and users need to supply files they have rights to use.
Visit NelkanoChoose retroemu if you want a free, MIT-licensed way to run classic games in a terminal or SDL window, with save handling and remote play. Look elsewhere if you cannot meet its Node.js and terminal requirements, or do not have the BIOS dumps needed for PC Engine CD or ColecoVision.
Visit retroemuThe facts
| Nelkano | retroemu | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Web | API, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | nelkano.com | github.com |
| On multi-system emulators | #38 of 54 | #34 of 54 |
Nelkano: what it does well
- Free Android app with no ads or paid plans stated
- Local library tools include search and custom collections
- Supports touch and compatible Bluetooth controllers
- Optional Google Drive backup for supported files and saves
What to know first
- Play Store release is listed as coming soon
- No games, ROMs, BIOS files, or firmware are included
- Compatibility and performance vary by game and device
- Published downloads may be beta builds
retroemu: what it does well
- Supports more than 25 systems through libretro cores.
- Runs WASM cartridges and JavaScript games.
- Offers terminal, SDL window, or combined video output.
- Automatically loads and saves SRAM.
- Remote guests need no ROM or core.
What to know first
- Requires Node.js 22 or later.
- Terminal output requires a truecolor terminal.
- PC Engine CD and ColecoVision require user-supplied BIOS dumps.
Alternatives to Nelkano Alternatives to retroemu The whole list