Side by side
ShadPS4 vs Snes9x
Both stand on game console emulators. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
ShadPS4 offers a free, open-source way to emulate PlayStation 4 on three desktop operating systems, with a graphical launcher and listed extras such as local multiplayer. Its early state means compatibility is limited, and users need to meet the requirements and provide their own game dumps.
Visit ShadPS4 Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+3
Snes9x offers a free way to play most SNES and Super Famicom games, with saves and several documented Windows tools. ROM images are required, and the project flags limitations in netplay and timing-dependent games.
Visit Snes9xThe facts
| ShadPS4 | Snes9x | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | shadps4.net | snes9x.com |
| On game console emulators | #30 of 35 | #26 of 35 |
ShadPS4: what it does well
- Free and open source
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows
- Includes graphics upscaling and local multiplayer
- Qt launcher can download stable and nightly versions
What to know first
- Many games do not work
- Working games usually have emulation issues
- Requires at least 8 GB RAM and a specified GPU
- Netplay is not supported
Snes9x: what it does well
- Freeware listed as free.
- Supports Super Nintendo and Super Famicom games.
- Can save game state and SRAM data.
- Windows documentation includes cheat tools and movie recording.
- Builds are listed for desktop and additional systems.
What to know first
- SNES ROM images are required to run games.
- Netplay may be broken and has not been maintained or tested in a long time.
- Some games needing strict timing may not run.
- Absolute security of personal data is not guaranteed.
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