If you want retro games on the big TV without hunting down old cartridges, tangled cables and controllers that died years ago, a plug-and-play TV console is the easiest way in. The U36 Retro TV Game Console is the most capable living-room console we carry. Here is a straight look at what is inside it, what comes in the box, and who it is a good fit for.
The U36 at a glance
- Video: HDMI output, up to 4K
- Processor: quad-core Amlogic S905 CPU
- Graphics: penta-core ARM Mali-450MP GPU (up to 750MHz)
- Storage: 128GB, expandable with a TF card
- Emulators: 40+
- Controllers: 2 wireless 2.4GHz controllers with a USB receiver
- Colors: Blue or Orange
- Price: $89.99
4K HDMI output for modern TVs
Older consoles were built for tube TVs, and plugging original hardware into a flat screen often means adapters and a soft, stretched picture. The U36 skips all of that. It connects with a single HDMI cable (included) and outputs up to 4K, so classic games are upscaled for the TV you actually own. Plug it in, switch your TV to that HDMI input, and you are at the menu.
New to HDMI retro setups? Our HDMI arcade system guide walks through getting a retro console running on a modern TV.
Two wireless controllers, ready for couch co-op
The U36 ships with two wireless 2.4G controllers and a USB receiver. That means no cords stretched across the living room floor and no Bluetooth pairing menus. Two players can sit back on the couch and play co-op or head-to-head right out of the box. The 2.4G connection is designed for responsive, lag-free play from across the room.
One thing to know before your first game night: the controllers run on AA batteries, which are not included. Grab a pack when you order so nobody is waiting on a trip to the store.
Looking for games that shine with two players? See our list of classic couch multiplayer games.
128GB of storage and 40+ emulators
The U36 comes with 128GB of storage holding a large built-in retro library, and it runs 40+ emulators. A TF card slot lets you expand storage later. For a living-room console, that is a lot of variety in one small box, from quick arcade sessions to longer adventures.
S905 processor and Mali-450 graphics
Under the hood, a quad-core Amlogic S905 CPU and a penta-core Mali-450MP GPU (up to 750MHz) handle the work. In plain terms, that is more muscle than the basic preloaded mini consoles, which helps menus and gameplay feel smooth and responsive.
Save and resume, plus a family-friendly menu
Save and resume lets you stop mid-game and pick up exactly where you left off, which is a big upgrade over the password and no-save days of the originals. The menu also supports multiple languages, so it is easy for everyone in the house to find their way around.
Compact enough to travel
The U36 is small enough to tuck beside your TV, and light enough to throw in a bag for game night at a friend's place. Pack the console, the two controllers, the receiver and the cables, and you can set up on any TV with an HDMI port.
What's in the box
- 1 x U36 game console
- 2 x wireless controllers
- 1 x 2.4G USB receiver
- 1 x HDMI cable
- 1 x USB power cable
- 1 x user manual
AA batteries for the controllers are not included.
Who the U36 is best for
- Families and couples who want easy two-player games on the living-room TV.
- Players who want variety, thanks to 128GB of storage and 40+ emulators.
- Anyone who hates setup: no Wi-Fi, no accounts, just HDMI, power and play.
- Gift shoppers looking for a retro gift for a gamer that works out of the box.
If you would rather play on the go, a handheld is the better pick. If you want a simpler, lower-cost TV console, browse our retro TV consoles collection, which includes the Old Arcade Classic Console and the Old Arcade NES Console.
Frequently asked questions
Does the U36 need Wi-Fi or an account?
No. The U36 plugs into your TV over HDMI and the controllers connect through the included 2.4G USB receiver. There is no Wi-Fi or account setup.
How many players can play at once?
It comes with two wireless controllers, so two players can play together right out of the box.
Will it work with my TV?
Any TV with an HDMI port will work. The U36 outputs up to 4K, and an HDMI cable is included.
Can I add more storage?
Yes. The U36 has 128GB built in and a TF card slot for expansion.
What powers the controllers?
Each controller uses AA batteries, which are not included.
Ready to play?
The U36 Retro TV Game Console is $89.99 in Blue or Orange, with two wireless controllers and everything you need to hook it up. Plug it in, grab a controller, and start your next retro game night.
