Sony's first PlayStation (PS1) revolutionised the industry by bringing 3D to the masses. Whether you want to relive the epic journey of Final Fantasy VII, the tactical stealth of Metal Gear Solid or the frantic races of Crash Team Racing, the PS1 boasts one of the richest catalogues in history.
Today, PS1 emulation is completely mastered. On a good retro gaming handheld console, you can even elevate these games by smoothing out the textures. Here are the best emulators and the hardware recommended by Fun Esports to enjoy them in 2026.
🕹️ The hardware: which console for the PlayStation 1?
The PS1 calls for full controls (4 triggers) and often analogue sticks. Here are the best options from our catalogue:
- The best value for money: The Anbernic RG35XX H. This is the horizontal version of the famous RG35XX. It offers a more modern grip, precise sticks for 3D games and exactly the right amount of power for the PS1.
- The gorgeous screen: The TrimUI Smart Pro. With its wide screen and slim build, it is ideal for displaying PlayStation games with superior visual comfort, while staying very affordable.
- The high-end experience: The Anbernic RG557. This is the ultimate machine for upscaling. Its very powerful processor and large screen turn your old PS1 games into an HD version, delivering a look you have never seen on the original hardware.
- The classic vertical format: For purists, the Anbernic RG35XX Pro remains a safe bet for playing the PS1 as if on a supercharged Game Boy.
🦆 1. DuckStation: the undisputed king of 3D
Available on Android consoles such as the RG557, DuckStation is the definitive PS1 emulator in 2026.
- Upscaling: It renders your games at 4x or 5x resolution. The 3D environments become incredibly sharp.
- PGXP correction: This feature fixes the polygon wobble typical of the PS1, delivering a stable, modern image.
⚔️ 2. PCSX ReARMed: for Linux consoles
This is the core used by default on the RG35XX H and the TrimUI Smart Pro through RetroArch.
- Smoothness: Heavily optimised for the processors in these consoles, it guarantees a constant 60 FPS with no heat build-up whatsoever.
- Simplicity: Everything is already pre-configured so you can launch your games right after purchase.
🐞 3. Beetle PSX HW: absolute accuracy
Recommended only for powerful consoles such as the RG557, this emulator focuses on exact fidelity to the original hardware.
- Authenticity: Ideal for very specific games that might glitch on other, lighter emulators.
✅ Conclusion: a trip back in time, in HD
The PlayStation 1 is a console that gains enormously from being emulated on modern hardware. Whether you choose the compact RG35XX H, the elegant TrimUI Smart Pro or the powerful RG557, the pleasure of rediscovering these classics remains intact.
The Fun Esports tip: PS1 games take up a lot of space (up to 700 MB per CD). If you want the complete Final Fantasy or Tomb Raider series with you, fit your console with a high-capacity microSD card (128 GB or 256 GB) so you are never limited!