The GAMELAB Console is an all-in-one open-source retro-styled handheld — a portable, fully customisable hardware platform for retro gaming enthusiasts. It runs an open-source operating system, has modern controls, a long-lasting battery, and gives you full control over the experience.

The console runs an open-source emulation framework on a Linux-based operating system. You load your own legally-owned game files onto the included microSD card, plug it back into the console, and play. Everything runs offline — no Wi-Fi or accounts required.

GAMELAB supports a wide range of classic gaming eras through open-source emulation cores, covering 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit-era systems as well as classic arcade hardware — 20+ retro platform types in total. You provide the game files; GAMELAB provides the hardware and the open-source software to run them.

Up to 12 hours of play on a single charge, powered by a 3200 mAh battery. Charges over USB-C.

Yes — thousands of customers are using theirs every day. The console is backed by a 12-month warranty and we have real human support standing by if anything ever goes wrong.

No. GAMELAB is sold as an open-source emulation device — a hardware platform. We do not include, supply, or pre-install any copyrighted game content. You're in full control of what you load onto the included microSD card, using game files you legally own (such as personal backups of original media you own).

Loading your own files is straightforward:

• Make sure you have the legal right to use the files (for example, personal backups of original media you own).
• Remove the microSD card and plug it into your computer.
• Drag your files into the appropriate folders on the card.
• Re-insert the card, reboot the console, and your library updates automatically.

A simple step-by-step guide is included in the box. We do not provide, host, or link to any copyrighted content — sourcing files is your responsibility.

Yes. Open the in-game Quick Menu, choose Save State, and pick a slot. To resume later, go to Load State and select the slot you saved to. Save states are a feature of the open-source emulation framework.

Absolutely — that's the whole point of an open-source platform. You can install custom themes, remap buttons, add new emulator cores as the open-source community releases them, tweak audio and display settings per-platform, and join an active community of modders and tinkerers.

Yes — pair two GAMELAB consoles together for head-to-head play and party-style sessions, depending on the files you have loaded.

No. GAMELAB is designed for offline play. Once it's charged, you can take it anywhere — planes, road trips, the back garden — and use it without a connection.

Shipping is free on every order and takes 7–15 business days within the United States, fully tracked. You'll receive a tracking number by email as soon as your order ships.

Shipping is completely free on every single order — no minimum spend, no hidden fees.

Yes — every order includes tracking. You'll get an email with the tracking link as soon as your parcel leaves the warehouse, or you can check status anytime on our Track Your Order page.

If your tracking shows no movement for more than 7 business days, or your order is past the expected delivery window, just email us at contact@gamelabconsoles.com with your order number and we'll investigate straight away.

Yes. Every GAMELAB is covered by a 12-month warranty against manufacturing faults. If something goes wrong in that window, we'll repair or replace it at no cost to you.

Email us at contact@gamelabconsoles.com within the first 30 days with your order number and a short video or photos showing the issue. We'll arrange a replacement or refund straight away.

Yes, within 30 days of delivery. The console needs to be in original condition with all accessories. See our Return & Refund Policy for the full details.

Email us any time at contact@gamelabconsoles.com or use our contact form. A real human usually replies within one business day.