Should You Buy the Hyperkin Retron 3 HD NES, Super Nintendo, Super Famicom, & Genesis HDMI Clone?

In this video, we test out the Hyperkin Retron 3 HD HDMI NES, Super Nintendo, Super Famicom, Sega MegaDrive and Sega Genesis Clone system.

Check out our full unboxing to see how the RetroN 3 HD comes equipped by visiting https://youtu.be/_1Z03V2FmSY

In the world of clone video game systems, Hyperkin has tried to place themselves towards the top of the hill of the budget-friendly market. Their RetroN 1 HD, Supa RetroN HD, and Mega RetroN HD are three of the most popular systems out there, with the Mega Retron HD being perhaps the best Genesis/Mega Drive Clone system on the market. Hyperkin quietly announced and has now released the RetroN 3 HD, combining those three consoles into one unique system.

One thing you should know before we get started is that, while the RetroN 3 HD includes the ability to play NES, SNES/SFC, MD/Genesis games, you will need to purchase or provide your own NES Controller to play any NES title. The way the system works is that when you switch from one console to another, it controller ports for those consoles turn on or off. That means, unfortunately, you can't just use the excellent Squire or Scout controllers provided with the NES side of the console. That is a pretty big miss in my opinion.

Nintendo Entertainment System:
I started my tests on the NES, and as always, with Super Mario Bros. The color palette looks to be identical to what Hyperkin used on their other consoles, one that in my opinion is blurry, muddy, and too dark. They also have not addressed the reverse duty-cycle issue with the audio, something that is apparent when collecting coins in SMB. I have heard reports of some people stating the Cadet controller does not work with this system. I'll be very clear, the Cadet and Wireless Cadet both worked perfectly for me, another reason I wish Hyperkin would have included one in the box.

Super Nintendo/Super Famicom:
I really wish I could use other system controllers with other platforms here, playing Super Game Boy games with an NES controller would be awesome, but unfortunately, it's not. Much like the NES side, I thought the color palette was too dark, however, the audio sounded more authentic. I was thrilled with the high level of game and accessory compatibility here. Everything I threw at it, it played, including my PAL & NTSC-J games and my Game Genie! I have had issues with my PAL version of Yoshi's Island playing on some clones, but the RetroN 3 HD handled it without any issues.

Sega Genesis/Mega Drive
The Genesis got perhaps the biggest workout, not only because I tested NTSC/Pal games, but repros, custom carts, Game Genies, and an Everdrive. Again, everything I loved about the Mega Retron HD was here, and that includes being able to play Virtua Racing! I did experience an issue with a shock when changing games and holding the Squire controller. The ESD has basically knocked out the controller, however, the controller port is just fine. I've contacted Hyperkin & a warranty replacement is already on the way. And I am pleased to report the audio is stereo.

Why it RoX:
- Amazing Game Compatibility
- 2 Great Controllers Included
- 2 Color Options
- Compatible with PAL Games
- Works with Everdrives & Game Genies
- 3 of the Best Systems in 1
- 4:3/16:9 Switch

What Could Be Improved
- No NES Controller Included
- NES side still needs improvement
- Muddy Looking Palette
- Not compatible with their own Hyper Blaster HD
- Genesis Pins are Still Way Too Tight After My testing
- I'm not a fan of the separate system selector/power switch.

Should you buy one?
There's a lot to like here in the RetroN 3 HD. This thing plays a ton of games, but the fact that you cannot play NES games with how it comes out of the box is almost unforgivable. Hyperkin also needs to work with those who provide their SoaC to do something to fix the audio and the muddy palette IMO. And the fact that their own Hyper Blaster HD doesn't work, which was announce before this was, is a big let down. There's a lot of potential here, some of which isn't delivered on though. Even with it's shortcomings, it is still one of the best budget 3-in-1 consoles out there, but that competition isn't very stiff. At $85, it's a decent value, but you need to add to that cost just to play NES games. Unlike it's biggest competitor, the Retro-Bit Super Retro Trio 3+, the RetroN 3 HD does have that important 4:3/16:9 switch, and that helps in delivering a more authentic experience. But man, it seemed like they took a step backward on the audio on the NES side, and that's a shame. Honestly, I feel the NES side of this system is the weakest link. Bolster that, and you have an amazing system at a great value. But for now, you have a budget system focused on convenience over performance, and it shows.

#Retron3HD #Hyperkin #Review

The footage used in this review are used under the Fair Use laws, referenced below:

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/17/107