this post was submitted on 21 Feb 2026
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Best modded console for 240p RetroArch gaming on CRT? (Wii vs PS2?) (slrpnk.net)
submitted 5 days ago by SolarPunker@slrpnk.net to c/retrogaming@lemmy.world
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So, I'm searching the best console to run 240p games thru RetroArch on a CRT (14" feels the best size for this): I've read the most mature homebrew console for this are Wii and PS2. PS2 is less powerfull but it has native 240p output and can run PSX native. Wii doesn't have native 240p but ppl claim 480i/480p is sharp enough and the difference is minimal, also it's more powerfull and can run more platforms. I would exclude more expansive options like FPGA or an ad-hoc raspberry.

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[–] ClipperDefiance@lemmy.world 5 points 5 days ago (7 children)

I'd go with the Wii. It's super easy to get homebrew running on a Wii and only requires a compatible SD card (technically it's not required to actually install the Homebrew Channel, but you'll need one to actually run and store your emulators and ROMs). Just note that later produced consoles had the GameCube backwards compatibility removed.

Homebrew on a PS2 is more complicated. The easiest way to run homebrew is by purchasing a memory card with FreeMCBoot pre-installed. A better way (in my opinion) is to use a SATA modded Sony network adapter (it must be an original Sony unit) with a 1TB or less SSD (for compatibility reasons) and install PlayStation Broadband Navigator Definitive Edition. If you just want to use FMCB you'll still want a network adapter and drive, but you can use a third-party one that comes with SATA support out of the box. Another thing is that there were a lot of revisions to the PS2 and not all methods of accessing homebrew work with all models.

[–] Redkey@programming.dev 3 points 4 days ago (2 children)

I would also go with a Wii. Just know that you will probably need a Y-cable to use an external drive (even an SSD), since the Wii's USB ports max out at a pretty low current.

I think that only a small number of Wiis were produced that don't support GCN games. It should be easy to tell by looking for the 4 GCN controller ports under a side flap.

SATA modded Sony network adapter (it must be an original Sony unit) with a 1TB or less SSD (for compatibility reasons)

Is that 1TB compatibility issue with SSDs or with PSBBN? I'm using FHDB (basically FMCB on internal storage) and OPL with a 2TB SATA HDD without any issues. My understanding is that 2TB is the limit with this setup.

[–] ClipperDefiance@lemmy.world 2 points 4 days ago

One of the optional add-ons for PSBBN maxed out at a 1 TB drive, but they've since made it compatible with 2 TB drives.

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