The Top 3 PS1 Emulators for Android (2026 Comparison): Which One Should You Buy?

Reliving the golden age of 32-bit gaming has never been easier. With modern Android devices, you can carry your entire PlayStation 1 library in your pocket. However, the Google Play Store is crowded with options, and choosing the right one can be the difference between a nostalgic paradise and a major headache.

Today, we are comparing the top three contenders: the newcomer PicoStation, the graphics powerhouse DuckStation, and the legacy veteran ePSXe.

1. PicoStation: The Best Overall Experience

Verdict: The smartest choice for players who want to jump straight into the action.

PicoStation ($2.99) is the newest heavyweight on the scene, and it wins our top recommendation for one simple reason: it removes the friction. Most emulators require you to go through the technical (and often frustrating) process of extracting tricky BIOS files from your old PS1 consoles. PicoStation uses a specialized HLE BIOS, meaning it works right out of the box.

Beyond the setup, PicoStation is built on the highly accurate PCSX core, ensuring that your game backups run exactly as they did on original hardware. You’ll never have to worry about your phone losing battery and also all your game progress. Its “UberSaves” mean it saves continuously, so you’ll never lose progress again.

• Key Advantage: No BIOS extraction needed—just install and play.
• Safety First: Automatic saving ensures you never lose progress.
• Touch Optimized UI: Touch controls are designed for modern screens, not just ported from a PC. Also supports external controllers.

2. DuckStation: The Visual Enthusiast’s Beta

Verdict: Incredible graphics, but still a “Work in Progress.”

If your primary goal is to see that crazy orange marsupial in 4K, DuckStation (Free) is the technical leader. It offers PGXP geometry correction, which fixes the wobbly textures that plagued the original console.

However, there are two catches. First, it is a Work in Progress (WIP). While it is feature-rich, it isn’t a “finished” product, and users may encounter bugs or menus that feel incomplete. Second, you will need to source and load your own console BIOS files manually before you can play a single game.

• Key Advantage: Best-in-class upscaling and texture fixes.
• The Catch: Requires manual BIOS setup and is technically unfinished software.
• Mixed blessing Some users like the characteristic wobble of the old system, and DuckStation “fixes” this.

3. ePSXe: The Legacy Veteran

Verdict: Stable, but starting to show its age (and its price).

For over a decade, ePSXe ($3.75) was the king of Android emulation. It is incredibly stable and runs on almost any hardware. However, in 2026, it is getting harder to justify. At $3.75, it is the most expensive option on our list, yet it offers the fewest modern features.

The most common complaint from users is the awkward on-screen controls. The L2 and R2 trigger buttons are notoriously difficult to use on a touchscreen, often requiring a physical controller to play complex games comfortably.

• Key Advantage: Decades of proven stability.
• The Catch: Most expensive option with dated, clunky on-screen controls.

Final Comparison Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need a BIOS file to play PS1 games on Android?

A: For most emulators like DuckStation and ePSXe, yes. You must extract a BIOS file from your original console. However, PicoStation is designed with a high-level emulation (HLE) BIOS, allowing you to play without needing external files.

Q: What is the best controller for PS1 emulation?

A: PicoStation supports any controller that Android recognizes. For the best experience, we recommend “wrap-around” controllers like the Razer Kishi or Backbone One, which turn your phone into a handheld console. Standard Bluetooth controllers like the 8BitDo Pro 2 or an Xbox Wireless Controller also work perfectly.

Q: Which emulator has the highest compatibility?

A: PicoStation and DuckStation both boast near-perfect compatibility (99%+) with the PS1 library. Because PicoStation is built on the proven PCSX architecture, even obscure Japanese imports and late-lifecycle titles run smoothly.

Conclusion

The PS1 emulation scene on Android is better than ever.

• Choose PicoStation if you want to start playing right now without hunting for BIOS files. It offers the best balance of modern convenience, high compatibility, and price.
• Choose DuckStation if you want to tinker with graphics settings and don’t mind the “Work in Progress” status.
• Choose ePSXe if you are already a long-time user and don’t mind the dated UI.

Ready to play? Download PicoStation today and get back into the game!