RetroHub
RetroHub: A free, open-source frontend for organizing and launching retro games across desktop platforms. Ranked #11 of 25 in Emulation Frontends by our editors (8.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for desktop users migrating frontends.
At a glance
- Editor score8.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forDesktop users migrating frontends
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Supported platformsWindows, macOS, Linux
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Built-in support for 80+ systems and 50+ emulators
- Imports settings, metadata, media, and themes from supported frontends
Where it doesn't
- Emulators must be installed separately
- Frontend imports are limited to supported frontends
- Focused on desktop library management rather than broader gaming needs
Our verdict on RetroHub
RetroHub is an open-source desktop frontend for organizing and launching retro game libraries on Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is aimed at people moving from another supported frontend, consolidating libraries, or wanting a customizable interface for multiple systems. The application manages game collections while relying on separately installed emulators, with support for keyboard, mouse, controller, and touch navigation. Its scope is clearly centered on local desktop library management rather than emulator distribution or a broader gaming platform.
Library migration is one of RetroHub’s clearest strengths. Supported frontend imports can bring in settings, game metadata, media, and themes, while the built-in scraper can retrieve additional metadata and artwork from online sources. Users can also edit metadata within the application, configure emulator paths and launch commands, and change the presentation of their collections with themes. Support for 80+ systems and 50+ emulators gives the frontend broad coverage, although the emulators themselves are not included and need to be installed separately.
RetroHub’s free, open-source model makes it a practical option for desktop users who want control over their library presentation without adopting a paid service. RetroAchievements support adds another useful layer for compatible retro gaming workflows. The main trade-off is that migration depends on supported frontends, and the experience remains tied to desktop operating systems and local emulator configuration. Choose RetroHub if you need a customizable, multi-system frontend with import, scraping, editing, and flexible input support. Choose an alternative if you want emulators included, a non-desktop experience, or a frontend outside its supported import and configuration model.
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RetroHub pricing
RetroHub fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Supported platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Emulators included | No |
| Library import | Yes |
| Metadata scraping | Yes |
| Controller navigation | Yes |
| Portable mode | Not verified |
| Cloud sync | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | retrohub-org.github.io |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to RetroHub
- ES-DE FrontendA capable free desktop frontend for organizing and launching broad game collections.9.3
- LaunchBoxA flexible storefront and emulator library with free core features and one-time premium licenses.9.2
- RetroArchA broad, free frontend for organizing and running emulation across desktop, mobile, and web.9.1
See all RetroHub alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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