Cemu vs RetroArch
Cemu
cemu.infoRetroArch
retroarch.comSide by side
| Figure | Cemu | RetroArch |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Spec score · Game Console Emulators | 8.1 (#13) | 8.4 (#7) |
| Controllers | It emulates the GamePad, Pro Controller and Classic Controller, and partially emulates Wiimotes; keyboard and USB controllers are also supported. | Common game controllers are automatically configured when plugged in, and users can also configure them manually. |
| License | Cemu is licensed under Mozilla Public License 2.0, with stated exceptions for some dependency and source files. | RetroArch uses GPL version 3, while the libretro API uses an MIT license. |
| Purpose | Cemu is software to emulate Wii U games and applications on PC. | RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players that runs classic games through a graphical interface with unified settings. |
| Support | The FAQ directs users with unanswered questions to Cemu's communities, and the project asks emulator issues to be filed through GitHub Issues. | The FAQ directs users to the forums, Discord and documentation for help. |
Plans
In their own words
RetroArch
RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines, and media players, bringing them under a unified settings system. The RetroArch/Libretro project includes more than 200 cores across those categories. Its menu can group scanned games by system and display thumbnails and animated backgrounds. Common game controllers configure automatically when plugged in, and button actions can also be assigned manually.
Stackable shaders can change rendered graphics or imitate the look of CRT monitors. Built-in netplay supports hosting or joining network gaming sessions, including spectator mode. RetroArch can record gameplay to video files and stream games to Twitch or YouTube. Versions are listed for Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, macOS, and web browsers. RetroArch is free and open source under GPL version 3; the libretro API uses an MIT license. Features differ by platform and store version: the browser edition has lower performance and fewer capabilities than the full version, while Steam lacks Core Updater and thumbnail scraping and offers a selected core set.