PCSX2 vs PPSSPP
PCSX2
pcsx2.net
PPSSPP
ppsspp.orgSide by side
| Figure | PCSX2 | PPSSPP |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | — | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Spec score · Game Console Emulators | 7.6 (#22) | 8.9 (#5) |
| Spec score · Emulator Software | 7.6 (#28) | 8.9 (#3) |
| BIOS requirement | PCSX2 cannot play games without a BIOS, and the project says users must dump the proprietary BIOS from their own console. | A PSP BIOS file is unnecessary because PPSSPP simulates the BIOS and internal operating system. |
| Support | The project directs users to its Discord server and forums for questions and troubleshooting. | The official site provides documentation, frequently asked questions, troubleshooting guides, and community forums. |
| What it does | PCSX2 is a free, open-source emulator that lets users play PlayStation 2 games on a PC. | PPSSPP emulates Sony PSP games and software on supported devices. |
Plans
PPSSPP
- PPSSPPFree
- PPSSPP FreeFree
- PPSSPP Gold for Android$4.99, paid once
- PPSSPP Gold for Windows/macOSPriced on request
In their own words
PPSSPP
PPSSPP is a PSP emulator for running games and other software made for the Sony PlayStation Portable. It is available on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS and Windows, with a free plan at free. Games can run at full HD resolution or higher, with texture upscaling and post-processing shaders. Players can use save states and a turbo button, customize touch controls, or connect a controller or keyboard. Save data transferred from a real PSP can continue a game. PPSSPP supports PSP ad hoc and infrastructure multiplayer, including ad hoc play through relay servers, and supports RetroAchievements after account sign-in. It runs PSP software only, not PS1 games or UMD Video discs; users must supply their own PSP game files. Compatibility reports are collected anonymously only when manually enabled. The open-source project is licensed under GPL 2.0 or later. Its official site provides documentation, FAQs, troubleshooting guides and community forums. PPSSPP Gold is available for Android, Windows, macOS and iOS, but not currently for Linux or Steam Deck.