DeSmuME is the best all-around MelonDS alternative for most desktop players, while DraStic is still the easiest pick on Android. The Nintendo DS family sold 154.02 million units, so it makes sense that DS emulation still has a huge audience [source: Nintendo]. Players usually want three things: save states, cleaner graphics, and controller support. The five options below cover those needs without forcing everyone to use the same setup.
TLDR: DeSmuME is the safest MelonDS replacement for Windows, macOS, and Linux because it has stable save states and simple controller mapping. DraStic is best for Android, especially for quick play sessions; for example, a player can load a save state in seconds during a commute. RetroArch is better for people who want one app for many systems, but it takes longer to set up. BizHawk fits speedrunners, while No$GBA works well on weaker PCs.
1. DeSmuME
Best for: desktop players who want a simple, proven emulator.
DeSmuME is the easiest MelonDS alternative to recommend. It supports save states, manual saves, controller mapping, screen layout changes, filters, frame skip, and basic graphics tweaks. It also runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
The interface looks old, but it is easy to understand. That matters. Some emulators hide basic settings under too many menus, which gets old fast. DeSmuME keeps most key tools close by.
- Save states: Yes, easy to use.
- Graphics settings: Filters, scaling, frame skip, and display options.
- Controller support: Yes, with manual button mapping.
- Main weakness: 3D performance can be uneven in some games.
2. DraStic DS Emulator
Best for: Android users who want speed and comfort.
DraStic has been one of the strongest DS emulators on Android for years. It is fast, clean, and good for phones. Players can resize the two DS screens, use portrait or wide layouts, and map touch controls to physical buttons.
It also supports save states and enhanced 3D rendering. That means some games look much sharper than they did on real DS hardware. Honestly, it feels like the Android choice that wastes the least time. Setup is quick, and most settings make sense.
- Save states: Yes, with quick access.
- Graphics settings: High resolution 3D rendering and screen layout tools.
- Controller support: Yes, including many Bluetooth controllers.
- Main weakness: It is focused on Android, not desktop.
3. RetroArch
Best for: players who want one app for many emulators.
RetroArch is not just a DS emulator. It is a front end that runs “cores,” including DS cores. This makes it useful for players who also emulate Game Boy Advance, SNES, PlayStation, or other systems in one place.
The good part is control. RetroArch has shaders, save states, rewind, overlays, controller profiles, and per game settings. The annoying part is setup. Expect to waste time on menus the first time. A simple controller task can take a few minutes longer than it should.
- Save states: Yes, with slots and hotkeys.
- Graphics settings: Shaders, scaling, filters, and core options.
- Controller support: Strong, especially for common USB and Bluetooth pads.
- Main weakness: The interface can be confusing at first.
4. No$GBA
Best for: older PCs and players who want speed.
No$GBA started as a Game Boy Advance emulator, but it also supports Nintendo DS games. It is lightweight and can run well on weak hardware. That makes it useful for older laptops where heavier emulators stutter.
Its save state support depends on version and setup, so it is not always as smooth as DeSmuME. Still, it has a loyal user base because it is fast. The interface is plain, but some players prefer that. No glitter. No clutter. Just settings and a game window.
- Save states: Limited or version based.
- Graphics settings: Basic display and speed options.
- Controller support: Yes, though setup may feel dated.
- Main weakness: Less friendly than newer tools.
5. BizHawk
Best for: speedrunners, testers, and advanced users.
BizHawk is built for accuracy tools and speedrun features. It supports save states, frame advance, input recording, and scripts. For casual DS play, it may feel like too much. For challenge runs, timing tests, or tool assisted runs, it is very useful.
Controller support is solid, and its hotkey system is powerful. The tradeoff is that BizHawk is not the friendliest pick for someone who just wants to play Mario Kart DS for 20 minutes.
- Save states: Yes, with strong tool support.
- Graphics settings: Useful display and accuracy options.
- Controller support: Yes, with detailed input mapping.
- Main weakness: Better for advanced users than casual players.
Quick comparison
- Best overall: DeSmuME
- Best Android option: DraStic
- Best all in one setup: RetroArch
- Best for weak PCs: No$GBA
- Best for speedruns: BizHawk
MelonDS is still a strong emulator, especially for players who care about accuracy. Yet these alternatives can be better for certain setups. The right pick depends on the device, the game, and how much setup pain the player is willing to accept.
FAQ
What is the best MelonDS alternative?
DeSmuME is the best general choice for desktop users. It has save states, controller support, and simple display settings.
Which Nintendo DS emulator is best for Android?
DraStic is the easiest Android pick. It is fast, supports save states, and works well with Bluetooth controllers.
Do these emulators support save states?
Yes, most do. DeSmuME, DraStic, RetroArch, and BizHawk have strong save state support. No$GBA is more limited.
Can players use controllers with DS emulators?
Yes. Most modern DS emulators support USB and Bluetooth controllers. RetroArch and DraStic are especially good for controller profiles.
Which emulator has the best graphics settings?
DraStic and RetroArch offer strong visual options. DeSmuME also has useful scaling and filter settings, though it is less flashy.