Here’s what you should probably know about the best Nintendo DS emulators.

What Is the Best Nintendo DS Emulator?

The best Nintendo DS emulator, based on my experience, isMelonDS.

iPhone updating with progress bar on screen

In certain areas, MelonDS isn’t as mature as DeSmuME.

For example, DeSmuME is essentially plug-and-play while MelonDS requires more effort to set up.

see to it to read the configuration guide for MelonDS.

Google Pixel Modes Feature

You may need to download additional files to use DS/DSi emulation.

DeSmuME is more mature overall, but lacks the active support that MelonDS still has.

DraStic is ideal for Android users, while the up-and-coming Delta is great on devices like iPhones and iPads.

Perplexity website open in a browser

But if you’ve found that MelonDS lacks features that you consider essential, give DeSmuME a try.

The emulator offers an impressive collection of features that will continue to surprise you as you use it.

Most users enjoy DraStic.

White Nintendo DS and Pokemon Games with a Black Background

Michael San Diego/Shutterstock

Even on weaker hardware, DraStic delivers impressive performance and rendering.

It’s excellent for turning your older Androids into powerful gaming devices.

Emulating on iOS and MacOS has never been simpler.

configuring settings to play pokemon white with melonds

To use those files, you’ll also need an app capable of extracting .7z files.

There are many other Nintendo DS emulators to consider too, depending on your unit.

opening pokemon white 2 on desmume emulator on windows

downloading the drastic nintendo ds emulator from the google play store

using delta emulator to play pokemon on ipad