Letzte Aktualisierung am 4. March 2026 von Jungsi
Following my article on the MiSTerX Mini, today I would like to introduce you to the MiSTer Pi. This device is also produced in small quantities and is popular with retro fans looking for an affordable alternative to the original MiSTer. My copy comes from the second production batch and includes the Turbo Pack, which comprises the following components:
- Base kit: MiSTer Pi, USB-C cable, acrylic case, spacers and FAN I/O
- 128 MB SDRAM module
- USB hub
- I/O board v9.2
- SNES SNAC adapter and SNAC level shifter (for connecting SNES controllers)
- 128 GB SD card
The Turbo Pack is delivered fully assembled, so it is ready for use almost immediately.
Hardware: More affordable with a clone board
The MiSTer Pi uses a clone board of Terasic’s DE-10 Nano, which significantly reduces production costs. However, the FPGA chip used, a Cyclone V, remains the same. The clone board lowers the base cost to just $99, and the complete Turbo Pack is available for $190 – a remarkably affordable price for a fully equipped FPGA system.
The MiSTer Pi is manufactured by Retro Remake Limited, based in Hong Kong, and owner Taki Udon designed the device as a direct alternative to the original MiSTer FPGA.
Improvements and differences compared to MiSTer
One key difference from the classic MiSTer is the power supply: the MiSTer Pi uses a USB-C port, which means you can use a standard 5V smartphone charger. If you don’t buy the Turbo Pack but order the individual parts separately, you’ll need to do some of the assembly yourself. The manufacturer provides easy-to-follow instructions on its website.
The included 128 GB SD card is already fully prepared – all you need to do is run the „Update All“ script to get started.
A level shifter and an SNAC adapter for the SNES controller are also included. The level shifter is responsible for converting the controller’s 5 volts to 3.3 volts for the Mister and vice versa. Without it, the board could be damaged. To use it, the adapter must be activated in the SNES core. There are also adapters available for numerous other controllers.
Compatibility and performance
The MiSTer Pi is a near-perfect clone of the original MiSTer FPGA. The main board is fully compatible with existing MiSTer development boards, and many of the components available from the Taki Udon shop, such as the SRAM module, can also be used with the original MiSTer.
In terms of performance, there is no difference: every core that works on a MiSTer FPGA also runs on the MiSTer Pi. For retro fans looking for an authentic gaming experience, the MiSTer Pi offers the same precision as the original.
Challenges during setup
Trotz aller Vorteile ist der MiSTer Pi nicht für jeden geeignet. Während erfahrene MiSTer-Nutzer die Einrichtung schnell bewältigen werden, könnte sie für Einsteiger etwas abschreckend wirken. Zwar ist die Dokumentation umfassend und hilfreich, doch der Prozess erfordert Geduld – vor allem, wenn es zu kleineren Problemen kommt, die manuell gelöst werden müssen.
Those who simply want to plug in a device and start playing right away may be disappointed. The MiSTer Pi is aimed more at enthusiasts who enjoy configuring a system and dealing with the technical details.
Conclusion: A compelling alternative
The MiSTer Pi is an impressive piece of hardware that offers a cost-effective and powerful alternative to the original MiSTer FPGA. With a price tag of £170 for the complete package, it is an attractive choice for anyone who wants to dive into the world of FPGA-based retro systems.
However, there is one small catch: the devices are already in high demand and sell out quickly. So if you want to purchase a MiSTer Pi, be prepared to wait patiently for the next batches.
For those willing to take the setup into their own hands, there is currently no better way to experience retro games with FPGA accuracy – apart from using real hardware.
Outlook: SuperStation (from the same manufacturer)
The manufacturer of MiSTer Pi is working on SuperStation one – an open FPGA console focused on PS1 that supports original PS1 controllers and memory cards while being fully compatible with the MiSTer FPGA platform (i.e. it can also load other cores). Retro Remake
An optional SuperDock expands the console with a slot-in CD/DVD drive, 4× USB-A and an M.2 (2280) slot, among other things; PS1 discs run on it. Time Extension
The SuperStation one was already available for pre-order; the price was announced as approximately £130 for the console and £30 for the SuperDock. A modern UI was also shown; the goal is region-free use. Time Extension+1
Note: I have pre-ordered the SuperStation one. As soon as my copy arrives, I will post a detailed report here on the blog with my impressions of the setup, performance and PS1 compatibility.