Smartphones have become mini-computers, capable of virtually everything that a PC can do. You name a thing and there is an app to do just that on the app store.
On top of that, the mobile gaming industry has flourished and grown ten-fold in the last decade. Some even connect a mouse and a keyboard to go all in online gaming.
There are a few apps and games that are not available for PCs. Most of us can run them on our PC using an emulator. However, not everyone has a computer with specs capable of running the demanding emulators of today.
For those folks, you can take advantage of the below list of the Android emulators that run well on low-end Windows PCs.
Best Android Emulators for Low End PCs With Less RAM
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1. NoxPlayer
We start with NoxPlayer, an emulator that has been in the hot waters in the past due to the bundling of adware. The water is under the bridge, and you can enjoy a widely renowned emulator on your whim.
Features
- Multiple pointer options to use in the emulator.
- Several device profiles to the emulator.
- Emulator launch time is faster than most.
- Dedicated game settings, which include mouse acceleration and FPS settings.
- A standalone video recorder that provides quick recording utility along with the recordings dashboard. You can search for your recordings from the list.
Minimum Requirements
| RAM | 2GB |
| OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, and XP |
| Processor | Dual Core 2.2 Ghz |
| Graphics Card | GPU with OpenGL 2.0 support |
| Storage | 1.5GB |
2. LDplayer
LDplayer has been amongst the best emulator for low-end PCs. As a matter of fact, we have covered it in the past as well while discussing the best Android emulators. Backed by active developer and support, you can expect flawless emulation.
Features
- Game-oriented features such as macros recorder, scripts support, and more.
- Optimized for popular apps of several categories.
- Upgraded kernel version that supports all the modern apps and games.
- A mini mode that allows you to work while playing a game.
- You have the option between Android 5.1 and 7.1.
Minimum Requirements
| RAM | 2GB |
| OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, and XP SP3 |
| Processor | x86 and x64 processor |
| Graphics Card | GPU with OpenGL 2.0 support |
| Storage | 3GB |
3. Android-x86
Turn your PC into an Android emulator with the Android-x86. An-open source program, the UI is as close it can get to the pure, vanilla Android experience. You can run it on a virtual machine as well, in any case when the idea of installing it is not sold to you. A live CD is also an option that you can use on the go.
Features
- Runs on Android 9, and works are in the pipeline for 10.
- Install on a USB stick and run it like a Live CD.
- Android device feels in the user-interface.
- Available in 100+ languages with keyboard option.
- Dedicated LineageOS integration.
Minimum Requirements
| RAM | 2GB |
| OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7 |
| Processor | Dual Core |
| Graphics Card | GPU with OpenGL 2.1 support |
| Storage | 4GB |
4. KoPlayer
Soon as you launch the emulator for the first time, you are greeted by a popup to login. Logging into a Google account is mandatory to use the Android emulator, so keep one handy.
KoPlay is amongst the few emulators for low-end PCs that work on Mac OS as well.
Features
- APK button to directly load app installation files from PC.
- Fairly easier user-interface as compared to the competitors.
- Relies on the latest kernel for faster operations and a smooth experience.
- Customizable controls – on-screen and keyboard
- Different rendering modes for maximal performance in demanding apps/games.
Minimum Requirements
| RAM | 2GB |
| OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7; Ubuntu 14.4x+ ; OSX 10.8+ |
| Processor | Dual Core Processor |
| Graphics Card | GPU with OpenGL 2.1 support |
| Storage | 4GB |
5. MEmu Play
A rather underrated emulator for PCs, MEmu stands out in the low-end segment. You have the option of offline and online downloaders.
The newer version has two unwanted software(s) bundled with it. Steer clear of them by declining them before moving forward with the installation.
Features
- 120 FPS mode for games/apps that support such refresh rate. 90 FPS is also available, along with 60 FPS for general usage.
- Speed up that frees up available RAM for the apps/games.
- Dedicated MOBA mode in keyboard controls for playing online battle arena games.
- Anti-flickering for improving the display in fast-paced movements on the screen.
- Advanced support for AMD processors – expect better compatibility and performance on them.
Minimum Requirements
| RAM | 1GB |
| OS | Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7 SP1 |
| Processor | Dual Core Processor |
| Graphics Card | GPU with OpenGL 2.0+ support |
| Storage | 2GB |
Over to You
Most of the emulators are meant for low-end PCs except the industry leaders that emphasize performance. NowPlayer and MEmu Play are your companions if you are new to the emulators and unsure about your PC’s capabilities.