Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

FCEUX VS Mesen

Compare FCEUX VS Mesen and see what are their differences

FCEUX logo FCEUX

FCEUX is a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Famicom, and Famicom Disk System (FDS) emulator.

Mesen logo Mesen

Mesen is a NES/Famicom emulator and NSF player.
  • FCEUX Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-01-04
  • Mesen Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-03-31

FCEUX features and specs

  • Versatile Emulator
    FCEUX supports a wide range of NES and Famicom game files, making it a versatile choice for users who enjoy classic gaming.
  • Extensive Debugging Tools
    It offers various debugging tools like a disassembler, hex editor, and trace logger, valuable for developers and modders.
  • TAS Support
    FCEUX supports Tool-Assisted Speedruns (TAS), enabling users to create precise and scripted gameplay videos.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    Available on multiple operating systems including Windows, Linux, and macOS, ensuring wide accessibility.
  • Open-Source
    Being open-source, FCEUX allows for community-driven improvements and custom modifications.

Possible disadvantages of FCEUX

  • Learning Curve
    Due to the extensive features and debugging tools, new users may find it difficult to navigate and utilize all functionalities efficiently.
  • Interface Complexity
    The user interface may appear cluttered or outdated, making it less intuitive compared to other emulators.
  • Potential Performance Issues
    Some users might experience performance issues on older or lower-spec systems due to the emulator's robust feature set.
  • Limited Support
    While FCEUX is actively maintained, support and troubleshooting assistance may be limited compared to more mainstream software.

Mesen features and specs

  • High Accuracy
    Mesen is known for its high accuracy in emulating NES and SNES games, providing a near-authentic gaming experience.
  • Feature-rich
    Includes features like netplay, rewind, and a robust debugging toolset, making it appealing for both casual gamers and developers.
  • Open Source
    Being open-source allows users to modify and improve the emulator, fostering a community of enthusiasts and developers.
  • Cross-platform Support
    Available on multiple platforms, including Windows and Linux, providing flexibility for users across different operating systems.
  • Comprehensive Compatibility
    Offers extensive game compatibility, ensuring that a wide range of games run smoothly without issues.

Possible disadvantages of Mesen

  • System Requirements
    Mesen is resource-intensive compared to some other emulators, requiring relatively higher system specifications to run efficiently.
  • Learning Curve
    The extensive feature set can result in a steep learning curve for new users who are not familiar with emulator settings and functionalities.
  • Limited Platform Availability
    While it supports Windows and Linux, it lacks native support for macOS users, limiting accessibility for a portion of potential users.

FCEUX videos

NES Emulator Review: FCEUX Part 1

More videos:

  • Review - NES Emulator Review: FCEUX Part 2
  • Tutorial - FCEUX 2.2.3 (2018) Setup Tutorial & Best Configuration | Play NES Games on PC

Mesen videos

Mesen review

More videos:

  • Review - MESEN Emulator for PC: Full Setup and Play in 2 Minutes (The Best NES and Famicom Emulator)
  • Tutorial - Mesen Emulator Tutorial (NES Emulation)

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to FCEUX and Mesen)
Gaming
42 42%
58% 58
Emulators
41 41%
59% 59
Media Player
40 40%
60% 60
Group Chat & Notifications

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, FCEUX seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 3 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

FCEUX mentions (3)

  • started playing tecmo super bowl yesterday and I'm hooked. I'm 16 and i wish this is what I grew up with. only bad thing is I can't save my game on this website 😂
    In addition to the other reply you can use an emulator on your computer: https://fceux.com/web/home.html. Source: over 3 years ago
  • An attempt to clear the air because I feel like people have grossly misunderstood me
    When it comes down to it I do think the emulation scene is mostly about games, and the Apple II was not a very good game machine due to its barely adequate sound and weird color. Have you used FCEUX? Now there's a serious reverse engineering emulator effort, and it's no accident that it's for the NES. Source: over 3 years ago
  • How do I play my NES on my laptop?
    They probably meant: https://fceux.com/web/home.html. Source: over 3 years ago

Mesen mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Mesen yet. Tracking of Mesen recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing FCEUX and Mesen, you can also consider the following products

Nestopia - A portable and cycle-accurate NES emulator written in C++

RetroArch - RetroArch is a frontend for emulators, game engines and media players.

puNES - PuNES is a high accuracy NES emulator.

VirtuaNES - VirtuaNES is Famicom/NES emulator for Win32.

NESBox - Nesbox Emulator is a multiplatform emulator of video consoles.

MESS - Emulates most gaming systems that exist, emphasizing accuracy over speed.