Product Overview
- Product Name: NEC Turbo Express System with AC Adapter - Recapped & 3.5 inch LCD Screen Upgrade [Handheld TurboGrafx-16]
- New or Used: Used
- In Box or Loose: Loose
- Overall Condition: Very Good
- Notes: Very clean and freshly recapped TG-16 handheld with a larger 3.5 LCD screen upgrade installed. Sound is loud, screen is crisp and colorful, and battery terminals are corrosion free. A brand new aftermarket AC adapter (with proper voltage rating) is included - No games are included. Play your North American TurboGrafx-16 TurboChip library on this fantastic portable system! (Not compatible with import Japanese HuCards)
Photos show actual product for sale — no stock images used.
What's Included
-
Item(s):
1 Turbo Express System
1 brand new aftermarket AC Power Supply Adapter (with proper voltage rating: 7V 700ma). - Original Packaging: No — loose item, no packaging included
- Manual / Insert (if applicable): No manual
- Extras:
System Description
The TurboGrafx-16 TurboExpress Handheld (Model HES-EXP-01) is NEC’s portable version of its groundbreaking 16-bit console. Released in 1990, this handheld system delivered console-quality gaming on the go by playing the exact same TurboChip game cards used on the home TurboGrafx-16. Featuring a sleek black design, a crisp backlit display, and stereo sound output, the TurboExpress remains one of the most advanced handhelds of its era.
Designed for collectors and gamers seeking authentic portable play, the TurboExpress supports TurboChip game cards without compromise and can be powered by six AA batteries or an optional AC adapter (may be sold separately, check the “What’s Included” section of this listing). Its forward-thinking design delivered unprecedented power and portability, often earning it the nickname “the Cadillac of handhelds” thanks to its unmatched performance in 1990.
Key Features
- Compact handheld design with 2.6-inch active-matrix color LCD screen
- Integrated stereo headphone jack for private play with rich audio
- Plays original TurboGrafx-16 TurboChip game cards directly
- Powered by 6 AA batteries or optional AC adapter for extended sessions
- Cutting-edge for its time, delivering true console-quality graphics in a handheld
Compatibility
- Plays all TurboGrafx-16 TurboChip game cards
- Works with official TurboGrafx-16 controllers and select first-party peripherals via adapter solutions
- Supports standard power through AA batteries or with a compatible AC adapter
Historical Trivia or Fun Fact
The TurboExpress was the most powerful handheld of its generation, capable of playing the exact same library as the home console—a revolutionary feature in 1990. At launch, it was priced higher than competing portables, reflecting its premium build and advanced technology. While that limited its mainstream success, it secured a reputation among enthusiasts as the ultimate handheld experience of its day.
Today, the TurboExpress is highly collectible due to its rarity and ambitious design. Known as the “Cadillac of handhelds,” it remains a showcase of NEC’s innovation and stands as one of the most desirable vintage gaming systems for serious collectors.
Additional Details
- Brand: NEC
- Platform: TurboGrafx-16 / Turbo Duo
- Model: HES-EXP-01
- Year Released: 1990
- Region: NTSC (North America, Canada)
- UPC: 092218001009
- SKU: 31632-MANP
Important Information
- All used items are cleaned, tested, and 100% guaranteed to work.
- Backed by Retro Game Fan’s 60-day warranty.
- Photos show the exact item for sale — we never use stock photos for used products.
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