You'd probably be better served by a retro handheld. A lot of them run android so you can play android games, but the built in controllers make emulating actually enjoyable.

Major issue is that the ones cheaper than a switch struggle with 3D games.

If you have the money, steamdeck is definitely one of the best bang for buck, but it'll probably be more expensive than a switch (unless you can find a deal on a used/refurbished one).