1UP PiX Portable Review: A Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi DNA
1UP · 2018-01-01
The 1UP PiX Portable is a retro gaming handheld powered by a Broadcom BCM2837 processor (Cortex-A53, 1.2 GHz) and VideoCore IV GPU. It features a 2.8-inch IPS display (640x480, 4:3), 1 GB DDR2 RAM, microSD storage, and a 4000 mAh battery. Released in 2018, it runs open-source software and supports emulation up to PS1 smoothly, with playable N64 and NDS.
Overview
The 1UP PiX Portable is a compact retro gaming handheld that leverages the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. It features a transparent brushed gold plastic shell, a 2.8-inch IPS display with 640x480 resolution (285.71 PPI), and a 4:3 aspect ratio. Powered by a Broadcom BCM2837 chipset (quad-core Cortex-A53 at 1.2 GHz) with VideoCore IV GPU (300 MHz), it packs 1 GB DDR2 RAM and uses a microSD card for storage. Connectivity includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, four USB ports, an Ethernet jack, HDMI output, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Dual stereo speakers and a 4000 mAh battery complete the package.
Key Specs Highlights
- CPU: Cortex-A53, 1.2 GHz quad-core
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV @ 300 MHz
- RAM: 1 GB DDR2
- Display: 2.8-inch IPS, 640x480 (285.71 PPI), 60 Hz
- Storage: Built-in microSD
- Battery: 4000 mAh
- Weight: 350 g
- Dimensions: 130 x 65 x 32 mm
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB x4, Ethernet, HDMI
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers, 3.5mm jack
- OS: Open-source system
- Price (launch): $175
Who It Is For
The 1UP PiX Portable is for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a customizable, open-source handheld capable of emulating SNES, PS1 (60 FPS), and some N64/NDS games (playable but not full speed). It's ideal for tinkerers familiar with Raspberry Pi projects, thanks to its multiple USB ports and Ethernet for easy modding. The 4:3 screen and 2.8-inch size suit classic game libraries.
Buying Notes
Released in 2018, the 1UP PiX Portable is no longer in active production. It may be found second-hand or from niche retailers. The launch price was $175, with a general range of $150-$200. Ensure the unit includes a microSD card with the OS pre-installed, as setup can be technical. The plastic build is lightweight but may feel less premium. Battery life is decent thanks to 4000 mAh, but actual performance varies with usage.
| CPU | Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore IV |
| Name | 1UP PiX Portable |
| Brand | 1UP |
| Memory | 1 GB DDR2 |
| Weight | 350 g |
| Battery | 4000 mAh |
| Storage | Built-in MicroSD |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2837 |
| Body Color | Transparent brushed gold |
| Dimensions | 130 mm x 65 mm x 32 mm |
| Screen PPI | 285.71 |
| Price Range | $150 - $200 |
| Screen Size | 2.8 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB x4, Ethernet |
| Launch Price | $175 |
| Release Date | 2018 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | HDMI |
| CPU Frequency | 1.2 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open-source system |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 300 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores, 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | SNES FX and 3D PS1 (60 FPS), N64 and NDS (playable, but not full speed) |