GamePi43 (WaveShare) Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Inside
WaveShare · 2019-08-01
The GamePi43 is a DIY-friendly retro gaming handheld from WaveShare, powered by a Raspberry Pi 3B+ (Broadcom BCM2837B0) with a 4.3-inch IPS display. It offers solid performance for SNES and PS1 games, but struggles with N64 and DS. Its modular design uses two 18650 batteries and runs RetroPie.
Overview
The GamePi43 by WaveShare is a unique handheld gaming device built around a Raspberry Pi 3B+ single-board computer. It features a 4.3-inch IPS display with a 5:3 aspect ratio and 800x480 resolution, housed in a black plastic shell. The device is designed for hobbyists and retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy assembling and customizing their own hardware. It runs RetroPie, a popular emulation OS, and supports a wide range of classic consoles.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2837B0 (Cortex-A53, 1.4 GHz, 4 cores)
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV at 300 MHz
- Memory: 1 GB DDR2
- Storage: External MicroSD card
- Display: 4.3-inch IPS, 800x480, 60 Hz, ~217 PPI
- Battery: Two 18650 cells (user-replaceable)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4x USB, Ethernet, 3.5mm audio jack
- Weight: 500 g
- Dimensions: 171 x 111 x 34 mm
- Price: $75–$100 (launched at $80)
- Release Date: August 2019
Who It Is For
The GamePi43 is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, Raspberry Pi fans, and retro gamers who enjoy tinkering. It offers a modular design with easily replaceable batteries and full access to the Pi's ports. However, it's not for those seeking a polished, out-of-the-box experience; assembly and setup require some technical know-how. Emulation performance is good for 2D systems and some 3D (SNES, PS1 at 60 FPS), but N64 and DS games may be choppy.
Buying Notes
The GamePi43 is typically sold as a kit or bare board, often requiring a separate Raspberry Pi 3B+ and assembly. Prices vary, but the base cost is around $80. Availability may be limited as it's a niche product from WaveShare. Check for bundle deals that include the Pi and accessories. Due to its age (2019), consider newer alternatives like the Pi 4-based handhelds for better performance.
| CPU | Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore IV |
| Name | GamePi43 |
| Brand | WaveShare |
| Memory | 1 GB DDR2 |
| Weight | 500 g |
| Battery | 18650 x2 |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Vertical |
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2837B0 |
| Body Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 171 mm x 111 mm x 34 mm |
| Screen PPI | 216.97 |
| Price Range | $75 - $100 |
| Screen Size | 4.3 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WiFi, USB x4, Ethernet |
| Launch Price | $80 |
| Release Date | 2019 / 08 |
| Screen Ratio | 5:3 |
| CPU Frequency | 1.4 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | RetroPie |
| Screen Resolution | 800 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 smooth) |