Gizmondo (Tiger Telematics) - A Retro Handheld Gaming Device

Tiger Telematics · 2005-01-01

Gizmondo (Tiger Telematics) - A Retro Handheld Gaming Device

The Gizmondo, released in 2005 by Tiger Telematics, is a handheld gaming device running Windows on a Samsung S3C2440 processor with an Nvidia GoForce 3D 4500 GPU. It features a 2.8-inch TFT screen, Bluetooth, GPS, and expandable storage via SD card.

Overview

The Gizmondo is a handheld gaming console developed by Tiger Telematics and released in 2005. It runs a custom version of Windows on a Samsung S3C2440 processor with an ARM920T core clocked at 400 MHz. The device features an Nvidia GoForce 3D 4500 GPU, 64 MB of SDRAM, and 128 MB of internal NAND storage, expandable via SD card. Its 2.8-inch TFT display has a resolution of 320x240 pixels (4:3 aspect ratio) and a pixel density of approximately 142.86 PPI. Connectivity options include Bluetooth and GPS, and audio is output through a 3.5mm headphone jack. The Gizmondo weighs 155 grams and measures 138 x 82 x 32 mm, with a plastic black-silver body.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: Samsung S3C2440 (ARM920T) @ 400 MHz (1 core, 1 thread)
  • GPU: Nvidia GoForce 3D 4500
  • RAM: 64 MB SDRAM
  • Storage: 128 MB NAND internal + SD card slot
  • Display: 2.8-inch TFT, 320x240, 60Hz
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, GPS
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack, mono speaker
  • OS: Windows
  • Weight: 155 g
  • Dimensions: 138 x 82 x 32 mm

Who It Is For

The Gizmondo is for retro gaming enthusiasts interested in early 2000s handhelds. It can emulate most SNES games at 60 FPS and many 2D PS1 games run well, but 3D PS1 games may struggle. It also appeals to collectors due to its unique history and features like GPS.

Buying Notes

As a discontinued device from 2005, the Gizmondo is only available on the secondhand market. Prices vary widely based on condition and completeness. Ensure the unit is functional, as replacement parts are scarce. The device's Windows OS may require some tinkering. No official price or release date information is available beyond the 2005 launch.

Specifications
CPUARM920T
GPUNvidia GoForce 3D 4500
RAM64 MB SDRAM
NameGizmondo
BrandTiger Telematics
Weight155 g
SpeakerMono
Storage128 MB NAND internal & SD external
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorSamsung S3C2440
Body ColorBlack-silver
Dimensions138 mm x 82 mm x 32 mm
Screen PPI142.86
Screen Size2.8 inches
Screen TypeTFT
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityBluetooth, GPS
Release Date2005
Screen Ratio4:3
CPU Frequency400 MHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemWindows
Screen Resolution320 x 240
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads1 core 1 thread
Emulator Game SupportMost SNES runs at 60 FPS, most 2D PS1 runs well (not all at 60 FPS), but cannot smoothly play 3D games