GPM280 CM3 (WaveShare) Handheld Review
WaveShare · 2020-12-01
The GPM280 CM3 by WaveShare is a compact retro gaming handheld powered by a Broadcom BCM2837 chipset, featuring a 2.8-inch IPS display and open-source OS. It offers decent emulation for SNES and PS1, but struggles with N64 and NDS.
Overview
The GPM280 CM3, developed by WaveShare, is a handheld gaming device designed for retro enthusiasts. It runs on an open-source operating system and is powered by a Broadcom BCM2837 processor with a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU clocked at 1.2 GHz. The device features 1 GB of DDR2 RAM and relies on external MicroSD storage. Its 2.8-inch IPS display offers a 4:3 aspect ratio with a resolution of 640x480, resulting in a pixel density of 285.71 PPI. The handheld is available in a FC gold-red plastic shell and includes WiFi connectivity, a mono speaker, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. A 1500 mAh battery powers the unit, with ventilation holes for heat dissipation.
Key Specs Highlights
- CPU: Cortex-A53 quad-core @ 1.2 GHz
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV @ 250 MHz
- RAM: 1 GB DDR2
- Display: 2.8-inch IPS, 640x480, 4:3
- Storage: External MicroSD
- Battery: 1500 mAh
- Connectivity: WiFi
- Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Dimensions: 136.4 x 67.5 x 16.8 mm
- Weight: Not specified
Who It Is For
The GPM280 CM3 is ideal for retro gaming fans who want a dedicated device for playing classic titles from the SNES and PS1 era. It can handle SNES FX and 3D PS1 games at 60 FPS, but N64 and NDS games may be playable but not always smooth. It suits users comfortable with open-source systems and willing to manage storage via MicroSD cards.
Buying Notes
Priced between $100 and $150 (launch price $150), the GPM280 CM3 offers good value for its performance in lower-end emulation. However, consider its limitations with N64 and NDS. The plastic build and mono speaker are basic, but the WiFi connectivity adds convenience. No video output is available. Check for availability and current pricing from WaveShare or authorized retailers.
| CPU | Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore IV |
| RAM | 1 GB DDR2 |
| Name | GPM280 CM3 |
| Brand | WaveShare |
| Battery | 1500 mAh |
| Cooling | Ventilation holes |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2837 |
| Body Color | FC gold-red |
| Dimensions | 136.4 mm x 67.5 mm x 16.8 mm |
| Screen PPI | 285.71 |
| Price Range | $100 - $150 |
| Screen Size | 2.8 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi |
| Launch Price | $150 |
| Release Date | 2020 / 12 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| CPU Frequency | 1.2 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open-source system |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 250 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 may not run smoothly) |