KT-R1 (KTR) Handheld Gaming Device Review
KTR · 2023-07-01
The KT-R1, also known as KTR or KTR1, is a versatile Android handheld gaming device powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset. It features a 4.5-inch 3:2 IPS touchscreen, up to 8GB RAM, and 256GB UFS 2.1 storage. With a 7000mAh battery and dual stereo speakers, it offers solid performance for retro gaming up to GameCube and Wii.
Overview
The KT-R1 (also known as KTR or KTR1) is a compact Android handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. It runs on a MediaTek Helio G99 processor with an octa-core CPU (Cortex-A76/A55) and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, offering smooth performance for emulators up to GameCube and Wii. The device features a 4.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 1620x1080 resolution, providing crisp visuals. It comes in plastic or metal shell options, with a large 7000mAh battery for extended play sessions.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 (8 cores, 2.0-2.2 GHz)
- GPU: Mali-G57 MC2 (600-950 MHz)
- Memory: 4/6/8 GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 64/128/256 GB UFS 2.1 + microSD slot
- Display: 4.5-inch IPS touchscreen, 1620x1080, 60Hz, 432.67 PPI
- Battery: 7000 mAh
- Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, optional 4G, USB-C OTG, 3.5mm audio
- Sensors: GPS, NFC, gyroscope, accelerometer, hall effect joysticks, and more
- Weight: 260g (plastic), 320g (metal)
- Dimensions: 169.8 x 79.5 x 18.3 mm
Who It Is For
The KT-R1 is ideal for retro gaming fans who want a dedicated handheld for emulation. It handles N64, PSP, and Dreamcast at full speed, and can run many GameCube and Wii titles. PS2 emulation is limited to lighter games. It also serves as a compact Android device for media consumption and light productivity.
Buying Notes
The KT-R1 is available in multiple configurations: plastic or metal shell, and RAM/storage options from 4GB+64GB to 8GB+256GB. Prices range from $170 to $280 depending on configuration. It was released in July 2023. Consider your budget and preferred build material when choosing. The metal version is heavier but more durable. Note that 4G connectivity is optional.
| CPU | Cortex-A76 / Cortex-A55 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| RAM | 4 / 6 / 8 GB LPDDR4X |
| Name | KT-R1 |
| Alias | KTR, KTR1, Carpenter KTR |
| Brand | KTR |
| Weight | 260 g (plastic), 320 g (metal) |
| Battery | 7000 mAh |
| Cooling | Custom heat sink, vents |
| Storage | Internal 64 / 128 / 256 GB UFS 2.1, external TF card slot |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | MediaTek Helio G99 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Dimensions | 169.8 mm x 79.5 mm x 18.3 mm |
| Screen PPI | 432.67 |
| Body Colors | Yellow, White, Red, Pink, Purple, Black, Gray |
| Price Range | $200 - $300 |
| Screen Size | 4.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, 4G (optional), USB-C OTG |
| Release Date | 2023 / 07 |
| Screen Ratio | 3:2 |
| Video Output | None |
| CPU Frequency | 2.0 GHz - 2.2 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Microphone, GPS, ambient light, proximity sensor, electronic compass, gravity sensor, NFC, six-axis gyroscope, hall effect joysticks |
| Shell Material | Plastic or metal |
| Starting Price | 4GB+64GB: $170 (plastic) $220 (metal); 6GB+128GB: $200 (plastic), $250 (metal); 8GB+256GB: $230 (plastic), $280 (metal) |
| Operating System | Android, kOS |
| Screen Resolution | 1620 x 1080 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 600 - 950 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | N64, PSP, and Dreamcast run at full speed; most GameCube and Wii playable. PS2 only runs lighter games with difficulty. |