LCL CM4 Boy (ChangLiang Li) Review: A Unique Raspberry Pi CM4 Handheld
ChangLiang Li · 2021-04-01
The LCL CM4 Boy is a vertical handheld gaming device powered by a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, offering customizable RAM and storage options. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display, replaceable battery, and solid emulation performance for N64, PSP, and Dreamcast.
Overview
The LCL CM4 Boy, developed by ChangLiang Li, is a unique handheld gaming console built around the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4). It features a vertical form factor reminiscent of classic Game Boy designs, with a 3.5-inch IPS display at 640x480 resolution. The device is powered by a Broadcom BCM2711 processor (Cortex-A72, 1.5 GHz) and VideoCore VI GPU, with RAM options ranging from 1GB to 8GB LPDDR4. Storage is flexible via built-in eMMC (up to 32GB) and MicroSD card. The CM4 Boy runs open-source software and supports emulation up to N64, PSP, and Dreamcast at playable levels.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2711 (4x Cortex-A72 @ 1.5 GHz)
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore VI @ 500 MHz
- RAM: 1/2/4/8 GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 0-32 GB eMMC + MicroSD
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 4:3, 60Hz
- Battery: 6200 mAh (replaceable)
- Connectivity: USB-A, Bluetooth & WiFi, HDMI out, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Weight: 328 grams
- Dimensions: 90 x 148 x 30 mm
- OS: Open-source
Who It Is For
The CM4 Boy is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with open-source handhelds. It suits users who want a customizable device with upgradeable RAM and storage, and who appreciate a classic vertical layout. It's capable of emulating N64, PSP, and Dreamcast games, making it a solid choice for fans of those libraries.
Buying Notes
Pricing ranges from $200 to $300, with a starting price of $285. The device was released in April 2021. Available colors include DMG gray, SNES gray, and pink. Note that the CM4 module is not included and must be purchased separately. The ceramic heatsink aids thermal management. As an open-source device, software setup may require some technical knowledge.
| CPU | Cortex-A72 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore VI |
| RAM | 1 / 2 / 4 / 8 GB LPDDR4 |
| Name | LCL CM4 Boy |
| Brand | ChangLiang Li |
| Weight | 328 grams |
| Battery | 6200 mAh (replaceable) |
| Cooling | Ceramic heatsink |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | Built-in 0 - 32 GB eMMC, MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Vertical |
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711 |
| Body Color | DMG gray, SNES gray, pink |
| Dimensions | 90 mm x 148 mm x 30 mm |
| Screen PPI | 228.57 |
| Price Range | $200 - $300 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | USB-A, Bluetooth & WiFi |
| Release Date | 2021 / 04 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | HDMI |
| CPU Frequency | 1.5 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | $285 |
| Operating System | Open-source |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 500 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores, 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | N64, PSP and Dreamcast playable |