Odroid Go Advance Review: A Budget Open-Source Handheld for Retro Gaming
HardKernel · 2020-02-01
The Odroid Go Advance by HardKernel is a compact, open-source handheld gaming device powered by a RockChip RK3326 processor. It features a 3.5-inch TFT display, 1GB DDR3 RAM, and a 3000mAh battery, making it a capable option for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget.
Overview
The Odroid Go Advance, developed by HardKernel, is an open-source handheld gaming console designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. It runs on a RockChip RK3326 quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU clocked between 1.3 GHz and 1.5 GHz, paired with a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU at 650 MHz. The device features 1 GB of DDR3 RAM and relies on external MicroSD storage. Its 3.5-inch TFT display offers a resolution of 480x320 pixels with a 3:2 aspect ratio and a pixel density of 164.83 PPI. The handheld weighs 170 grams and measures 155 mm x 72 mm x 20 mm, available in plastic or metal casing with transparent or metallic color options.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: RockChip RK3326 (Cortex-A35, 4 cores, 4 threads, 1.3-1.5 GHz)
- GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz
- Memory: 1 GB DDR3
- Storage: External MicroSD
- Display: 3.5-inch TFT, 480x320, 60Hz
- Battery: 3000 mAh
- Connectivity: USB-A, 10 Pin Port, WiFi (via USB dongle)
- Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Weight: 170 g
- Dimensions: 155 x 72 x 20 mm
Who It Is For
The Odroid Go Advance is ideal for retro gaming fans who enjoy tinkering with open-source systems. It handles SNES FX and 3D PS1 games at 60 FPS, 2D PSP games are mostly playable, while 3D PSP may require frame skipping. N64 and Dreamcast can run some easier-to-emulate titles. It suits users comfortable with DIY setup and external WiFi dongles.
Buying Notes
Pricing ranges from $50 to $75, with a launch price of $63. No official release date beyond February 2020 is provided. The device lacks vibration, video output, and sensors. Ensure you have a MicroSD card and optionally a USB WiFi adapter for network features.
| CPU | Cortex-A35 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Mali-G31 MP2 |
| Name | Odroid Go Advance |
| Brand | HardKernel |
| Memory | 1 GB DDR3 |
| Weight | 170 g |
| Battery | 3000 mAh |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | RockChip RK3326 Multi-core score: 440 |
| Body Color | Transparent metallic |
| Dimensions | 155 mm x 72 mm x 20 mm |
| Screen PPI | 164.83 |
| Price Range | $50 - $75 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | TFT |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | USB-A, 10 Pin Port, WiFi (requires USB dongle) |
| Launch Price | $63 |
| Release Date | 2020 / 02 |
| Screen Ratio | 3:2 |
| CPU Frequency | 1.3 GHz - 1.5 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic or Metal |
| Operating System | Open Source |
| Screen Resolution | 480 x 320 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 650 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | SNES FX and 3D PS1 (60 FPS), 2D PSP mostly playable, but 3D PSP requires frame skipping, N64 and Dreamcast mainly playable for some easier-to-emulate games |