PiBoy XRS Review: A Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Power
Experimental Pi · 2022-09-01
The PiBoy XRS by Experimental Pi is a retro gaming handheld powered by a Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4, featuring a 3.5-inch IPS display, physical controls, and a 5600 mAh battery. It runs open-source software and supports emulation up to N64, PSP, and Dreamcast.
Overview
The PiBoy XRS is a handheld gaming console designed by Experimental Pi, built around the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4). It features a classic horizontal form factor with a 3.5-inch IPS display at 640x480 resolution, physical buttons, and a D-pad. The device is powered by a Broadcom BCM2711 processor (Cortex-A72, 1.5 GHz) with VideoCore VI GPU, and comes with 1-8 GB of RAM. Storage is via external MicroSD. It includes WiFi, Bluetooth, four USB-A ports, an Ethernet port, and Mini HDMI output. The 5600 mAh battery provides extended playtime, and the device weighs 330 grams.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2711 (Cortex-A72, 1.5 GHz, 4 cores/4 threads)
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore VI (500 MHz)
- RAM: 1-8 GB
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 4:3 aspect ratio, 60 Hz
- Storage: External MicroSD
- Battery: 5600 mAh
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-A x4, Ethernet, Mini HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack
- OS: Open-source (Linux-based)
- Weight: 330 g
- Dimensions: 162 x 93 x 36 mm
Who It Is For
The PiBoy XRS is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with open-source systems. It suits users who want a customizable handheld that can emulate classic consoles up to N64, PSP, and Dreamcast. It is also great for Raspberry Pi fans looking for a portable gaming solution.
Buying Notes
The PiBoy XRS was released in September 2022 with a starting price of $150 (typical range $150-$200). Note that the device requires a separate Raspberry Pi CM4 module (not included). Availability may vary; check official retailers. The plastic build is lightweight but may feel less premium. The mono speaker is adequate but not exceptional. For best performance, consider a CM4 with at least 4 GB RAM.
| CPU | Cortex-A72 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore VI |
| RAM | 1 - 8 GB |
| Name | PiBoy XRS |
| Brand | Experimental Pi |
| Weight | 330 g |
| Battery | 5600 mAh |
| Cooling | Ventilation outlet |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Broadcom BCM2711 |
| Body Color | DMG Gray/Red |
| Dimensions | 162 mm x 93 mm x 36 mm |
| Screen PPI | 228.57 |
| Price Range | $150 - $200 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-A x4, Ethernet |
| Release Date | 2022 / 09 |
| Video Output | Mini HDMI |
| CPU Frequency | 1.5 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | $150 |
| Operating System | Open-source |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 500 MHz |
| Screen Aspect Ratio | 4:3 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to N64, PSP & Dreamcast |