PowKiddy RGB10 Review: A Compact Retro Gaming Handheld

PowKiddy · 2020-07-01

PowKiddy RGB10 Review: A Compact Retro Gaming Handheld

The PowKiddy RGB10 is a budget-friendly retro gaming handheld powered by a RockChip RK3326 processor, offering solid emulation up to N64 and Dreamcast. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display, 1GB RAM, and a compact design.

Overview

The PowKiddy RGB10 is a horizontal handheld gaming device released in July 2020. It is powered by a RockChip RK3326 quad-core Cortex-A35 processor clocked at 1.3-1.5 GHz, paired with a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU and 1GB DDR3 RAM. The device runs on an open-source operating system and supports emulation up to Nintendo 64 and Sega Dreamcast. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 480x320 pixels (3:2 aspect ratio) and a 60Hz refresh rate. Storage is via external MicroSD card, and connectivity includes USB-A OTG and WiFi (via external dongle). The battery capacity varies between 2800 mAh and 3500 mAh, depending on the version. The device weighs 144 grams and measures 144 mm x 63 mm x 16 mm. It is available in plastic or metal shells, with color options including yellow, black, and blue.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: RockChip RK3326 (Cortex-A35, 4 cores, 1.3-1.5 GHz)
  • GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR3
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 480x320, 60Hz, 164.83 PPI
  • Storage: External MicroSD
  • Battery: 2800 mAh / 3500 mAh
  • Connectivity: USB-A OTG, WiFi (external dongle)
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack, mono speaker
  • Emulation: Up to N64 and Dreamcast

Who It Is For

The PowKiddy RGB10 is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts looking for an affordable, portable device to play classic games from systems like NES, SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation, and even some N64 and Dreamcast titles. It suits users who prefer open-source firmware and don't mind a lower-resolution screen. The metal shell version offers a more premium feel for those willing to pay extra.

Buying Notes

Prices vary by shell material: the plastic version starts around $80, the metal version around $120, and a top-spec version around $85. The device does not include internal storage, so a MicroSD card is required. WiFi connectivity requires an external dongle (not included). Battery life depends on usage and the specific battery variant. The mono speaker and lack of video output may be limitations for some users.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A35
GPUMali-G31 MP2
RAM1 GB DDR3
NamePowKiddy RGB10
AliasBawang Xiazi RGB10
BrandPowKiddy
Weight144 grams
Battery2800 mAh / 3500 mAh
SpeakerMono
StorageExternal MicroSD
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorRockChip RK3326 (Multi-core score: 440)
Dimensions144 mm x 63 mm x 16 mm
Screen PPI164.83
Body ColorsYellow, Black, Blue
Price Range$75 - $100
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityUSB-A OTG, WiFi (external dongle)
Launch PricePlastic: $80; Metal: $120; Top-spec: $85
Release Date2020 / 07
Screen Ratio3:2
CPU Frequency1.3 GHz - 1.5 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic or Metal
Operating SystemOpen-source system
Screen Resolution480 x 320
GPU Core Frequency650 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores, 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportUp to N64 and Dreamcast