PowKiddy RGB10S Review: A Budget Retro Handheld with Solid Performance

PowKiddy · 2022-03-01

PowKiddy RGB10S Review: A Budget Retro Handheld with Solid Performance

The PowKiddy RGB10S is an affordable retro gaming handheld powered by a RockChip RK3326 processor, 1GB RAM, and a 3.5-inch IPS display. It runs open-source Linux and Android, offering good emulation for SNES, PS1, and some N64/Dreamcast games.

Overview

The PowKiddy RGB10S is a compact horizontal handheld gaming device released in March 2022. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 3:2 aspect ratio and 480x320 resolution, powered by a RockChip RK3326 quad-core Cortex-A35 CPU clocked at 1.3-1.5 GHz and a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU. With 1GB DDR3 RAM and a 3000 mAh battery, it offers a solid foundation for retro gaming on a budget.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: RockChip RK3326 (4 cores, 4 threads)
  • GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR3
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 480x320, 60Hz, 164.83 PPI
  • Storage: External MicroSD
  • Battery: 3000 mAh
  • Connectivity: WiFi, USB-C OTG, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • OS: Open-source Linux and Android
  • Weight: 143 grams
  • Dimensions: 144 x 63.8 x 16-19 mm

Who It Is For

The RGB10S is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts on a tight budget who want a dedicated handheld for emulating classic systems like SNES, PS1, and some N64/Dreamcast titles. It's also suitable for users who prefer open-source software and the flexibility of dual OS options. However, it may not satisfy those seeking high-end performance for demanding PSP or N64 games.

Buying Notes

Priced around $80 USD, the PowKiddy RGB10S offers good value for its performance. It is available in black or white plastic shells. Note that the mono speaker and lack of video output may be limitations for some users. The device relies on MicroSD for storage, so factor in the cost of a quality card. For best results, stick to 2D and lighter 3D emulation.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A35
GPUMali-G31 MP2
RAM1 GB DDR3
NamePowKiddy RGB10S
AliasPaojitang RGB10S
BrandPowKiddy
Weight143 g
Battery3000 mAh
SpeakerMono
StorageExternal MicroSD
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorRockChip RK3326 (Multi-core score: 440)
Body ColorBlack, White
Dimensions144 mm x 63.8 mm x 16 - 19 mm
Screen PPI164.83
Price Range$75 - $100
Screen Size3.5 inch
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi, USB-C OTG
Launch Price$80
Release Date2022 / 03
CPU Frequency1.3 GHz - 1.5 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemOpen-source Linux, Android
Screen Resolution480 x 320
GPU Core Frequency650 MHz
Screen Aspect Ratio3:2
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportSNES FX & 3D PS1 (60 FPS), 2D PSP mostly playable but 3D PSP needs frameskip, N64 & Dreamcast mostly playable for easier to emulate games