PowKiddy V90s Review: A Clamshell Retro Handheld with Upgraded Performance
PowKiddy · 2025-05-01
The PowKiddy V90s is an upgraded clamshell retro gaming handheld featuring a 3.5-inch IPS display, Allwinner A133 Plus processor, and up to PSP emulation. It offers a nostalgic design with modern specs like 1GB RAM and a 3000mAh replaceable battery.
Overview
The PowKiddy V90s is a clamshell-style retro gaming handheld that builds upon the classic V90 design with significant hardware upgrades. Powered by the Allwinner A133 Plus quad-core Cortex-A53 processor clocked at 1.8-2.0 GHz and a PowerVR GE8300 GPU, it delivers smooth emulation for systems up to some PSP games. The 3.5-inch IPS display with 640x480 resolution and 4:3 aspect ratio provides crisp visuals for retro titles. With 1GB DDR3 RAM, dual external TF card slots, and a 3000mAh replaceable battery, the V90s is designed for extended gaming sessions.
Key Specs Highlights
- CPU: Allwinner A133 Plus (Cortex-A53, 4 cores, 1.8-2.0 GHz)
- GPU: PowerVR GE8300 @ 660 MHz
- RAM: 1 GB DDR3
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 4:3, 60Hz
- Storage: Dual external TF card slots
- Battery: 3000 mAh (replaceable)
- Weight: 180 grams
- OS: Open-source system
- Emulation: Up to some PSP games (not stable 60 FPS)
Who It Is For
The PowKiddy V90s is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate the clamshell form factor and want a portable device for emulating classic consoles up to PlayStation Portable (though PSP performance may vary). It's also suitable for collectors and tinkerers who enjoy open-source systems and replaceable batteries. The device's compact size (89mm x 85mm x 26.5mm) and plastic build make it lightweight and travel-friendly.
Buying Notes
The PowKiddy V90s was released in May 2025 with a starting price of approximately ¥197 (about $27 USD) for the no-card version. Available colors include red, yellow, gray, and translucent black. Note that WiFi connectivity requires a USB dongle (not included). The device lacks video output and audio output jacks. For PSP emulation, expect some titles to run below 60 FPS. The battery is user-replaceable, which is a plus for longevity.
| CPU | Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | PowerVR GE8300 |
| RAM | 1 GB DDR3 |
| Name | PowKiddy V90s |
| Alias | 泡机堂V90s |
| Brand | PowKiddy |
| Weight | 180 grams |
| Battery | 3000 mAh (replaceable) |
| Cooling | None |
| Speaker | Single speaker |
| Storage | Dual external TF card slots |
| Grip Type | Clamshell / Foldable |
| Processor | Allwinner A133 Plus |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Dimensions | 89 mm x 85 mm x 26.5 mm |
| Screen PPI | 228.6 |
| Body Colors | Red, yellow, gray, translucent black |
| Price Range | ¥200 - ¥300 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | None |
| Connectivity | WiFi (via USB dongle) |
| Release Date | 2025 / 05 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | None |
| CPU Frequency | 1.8 GHz - 2.0 GHz |
| Other Sensors | None |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | ¥197 (launch no-card version) |
| Operating System | Open-source system |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 660 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to some PSP games, but not stable at 60 FPS |