PowKiddy X20 Review: A Budget Handheld for Retro Gaming

Overview

The PowKiddy X20 is a horizontal handheld gaming console released in October 2020. It features a 5.0-inch IPS display with a resolution of 960x544 (16:9 aspect ratio) and a pixel density of 220.68 PPI. Powered by a Rockchip RK3128 quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU clocked at 1.3 GHz and a Mali-400 MP2 GPU at 500 MHz, it comes with 256 MB of DDR3 RAM and 128 MB of internal storage, expandable via MicroSD card. The device runs a Linux-based open-source operating system and includes a 2800 mAh battery, Mini HDMI output, USB OTG, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It is housed in a plastic shell with a silver color option, measuring 193 x 85 x 18 mm.

Key Specs Highlights

• CPU: Cortex-A7 quad-core @ 1.3 GHz
• GPU: Mali-400 MP2 @ 500 MHz
• RAM: 256 MB DDR3
• Display: 5.0-inch IPS, 960x544, 16:9
• Battery: 2800 mAh
• Storage: 128 MB internal + MicroSD
• Connectivity: Mini HDMI, USB OTG, 3.5mm audio
• OS: Open-source Linux

Who It Is For

The PowKiddy X20 is aimed at retro gaming enthusiasts on a tight budget who want a larger screen for classic titles. It handles SNES FX and most PlayStation 1 games at 60 FPS, though some lag may occur due to firmware issues. N64 performance is laggy, so it's best for older systems. The open-source OS appeals to tinkerers who enjoy customizing their handheld.

Buying Notes

As of its release, the PowKiddy X20 was priced around $70. Availability may vary; check current listings from reputable sellers. Be aware that the firmware can cause performance hiccups even on capable hardware. The device lacks vibration, cooling, and other sensors. For the price, it offers a decent entry point into handheld retro gaming, but consider alternatives if N64 emulation is a priority.