Retrostone 1 (8BCraft) – A Compact Retro Gaming Handheld

8BCraft · 2018-01-01

Retrostone 1 (8BCraft) – A Compact Retro Gaming Handheld

The Retrostone 1 by 8BCraft is a compact, vertical-oriented retro gaming handheld released in 2018. Powered by an Allwinner H3 quad-core processor and Mali-400 MP2 GPU, it emulates up to PS1 smoothly but struggles with N64 and NDS. Features a 3.5-inch 320x240 TFT display, 1GB RAM, and runs RetrorangePi OS.

Overview

The Retrostone 1, developed by 8BCraft, is a vertical handheld gaming console designed for retro enthusiasts. Launched in 2018, it combines a classic form factor with modern internals to emulate a wide range of classic systems. The device runs on RetrorangePi, a custom Linux-based OS optimized for gaming.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Allwinner H3 (Cortex-A7, 1.2 GHz, 4 cores)
  • GPU: Mali-400 MP2 @ 500 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR
  • Display: 3.5-inch Analog TFT, 320x240 resolution (4:3 aspect ratio, ~114 PPI, 60 Hz)
  • Storage: External MicroSD
  • Battery: 3000 mAh
  • Connectivity: Ethernet port, 4x USB ports, HDMI output, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Weight: 300 grams
  • Dimensions: 130 x 90 x 25 mm
  • Material: Plastic or metal (color options: gray, transparent blue, transparent red, metallic)
  • Price Range: $150 – $200 (launch price $157)

Who It Is For

The Retrostone 1 is ideal for retro gamers who prioritize PS1 and earlier systems (SNES, Genesis, etc.) and prefer a vertical handheld design. It offers solid performance for 2D and early 3D titles but is not suitable for N64 or NDS emulation due to performance limitations.

Buying Notes

As a 2018 device, the Retrostone 1 may be harder to find new. Check second-hand markets or specialty retro gaming stores. Ensure you have a MicroSD card for game storage. The device supports HDMI out for TV play and multiple USB ports for accessories. Consider the build material (plastic vs metal) based on durability preferences.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A7
GPUMali-400 MP2
RAM1 GB DDR
NameRetrostone 1
Brand8BCraft
Weight300 grams
Battery3000 mAh
SpeakerMono
StorageExternal MicroSD
Grip TypeVertical
ProcessorAllwinner H3
Body ColorGray, transparent blue, transparent red, metallic
Dimensions130 mm x 90 mm x 25 mm
Screen PPI114.29
Price Range$150 - $200
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeAnalog TFT
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityEthernet, USB x4
Launch Price$157
Release Date2018
Screen Ratio4:3
Video OutputHDMI
CPU Frequency1.2 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic or metal
Operating SystemRetrorangePi
Screen Resolution320 x 240
GPU Core Frequency500 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores, 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportSNES FX & 3D PS1 (60 FPS), N64 & NDS (cannot run smoothly)