PowKiddy RK2023 Review: A Budget Retro Handheld with RockChip RK3566

Overview

The PowKiddy RK2023 is a compact horizontal handheld gaming device designed for retro enthusiasts. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and 640x480 resolution, powered by a RockChip RK3566 quad-core Cortex-A55 processor clocked at 1.8 GHz, paired with a Mali-G52 2EE GPU. With 1 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and dual external MicroSD storage slots, it offers a balanced experience for emulating classic consoles up to the N64, PSP, and Dreamcast era, though not all games run at full speed.

Key Specs Highlights

• Processor: RockChip RK3566 (Cortex-A55, 1.8 GHz, 4 cores/4 threads)
• GPU: Mali-G52 2EE (850 MHz)
• Memory: 1 GB LPDDR4
• Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 60Hz, 228.57 PPI
• Storage: Dual external MicroSD slots
• Battery: 3500 mAh
• Connectivity: USB-C OTG, Mini HDMI output, 3.5mm headphone jack
• Audio: Dual stereo speakers
• Dimensions: 151.5 x 78 x 17.5 mm, 175 grams
• OS: Open-source system
• Colors: Black, Blue, White

Who It Is For

The RK2023 is ideal for retro gaming fans looking for an affordable handheld that can handle a wide range of classic systems. It's particularly suited for those who enjoy tinkering with open-source firmware and want decent performance for N64, PSP, and Dreamcast titles, though some games may require settings adjustments. The dual SD card slots make it easy to organize ROMs and operating systems separately.

Buying Notes

Priced around $75-$100 (launch price $75), the RK2023 offers good value for its specs. It was released in March 2023. The plastic build is lightweight but may feel less premium than metal alternatives. Performance on higher-end emulators like PSP and Dreamcast varies; not all games run at full speed. Consider if you prioritize a 4:3 screen and open-source flexibility over raw power.