Sjgam M17 Review: Budget Retro Handheld with RockChip RK3126C
SJGAM · 2023-09-01
The Sjgam M17 is an ultra-budget retro gaming handheld featuring a 4.3-inch IPS display, RockChip RK3126C processor, and 256 MB RAM. It runs an open-source OS and targets entry-level emulation up to PS1 and SNES.
Overview
The Sjgam M17 is a budget-friendly retro gaming handheld from SJGAM, designed for gamers who want a simple, no-frills device for classic emulation. It features a 4.3-inch IPS display with a 480x272 resolution, powered by a RockChip RK3126C quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU clocked at 1.2 GHz and a Mali-400 MP2 GPU. With 256 MB of LPDDR3 RAM and 4 GB of internal eMMC storage (expandable via MicroSD), it runs an open-source operating system. The device is housed in a plastic shell and comes in silver. It includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a 1500 mAh battery.
Key Specs Highlights
- Display: 4.3-inch IPS, 480x272 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: RockChip RK3126C, 4x Cortex-A7 @ 1.2 GHz
- GPU: Mali-400 MP2 @ 500 MHz
- Memory: 256 MB LPDDR3
- Storage: 4 GB eMMC + MicroSD card slot
- Battery: 1500 mAh
- Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Price: ~$35 (launch price)
Who It Is For
The Sjgam M17 is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts on a tight budget who want to play classic 2D games from SNES, PS1, and earlier consoles. It handles most SNES games at 60 FPS and many 2D PS1 titles well, though some 3D PS1 games may be unplayable. It is not suitable for demanding emulators like N64, Dreamcast, or PSP.
Buying Notes
Priced around $35 at launch, the Sjgam M17 is one of the cheapest handhelds available. However, its low RAM and modest CPU limit its performance. Consider it only if you prioritize cost over power and are content with 2D retro gaming. The plastic build feels inexpensive, and the mono speaker is basic. For a few dollars more, alternatives like the Miyoo Mini or RG35XX offer better performance and community support.
| CPU | Cortex-A7 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Mali-400 MP2 |
| Name | Sjgam M17 |
| Brand | SJGAM |
| Memory | 256 MB LPDDR3 |
| Weight | ? |
| Battery | 1500 mAh |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | Internal 4 GB eMMC & External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | RockChip RK3126C |
| Body Color | Silver |
| Dimensions | ? |
| Screen PPI | 128.3 |
| Price Range | $0 - $50 |
| Screen Size | 4.3 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Launch Price | $35 |
| Release Date | 2023 / 09 |
| Screen Ratio | 16:9 |
| CPU Frequency | 1.2 GHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open Source System |
| Screen Resolution | 480 x 272 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 500 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Most SNES runs at 60 FPS, most 2D PS1 runs well (not all at 60 FPS), some 3D games unplayable |