Subor Q500 Handheld Gaming Console Review

Overview

The Subor Q500, also known as PS5000 or Lintian LT-8203, is a handheld gaming device released in October 2020. It features a 5.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 960x544, providing vibrant colors and good contrast. Powered by a RockChip RK3128 processor with a quad-core Cortex-A7 CPU clocked at 1.3 GHz and a Mali-400 MP2 GPU at 500 MHz, it is designed for retro gaming emulation. The device runs on an open-source operating system and includes 512 MB of DDR3 RAM, 128 MB of internal storage, and a MicroSD card slot for expansion.

Key Specs Highlights

• Display: 5.1-inch OLED, 960x544 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate
• Processor: RockChip RK3128, quad-core Cortex-A7 @ 1.3 GHz
• GPU: Mali-400 MP2 @ 500 MHz
• Memory: 512 MB DDR3
• Storage: 128 MB internal + MicroSD expansion
• Battery: 3000 mAh
• Connectivity: USB OTG, Mini HDMI output, 3.5mm headphone jack
• Audio: Dual stereo speakers
• Dimensions: 195 x 82 x 15 mm, 211 grams

Who It Is For

The Subor Q500 is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget who want to play SNES, PS1, and similar classic games on the go. It offers good performance for most 2D and some 3D titles from those eras, but it is not suitable for demanding N64 emulation. The device is also a good choice for tinkerers who enjoy open-source handhelds.

Buying Notes

The Q500 typically retails between $50 and $75, with a launch price of $70. It is available in multiple colors including black, yellow, and Switch-style red/blue. The plastic build is lightweight but may feel less premium. Consider the limited internal storage and the need for a MicroSD card for game storage. The OLED screen is a standout feature at this price point.