Tiny GamePi15 (WaveShare) – A Compact DIY Retro Gaming Handheld
WaveShare · 2019-05-01
The Tiny GamePi15 by WaveShare is a bare-PCB, open-source handheld gaming device released in May 2019. It features a 1.54-inch TFT display (240×240), Broadcom BCM2835 SoC (ARM1176JZF-S CPU, VideoCore IV GPU), 512 MB RAM, and runs on open-source software. It can handle most SNES games at 60 FPS and many 2D PS1 titles, but struggles with 3D games.
Overview
The Tiny GamePi15 is a minimalist, bare-PCB handheld gaming device from WaveShare, designed for tinkerers and retro gaming fans. Launched in May 2019, it runs on open-source software and offers a compact form factor (65 mm x 35 mm x 23 mm) weighing just 60 grams. The device is powered by a Broadcom BCM2835 processor (1.0 GHz single-core ARM1176JZF-S) with VideoCore IV GPU and 512 MB DDR RAM. Storage is via external MicroSD card. Connectivity includes Bluetooth and WiFi, and it features a Mini HDMI output and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Key Specs Highlights
- Display: 1.54-inch TFT, 240×240 resolution, 1:1 aspect ratio, 220.4 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate
- Processor: Broadcom BCM2835 (ARM1176JZF-S, 1.0 GHz, 1 core 1 thread)
- GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV at 250 MHz
- Memory: 512 MB DDR
- Storage: External MicroSD
- Battery: 14500 mAh (replaceable)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi
- Video Output: Mini HDMI
- Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- OS: Open-source system
- Dimensions: 65 mm x 35 mm x 23 mm
- Weight: 60 grams
Who It Is For
The Tiny GamePi15 is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and retro gaming fans who enjoy building and customizing their own handheld. It suits those who want a compact, open-source device for playing classic 2D games (SNES, 2D PS1) and are comfortable with a bare-PCB design. Not recommended for users seeking a polished, ready-to-use device or those wanting to play demanding 3D games.
Buying Notes
The Tiny GamePi15 was originally priced around $30 (price range $0–$50). As a niche product, availability may be limited; check specialty retailers or second-hand markets. Note that the device comes as a bare PCB (blue color) and may require assembly or additional accessories. Battery is a 14500 mAh cell (not included? verify). The open-source OS offers flexibility but may need manual setup.
| CPU | ARM1176JZF-S |
|---|---|
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore IV |
| 内存 | 512 MB DDR |
| 名称 | Tiny GamePi15 |
| 品牌 | WaveShare |
| 存储 | External MicroSD |
| 电池 | 14500 mAh |
| 重量 | 60 g |
| CPU主频 | 1.0 GHz |
| 处理器 | Broadcom BCM2835 |
| 屏幕PPI | 220.4 |
| 扬声器 | Mono |
| 连接性 | Bluetooth, WiFi |
| 价格区间 | $0 - $50 |
| 发布时间 | 2019 / 05 |
| 外壳材质 | Bare PCB |
| 外观尺寸 | 65 mm x 35 mm x 23 mm |
| 屏幕尺寸 | 1.54 inch |
| 屏幕比例 | 1:1 |
| 屏幕类型 | TFT |
| 握持类型 | Horizontal |
| 操作系统 | Open-source system |
| 机身颜色 | Blue (PCB color) |
| 视频输出 | Mini HDMI |
| 起售价格 | $30 |
| 音频输出 | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| GPU核心频率 | 250 MHz |
| 屏幕分辨率 | 240 x 240 |
| 屏幕刷新率 | 60Hz |
| CPU核心和线程数 | 1 core 1 thread |
| 模拟器游戏支持 | Most SNES at 60 FPS, most 2D PS1 run well (not all at 60 FPS), cannot smoothly run 3D games |