Pokwiddy V90 Review The Best Affordable Clamshell Handheld Console

The Powkiddy V90 is a budget-friendly, clamshell-designed handheld retro game console that offers an impressive array of features and capabilities, making it a compelling option for those seeking an affordable way to play classic games on the go. Here’s a detailed look at what the Powkiddy V90 has to offer.

Design and Build Quality

The Powkiddy V90 features a clamshell design reminiscent of the Gameboy Advance SP, which provides a protective cover for the screen when not in use. While the materials used for the shell feel cheap and can be prone to snapping if handled roughly, the device's compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.

The clamshell mechanism, although not as satisfying as the real GBA SP, is functional and helps protect the screen. The D-pad is noted for its satisfying feedback, while the ABXY buttons are average and the start/select buttons are well-placed but not circular like those on the GBA SP. The lack of an analogue stick is not significantly missed due to the device's limitations with PS1 emulation.

Display and Audio

The Powkiddy V90 comes with a 3.0-inch IPS LCD screen, offering a resolution of 320×240 pixels. This display is protected when the clamshell is closed, reducing the risk of damage. The screen quality is generally good, although some users have reported screen tearing, which can be mitigated with custom firmware updates.

The audio quality from the speakers is decent, providing a nostalgic feel without being too loud. However, the speaker placement directly under the thumbs can sometimes cause sound distortion.

Battery Life and Charging

The device is powered by a 1020mAh Li-ion battery, which can be fully charged in 2.5 hours and provides up to 4 hours of gameplay. This battery life is reasonable for a handheld console of its size and price. The use of USB-C for charging is a welcome feature, making it easier to manage cables compared to proprietary charging solutions.

Gaming Performance

The Powkiddy V90 is equipped with a low-power ARM chip from AllWinner and runs a closed-source Linux-based OS. It comes pre-loaded with a variety of emulators for consoles such as the Gameboy, Mega Drive, and SNES. While it technically supports PS1 emulation, performance is often subpar, with frequent frame rate drops and audio issues.

For better performance, users can install custom firmware such as MiyooCFW, which significantly improves the emulation capabilities, especially for PS1 games. This firmware allows for tweaks like adjusting CPU clock speed and optimizing emulator configurations.

Additional Features

The Powkiddy V90 includes several useful features that enhance its usability. It supports game saving and loading, and users can connect the device to a PC, TV, monitor, or projector via an HDMI port. The device also allows for file management, game searching, and the ability to view recently played and favorite games.

Custom Firmware and Emulator Tweaks

Installing custom firmware like MiyooCFW can greatly enhance the gaming experience on the Powkiddy V90. This firmware update allows for better performance in various emulators, including PS1, by optimizing configurations and allowing for the use of PBP files and BIOS settings. Users can also update specific emulators to improve performance further.

Package and Accessories

The Powkiddy V90 comes with a game console, instructions, and a data cable. The package is compact, with dimensions of 10 x 10 x 4.7 cm and a weight of 220 grams. The device itself weighs 120 grams and measures 7.8 x 7.8 x 2.3 cm.

Value and Recommendations

Despite its limitations, the Powkiddy V90 offers excellent value for its price. It is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly handheld retro game console, especially for playing games from older consoles like the Gameboy, Mega Drive, and SNES. While it may not be the best choice for PS1 emulation, it can still provide a fun gaming experience with the right tweaks and custom firmware.

For those considering this device, it is worth noting that it makes a great gift for both adults and children, offering a nostalgic gaming experience that can be enjoyed on the go.