Powkiddy RGB20S Review Low Quality but Undeniably Fun Evergreen Version
The Powkiddy RGB20S is a budget-friendly handheld retro game console that, despite its low-quality build, offers impressive performance and a fun gaming experience. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect from this device.
Design and Build Quality
The Powkiddy RGB20S has a design that is often described as cheap and lacking in build quality. The device feels light and the plastic used is not of high quality, which can be a turn-off for some users. The screen, although well-fitted in terms of display quality, can flex within the casing when pressed, indicating potential issues with the internal design.
The layout of the controls is another area of concern. The D-pad and face buttons are positioned too low on the front of the device, which can cause discomfort for users with medium to large hands. The shoulder buttons, located on the back, are also not ideally placed, making it difficult to switch between them.
Display and Screen Quality
The RGB20S features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 640 x 480, which is suitable for retro games. The screen quality is one of the few highlights of the device, offering crisp and clear visuals with good viewing angles.
Hardware Specifications
- Processor: Rockchip RK3326 quad-core processor clocked at 1.5 GHz
- RAM: 1 GB
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS display with 640 x 480 resolution
- Battery: 3500 mAh, providing around 4-5 hours of gameplay
- Storage: Supports microSD cards up to 128 GB
- Connectivity: WiFi via USB dongle (not built-in), 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB-C OTG port.
Performance
The RK3326 chipset, although not the latest, provides decent performance for retro gaming. The device can handle games from various consoles including NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 1, and some Dreamcast and PSP titles. However, emulation for more demanding systems like the Nintendo 64 and Dreamcast is not perfect and may exhibit some performance issues.
Emulation Capabilities
The RGB20S comes preloaded with Emulation Station, which is user-friendly and offers customization options. It supports a wide range of retro consoles, but the performance can vary. For example, games up to the PlayStation 1 run smoothly, but more complex systems like the Nintendo 64 and Dreamcast may experience some lag and audio issues.
Battery Life
The battery life of the RGB20S is moderate, lasting around 4-5 hours depending on the type of games being played. More demanding games like those on the PSP and Dreamcast will drain the battery faster compared to simpler games like those on the NES and Game Boy.
User Experience
Despite its flaws, the RGB20S is easy to use right out of the box. The device is compact and ideal for portable play, making it a great travel companion for retro gamers. The dual analogue sticks and D-pad, although not perfectly placed, are functional and allow for a variety of gaming experiences.
Additional Features
- Vibrating Motor: The device includes a vibrating motor, enhancing the gaming experience.
- Dual Stereo Speakers: The RGB20S has dual stereo speakers, which provide decent audio quality, although some users have reported crackling sounds during gameplay.
- Customization: The Emulation Station interface allows for some customization, making it easier for users to personalize their gaming experience.
Overall, the Powkiddy RGB20S is a budget-friendly option for those looking to play retro games on the go. While it has its drawbacks, it offers a fun and functional gaming experience that is hard to ignore at its price point.