TrimUI is one of those companies that haven’t released a mountain of products. With that, they’re similar in vein to companies like Retroid and AYN. However, where they focus on Android at higher prices, the TrimUI brand lands on the lower end of the market. Following the Model S, Smart, and Smart Pro, we’re given the Brick. An odd name, but a small vertical with a lovely screen. So in my first impressions let’s talk about what I like, what I don’t, and whether I think it’ll be worth considering.
For reference, this unit was sent over by MechDIY, however considering I had already bought one of these before realizing they were sending a unit, I’m not worried about what they have to say about my impressions.
TrimUI Brick Specs
When it comes to specs you’re getting something familiar as an amalgamation of other handhelds:
- CPU: Allwinner A133 Plus
- GPU: PowerVR GE8300
- RAM: 1GB
- Screen: 3.2”, 1024 x 768, 4:3 Aspect Ratio
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, microSD, 3.5mm Headphone Jack, 2x USB-C
- Dimensions: 110 x 73 x 12-20mm, 157 grams
What I Like
The first thing I like about the Brick is its build quality. Despite being fairly small and lightweight, this thing also feels pretty solid. Strangely enough, it has a metal plate behind the screen, but everything is solid just like that. There’s a minimal rattle, the buttons feel solid and everything is well-built. Which is great when seeing the next thing I like about it. The Screen.
At 1024×768 you’re looking at a really high res screen for a 3.2” device. It makes everything a lovely experience when paired with the nice and clicky buttons on the front of the handheld. Everything feels nice and accurate, and I haven’t had any issues with inputs so far.
When talking about the controls though, another thing I like about the Brick is the pure customization available for the shoulder buttons. 5 extra sets of either black or clear shoulder buttons give me the shape or size that I’m looking for. While I haven’t found the need yet to change it. That will be on the cards in the near future while I do further testing with it.
The general experience once up and running is nice as well. Everything feels cohesive, and it makes me excited for CrossMix OS next. I do know there are builds for MinUI as well, and if that’s the path you want to take, this may be the perfect small vertical for that as well.
What I Don’t
The ergonomics leave a bit to be desired. While I didn’t like the Miyoo Mini+ for its lack of a chin, the Brick does well there but ends up feeling just a bit too narrow for how thin it is. The Miyoo Mini V4 is expected due to its puny stature, but this fits an awkward middle ground between the two.
L1 and R1, at least on my current unit are a bit too spongey compared to L2 and R2. This makes it so the clicks don’t quite feel accurate. What is nice though is that, with further testing, I can see if alternate shoulder buttons may fix this confusing issue. And my second unit could tell me if that’s a multi-unit issue as well.
Final Thoughts
If you look at my don’t likes you’ll notice that they’re pretty picky. That’s because I think there’s a lot to like with the Brick, but there are still minor downfalls. When it comes to your alternate choices, I think it’s a lot of verticals.
For non-stick devices, you’re looking at the 35XX line, Miyoo Mini, and Mini+ as well as the GKD Pixel. If you want to go smaller or have a larger screen, you have your options. And out of this bunch, I still think I’d take an OG 35XX, but the Brick is way better for new buyers.
Larger devices with sticks worth considering include the 353V, RGB20SX, and the RGB20 Pro. While all are nice in their own rights, the sticks are not a necessary inclusion for everyone, and if you can live without them a 40XXV might be the right choice. If you’re going even larger. The Brick falls into a Goldilocks zone for size with me. And at $60-$80 depending on where you get it, I think you’re getting a really nice device for the price.
And you could watch that price drop over time like the Smart Pro did.
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