On one end of the spectrum, we have Anbernic, who publicizes every new device with a bunch of teaser videos ahead of a handheld launch. The same rings true for Retroid and others, albeit at a much slower pace.
On the other side, there’s Powkiddy. There’s no YouTube channel to follow or even a Twitter account. Instead, we find out about new devices from either the RH Discord or just by coming across it by accident.
A few months ago, the Powkiddy V10 was released, offering a rather odd design, seemingly trying to be both a vertical and horizontal handheld. Now, the RGB10X has arrived, looking to compete with the Miyoo A30, Anbernic RG28XX, and MagicX XU Mini M.
Powkiddy RGB10X Specs
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS
- Resolution: 640 x 480
- Processor: Rockchip RK3326
- GPU: Mali-G31
- RAM: 1GB DDR3L
- Storage: Dual microSD Card Slots (Up to 256GB)
- Battery: 2,800mAh
- Power Input: 5V/2A
- Wi-Fi: ❌
- Bluetooth: ❌
- Headphone Jack: ✅
- Speaker: 2W
- USB-C OTG: ✅
- Dimensions: 145 x 73.2 x 17mm
- Weight: 150 grams
- Colors: Transparent Black / Yellow / Gray
Powkiddy RGB10X: What I Like
What can you really say about another RK3326 released in 2024? There’s definitely a market for the RGB10X, but it’s going to be a niche one. If anything, I view the RGB10X as the perfect “gateway drug” for the retro handheld scene. It’s priced competitively, coming in at just $40, which is coincidentally the same price as the Powkiddy V10 that hit the market first.
That being said, I am a fan of Powkiddy’s decision to include a single joystick, similar to the Miyoo A30. Given that you can play up to PS1 games, it’s nice not needing to worry about the software relying on the D-Pad to emulate a joystick.
Most of the time, it’ll work fine, but there have been instances when it just doesn’t feel right. Those thoughts aren’t limited to the RGB10X, but at least I have the joystick to lean back on.
A recurring sentiment around the water cooler is that people don’t understand why Powkiddy didn’t use a 3:2 screen. While I can definitely understand the argument, the 4:3 screen of the RGB10X doesn’t really bother me. I know it’s more to do with proper scaling for your favorite retro games, but that’s not really something that I’ve ever paid much attention to.
Powkiddy RGB10X: What I Don’t
I’ll be honest with you — it’s tough to be really all that excited about the RGB10X. Part of that is a bit of fatigue in the onslaught of cheap handhelds that we’ve seen in recent months. But, it’s also the RGB10X feels like Powkiddy is just phoning it in. It doesn’t have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which isn’t the end of the world, but I much prefer handhelds that have them.
The biggest issue that I have with actually playing games is the D-Pad. I don’t know what Powkiddy needs to do, but it has to do something. There are too many false diagonals, making it a real pain to even play Apotris, let alone anything that requires precision D-Pad input.
Once upon a time, the RGB10X would stand out a bit more as it’s fairly small and pocketable. This isn’t the case, as we have the RG28XX, Miyoo A30, and even the MagicX XU Mini M. AliExpress deals notwithstanding, all of these are priced at, or below $40, which is what Powkiddy is charging for the RGB10X.
The RG28XX has been great since it was released, and the Miyoo A30 has aged like a fine wine thanks to the likes of Spruce and MinUI. Despite the controversy surrounding the XU Mini M, it’s still a fantastic little handheld, complete with dual thumbsticks. Sure, the screen might be a bit smaller, but it’s powered by the same RK3326 chip, and PlumOS has made it even better.
Powkiddy RGB10X: Should You Buy It?
It’s really, really difficult to recommend the RGB10X to anyone who has any experience with retro handhelds. If you’re like us, the biggest reason why you might want one is simply for the sake of adding something shiny to your growing collection.
However, I am of the mindset that the RGB10X is great for those who want to dip their toes in. It’ll work out of the box, and there’s really not much to do when it comes to configuring things. Instead, you can just order one, swap out the microSD card for a more reliable one, wrap it up, and enjoy the excitement.
If you’re interested in picking up the RGB10X for yourself or someone else, you can grab it from AliExpress at the link below.
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