This is THE best channel to go to for retro gaming devices. No ego, just pure fun and quality information. Making fun videos about stuff that you like and not promoting your face/name/brand. Well done Sir, Dweeb on...
Switch emulation actually works rather well on this handheld. It's mostly 2D, lightweight titles and PC indies that were ported. I'm playing through Hollow Knight on it, at 60fps. Tactics Ogre Reborn runs great. There are probably about 40 games I've tested that you can play through with no problems. We've created a compatibility sheet that is posted on the discord. It's commented below
I love mine. I was trying to figure out why it wasn't performing as well as my T618 devices. Well, I totally didn't know about that secret menu to change the performance! Thanks for another great video. Our opinions on this device align perfectly. 😁
I'm quite glad you gave it a fair shake. So many are just ripping on this handheld. I'm very impressed that one man, Nil, was able to create something like this on his own (with contracted help of course but he was the all in one product manager, procurement, designer etc). I really like it after breaking in the d-pad. I only have issues with the buttons not feeling that great but otherwise, it's fantastic.
I like everything about it, except the price. The problem with these devices - and their strength, too - is if you wait a couple of months, there'll be something faster and cheaper available.
But that's just Tech in general. You can say the same thing about phones or PCs. If you want something like this just make sure it runs properly the games you want to play on it, has everything you need (wifi, battery, etc) an you think the price is fair
yeah but if that faster and cheaper device comes..you wait a few months and there will be something faster and cheaper again. so you never buy anything :D but yeah i agree. price is too much. if it was 200 i'd buy it rn
Putting a sim card in this and using it as a phone would be awesome, pulling this out of your pocket in public and taking a phone call would be the ultimate level of retro geekie happiness.
You do have to buy the 4G variant to have that functionality, and currently it's not going to be restocked for a while. I don't think it sold well outside of China. There are several in the discord who have that model, they may have experience with testing calls on it
Has it got a microphone? I had a *Snail* AKA *Moqi i7* 6 inch gaming tablet that could be used as a phone. It even had a removeable battery. Lousy D-Pad let it down.
I love my Katie! I agree with you. 3:2 is rhe way to go for retro systems. The display looks great. Im not the biggest fan of the d-pad personally, but I chose to get my left hall effect stick on the top. The speakers sound great as well. This replaced my Ally as my daily driver due to its smaller size. The battery life is amazing. It is also comfortable to hold for ling sessions. Be careful sliding it on a table though. The back is pretty slick. Thanks so much for the review. *Edit* I just wanted to add Turbo mode makes a big difference and I use it most of the time.
@@adamkane7513 The D-Pad is actually great for most games. It does however need a little time to break it in. My problem with it is that it's hard for me to do rolling motions with it. Circular motions in Street Fighter for example are difficult to do for me sometimes. I do want to mention that Nil is always listening to our feedback and is working to improve the feel of the D-Pad, so you may get an improved one if you order a KT-R1 in the future.
what are the drawbacks in your opinion? and did you have any issues with accidentally pressing the home button and losing progress? cause Russ from retro game corps said it was annoying him
@@Mustis91 I never had problem with home button and I have big hand. Drawback in my opinion is lack of more power and not stacked shoulder button and no button mapping. Im nit picking bexause Im spoilt. Buttons and Dpad will be improved with better membranes or micro switches. So basically no drawbacks I just expect more. I absolutely love mine.
My ideal handheld is basically the miyoo mini plus in a metal gameboy color shell. The mini and mini plus are just too small to comfortably game on, but some extra length at the bottom would fix that.
I think if they rigged up a dock that hooked up to USBs and other knick-knacks for 50 dollars with HDMIs etc as just a holder board or heck even thrown in for the premium and have the lower grade be dockless (you could buy one separately of course), I think they might be onto something to compete with the deck and switch. I know that I want one but that would make it a must buy for me and pay attention to this guy's future handhelds for years to come. Give this guy some time but I hope he sees my comment, the price might go down the more efficient tech becomes along with new features and knick-knacks to go with it. If that happened? He'll def be a direct competitor to major corpos and someone we need to take on the big players to shake up the market more.
Hi TechDweeb, Thank you for the presentation of this KTR1. Why have major manufacturers never thought of offering a handheld computer with the same 3:2 ratio and screen size? I find it the perfect format for retrogaming. My dream would be an identical version but cheaper in order to have a larger offering that could target all audiences.
D-Pad on top version. My preference too. GBA aspect ratio with a 4.5" screen. Are the controls comparable to Anbernic quality? My RG351P is my go to for GBA emulation.
To show off to the lady's he say's. Fun fact i actually do with my little thumby on my keychain great conversation starter works like a charm ♥ Great video one's again man! Awesome device
Definitely no heat issues here, probably because this chip is more efficient than the t618. The 405m gets quite warm because the metal shell acts as a heatsink. This has a plastic shell, and a vent grill and radiator at the top, so it should run quite a bit cooler.
I'm torn. If it was 25-50 bucks cheaper, it'd be an even easier convo. I think it's probably better in use than people would consider during purchasing. The long battery life and quick charge are fantastic selling points if you have had a device that didn't have either, but I'm not sure how many folks appreciate that when they shop handhelds
I actually really like the placement of start, select, and home buttons. A lot of these devices can benefit from having some additional buttons for certain emulator functions, kind of a shame they did not add a few more on the sides or etc, but yeah that placement is pretty good.
apparently the only problem is that you sometimes hit the home button by accident and you will lose game progression. that's what Russ from retro game corps said about it
I can see that, my hands are pretty small so I often forget about what people with larger hands might go through also. I just can't picture myself having that problem but yeah I totally get it. I actually really just like it, but like I said they should have added more function buttons to the device.@@Mustis91
Seems pretty cool, especially with the top-joystick option. But I think my ideal would be to take the most comfortable controller (like 8bitdo Pro 2 or Ultimate) add a screen up top, and give it wifi and Linux. I'd prioritize comfort over pocketability. BTW, about fast-charging... charge rate is measured in "C", where 1C = 1 hour and 0.5C = 2 hours. For battery health, charging works best at about 0.1C to 1C, with 0.25 to 0.5 (2 to 4 hours) most recommended. Batteries are generally 3.7V li-ion, and 3.7V * 7000mAh = 25.9Wh. So a 35W fast charge is then about 1.35C or 45 minutes, which is fast enough to be bad for the battery. It should be charging at around 5W to 15W, to maximize battery longevity... and ideally keep the battery between 20% and 80% full. When cared for, a li-ion battery can last decades... but people usually don't, and wear it out in just a year or two. On a related note, a common 18650 li-ion cell (~3000 mAh) has about 10 or 12 Wh of energy. A common potato chip has about 10 or 12 kcalories. 1 kcal is about 1 Wh. That means most common batteries are roughly equivalent to 1 potato chip. A _rechargeable_ potato chip. Delicious! On another note.... don't eat batteries. :P
I'm still new to handheld emulators; all I own is my Steamdeck and a Miyoo Mini Plus. What would be your current suggestion for GC emulator performance? Most of what I play is NFS, Animal Crossing, Smash Bros, Pokemon XD, and Harvest Moon. Some of those, oddly enough, have given me problems on the Steamdeck.
Yo TechDweeb, I'm trying to find one of your videos from around the last 6 months, where you showed an obscure MAME beat 'em up. It had a name like 'Super Team Hyper Force' etc. Does that ring any bells?
My dream handheld would be shaped either like the miyoo mini or the rp3 and would have a big vibrant buetiful screen and nice retro style controls. It would also be in a retro grey colour with blue buttons. It would cost around £150 - £280 an dwould be able to play upto switch. Also it would run android with a custom launcher on it. And it would have a dock to connect to a tv. I keep editing this lol... This was probably far too long lol. I've written it now tho lol. Also it would be 3/2 screen cuz gba is my fav retro system :) My final edit lol: I would 100% get one if it was cheaper
Im curious I was wondering since this is an android device does it have a sim card slot or mic on it, It would be cool if this could make phone calls or texts
Ever since I saw the Retro Game Corps video on the Odin lite making phone calls I've been searching for a retro device that can be a phone as well, (that can fit in my pocket) A one device for everything, the closest device I had like that was the Moqi i7s @@TechDweeb
If I made my own handheld it would be shaped like the RG552, that screen is big and beautiful, has a bit of heft to it, and the controls are fantastic. I would improve it by using stacked shoulder buttons with analog triggers, hall sensor joysticks (not that there's anything wrong with the current joysticks), and a better battery. I love that it does both Android and Linux, and it's not too small or too big to carry with you.
@@Mustis91 The aspect ratio actually works out great! I installed Batocera on my current RG552 and your usual 640x480 systems look perfect because the sides are filled with appropriate bezels that are of the system you're trying to emulate. GBA and PSP looks fantastic too!
I have one but. It is super annoying using it outside of turn based games. Sure, it will last all day but after an hour of using the dpad do you really want to keep gaming? Short answer is no.
Im simple, I would love to have the guts and screen of the 405v but in the body of the 353v! I don’t know if that’s possible but I would buy it in a heartbeat. That’s my dream handheld.
I think my ideal handheld is basically the same design as the PSP go. However, it would have 2 Hall effect sliders like the retroid pocket flip and 4 inline shoulder buttons like this device. Make it play up to like psp, n64, Dreamcast.
I mean this isn't the only "handheld console made by one (or maybe 2) guy(s) check out StonedEdge's RetroLite. Raspberry Pi compute module, with custom PCBs, CNC aluminium, anodised finish, 5" screen, custom HDMI dock. It's a thing of beauty. Looks almost (but not wuite exactly) like a Ninty Switch Lite.
For me, I would love to create a metal handheld in the size and form factor of the of the RP3+, Vita, and/or GBA with a chip strong enough to play up to some Switch games, but mostly PS2, 3ds, GCN, and Wii upscaled. Definitely have to have an ARM chip and either Android or Linux
@@Cykotr0nnot really. rather use an ARM chip and Android or Linux than a x86 chip using windows. Plus I should clairfy that I want the form factor of the Vita or GBA, but the size closer to rg405m, RP3+, or Switch
It would be better if these can be upgradable. If handhelds could keep the screen and controls and the cpu gpu apu could be easily swap when technology improved. Instead of always rebuying.
The RP3+ did this. When it launched you could buy a kit to upgrade your RP3 to the + model. I don't think it's something most people would want to do though because it's fairly involved.
I was about to order it at the end of February, I love the front firing speakers, the screen, the battery... But I want video out, because having the opportunity to "consolize" a handheld and do multiplayer is a feature I love. After some months, I can say that having this screen on the RP2S would have been my dream, even at the same price. I would blend KT-R1 screen and battery with RP2S controls (triggers in particular) and speakers, and borrow (if possible) even a more powerful chipset (for a smooth PS2 experience) and a video output not limited to 480p like the RP2S). Before having a RP2S, I wouldn't have said that, but Android is fine, even if something like Jelos would make it more user friendly. Who knows? Maybe we'll se something like this next year 😊
I was so close to buying one, but then I saw RH live showing problems with sticking face buttons, clicky shoulders and other issues so I passed. But I like the screen ratio though. Hope it gets better and.. well.. cheaper obviously 😅
I felt fine about the buttons on mine, they weren't sticking for me (not nearly as bad as the 405m that I reviewed, and everyone loved that device, so 🤷♂️)
I really liked everything about this device, but in the end, I couldn't justify the price as a student. I emulate gba on my phone and bought (and subsequently hacked) a used DS, these two devices, plus my pc, handle everything I need. I was close to buying this, a 3:2 aspect ratio and 1080p screen are compelling for me, but I mostly play GBA, and on my phone I get the exact same size display and a better screen. I also already own my phone.
The price leaves a lot to be desired. Also, it is currently not available due to a manufacture delay.. so I'd say this handheld is kind of DOA. I get that this is more pocketable but the Odin 1 and 2 make anything in these price points irrelevant.
@TechDweeb I know there were a few updates after things went bad for AetherSX2... did those updates actually improve anything? I still have the version from the before times...
@@lesterparedes8358There were some slight improvements in the last couple of Google Play updates that included the ads. I compiled and uploaded an apk in the discord of the patched version. I linked the discord in a comment to this video.
my handheld would just be a 353v with upgraded hall sticks, the better back buttons, and a chipset that let it play ps2 and gamecube with little to no tweaks. maybe even make the l2/r2 back buttons into triggers. standard beige color scheme with some transparent colors as well. no other notes.
I would basically want the R36S with better buttons and the full capability to play all DreamCast, N64, PS2, GameCube, Wii, and Xbox games. And maybe in some neat transparant turqouise colour.
@@Mustis91yeah devices of that price point/class are kind of in a weird spot. Pay a little more for an Odin or steam deck, or pay 50-100 less and still be able to play 90% of the library that it can
@@Mustis91 Odin 2 isn’t close in size to this. It’s also closer to $100 more than $50. Not a tough sell at all, if you’re looking for a smaller device. That is a valid point though, but just not a very accurate comparison.
That fast moving live wallpaper is really getting on my nerves. Regarding it's price point, you could add a little more money and get refurbished Steam Deck, or an android phone that have enough power to emulate up to Switch.
True. Or an extra $50 and get an Odin 2 which runs circles around this thing. None of those have the battery life or pocket factor that this does though, so it'd still be a good choice for someone who need to prioritize those things.
The RG405V (which I am happy to own) and the GPD Win 4 (which I will own... some day........) are the two big kinds of handheld I really want: an android (or linux) that can run everything through PS2/GC and a portable gaming PC. For both, however, my ideal handheld would be just a bit more powerful. I want to be able to play the entire PS2/GC library without issue on weaker retro device (esp. Shadow of the Colossus, which is sadly not playable on the 405) and I want to play Elden Ring on the portable PC. But in both cases, there's one more big change that I know I'll never see, that I crave above all other things: a gamecube button layout. I got tired of switching back and forth between xbox and nintendo control layouts, so for my switch I got the nyxi gamecube joycons, and for my pc I got the retrofighters gamecube controller. And I desperately want this for my retrohandheld gaming as well. It's the perfect layout. It's glorious. I want one set of buttons for all my games.
Ordered today, 6gb/256gb, the maker has them on eBay, It's like $170 but, in black only (was hoping for red).... Pocketable GameCube and light PS2, sold....
if only it was available in europe. If i add shipping and customs fees it's probably a bit much. and the gameforce ace is just around the corner and could be great too..although it doesnt have 3:2 aspect ratio which is a shame.
If I was going to make the perfect handheld, there will be no compromises. I want something like the RG ARC but it needs to be better than the T618 and Dual Boot Linux/Android. When I saw it on RH and the bad d-pad, I was like that's no good for a handheld that expensive. Something tell me this didn't sell well at all. There was the one guy that made and will make the new GameForce, he had to mess up the control on the Chi. I think the D-pad is bad on the ACE.
I'm no stranger to bespoke handheld costs, but the price kinda kills it for me. Not expecting Switch, it's just too soon for something "affordable" to do that well. I don't need 5g and I could just get a big SDcard for space so maybe for 200 (assuming I had the cash, which I certainly dont after just dropping $98 on the RGB30) I could justify the cost with decent PS2 and PSP emulation, but that assumes it's rock solid for both and I suspect more than a few games wont run as smooth as I 'd like (Android has not been a greatly consistent experience for me in the past so I have trust issues.)
I just want a small pocketable low powered version of the steam deck that removes the analog thumb sticks and only has the dual trackpads. That would be perfect for emulation and modern indie games since I primarily play dpad centric games. The track pads are so configurable I think it would be worth the trade off to have a more pocketable console since I HATE the switch style joysticks. I’d rather force myself to use trackpads and gyro
$250? I'm out. I paid less than that for my Xbox Series S, man! Have you been paying attention to the Data Frog SF2000 lately? They used the GBA emulator as a backdoor to a dozen other emulators. Now this thing runs TurboDuo, Sega CD, Neo-Geo Pocket, Lynx, and Game Gear games, and pretty well!
@@TheRageHuntnot to be pedantic, but the Odin 2 is still half the size of the Steam Deck, costs $370, and is the most powerful of the emulator handhelds on the market. It's orders of magnitude easier to transport and play with while traveling. It also plays Switch games at full resolution while only using half the available RAM
@@TheRageHunt actually the Odin 2 is about the same size as my RG552 that it will be replacing. I already have Steam Deck and OneXplayer 5800u which are great for emulation but the battery life is not great.
For me if I'm ganna make retro handheld it looks like this but the button layout is like xbox controller but the feel like 8bitdo controller and a grip on the back can run famicom-ps2 i like to be android but i want it to be fix like when you open it run launchbox like but still there is a option for playstore to download apps idk if this is possible but when i try using this in old phone I still click on launchbox and I dont like that experience and battery is big like 5000mah to 7000mah and for the screen oled 16:9 and has wifi Bluetooth and vibration option and I want it like there is a option to change the battery easy like NDS or 3ds and has a memorycard slot and there is a option for multiplayer like for example fightcade or i heard miyu mini plus has a trade in gbc gb pokemon and battle . For the L and R buttons and trigger I dont mind anything I use both like this in the video and the traditional one like a Xbox triggers or switch .. and for the speakers i think its like samsung phones technology
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
If Taki Udon can make one, im sure anyone can
This is THE best channel to go to for retro gaming devices. No ego, just pure fun and quality information. Making fun videos about stuff that you like and not promoting your face/name/brand. Well done Sir, Dweeb on...
Switch emulation actually works rather well on this handheld. It's mostly 2D, lightweight titles and PC indies that were ported. I'm playing through Hollow Knight on it, at 60fps. Tactics Ogre Reborn runs great. There are probably about 40 games I've tested that you can play through with no problems. We've created a compatibility sheet that is posted on the discord. It's commented below
Never realized how good that aspect ratio is, great stuff Dweeb!
I love mine. I was trying to figure out why it wasn't performing as well as my T618 devices. Well, I totally didn't know about that secret menu to change the performance! Thanks for another great video. Our opinions on this device align perfectly. 😁
Great Dweebs think alike ;)
Same here when I first got it. Saturn emulation was really struggling. Once I turned that performance mode on, this thing flies.
I'm quite glad you gave it a fair shake. So many are just ripping on this handheld. I'm very impressed that one man, Nil, was able to create something like this on his own (with contracted help of course but he was the all in one product manager, procurement, designer etc). I really like it after breaking in the d-pad. I only have issues with the buttons not feeling that great but otherwise, it's fantastic.
That handheld you made is dope how many gigglebites will it have
At least 2 I hope
Infinite gigglebytes!!!
That’s awesome TD
I like everything about it, except the price. The problem with these devices - and their strength, too - is if you wait a couple of months, there'll be something faster and cheaper available.
But that's just Tech in general. You can say the same thing about phones or PCs. If you want something like this just make sure it runs properly the games you want to play on it, has everything you need (wifi, battery, etc) an you think the price is fair
yeah but if that faster and cheaper device comes..you wait a few months and there will be something faster and cheaper again. so you never buy anything :D
but yeah i agree. price is too much. if it was 200 i'd buy it rn
That's how technology has always been, even if things have slowed down in the last decade.
@@Mustis91 Stop looking once you are enjoying the product: you are out of the market
That's the problem with these handhelds there is so many choices and they keep coming
Excellent Point about the 3x2 ratio screen, your right, Most companies should do that. And that monster under the bed had me laughing
The price is a bit steep but seems like a solid device....it would definitely outperform my rg405m
Tech dweeb is the guy I trust for professional lvl review ❤
Love mine. The quality/performance at this size has 0 comparison.
Thanks for the review. Enjoy your GBA library❤
I've been saying this for months!!! 3:2 and 5:3 are the best middle grounds between 4:3 and 16:9 Aspect Ratios!
Putting a sim card in this and using it as a phone would be awesome, pulling this out of your pocket in public and taking a phone call would be the ultimate level of retro geekie happiness.
I'm so with ya
You do have to buy the 4G variant to have that functionality, and currently it's not going to be restocked for a while. I don't think it sold well outside of China. There are several in the discord who have that model, they may have experience with testing calls on it
@@Shigarui awesome, thanks for the info 👍
Has it got a microphone?
I had a *Snail* AKA *Moqi i7* 6 inch gaming tablet that could be used as a phone.
It even had a removeable battery.
Lousy D-Pad let it down.
@@adamkane7513 It does a have a microphone. I was using it in Mario Party DS the other day.
The upcoming Anbernic RG-ARC is speaking to my inner SEGA fan. That's looking like my ideal.
I love my Katie! I agree with you. 3:2 is rhe way to go for retro systems. The display looks great. Im not the biggest fan of the d-pad personally, but I chose to get my left hall effect stick on the top. The speakers sound great as well. This replaced my Ally as my daily driver due to its smaller size. The battery life is amazing. It is also comfortable to hold for ling sessions. Be careful sliding it on a table though. The back is pretty slick. Thanks so much for the review.
*Edit*
I just wanted to add Turbo mode makes a big difference and I use it most of the time.
Can you elaborate on why the D-Pad is inferior?
@@adamkane7513 The D-Pad is actually great for most games. It does however need a little time to break it in. My problem with it is that it's hard for me to do rolling motions with it. Circular motions in Street Fighter for example are difficult to do for me sometimes. I do want to mention that Nil is always listening to our feedback and is working to improve the feel of the D-Pad, so you may get an improved one if you order a KT-R1 in the future.
@@King_Midas
Thanks for the informative reply, Bro.
Haha "Katie". Love that.
I absolutely love mine despite its few drawback, soon be getting my Odin 2 Max I dont compare them.
what are the drawbacks in your opinion? and did you have any issues with accidentally pressing the home button and losing progress? cause Russ from retro game corps said it was annoying him
@@Mustis91 I never had problem with home button and I have big hand.
Drawback in my opinion is lack of more power and not stacked shoulder button and no button mapping. Im nit picking bexause Im spoilt.
Buttons and Dpad will be improved with better membranes or micro switches. So basically no drawbacks I just expect more. I absolutely love mine.
@@saqqawattuhb7505button mapper might come with gammaos but we don't know when that will be available 😅
@@abid2586 I'm hoping Niluanxy is adding it into a promised OTA so fingets crossed buy if we do get GammaOS thats amazing on this device.
Still my favourite screen on the market. Perfect if you want to play both 4:3 and 16:9 games on it, plus just perfect GBA
My ideal handheld is basically the miyoo mini plus in a metal gameboy color shell. The mini and mini plus are just too small to comfortably game on, but some extra length at the bottom would fix that.
I think if they rigged up a dock that hooked up to USBs and other knick-knacks for 50 dollars with HDMIs etc as just a holder board or heck even thrown in for the premium and have the lower grade be dockless (you could buy one separately of course), I think they might be onto something to compete with the deck and switch. I know that I want one but that would make it a must buy for me and pay attention to this guy's future handhelds for years to come.
Give this guy some time but I hope he sees my comment, the price might go down the more efficient tech becomes along with new features and knick-knacks to go with it. If that happened? He'll def be a direct competitor to major corpos and someone we need to take on the big players to shake up the market more.
Great review thanks for the coverage :) Mine is on the way hehe
Hi TechDweeb,
Thank you for the presentation of this KTR1. Why have major manufacturers never thought of offering a handheld computer with the same 3:2 ratio and screen size? I find it the perfect format for retrogaming. My dream would be an identical version but cheaper in order to have a larger offering that could target all audiences.
Great video! Is it true you can't get the 4G model if you get the metal version?
He mate do you have a video on how to get retroarch running on this please 🙏
You're the best, TechDweeb!
My big problem with this is no video out. That’s a must feature
I really wish this took off! We desperately need a fast 3:2 handheld! I keep going back to this! I'd love to see the RG Cube but with a 3:2 screen.
D-Pad on top version.
My preference too.
GBA aspect ratio with a 4.5" screen.
Are the controls comparable to Anbernic quality?
My RG351P is my go to for GBA emulation.
Nah I'd say the controls on Anbernic are a tad better, but they're not bad here.
Your prototype looks like the first computer I built with a Milk crate and cardboard (modeled after my mom’s word processor)😅 I was 7.
thx for your insight on the RH podcast king 👑
Will the Tech Dweeb Flip Pocket be shipping out in time for Christmas? Oh and how many holes will it have?
It won't ship. You have to drive to my house to pick it up. It'll have SO MANY HOLES!
Does the Dweeb Pocket Flip have HDMI support?
To show off to the lady's he say's. Fun fact i actually do with my little thumby on my keychain great conversation starter works like a charm ♥
Great video one's again man! Awesome device
hows the heat when running ps2/gamecube? MY 405m is sometimes too hot to hold for long in ps2
Definitely no heat issues here, probably because this chip is more efficient than the t618. The 405m gets quite warm because the metal shell acts as a heatsink. This has a plastic shell, and a vent grill and radiator at the top, so it should run quite a bit cooler.
I'm torn. If it was 25-50 bucks cheaper, it'd be an even easier convo. I think it's probably better in use than people would consider during purchasing. The long battery life and quick charge are fantastic selling points if you have had a device that didn't have either, but I'm not sure how many folks appreciate that when they shop handhelds
Definitely. It's a feature most people don't think about but it's SO IMPORTANT!
I actually really like the placement of start, select, and home buttons. A lot of these devices can benefit from having some additional buttons for certain emulator functions, kind of a shame they did not add a few more on the sides or etc, but yeah that placement is pretty good.
Definitely. I'm finding that with my Retroid Flip. Not a single function button, so I'm constantly having to swipe at the screen.
apparently the only problem is that you sometimes hit the home button by accident and you will lose game progression. that's what Russ from retro game corps said about it
I can see that, my hands are pretty small so I often forget about what people with larger hands might go through also. I just can't picture myself having that problem but yeah I totally get it. I actually really just like it, but like I said they should have added more function buttons to the device.@@Mustis91
@@Mustis91I switched my Home/Menu buttons to the top row and I only accidentally hit it for like 1 day. Now I never hit it unless I intend to.
I think I’ll buy this one. Glad I keep waiting.
Seems pretty cool, especially with the top-joystick option. But I think my ideal would be to take the most comfortable controller (like 8bitdo Pro 2 or Ultimate) add a screen up top, and give it wifi and Linux. I'd prioritize comfort over pocketability.
BTW, about fast-charging... charge rate is measured in "C", where 1C = 1 hour and 0.5C = 2 hours. For battery health, charging works best at about 0.1C to 1C, with 0.25 to 0.5 (2 to 4 hours) most recommended. Batteries are generally 3.7V li-ion, and 3.7V * 7000mAh = 25.9Wh. So a 35W fast charge is then about 1.35C or 45 minutes, which is fast enough to be bad for the battery. It should be charging at around 5W to 15W, to maximize battery longevity... and ideally keep the battery between 20% and 80% full. When cared for, a li-ion battery can last decades... but people usually don't, and wear it out in just a year or two.
On a related note, a common 18650 li-ion cell (~3000 mAh) has about 10 or 12 Wh of energy. A common potato chip has about 10 or 12 kcalories. 1 kcal is about 1 Wh. That means most common batteries are roughly equivalent to 1 potato chip. A _rechargeable_ potato chip. Delicious!
On another note.... don't eat batteries. :P
I’m just glad we got 3 bits of techdweeb pocketability footage 😂
All about that dweeb bod 😎
Hey man what theme are you using for dig
"The Grid"
Any other such devices with same screen size from anbernic or Powkiddy? Thanks!
Only thing similar is the RG405m
@@zoyboy1914 I think it's a 4". The powkiddy rgb10 max pro 3 is a 5". Looks like only this one has the magic 4.5" 😁
I'm still new to handheld emulators; all I own is my Steamdeck and a Miyoo Mini Plus. What would be your current suggestion for GC emulator performance? Most of what I play is NFS, Animal Crossing, Smash Bros, Pokemon XD, and Harvest Moon. Some of those, oddly enough, have given me problems on the Steamdeck.
You shouldn't have issues with GC on the steam deck really. I would hop in a discord server and ask for some advice with setup and settings.
When can we preorder the Tech Dweeb Handheld?
You can buy this one now! It's $299.99, no shipping (you need to drive to my house to pick it up).
@@TechDweeb fair enough my boy
I can't wait to buy all the versions of the Anbernic (Amblernic) RG ARC-D and ARC-S.
3:2 really is a good ratio for retro handhelds. The perfect one would be either this or 5:3.
Agreed 100%
I have to try one!
Great video! Funny it comes right around the time I designed a whole clamshell haha
Yo TechDweeb, I'm trying to find one of your videos from around the last 6 months, where you showed an obscure MAME beat 'em up. It had a name like 'Super Team Hyper Force' etc. Does that ring any bells?
Just found it, Thunder Heroes on RG353PS Review XD.
Haha sorry no. I probably just pulled it up to test randomly. Happy hunting!
Can’t wait for Tech Dweeb to finish his handheld. Shouldn’t be long now I hope.
My dream handheld would be shaped either like the miyoo mini or the rp3 and would have a big vibrant buetiful screen and nice retro style controls. It would also be in a retro grey colour with blue buttons. It would cost around £150 - £280 an dwould be able to play upto switch. Also it would run android with a custom launcher on it. And it would have a dock to connect to a tv. I keep editing this lol... This was probably far too long lol. I've written it now tho lol. Also it would be 3/2 screen cuz gba is my fav retro system :)
My final edit lol:
I would 100% get one if it was cheaper
I can get behind that.
You can get that for 700 with the ROG ally. Switch is significantly easier to emulate than ps360 which it can do
Noooooooo... I didn't know that the Obscure Handhelds blog was dead!!! 😭
Im curious I was wondering since this is an android device does it have a sim card slot or mic on it, It would be cool if this could make phone calls or texts
This one DOES have a sim card and mic!
Ever since I saw the Retro Game Corps video on the Odin lite making phone calls I've been searching for a retro device that can be a phone as well, (that can fit in my pocket) A one device for everything, the closest device I had like that was the Moqi i7s @@TechDweeb
Can’t wait for you to finish your handheld design!! I buy that for a $1 (movie reference)
@derrickfinzer_retrothank you!! Autocorrect did a sneak attack on me
I'd buy that reference for a dollar.
If I made my own handheld it would be shaped like the RG552, that screen is big and beautiful, has a bit of heft to it, and the controls are fantastic. I would improve it by using stacked shoulder buttons with analog triggers, hall sensor joysticks (not that there's anything wrong with the current joysticks), and a better battery. I love that it does both Android and Linux, and it's not too small or too big to carry with you.
yes! and 3:2 aspect ratio
@@Mustis91 The aspect ratio actually works out great! I installed Batocera on my current RG552 and your usual 640x480 systems look perfect because the sides are filled with appropriate bezels that are of the system you're trying to emulate. GBA and PSP looks fantastic too!
Did I hear right? This thing can surf the internet.
Yup. It's android, so you get chrome, youtube, etc, just like a phone
The battery and the screen, swoon!
I would make it
more like a ZPG. That is also a one man handheld. He also has a LG wing handheld. Soon he will have a 1:1 handheld also.
I have one but. It is super annoying using it outside of turn based games. Sure, it will last all day but after an hour of using the dpad do you really want to keep gaming? Short answer is no.
that bad? D:
Do a review of the XU10
Im simple, I would love to have the guts and screen of the 405v but in the body of the 353v! I don’t know if that’s possible but I would buy it in a heartbeat. That’s my dream handheld.
I wish!
Does it have games installed already?
Nope. No pre-installed games
I think my ideal handheld is basically the same design as the PSP go. However, it would have 2 Hall effect sliders like the retroid pocket flip and 4 inline shoulder buttons like this device. Make it play up to like psp, n64, Dreamcast.
RUclips: "do you really want to thumbs up this video after just seeing the intro?
Me: "Yeah man, I wanna do it!"
That's the spirit!
I mean this isn't the only "handheld console made by one (or maybe 2) guy(s) check out StonedEdge's RetroLite. Raspberry Pi compute module, with custom PCBs, CNC aluminium, anodised finish, 5" screen, custom HDMI dock. It's a thing of beauty. Looks almost (but not wuite exactly) like a Ninty Switch Lite.
For me, I would love to create a metal handheld in the size and form factor of the of the RP3+, Vita, and/or GBA with a chip strong enough to play up to some Switch games, but mostly PS2, 3ds, GCN, and Wii upscaled.
Definitely have to have an ARM chip and either Android or Linux
Like the GPD Win4?
@@Cykotr0nnot really. rather use an ARM chip and Android or Linux than a x86 chip using windows. Plus I should clairfy that I want the form factor of the Vita or GBA, but the size closer to rg405m, RP3+, or Switch
I'd buy that. Although I'll have to insist you make a plastic version as well for the budget/weight conscious customers.
@TechDweeb oh definitely! I tend to prefer metal for a more premium feel, but definitely would have a plastic one for cheaper cost/bulk
I can respect enjoying 3:2.
The Steam Deck does 8:5 which achieves similarly satisfying results for me.
It would be better if these can be upgradable. If handhelds could keep the screen and controls and the cpu gpu apu could be easily swap when technology improved. Instead of always rebuying.
The RP3+ did this. When it launched you could buy a kit to upgrade your RP3 to the + model. I don't think it's something most people would want to do though because it's fairly involved.
I was about to order it at the end of February, I love the front firing speakers, the screen, the battery... But I want video out, because having the opportunity to "consolize" a handheld and do multiplayer is a feature I love. After some months, I can say that having this screen on the RP2S would have been my dream, even at the same price. I would blend KT-R1 screen and battery with RP2S controls (triggers in particular) and speakers, and borrow (if possible) even a more powerful chipset (for a smooth PS2 experience) and a video output not limited to 480p like the RP2S). Before having a RP2S, I wouldn't have said that, but Android is fine, even if something like Jelos would make it more user friendly. Who knows? Maybe we'll se something like this next year 😊
I really really want a GBA form factor, with analogs and analog triggers. Play up to psp, big bezeless screen. Would be the ultimate gba. 👌
I was so close to buying one, but then I saw RH live showing problems with sticking face buttons, clicky shoulders and other issues so I passed. But I like the screen ratio though. Hope it gets better and.. well.. cheaper obviously 😅
I felt fine about the buttons on mine, they weren't sticking for me (not nearly as bad as the 405m that I reviewed, and everyone loved that device, so 🤷♂️)
looks a fantastic handheld but that price is a bit steep.
I really liked everything about this device, but in the end, I couldn't justify the price as a student. I emulate gba on my phone and bought (and subsequently hacked) a used DS, these two devices, plus my pc, handle everything I need.
I was close to buying this, a 3:2 aspect ratio and 1080p screen are compelling for me, but I mostly play GBA, and on my phone I get the exact same size display and a better screen. I also already own my phone.
The price leaves a lot to be desired. Also, it is currently not available due to a manufacture delay.. so I'd say this handheld is kind of DOA. I get that this is more pocketable but the Odin 1 and 2 make anything in these price points irrelevant.
Except you can't get an Odin with a D-Pad on top!
Wait... what's NetherSX2? I just noticed that when you were playing PS2 games... is that a new PS2 emulator?
It's a patched version of AetherSX2. It gives you the most current version but patches out the ads.
Same performance as AetherSX2.
@@Shigarui I'll have to look it up as I haven't updated my AetherSX2 app since before the bad times.
@TechDweeb I know there were a few updates after things went bad for AetherSX2... did those updates actually improve anything? I still have the version from the before times...
@@lesterparedes8358There were some slight improvements in the last couple of Google Play updates that included the ads. I compiled and uploaded an apk in the discord of the patched version. I linked the discord in a comment to this video.
Nice vid 🎉
my handheld would just be a 353v with upgraded hall sticks, the better back buttons, and a chipset that let it play ps2 and gamecube with little to no tweaks. maybe even make the l2/r2 back buttons into triggers. standard beige color scheme with some transparent colors as well. no other notes.
3:2 is the best
Too bad I can't buy it and they only have the 4:3 - 1620 x 1080 . I'd like 1080x720 that's still 3:2
1620x1080 is 3:2
I wish We had more hand helds with 4G capabilities
I would basically want the R36S with better buttons and the full capability to play all DreamCast, N64, PS2, GameCube, Wii, and Xbox games. And maybe in some neat transparant turqouise colour.
$250. It can play Wii and GameCube and PS2. Uses Android.
oof .. that's a tough sale when the odin 2 is 50$ more. Sure smaller size and all but still
@@Mustis91yeah devices of that price point/class are kind of in a weird spot. Pay a little more for an Odin or steam deck, or pay 50-100 less and still be able to play 90% of the library that it can
@@Mustis91 Odin 2 isn’t close in size to this. It’s also closer to $100 more than $50. Not a tough sell at all, if you’re looking for a smaller device. That is a valid point though, but just not a very accurate comparison.
for 50$ more you get a refurbished steam deck . This is a tough sale
If I wanted a handheld that could double as a murder weapon I would've bought a steam deck a year ago and wouldn't be watching this video 😂
try the less demanding switch games. you will be impressed. the 3:2 makes it a gamer for gamer device
That fast moving live wallpaper is really getting on my nerves. Regarding it's price point, you could add a little more money and get refurbished Steam Deck, or an android phone that have enough power to emulate up to Switch.
True. Or an extra $50 and get an Odin 2 which runs circles around this thing. None of those have the battery life or pocket factor that this does though, so it'd still be a good choice for someone who need to prioritize those things.
The RG405V (which I am happy to own) and the GPD Win 4 (which I will own... some day........) are the two big kinds of handheld I really want: an android (or linux) that can run everything through PS2/GC and a portable gaming PC. For both, however, my ideal handheld would be just a bit more powerful. I want to be able to play the entire PS2/GC library without issue on weaker retro device (esp. Shadow of the Colossus, which is sadly not playable on the 405) and I want to play Elden Ring on the portable PC. But in both cases, there's one more big change that I know I'll never see, that I crave above all other things:
a gamecube button layout.
I got tired of switching back and forth between xbox and nintendo control layouts, so for my switch I got the nyxi gamecube joycons, and for my pc I got the retrofighters gamecube controller. And I desperately want this for my retrohandheld gaming as well. It's the perfect layout. It's glorious. I want one set of buttons for all my games.
Ordered today, 6gb/256gb, the maker has them on eBay, It's like $170 but, in black only (was hoping for red).... Pocketable GameCube and light PS2, sold....
if only it was available in europe. If i add shipping and customs fees it's probably a bit much. and the gameforce ace is just around the corner and could be great too..although it doesnt have 3:2 aspect ratio which is a shame.
I'd make a Miyoo Mini Plus with OLED screen.
Let us know when your kickstarter is up. 😎
It's up. I have a bucket on my porch for you to stop by and dump your money.
this is the perfect handheld for me, I want one now, but the price 😭
If I was going to make the perfect handheld, there will be no compromises. I want something like the RG ARC but it needs to be better than the T618 and Dual Boot Linux/Android. When I saw it on RH and the bad d-pad, I was like that's no good for a handheld that expensive. Something tell me this didn't sell well at all. There was the one guy that made and will make the new GameForce, he had to mess up the control on the Chi. I think the D-pad is bad on the ACE.
Okay if it can take a sim card this isn't bad.
My 405m shows up this week, I wonder if I should have looked at this?
The 405m is amazing! It's just different in some ways, both are great. If I could only pick one I'd probably go for the 405m. Enjoy!
I'm no stranger to bespoke handheld costs, but the price kinda kills it for me. Not expecting Switch, it's just too soon for something "affordable" to do that well. I don't need 5g and I could just get a big SDcard for space so maybe for 200 (assuming I had the cash, which I certainly dont after just dropping $98 on the RGB30) I could justify the cost with decent PS2 and PSP emulation, but that assumes it's rock solid for both and I suspect more than a few games wont run as smooth as I 'd like (Android has not been a greatly consistent experience for me in the past so I have trust issues.)
Yeah that's fair. I'm sure in like a year we'll have flawless gamecube and ps2 at the $100ish mark. 🤞
@@TechDweeb lol that might be wishful thinking but they'd certainly have my money then... if I had any.
What games are you interested in knowing about?
Id love a habdheld ps2 i wanna play parappa 2 on the go
I just want a small pocketable low powered version of the steam deck that removes the analog thumb sticks and only has the dual trackpads. That would be perfect for emulation and modern indie games since I primarily play dpad centric games. The track pads are so configurable I think it would be worth the trade off to have a more pocketable console since I HATE the switch style joysticks. I’d rather force myself to use trackpads and gyro
3:2 Aspect Ratio Master Race
Kinda sad it has the same price as the Odin 2
Yeah. The Odin 2 shook up the whole android handheld industry.
$250? I'm out. I paid less than that for my Xbox Series S, man!
Have you been paying attention to the Data Frog SF2000 lately? They used the GBA emulator as a backdoor to a dozen other emulators. Now this thing runs TurboDuo, Sega CD, Neo-Geo Pocket, Lynx, and Game Gear games, and pretty well!
it must be almost like the new pie5 maybe the prototype nock off✌
It seems that the Odin 2 has already made this handheld obsolete for this price point.
Agreed, if price:performance is the main consideration.
Odin 2 is also 2x as big. I guess if you don't care about size.....just get a steam deck?
@@TheRageHuntnot to be pedantic, but the Odin 2 is still half the size of the Steam Deck, costs $370, and is the most powerful of the emulator handhelds on the market. It's orders of magnitude easier to transport and play with while traveling. It also plays Switch games at full resolution while only using half the available RAM
@@TheRageHunt actually the Odin 2 is about the same size as my RG552 that it will be replacing. I already have Steam Deck and OneXplayer 5800u which are great for emulation but the battery life is not great.
For me if I'm ganna make retro handheld it looks like this but the button layout is like xbox controller but the feel like 8bitdo controller and a grip on the back can run famicom-ps2 i like to be android but i want it to be fix like when you open it run launchbox like but still there is a option for playstore to download apps idk if this is possible but when i try using this in old phone I still click on launchbox and I dont like that experience and battery is big like 5000mah to 7000mah and for the screen oled 16:9 and has wifi Bluetooth and vibration option and I want it like there is a option to change the battery easy like NDS or 3ds and has a memorycard slot and there is a option for multiplayer like for example fightcade or i heard miyu mini plus has a trade in gbc gb pokemon and battle . For the L and R buttons and trigger I dont mind anything I use both like this in the video and the traditional one like a Xbox triggers or switch .. and for the speakers i think its like samsung phones technology