Pi Tin: Compact Raspberry Pi Retro Handheld in Mint Tin

Key Takeaways

1. The Pi Tin is an open-source handheld gaming device that uses the Raspberry Pi, created by enthusiasts jacks01 and soaporsalad.
2. It requires advanced assembly skills, with options to build it in a 3D-printed shell or an Altoids mint tin.
3. Users must source their own components, although an SD card image for the device is available for download.
4. It features a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, allowing for the emulation of classic retro games, though with limited performance.
5. The device includes a 2.8-inch screen, custom-designed PCBs, four action buttons, and a D-pad, with soldering required for assembly.


Gaming handhelds today come in a variety of forms and sizes, some of which are made by enthusiasts rather than large corporations. The Pi Tin is a project by creators jacks01 and soaporsalad, which is an open-source handheld device that utilizes the Raspberry Pi, enabling virtually anyone to construct their own unit. Currently, kits for this portable console are still being worked on, meaning that those who want to join in must source the necessary components by themselves. However, there is an SD card image ready for download for the handheld device.

Advanced Assembly Needed

As stated by its creators, the Pi Tin is aimed at users who have some experience, as putting it together requires a certain amount of skill. There are two main assembly options for the Pi Tin, which differ mainly in terms of the casing: You can make it fit inside a 3D-printed shell or, as the name suggests, you can use an Altoids mint tin. The components needed for the two different versions have some considerable differences.

Key Features and Specifications

At the heart of the Pi Tin is a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W (check it out here on Amazon), allowing the handheld to emulate classic retro games, even though its performance isn’t top-notch. Moreover, the device comes with a 2.8-inch screen and custom-designed PCBs that are specifically made for this project, which need to be ordered from a PCB manufacturer on their own. Assembly also requires soldering. For controls, the retro handheld has four action buttons alongside a D-pad.

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