Tag: Retro Handhelds

  • Anbernic Repair Simplified: Easier Fixes for Retro Handhelds

    Anbernic Repair Simplified: Easier Fixes for Retro Handhelds

    Key Takeaway

    – Anbernic now sells official replacement parts for 38 models via a dedicated “Product Accessories” webpage.
    – Parts include shells, screens, batteries, motherboards, buttons, and rubber pads, with prices from $3 to $236.
    – Customers must specify the exact device model and color when ordering to avoid cancellation.
    – Parts do not come with standard warranty coverage; batteries may have longer shipping times due to regional restrictions.
    – This initiative extends the lifespan of devices once considered disposable due to damage or wear.


    New Parts For Old Handhelds

    Anbernic, the retro handheld company, is finally selling replacement parts for almost all its devices. Considering the myriad defects and damage that gaming handhelds can accumulate over the years, many Anbernic users were concerned about obtaining replacement parts without haveing to buy a brand-new Anbernic retro console.

    How It Used To Be

    Previously, the only options were to contact Anbernic support in hopes that the company would supply parts, or to go on an online hunt for third-party options on AliExpress, which can sometimes be hit-or-miss. It was a real pain for alot of people who just needed a simple fix.

    Whats Available Now

    With Anbernic’s new Replacement Parts program accessible via its dedicated “Product Accessories” webpage, users can now obtain parts like the outer shell, display, conductive rubber pads, screens, batteries, entire motherboards, and face buttons individually for its lineup of 38 retro handhelds, including the RG40XX H, RG35XXSP, RG477V, RG556, and WIN600. Prices start from $10 for the shell and $3 for face buttons, and go up to almost $236 for the WIN600’s motherboard.

    Ordering Process

    All you have to do is select your device, choose the part type you need replaced, specify the exact color and model, and add it to your cart for shipping. Its really that simple, though you need to be carefull with the details.

    The retro handheld community, which has been loyal to Anbernic, has a reason to be pleased that the company has taken this step. Replacement joysticks have long been a point of contention among Anbernic users, whether they were dealing with stick drift or simply wanted a new battery.

    Shipping And Warnings

    It should be noted that these parts were available through third-party Chinese sources like Taobao, but haveing them shipped directly from Anbernic makes the process easier and more streamlined, especially for global customers. The websites ordering notes state that customers must specify the exact model and color of the device, and that orders without proper details may be canceled.

    Furthermore, these aftermarket parts do not include standard warranty coverage. Batteries, on the other hand, are likely to have longer shipping times, especially if regional restrictions are in place. People have complained about this, but it is what it is.

    Longer Lifespan For Devices

    Now, retro devices from Anbernic that might once have felt disposable after a cracked or damaged shell, drifting sticks, or failing batteries can enjoy a longer lifespan thanks to the company’s Replacement Parts initiative. This is good news for everyone who hates throwing away there consoles.

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  • Rocknix Adds Official Steam Support for Android Handheld Devices

    Rocknix Adds Official Steam Support for Android Handheld Devices

    Key Takeaway

    1. Rocknix now supports Steam, allowing playback of Linux and PC games via Proton.
    2. Support is limited to certain Qualcomm-based devices, excluding newer models like AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit Elite.
    3. Steam support is available in Nightly builds and is expected to improve over time.
    4. Installing the OS on internal memory enhances game and Steam performance.
    5. Compatibility issues may arise with RTX, DirectX 12 games, and requiring specific launch arguments for some titles.

    Steam Support Comes to Rocknix

    The folks who made Rocknix, a Linux based OS mainly for old-school gaming handhelds, just announced that now the OS can run Steam. This is pretty cool because it means gamers can access a wide variety of Linux and PC games through Proton, making it more versatile for gaming on handhelds.

    Device Compatibility and Limitations

    Right now, support is with Qualcomm powered handhelds only. The current compatible models include some from brands like AYN, Ayaneo, and Retroid. Sadly, newer gadgets with Snapdragon 8 Elite or Dragonwing Q8, like the AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, are not on the list yet. The supported devices are listed on official sources for those interested.

    Usage Tips and Known Issues

    Since Steam support on Rocknix is only accessible through the Nightly builds, expect some bugs at first, but hopefully those will get fixed in future updates. Rocknix also suggests installing the OS directly onto the device’s internal memory because it makes Steam start faster, and game installs and launches quicker too.

    Game Compatibility and Launch Settings

    About games compatibility, it is said that some with RTX features might not run smoothly. Also, certain DirectX 12 games that refuse to boot may need a special launch argument to get running. Helldivers 2 also needs a specific launch argument, while titles like Counter-Strike 2 require users to enable DRM and Vulkan support along with Wayland client libraries in EmulationStation’s advanced options. More detailed instructions on how to set up Steam in Rocknix can be found in the original source.

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  • Anbernic RG Vita & RG Vita Pro: Pricing and Availability Updates

    Anbernic RG Vita & RG Vita Pro: Pricing and Availability Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pre-orders for the RG Vita and RG Vita Pro start on March 23, with early bird prices of $99.99 and $109.99 respectively, rising after 72 hours.
    2. The RG Vita features a 5.46-inch HD screen, Unisoc T618 chip, 3GB RAM, and 64GB storage, while the RG Vita Pro has a clearer 1920 x 1080 display, Rockchip RK3576 processor, and 4GB RAM.
    3. Both models come with a 5,000mAh battery, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and run Android 12, but the Pro model supports dual-boot with Android 14 and a 64-bit Linux OS.
    4. The RG Vita Pro includes additional features like an HDMI port, two microSD slots, and USB-C with DisplayPort support.
    5. Both handhelds will include an AI assistant and can emulate games from various retro consoles, with the Pro model offering better performance for PS Vita games.


    After waiting for weeks, Anbernic has finally revealed the pricing and availability details for their two new handheld consoles, the RG Vita and the RG Vita Pro. Like many makers of retro handhelds, they are offering an early bird discount, but the price will increase after the pre-order phase.

    Pre-order Information

    According to Retro Handhelds, pre-orders for the RG Vita and RG Vita Pro will start on March 23. The RG Vita is priced at $99.99, and customers can buy it at that price for the first 72 hours. After this initial period, the cost will rise to $139.99.

    Pricing for the Pro Model

    On the flip side, the RG Vita Pro will be available for $109.99 during the early bird offer. Similar to the regular version, this price won’t last long, as its final retail cost is reported to be $149.99. There are no details yet on when the shipping will commence for those who pre-order.

    Specifications and Features

    The RG Vita features a 5.46-inch HD screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. It runs on a Unisoc T618 chip and comes with 3GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. There’s also a microSD card slot for additional memory. This handheld, which will be offered in Black and Gray, has a 5,000mAh battery, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and includes a headphone jack. It will come with Android 12 right out of the box.

    The RG Vita Pro, on the other hand, shares the same 5.46-inch 60Hz display, however, it boasts a clearer 1920 x 1080 resolution (FHD). It is powered by a Rockchip RK3576 processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of expandable storage. This model also features a 5,000mAh battery that supports 18W wired charging, and it includes Wi-Fi 8 and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Dual-boot Capabilities

    The RG Vita Pro supports dual-booting with Android 14 and a 64-bit Linux OS, allowing users to select which operating system they want to start with. Unlike the standard RG Vita, it includes an HDMI port, two microSD card slots, and a USB-C port with DisplayPort support. It will be available in Black and White color choices.

    Anbernic has also mentioned that both handhelds will feature an AI assistant, providing one-click guides, real-time translations, and text-to-image generation capabilities. They will be capable of emulating games from various retro consoles, including up to the PS2. However, the Pro model promises superior performance, especially when it comes to emulating PS Vita games.

    Given that there’s only a $10 price difference between the two models, the RG Vita Pro seems like a smart choice. But at that price point, it will compete fiercely with other handhelds such as the Mangmi Air X, which is available on Amazon for $159.99.

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  • GameMT EX8: Affordable Handheld Console Launched in Various Colors

    GameMT EX8: Affordable Handheld Console Launched in Various Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GameMT EX8 is now available for purchase, starting at $139.99, and comes in multiple colors with three memory card options.
    2. It features the Helio G99 chipset, offering two Cortex-A76 cores, six Cortex-A55 cores, and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU.
    3. The device has a 4.88-inch display with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels, a peak brightness of 520 nits, and a 60 Hz refresh rate.
    4. Design includes dual joysticks, a standard d-pad, and face buttons in a Nintendo layout, along with an active cooling system and a 5,000 mAh battery.
    5. It offers 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, with microSD card options of 64 GB or 128 GB available separately.


    The GameMT EX8 has finally made its debut after being hinted at in the middle of October. For now, it’s available at Royibeila, and comes in several colors along with three memory card choices right from the start. In a nutshell, this fresh release aims to compete with some compact retro handheld devices like the Powkiddy RGB50 and the Ayaneo Pocket Micro, which is currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon.

    Hardware Specs

    For example, the EX8 is powered by the same Helio G99 chipset found in the Pocket Micro. This 6 nm chipset, created by MediaTek, gives the EX8 two Cortex-A76 cores, six Cortex-A55 cores, and a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. In addition, GameMT has outfitted its newest handheld with a 3:2 aspect ratio display that has a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels, peak brightness of 520 nits, and a refresh rate of 60 Hz.

    Design Features

    The 4.88-inch screen is covered by a full-width glass front and is accompanied by dual joysticks, a standard d-pad, and face buttons set up in a Nintendo style instead of the Xbox ABXY format. To prevent overheating, an active cooling system is included, along with a 5,000 mAh battery that can be charged using a bottom-placed USB Type-C port.

    The GameMT EX8 starts at a price of $139.99 in either black or white colors, but does not come with a microSD card in the package. Alternatively, users can choose 64 GB or 128 GB memory cards for $149.99 and $164.99, respectively. Every memory card variant comes with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage.

    Royibeila via Retro Handhelds

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  • Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayn Thor Lite is available for pre-order at a price of $249, with shipment expected in mid-January.
    2. The Lite model features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is less powerful than the Base model’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, but suitable for typical usage like retro gaming.
    3. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, and is $50 cheaper than the Base version.
    4. The device includes dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, and runs on Android 13.
    5. The Ayn Thor Lite weighs 380 grams, has a 6000 mAh battery, supports WiFi 6, and features Hall-effect joysticks for improved control.


    The Ayn Thor has been presented before, but it’s now available for pre-order once again, featuring the budget-friendly Lite version priced at $249. The arrival of this second batch is expected to start in mid-January, so those looking to purchase will need to be patient and should thoroughly review the shipping conditions ahead of time, since prices may vary for buyers based on their locations (click here to check Ayn’s shipping policy).

    Lite Model Details

    The Lite variant is lower than the Base model in both features and cost. It shares the same storage capacity with the Base model but is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 instead of the more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. This leads to reduced performance, though it shouldn’t be a significant issue for typical usage, particularly for playing retro games. The Lite model is $50 cheaper than the Base version. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. Unlike some competitors in the retro handheld market, Ayn does not provide memory cards loaded with ROMs that might infringe on copyright laws.

    Display and Specifications

    This handheld device sports dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, measuring 6 inches and 3.92 inches diagonally. The System on Chip (SoC) is actively cooled and operates on Android 13. Weighing in at 380 grams and with a thickness of 25.6 millimeters, the Ayn Thor Lite is powered by a 6000 mAh battery and can output video through USB-C. It supports WiFi 6, and the control scheme includes Hall-effect joysticks for better precision.

    Ayn via Retro Handhelds

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  • KTR2 Launch: Premium Retro Gaming Pocket Console for Budget Gamers

    KTR2 Launch: Premium Retro Gaming Pocket Console for Budget Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Market Entry: The KTR2 from KT Pocket is a new competitor in the retro handheld gaming market, aiming to disrupt pricing norms in the $100 to $200 range.

    2. Build Quality and Features: The KTR2 features a magnesium alloy construction, a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, active cooling, and dual Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity.

    3. Affordable Pricing: The base model of the KTR2 is priced at $142, with pre-sale and retail prices expected to stay below $200 across configurations.

    4. Competitive Landscape: The KTR2 faces strong competition from devices like the Mangmi Air X and Retroid’s Pocket G2, which offer different specifications and price points.

    5. Pre-sale and Shipping: The KTR2 is available for pre-sale, but shipments are anticipated to be delayed until 2026, making its success dependent on real-world performance and international launch.


    In the busy world of new retro handheld gaming devices, where products are competing in the $100 to $200 bracket, a new player has entered the scene. This newcomer is not from well-known brands like Retroid, Anbernic, or AYANEO. The latest addition is called the KTR2 from KT Pocket, which was recently announced by RetroGaming with DeadFred on X.

    A Shift in Branding

    Initially introduced as the KTR1S, this handheld has now been renamed to KTR2. The goal of the KTR2 is to break free from the high prices typical of retro handhelds and to shake up the market with aggressive pricing that remains friendly to budgets. However, the big question is whether KT Pocket can deliver on these claims, especially in the current climate of memory shortages.

    Notable Features

    To the amazement of many, the device that was once the KTR1S, now known as KTR2, is constructed from a magnesium alloy, setting it apart from competitors made of ABS plastic. It is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, a new 2024 SoC that is making its first appearance in the KT Pocket range.

    The KTR2 is designed with active cooling to avoid overheating during intense gaming sessions. In terms of connectivity, it includes dual Wi-Fi and 4G options for gamers who want to enjoy online gaming while on the move. Pre-sales are already active in China, with plans for international sales to start soon.

    Budget-Friendly Pricing

    KT Pocket is cutting prices to draw in buyers who are looking for high-quality but affordable handhelds that aim to disrupt the retro gaming market. The base model comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, priced at $142 for the Wi-Fi version, while the premium 12GB/512GB 4G model costs $255. During this period, pre-sale and retail prices are expected to keep most configurations below $200.

    The retro handheld market is getting crowded, with numerous options targeting the same audience. The KTR2 faces tough competition right from the start. For instance, the Mangmi Air X is priced at just $90 and features a Snapdragon 662 chipset with Android 14, capable of handling many PS2 and GameCube games on its 5.5-inch 1080p display, making it a solid choice for entry-level retro gamers.

    Competing Devices

    Retroid’s Pocket G2, which costs $199 for early supporters, is powered by a Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 processor, features 8GB of RAM, and has a bright 5.5-inch AMOLED screen running Android 15. This device is efficient at emulating challenging PS2 and GameCube games.

    Another noteworthy device is the AYANEO Pocket Air Mini, which starts at $70 for its basic model with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. Although it features a 4.2-inch display, it mainly focuses on lighter retro emulation and falls short on performance compared to its rivals.

    The KTR2 from KT Pocket finds itself in a challenging position, but it has the potential for success with its high-quality build and features at a reasonable price. The magnesium alloy body combined with active cooling could help prevent overheating, and the Dimensity 7300 offers a performance advantage over devices like the Mangmi Air that rely on the Snapdragon 662. However, shipments are anticipated to be delayed until 2026. Crowdfunding for the KTR2 is ending soon, and its success will depend on how well it performs in real-world tests and its international launch.

    Pre-sale Opportunities

    The KTPocket is currently available for pre-sale with discounts for interested buyers. If someone is looking for a different option that is more readily available, the more expensive AYANEO Pocket ACE can be found on Amazon, with Prime shipping available to various states within a two-day timeframe.

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  • Anbernic RG557: Amazing PS2 and Wii U Emulation Performance

    Anbernic RG557: Amazing PS2 and Wii U Emulation Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic will announce the RG557’s release date and price next week, with rumors suggesting a price around $205.
    2. The RG557 is expected to have a 17% price increase compared to the previous model, RG556, which is currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon.
    3. Anbernic released a 14-minute unboxing video showcasing the RG557’s Android 14 software and internal cooling system.
    4. Retro Handhelds provided early impressions, noting quality control issues with the translucent model compared to the white one.
    5. The RG557 is reported to smoothly run Wii U titles and emulate PlayStation 2 games without slowdowns, thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 8300 and 12 GB of RAM.


    It looks like Anbernic is going to hold off until next week to announce when it will begin selling the RG557 and the price. Recent rumors suggest that the device will be priced around $205, which is a 17% and a $30 increase compared to the RG556 that Anbernic launched last year (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon).

    Unboxing Video Released

    In the meantime, Anbernic has shared a comprehensive unboxing video that lasts over 14 minutes. The video, which is embedded below, showcases the Android 14 software experience by default along with some customization options. Additionally, Anbernic gives a glimpse into the handheld’s internals, including its compact active cooling system.

    Early Impressions from Retro Handhelds

    On a different note, Retro Handhelds has uploaded an early impressions video of the RG557, showing it in its two launch colors. The site reports that the translucent version has more quality control issues compared to the white one. Specifically, the L2 and R2 shoulder buttons on the translucent model have differing tensions, unlike its white sibling.

    It’s important to highlight that these are pre-production models. However, there have been cases before where early retail units faced the same quality control problems as those reviewed. Regardless, Retro Handhelds noted no significant snapping with either joystick, and the fans do not need to activate when emulating even demanding 3D games. The MediaTek Dimensity 8300 and 12 GB of RAM seem to allow the RG557 to run Wii U titles smoothly. Plus, Retro Handhelds mentions that their units can emulate PlayStation 2 games like God of War II at 3.5 times the native resolution without any noticeable slowdowns. For more information, check out the video below.

    Conclusion

    The developments from Anbernic and Retro Handhelds are intriguing, and it will be interesting to see how the RG557 performs once it officially hits the market.

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  • G350: Affordable Retro Gaming Handheld Competes with RG353V

    G350: Affordable Retro Gaming Handheld Competes with RG353V

    Key Takeaways

    1. The BatleXP G350 features the Rockchip RK3326 chip and has a 3,200 mAh battery, 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, and a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a 640 x 480 resolution.
    2. The G350’s design is inspired by the Anbernic RG353V but is smaller, measuring 128 x 81 x 22 mm.
    3. The control layout is similar to the RG353V, but it has a down-firing speaker instead of a front-firing one, with the USB Type-C port and 3.5 mm jack located on the top edge.
    4. The G350 offers improved ABXY buttons and a high-quality d-pad, receiving positive reviews from Retro Handhelds.
    5. It is available for purchase at $33.69 on AliExpress and $49.99 on Amazon, in colors including DMG, Transparent Black, and Transparent Pink.


    The gaming handheld market is filled with devices powered by Rockchip RK3326. However, Retro Handhelds has spotted a new contender that boasts features making it superior to the Game Console R36S.

    Specs and Design

    The BatleXP G350 comes with the RK3326 chip and is equipped with a 3,200 mAh battery, 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, and a well-known 3.5-inch IPS screen that has a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. The display is in a 4:3 aspect ratio and is housed in a compact 128 x 81 x 22 mm case, which is a bit smaller than the Anbernic RG353V that clearly inspires its design.

    Control Layout and Features

    The control layout of the G350 is the same as that of the RG353V, but it doesn’t have a front-firing speaker. Instead, BatleXP has chosen to use a down-firing speaker, which leads to the USB Type-C port being located on the top edge along with the 3.5 mm jack.

    According to Retro Handhelds, the G350 has better ABXY buttons compared to the R36S. The d-pad is also reported to be of high quality, with no complaints from Retro Handhelds. Currently, the G350 can be purchased for $33.69 on AliExpress and $49.99 on Amazon, available in DMG, Transparent Black, and Transparent Pink colors.

    Availability

    You can find the G350 listed on both Amazon and AliExpress, as noted by Retro Handhelds.

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