Finding a portable retro gaming device under $50 is rare, but Powkiddy’s new P36S aims to fill that niche. While it’s not officially available on Powkiddy’s website yet, you can already buy it from select retailers in black, white, and orange. The question is whether this budget handheld delivers enough for its price.
- 3.5-inch 640×480 IPS display with classic 4:3 aspect ratio
- Powered by a quad-core 1.2 GHz CPU with Mali-400 MP2 GPU
- 3,000 mAh battery and dual USB Type-C ports for connectivity
- Runs an open-source Linux OS with retro gaming focus
The 140W Claim Depends on How You Use It
Just kidding — the P36S doesn’t have a 140W charger, but it does pack a quad-core CPU likely based on the Allwinner A33 platform. This chip is common in budget handhelds like the Miyoo Mini A30, offering Cortex-A7 cores at 1.2 GHz and a Mali-400 MP2 GPU. While this setup can handle many retro games smoothly, it’s not designed for modern 3D titles or heavy emulation.
The Real Trade-Off Is Battery Capacity and Ergonomics
The P36S includes a 3,000 mAh battery, which should provide reasonable gaming sessions, but won’t last all day. A smaller battery keeps the device compact and pocket-friendly, but gamers wanting multi-day use may need to plan for recharging. Also, the joystick placement is unusual and may affect comfort during extended play, so it makes more sense for short sessions or casual gaming.
The Price Makes More Sense for Casual Retro Fans and Tinkerers
At around $45 from third-party sellers, the P36S offers strong value for those who want a simple, open-source handheld for classic games. The dual micro SD slots and USB Type-C ports add flexibility for storage and charging. However, Powkiddy’s official availability and pricing remain unclear, which can be a consideration for buyers outside certain regions.
Which One Should You Choose?
Consider the Powkiddy P36S if you want an affordable, compact retro handheld with decent specs for classic games and don’t mind some ergonomic quirks. Skip it if you need longer battery life, more powerful hardware, or a more comfortable controller layout for extended gaming sessions.
(Via)
