Wrong who wants to us a phone to play games. No joystick no buttons even if you use special adapters its still way different. Plus this has a big screen
You have to factor in a 10 inch screen. Not a 5.5" or 6". So a laptop for usd 100 new set you around n64 emulation tops. This can emulate n64 with some workarounds and ppsspp.
Wow. PowKiddy's been on a roll with solid devices, and while their build quality could definitely take pointers from Anbernic I'm still pleasantly surprised at what they're capable of churning out now.
I've had my eye on this potentially because of the potential firmware change and mods. Well done on being the only reviewer to mention about the Team Ruka custom firmware out of 4 reviews on this i've watched. Shows that you do your research.
I’ve been loving their CFW. I actually edited it myself to suit my needs, which says a lot about how flexible they made it! Only thing I don’t like is that is the CFW doesn’t have HDMI support yet.
This video was one of the things that convinced me to pick up this device, and I don't regret it at all. I've seen the video where you sat that the device's charms wore off in comparison to more capable Arcade Stick devices, but it falls in to a nice and convenient niche for my purposes. It's unfortunate that the other examples of this device's form factor are all Pandora boxes in suitcases, as I think it has great potential as well.
Cool video I can’t wait to see the upgrade you make to it I’m definitely going to get one especially if it has your stamp of approval you’re the man 👍🏽really enjoy your videos The community definitely thinks you🙏🏾
Thanks for the excellent review, i've just ordered one - I love the idea of a portable arcade with hdmi out. Looking forward to some of that 90's arcade nostalgia playing fighters, beat 'em ups, horizontal shooters, run and guns and platformers with this :)
It's a lot of fun! Be sure to check out my hardware mods video when I make it, I added a few neat tricks (like strategically placed weights in the bottom shell to add more balance).
Ooh yeah I will absolutely get one, I am trying so hard that my kid get into retro games and this is great now i will be able to connect this into a tv, add another controller and play with him thanks!
Got the A12 when it was on sale and it's also a cool little device, I think most of the hardware is the same (even though it comes with a 9" instead of a 10" display). After installation of the modded firmware and a bit of TLC (putting my own games and thumbnails on the SD card) I now have a nice little arcade that I can put on the table and play whenever I get bored. You can even put Sanwa buttons in there if you feel like, I did that.
Hi, check out my other A13 video where I add a new stick and buttons, it was a lot of fun! Working on a firmware update video now, using the Team Ruka custom firmware.
Great video. And for the price point à no brainer. Lot of aliexpress sellers have it on sale and available coupons. Got it for 100C$ (about 80usd) with shipping. Look forward to your CFW video and write up.
It's probably worth noting that these arcade controls may be more accessible to those with physical disabilities that would not otherwise be able to play on a more traditional handheld device. With that in mind, this seems like a great option considering it runs PS1 for $100
I know this sounds weird, but there are third party Neo Geo vinyl stickers for the A12 and A13 that make the god awful red make sense. I actually "got" what they were going for with the system as a whole once they put the stickers on, but that shouldn't be required to keep a $100 box from looking like a preschool toy. The red on red start/back/volume buttons look like "fake" buttons on a toy. The main button colors don't help, but are far from the biggest problem on the look. I think they should have approximated the Neo Geo look more like they did with the RGB20 and the Famicom/SuperFami look. A striped red/white metal faceplate and better coodinated button/shell colors are all that is needed to make this thing look great. Also, like they did with the RGB20, they could offer it in various color schemes. SEGA Astrocity White/Black/Green would look great in this form factor.
It's a neat little device! I think they're sending units out to all the good UA-camrs right now because no one has been buying this model, despite it being out since November. I just saw another review for it come up today, and I heard MashTec has one coming in the mail as well :)
Hello Sir, is it possible to activate scanlines with the original firmware? I don't find any menu / setting to use the scanlines, or did i miss something?
One trick I saw someone do to get the stick out easy was just "rub" left on the top of the ball, rotating it and letting the stick rise up like Nosferatu and then picking it up by the stick. I only saw one guy do it this way, literally everyone else I've seen digs out the ball first, which seems way harder.
This is a weird moment. All this time I thought I wanted a retro handheld device, but none of them were quite what I was looking for. I think I want this.
I peeled off the screen protector that had a little tab, but still looks like there is another sheet on the screen, can see multiple bubbles. I assume that can be (carefully) peeled off as well?
Pandora Box (portable mini-arcade version) has been asleep for many years (its price is more expensive, it has no battery, etc.), this is a wake-up call. Good for PowKiddy! r!Let's hope the competition makes them better each other!
I've seen these on AliExpress and my eye keeps wondering over to them lol on first look it looks like cheap rubbish, but I have to say they do interest me it's the joystick set up that hooks me in being an arcade machines owner this would be good when we go on holiday my daughter likes playing these old games and I think she would really like this, really glad you did a review as I'm tempted to get one now, it's just that red colour that's putting me off wish they did it in black etc.
This has the same OS and UI as the A12,X2 and Coolbaby RS18. I have the RS18,made my own custom build by swapping out the system images for nicer looking ones and putting diff roms on with boxart but if you do that and want to launch them from the front end you'll have to edit each systems XML file to add each roms path. You can also add boxart too then. Its very time consuming however depending on how many roms you add ofcourse but the end result is much better. If you dont want to do all that but still want to use your own roms you can always launch them from the file manager. Oh, and really this is missing 2 buttons for many PS1 games isnt it?
Yeah, I saw the XML file and realized that you would have to do a lot of that by hand. If you haven't seen already, Wagner's Tech Talk created a Shell script for the A12 that will do most of the work for you, but it's still unnecessarily complicated IMO. You're right that L2 and R2 are missing here, but with the ability to map buttons I'm not too worried about it -- I can't think of a game that would need more than six buttons at one time.
@@RetroGameCorps Adding games itself should be easy. You can just drop the roms into the corresponding rom folders but ofcourse just doing that only you can only launch them through the file manager. Front the front end yeah, you need to edit XML files. Time consuming and tedious, if doing manually like I did.
This seems like the perfect device to load up with MAME and FBA, and then put a few beat em ups, shoot em ups, platformers and fighters from other consoles
Seems like a good value for the price, but building your own portable arcade with a raspberry pi 4 would be better. The RPi4 is more powerful, you can choose your own screen/case/buttons/controllers, and retropie is more customizable and we'll refined. If you haven't, you should buy a raspberry pi 4 and the nespi4 retroflag case and do a review on it.
I definitely see myself making a tabletop arcade device at some point, but this was a great entry point for me. I do have a RPi4 sitting around here at the house, it currently has a flirc case on it. I was using it as a dedicated Steam Link console hooked up to my TV, but I need to play around with it more!
Still waiting for my unit to arrive... it's been 27 days and the last update from sunyou tracking (3/18/2021) says it's arrived in (China) Philippines. I guess China really does think they own my country now LOL! Kidding aside, I'm getting pretty impatient since it's apparently already in a facility here in the Philippines and I'm kinda thinking of just getting an RG351P with the refund which can be bought via more reliable local online stores here (Lazada and Shoppee). With that said... I really like the idea of having a portable system with its own authentic arcade stick -- even if it is a little bit less powerful than the RG351P.
They could make another with a bigger screen and 3 buttons for directions in left side so you don't always have to take out and use the stick but for what it is it looks impressive
I definitely think a higher quality screen is in order for the next model, but I've read that this one is a much better screen than the previous iteration.
I was seriously looking to get one of these, but I was impatient to wait however long it would take to get to me. I bought a Pandora's Box instead, which is cool because I can play alongside my wife. Still want one of these though.
Great video man!! 😃 I’ve just ordered this device based (partly) on your review. I’m going to subscribe so PLEEEEASE do those other videos on this system that you mentioned!!! I’ll be definitely watching 😃 One brief thing I wanted to know; when updating the firmware, can this be installed onto a separate SD card and therefore keep the original SD card as stock and swap between the two?! 😖😝 Thanks
So the firmware is flashed on the device itself, so if you switch to the custom firmware you won't be able to go back (as far as I know). It was a decision I had to make, and I'm glad I made it because it gives you more access to better emulators, a customizable RetroArch interface, and better games management. But fair warning, the custom firmware doesn't have HDMI functionality yet, so you will lose that if you upgrade -- hopefully they can fix it soon!
@@RetroGameCorps Actually price went even a bit lower (€69), so I pulled the trigger. Should be there in about 10 days. Looking forward to your upgrade guide video.
I was thinking about geting a USB-C to wireless quick charge pad since Qi (quick charge 8watt) is already 4x faster it would not matter & the OTG is still there for other things
Can you load arcade roms on it? And if so, does it run “The Outfoxies”? And “Gauntlet”? Those are notoriously tricky games to run smoothly (for audio and video) on emulator machines. Please confirm as I am VERY intrigued. Thanks for the great video!
This is really cool, going to get one. Does anyone know which buttons will fit this? Id love some Sanwa silent buttons and a silent joystick, preferably coloured transparent. Anybody have any ideas?
Nice review. Do you have the best place to recommend buying this. And have you created a video or d/l file where you can optimize this device and add the newest version of retroarch on it
I'm finding it really difficult to get the stick to screw on tightly because the base it goes into starts to rotate too. Does it do this with your original and custom?
Use a rubber washer/spacer between the stick and the unit, this allows the stick more grip and let's you tighten it up. Its badly designed, a rubber washer is required really but I guess it would get lost easily if it shipped with one
You know if this had a little more power to it and looked a little higher quality I would feel a lot better with this but I like the concept of this 🤔 my first thoughts were this is pretty goofy but I like being able to swap out the joysticks and buttons. If there is a 2.0 version for this at about the same price I would be pretty stoked about it maybe a ryzen apu or retro pie 4 would be pretty cool for this and I would like the software cleaner but I’m intrigued 👀
@@RetroGameCorps Oooh 👀 really? If it's above your skill level it will definitely be over mine lol but that is awesome! I'm looking forward to the next chips being a bit of step up. I'll have to look for that video though I'm curious how it runs
I got the same device. Quick one, when installing the joystick, is there a stopping point when twisting it in? Mine does not have it ie keeps on turning till no end, so not sure if mine is faulty.
Yeah, mine never stopped turning with the original stick, I think that's just how it is. That was one of the reasons I upgraded my stick, so I could get a firmer grip on the stick.
Good question, I'm not sure it's IPS, it might be TN. I upgraded my device with a Sanwa JLFD-TP-8YT stick and Seimitsu PS-15 low-profile buttons. I don't think standard Sanwa buttons would fit, there isn't a lot of room for them.
Well geez, I have never heard of the 2021 Pandora CX Clamshell until just now. It does seem pretty nice, but also pretty complicated to set up. Also it looks like it doesn't have a battery? The A13 with custom firmware can run RetroArch 1.9.0, so it could play the full romsets from MAME2003-Plus and FinalBurn Neo, plus all classic console/handheld games, too.
@@RetroGameCorps if you could link me in to how to do all that when I get mine, I would greatly appreciate it dude! 😃 Any risk of bricking the system? Does it support other systems like TG-16 and others over the stock firmware? That would be cool. Can you link me to where do download and install the firmware, romset etc? Thanks
Apart from the folding screen, what are the main benefits of this over the A12? I just bought an A12 and I'm fairly impressed apart from the dodgy information about installing custom firmware.
Okay. I might as well mention it on here since this video encouraged me to mod the device to begin with. Sadly I do believe the power button has broken, and I'm not quite sure if it's the switch attached to the motherboard or if its the plastic pushbutton giving me issues. The pushbutton will not "lock" in place once pressed nor will it turn on the device unless pressed in extremely hard. Also, unfortunately the sd card fell out and broke in half. Now, I know you can buy the motherboard for the device separately on Aliexpress and that it supposedly comes preloaded with 9000 games but do I even need to do this? Would it solve anything or is there a simpler solution? Help would be GREATLY appreciated.
I don't think it would be possible because there is now bluetooth UI in the firmware itself, so you wouldn't be able to pair. But you can use the 8bitdo wireless adapter to pair bluetooth controllers, it's about $20 and one of my favorite gadgets: amzn.to/317jdXi
You can implement shaders on the custom firmware, but not on the stock firmware. I'll do an upgrade guide soon. I will say that with this high of a resolution, you don't really need scaling. The games look great no matter what aspect ration you use, which really surprised me.
Bought one but paid $150 but got it in 2 days. I cant stand 2 month shipping that ships in a bag so the box looks like they played soccer with it. I love it (but I love most of these handhelds) plus mine came with 9000 games so thats worth it for me alone
I've just bought one. How many units are there out there where you can play arcade games with a real arcade stick and buttons on the go or maybe even sitting in bed...lol
Seems to me with the USB ports they missed out on the opportunity to include DOS and other 8-bit computer systems. Systems like MSX and Amiga, could they be playable on this?
With the custom firmware you could definitely install DOSBox and ScummVM, as well as older computer systems like Amiga and MSX. Not sure about whether the device accepts USB keyboard input, but I think it should.
So would this be a better and more budget friendly solid PS1 emulation machine for games like Gran Turismo and Jet Moto? This coupled with a decent external controller sounds pretty decent. Could this be the best budget option with a large screen? Russ, your thoughts?
Am I better off buying a Rasberry Pi 4 and manually loading roms, bios, and emulators, and retro pie on a sd card. Will the rasberry pi 4 allow better emulation of the games and allow me to play more systems
Yes, a RPi4 is definitely more powerful than this system. I would recommend you check our Dr.K's video on how to install a RPi4 in this device, it's a lot of work! I was interested in doing it but I don't think I have the skills to do so. Getting an RPi4 working on a TV is much easier, but something I haven't done yet myself.
I bought one but the resolution on mine isn't as good as others make it out to be and powkiddy advertises 720p. Mine looks to be 480p at best when playing games but the home screen is 720p. This makes me think a screen upgrade isnt going to do much for the fuzzy resolution of the games themselves.
Are you using the stock firmware? It's been a while since I used that firmware but it sounds like maybe they have bilinear filtering enabled by default on those emulators, which is causing the blurriness. I just played a test game on mine (with the Ruka custom firmware) and it was great.
I'll ask and see if they can send it to me when it's available (the X18S, that is). Hopefully I can get a review unit because I'm dying to try a handheld device with Gamecube capability!
I’ve just got mine and unboxed it. When screwing in the stick it just keeps turning at the end and doesn’t screw in completely tight😖 Is that normal? Is that the same with yours? Thanks
Yeah it doesn't get super tight, that way you can unscrew it easily. It never got so loose that it came off during play, but I would have to periodically rescrew it every 10 mins of so. That's one of the reasons I did the upgrade for a better stick assembly.
@@RetroGameCorps Thank you 😃 This is something I NEED to do! 😝 Alas, they’re out of stock😩 Don’t suppose you know how frequently they restock and if they ship to the UK without horrendous delivery and import charges? 😖😝 Thanks
I’m surprised this device doesn’t get more attention. I got one recently and can say you’re definitely not crazy, Russ
Like you I was thinking, JUNK!
Now I really want one, lol!
Haha, exactly what happened to me!
For 100 dollars to get a portable ps1 + extra and play with great screens is a pretty god damn good deal I admit.
Wrong who wants to us a phone to play games. No joystick no buttons even if you use special adapters its still way different. Plus this has a big screen
You have to factor in a 10 inch screen. Not a 5.5" or 6". So a laptop for usd 100 new set you around n64 emulation tops. This can emulate n64 with some workarounds and ppsspp.
@@PC_TV_73 you replied to the wrong comment
Wow. PowKiddy's been on a roll with solid devices, and while their build quality could definitely take pointers from Anbernic I'm still pleasantly surprised at what they're capable of churning out now.
I have the A12. I will be adding the A13 soon. Thanks for the review Russ! Well done as always
Does hdmi out work on the A12?
Looks really good to be fair.i like the concept. Can't wait to see the follow up vid.
I've had my eye on this potentially because of the potential firmware change and mods. Well done on being the only reviewer to mention about the Team Ruka custom firmware out of 4 reviews on this i've watched. Shows that you do your research.
I’ve been loving their CFW. I actually edited it myself to suit my needs, which says a lot about how flexible they made it! Only thing I don’t like is that is the CFW doesn’t have HDMI support yet.
@@RetroGameCorps do you and the family still play the A13? Is it still worth it in early 2022?
Powkiddy lately are really killing it, i was pleasantly suprised by this review, i honestly thought it was gonna be a piece of junk.
Yeah this is a neat little find, I was very ready to give it a scathing review :)
This video was one of the things that convinced me to pick up this device, and I don't regret it at all. I've seen the video where you sat that the device's charms wore off in comparison to more capable Arcade Stick devices, but it falls in to a nice and convenient niche for my purposes. It's unfortunate that the other examples of this device's form factor are all Pandora boxes in suitcases, as I think it has great potential as well.
Batocera is available for the A12/A13 now.
And the PS5000/7000.
Cool video I can’t wait to see the upgrade you make to it I’m definitely going to get one especially if it has your stamp of approval you’re the man 👍🏽really enjoy your videos The community definitely thinks you🙏🏾
Thanks for the excellent review, i've just ordered one - I love the idea of a portable arcade with hdmi out. Looking forward to some of that 90's arcade nostalgia playing fighters, beat 'em ups, horizontal shooters, run and guns and platformers with this :)
It's a lot of fun! Be sure to check out my hardware mods video when I make it, I added a few neat tricks (like strategically placed weights in the bottom shell to add more balance).
Ooh yeah I will absolutely get one, I am trying so hard that my kid get into retro games and this is great now i will be able to connect this into a tv, add another controller and play with him thanks!
Sounds like a great setup!
Nice overview, pretty cool how much they are getting into inexpensive devices.
I just brought it, I just can't wait to receive it ^^ Thanks for the reviews
Hope you enjoy it!
I suspect your kids are loving the growth of your channel 😄
Definitely, every time a package comes they want to see me unbox it. Even if it's new clothes or something :)
Got the A12 when it was on sale and it's also a cool little device, I think most of the hardware is the same (even though it comes with a 9" instead of a 10" display). After installation of the modded firmware and a bit of TLC (putting my own games and thumbnails on the SD card) I now have a nice little arcade that I can put on the table and play whenever I get bored. You can even put Sanwa buttons in there if you feel like, I did that.
Hi, check out my other A13 video where I add a new stick and buttons, it was a lot of fun! Working on a firmware update video now, using the Team Ruka custom firmware.
yep, really looks nice and seems to feel nice too...! Thanks again for your time investigating in such stuff, WELL DONE!
My pleasure!
Awesome video..I didn't know.. there's was a following for retro games..I old school games.. that was my childhood..💯 keep up the videos..👍👍👍
Thanks! Will do!
I really like your videos! Nice review!
Awesome! Thank you!
I love the form of this device. Would really like an updated version of it with a better chipset.
Thanks for the review. I have a A12. It would be great if you can make a tutorial to update the firmware and customization.
Yes, I plan on doing two more videos - software mods and hardware mods.
I've got an A12 too. I wish the tutorials to install custom firmware were clearer in how you do it and what the benefits are.
@@RetroGameCorps Just got my A13 in the mail today. Can't wait for your software mod video 😁
Great video. And for the price point à no brainer. Lot of aliexpress sellers have it on sale and available coupons. Got it for 100C$ (about 80usd) with shipping. Look forward to your CFW video and write up.
That's a great price, enjoy!
This is a great review! I will wait until I see your modded unit video until I decide on buying one, personally.
That's fair, I definitely liked it much more once I made the mods to it.
I have the A12 and upgraded software and added Sanwa buttons, It’s an under-rated device in my opinion. IPS screen would be good though...
True, the screen is the only thing holding this device back (well, and ALL THE RED!).
It looks like one of those toy laptops I had as a kid it’s cute
Definitely has a PlaySkool vibe...
It's probably worth noting that these arcade controls may be more accessible to those with physical disabilities that would not otherwise be able to play on a more traditional handheld device. With that in mind, this seems like a great option considering it runs PS1 for $100
Good point, thanks!
Love to see more of this. Loading your own games other emulators etc
I'll be sure to make new videos soon!
This looks amazing
I know this sounds weird, but there are third party Neo Geo vinyl stickers for the A12 and A13 that make the god awful red make sense. I actually "got" what they were going for with the system as a whole once they put the stickers on, but that shouldn't be required to keep a $100 box from looking like a preschool toy. The red on red start/back/volume buttons look like "fake" buttons on a toy. The main button colors don't help, but are far from the biggest problem on the look.
I think they should have approximated the Neo Geo look more like they did with the RGB20 and the Famicom/SuperFami look. A striped red/white metal faceplate and better coodinated button/shell colors are all that is needed to make this thing look great. Also, like they did with the RGB20, they could offer it in various color schemes. SEGA Astrocity White/Black/Green would look great in this form factor.
Yes, I agree in all points! I actually bought that sticker for my device, I'll be sure to add it to my future modding video.
Ya it’s been out for a while now and I have one coming to review also, but I love Bartops in general and it definitely is great for the price
It's a neat little device! I think they're sending units out to all the good UA-camrs right now because no one has been buying this model, despite it being out since November. I just saw another review for it come up today, and I heard MashTec has one coming in the mail as well :)
@@RetroGameCorps It doesn't help that it doesn't appear to be for sale on Amazon at all, I could only find it on ebay and Ali Express.
This is the best value you can get from arcade consoles!
Hello Sir, is it possible to activate scanlines with the original firmware? I don't find any menu / setting to use the scanlines, or did i miss something?
Looks pretty cool.. Patron #15 salute..
Thanks so much for your support, you're an asset to the community!
That thing is bad ass. I want one.
Great video sir. I tell a lot of ppl that Sometimes China can surprise u with some of the stuff they put out. I got this on my aliexpress wishlist.
I've been looking for a device like this for a while but most are overpriced and don't perform like this, thanks again Russ!
One trick I saw someone do to get the stick out easy was just "rub" left on the top of the ball, rotating it and letting the stick rise up like Nosferatu and then picking it up by the stick. I only saw one guy do it this way, literally everyone else I've seen digs out the ball first, which seems way harder.
Oh, nice move! I actually just flip the dang thing over and let the ball drop most of the time, because it's a pain to dig out of there.
This is a weird moment. All this time I thought I wanted a retro handheld device, but none of them were quite what I was looking for. I think I want this.
Happy to have been a part of your journey towards the perfect emulation device for you :)
I peeled off the screen protector that had a little tab, but still looks like there is another sheet on the screen, can see multiple bubbles. I assume that can be (carefully) peeled off as well?
Pandora Box (portable mini-arcade version) has been asleep for many years (its price is more expensive, it has no battery, etc.), this is a wake-up call.
Good for PowKiddy!
r!Let's hope the competition makes them better each other!
I agree, I think we're going to see lots of improvements in this space in the next year or so. Competition is heating up!
I've seen these on AliExpress and my eye keeps wondering over to them lol on first look it looks like cheap rubbish, but I have to say they do interest me it's the joystick set up that hooks me in being an arcade machines owner this would be good when we go on holiday my daughter likes playing these old games and I think she would really like this, really glad you did a review as I'm tempted to get one now, it's just that red colour that's putting me off wish they did it in black etc.
My friend just bought this im about to buy one also
It's a lot of fun!
This has the same OS and UI as the A12,X2 and Coolbaby RS18.
I have the RS18,made my own custom build by swapping out the system images for nicer looking ones and putting diff roms on with boxart but if you do that and want to launch them from the front end you'll have to edit each systems XML file to add each roms path.
You can also add boxart too then.
Its very time consuming however depending on how many roms you add ofcourse but the end result is much better.
If you dont want to do all that but still want to use your own roms you can always launch them from the file manager.
Oh, and really this is missing 2 buttons for many PS1 games isnt it?
Yeah, I saw the XML file and realized that you would have to do a lot of that by hand. If you haven't seen already, Wagner's Tech Talk created a Shell script for the A12 that will do most of the work for you, but it's still unnecessarily complicated IMO. You're right that L2 and R2 are missing here, but with the ability to map buttons I'm not too worried about it -- I can't think of a game that would need more than six buttons at one time.
@@RetroGameCorps
I have seen Wagners Tech Talk on the auto generating XML file, havent tried myself though.
@@fonzitheman it's a neat feature, but still kind of a pain! I can't believe how difficult it is to add games to this thing.
@@RetroGameCorps
Adding games itself should be easy. You can just drop the roms into the corresponding rom folders but ofcourse just doing that only you can only launch them through the file manager.
Front the front end yeah, you need to edit XML files.
Time consuming and tedious, if doing manually like I did.
Looks good nice video.
thanks. I dont know how I did not know about this one! A quick question, does it have an Audio out minijack?
Still works after 3 years？
This seems like the perfect device to load up with MAME and FBA, and then put a few beat em ups, shoot em ups, platformers and fighters from other consoles
Seems like a good value for the price, but building your own portable arcade with a raspberry pi 4 would be better. The RPi4 is more powerful, you can choose your own screen/case/buttons/controllers, and retropie is more customizable and we'll refined.
If you haven't, you should buy a raspberry pi 4 and the nespi4 retroflag case and do a review on it.
I definitely see myself making a tabletop arcade device at some point, but this was a great entry point for me. I do have a RPi4 sitting around here at the house, it currently has a flirc case on it. I was using it as a dedicated Steam Link console hooked up to my TV, but I need to play around with it more!
Still waiting for my unit to arrive... it's been 27 days and the last update from sunyou tracking (3/18/2021) says it's arrived in (China) Philippines. I guess China really does think they own my country now LOL!
Kidding aside, I'm getting pretty impatient since it's apparently already in a facility here in the Philippines and I'm kinda thinking of just getting an RG351P with the refund which can be bought via more reliable local online stores here (Lazada and Shoppee).
With that said... I really like the idea of having a portable system with its own authentic arcade stick -- even if it is a little bit less powerful than the RG351P.
They could make another with a bigger screen and 3 buttons for directions in left side so you don't always have to take out and use the stick but for what it is it looks impressive
I definitely think a higher quality screen is in order for the next model, but I've read that this one is a much better screen than the previous iteration.
i think im gonna grab this and build a wood box for it and it would be sleek and nice. Folding arcade
Oh, definitely share some pics when it's done, that sounds fantastic!
I was seriously looking to get one of these, but I was impatient to wait however long it would take to get to me. I bought a Pandora's Box instead, which is cool because I can play alongside my wife. Still want one of these though.
That's awesome, I have been eyeing a Pandora's Box for a while now.
@@RetroGameCorps They're pretty cool.
I own one of these and I'm pretty excited. Team Ruka from Spain made a custom firmware to improve it and now it's almost perfect!
Great video man!! 😃
I’ve just ordered this device based (partly) on your review.
I’m going to subscribe so PLEEEEASE do those other videos on this system that you mentioned!!! I’ll be definitely watching 😃
One brief thing I wanted to know; when updating the firmware, can this be installed onto a separate SD card and therefore keep the original SD card as stock and swap between the two?! 😖😝
Thanks
So the firmware is flashed on the device itself, so if you switch to the custom firmware you won't be able to go back (as far as I know). It was a decision I had to make, and I'm glad I made it because it gives you more access to better emulators, a customizable RetroArch interface, and better games management. But fair warning, the custom firmware doesn't have HDMI functionality yet, so you will lose that if you upgrade -- hopefully they can fix it soon!
@@RetroGameCorps hmmmmm🤔 Perhaps I’ll wait on that one....😝
Will you do update videos to let us know how it develops?
Be good if powkiddy made a better modern version of this with better screen resolution around 1080p and also upgraded cpu.
They sell for about €72 on AliExpress (Powkiddy official store) right now with winter sale. I'm probably going to get one for a gift.
That's a good price!
@@RetroGameCorps Actually price went even a bit lower (€69), so I pulled the trigger. Should be there in about 10 days. Looking forward to your upgrade guide video.
This only make me wish that the RG351p have a HDMI out port.
You and me both!
Same for me! Sad they didn't add an hdmi out feature.
@@eldontyrellcorp I think the chipset doesn't support it.
Can this fit a Seimitsu LS-56 or better yet a Eurojoystick 2 from Industrias Lorenzo?
I was thinking about geting a USB-C to wireless quick charge pad since Qi (quick charge 8watt) is already 4x faster it would not matter & the OTG is still there for other things
Does anyone know which version of mame the A13 comes with. I thought it was Mame2003 (Mame0.78?) but when I loaded some roms they are not compatible.
Can you load arcade roms on it? And if so, does it run “The Outfoxies”? And “Gauntlet”? Those are notoriously tricky games to run smoothly (for audio and video) on emulator machines.
Please confirm as I am VERY intrigued. Thanks for the great video!
Hard to say....although, you do make it very appealing! lol
I was definitely surprised by how much I liked this portable arcade!
This is really cool, going to get one. Does anyone know which buttons will fit this? Id love some Sanwa silent buttons and a silent joystick, preferably coloured transparent. Anybody have any ideas?
can you plug 2 of them together for local multiplayer for neo geo games (instead of play with another joystick on the same screen)?
Nice review. Do you have the best place to recommend buying this. And have you created a video or d/l file where you can optimize this device and add the newest version of retroarch on it
I'm finding it really difficult to get the stick to screw on tightly because the base it goes into starts to rotate too. Does it do this with your original and custom?
Use a rubber washer/spacer between the stick and the unit, this allows the stick more grip and let's you tighten it up. Its badly designed, a rubber washer is required really but I guess it would get lost easily if it shipped with one
You know if this had a little more power to it and looked a little higher quality I would feel a lot better with this but I like the concept of this 🤔 my first thoughts were this is pretty goofy but I like being able to swap out the joysticks and buttons. If there is a 2.0 version for this at about the same price I would be pretty stoked about it maybe a ryzen apu or retro pie 4 would be pretty cool for this and I would like the software cleaner but I’m intrigued 👀
Someone modded in an RPi4, there’s a video on UA-cam about it. It’s brilliant but way over my skill level 😎
@@RetroGameCorps Oooh 👀 really? If it's above your skill level it will definitely be over mine lol but that is awesome! I'm looking forward to the next chips being a bit of step up. I'll have to look for that video though I'm curious how it runs
Do you have the original system? My micro SD stopped working!
This is nice and I may get one but it should have came in more color schemes.
Can you save highscores?
I got the same device. Quick one, when installing the joystick, is there a stopping point when twisting it in? Mine does not have it ie keeps on turning till no end, so not sure if mine is faulty.
Yeah, mine never stopped turning with the original stick, I think that's just how it is. That was one of the reasons I upgraded my stick, so I could get a firmer grip on the stick.
@@RetroGameCorps cool might have to do that!
Thanks for the review! Is the screen IPS, and can you upgrade the buttons and joystick with standard Sanwa?
Good question, I'm not sure it's IPS, it might be TN. I upgraded my device with a Sanwa JLFD-TP-8YT stick and Seimitsu PS-15 low-profile buttons. I don't think standard Sanwa buttons would fit, there isn't a lot of room for them.
How about the screen? It's good enough??
Do the L2 and R2 buttons work on it?
Hi 😃
What’s better, the A13 or the 2021 Pandora CX Clamshell?
Especially when it comes to variety of games?
(I’m not massively into 1 on 1 fighters 😖)
Well geez, I have never heard of the 2021 Pandora CX Clamshell until just now. It does seem pretty nice, but also pretty complicated to set up. Also it looks like it doesn't have a battery? The A13 with custom firmware can run RetroArch 1.9.0, so it could play the full romsets from MAME2003-Plus and FinalBurn Neo, plus all classic console/handheld games, too.
@@RetroGameCorps if you could link me in to how to do all that when I get mine, I would greatly appreciate it dude! 😃
Any risk of bricking the system?
Does it support other systems like TG-16 and others over the stock firmware? That would be cool. Can you link me to where do download and install the firmware, romset etc?
Thanks
How have I not seen this thing before?
Just got the console but i cant seem to connect another controller to it, how do you do it?
What a nice and cheap device! 💙
Apart from the folding screen, what are the main benefits of this over the A12? I just bought an A12 and I'm fairly impressed apart from the dodgy information about installing custom firmware.
Okay. I might as well mention it on here since this video encouraged me to mod the device to begin with. Sadly I do believe the power button has broken, and I'm not quite sure if it's the switch attached to the motherboard or if its the plastic pushbutton giving me issues. The pushbutton will not "lock" in place once pressed nor will it turn on the device unless pressed in extremely hard. Also, unfortunately the sd card fell out and broke in half. Now, I know you can buy the motherboard for the device separately on Aliexpress and that it supposedly comes preloaded with 9000 games but do I even need to do this? Would it solve anything or is there a simpler solution? Help would be GREATLY appreciated.
Can you use a usb bluetooth dongle to connect with bluetooth controllers ?
I don't think it would be possible because there is now bluetooth UI in the firmware itself, so you wouldn't be able to pair. But you can use the 8bitdo wireless adapter to pair bluetooth controllers, it's about $20 and one of my favorite gadgets: amzn.to/317jdXi
Any plans on making video showing how to add games and stuff?
8:01 your talking about the DX version
What about RGA scaling or shaders? If no RGA scaling is available, there's a prescale2x-bilinear-sharp that has a similar render.
You can implement shaders on the custom firmware, but not on the stock firmware. I'll do an upgrade guide soon. I will say that with this high of a resolution, you don't really need scaling. The games look great no matter what aspect ration you use, which really surprised me.
how to order
Can you review for new firmware from batocera?
Is this on amazon
Can it play NDS games? I am hoping to play those on it.
Bought one but paid $150 but got it in 2 days. I cant stand 2 month shipping that ships in a bag so the box looks like they played soccer with it. I love it (but I love most of these handhelds) plus mine came with 9000 games so thats worth it for me alone
I've just bought one. How many units are there out there where you can play arcade games with a real arcade stick and buttons on the go or maybe even sitting in bed...lol
Haha, that's a great point!
Heard about this device and good positive review on a12 and a13. But can't justify to get it since I have the pandora box with 2 joystick one...
Probably pointless when you own the Pandora, lol.
Seems to me with the USB ports they missed out on the opportunity to include DOS and other 8-bit computer systems. Systems like MSX and Amiga, could they be playable on this?
Not on the stock firmware.
Perhaps on the custom firmware as you should be able to add more emulator cores.
Will soon I guess.
With the custom firmware you could definitely install DOSBox and ScummVM, as well as older computer systems like Amiga and MSX. Not sure about whether the device accepts USB keyboard input, but I think it should.
So would this be a better and more budget friendly solid PS1 emulation machine for games like Gran Turismo and Jet Moto? This coupled with a decent external controller sounds pretty decent. Could this be the best budget option with a large screen? Russ, your thoughts?
Problem no one mentions is, this is lacking at least 2 buttons for PS1...
Am I better off buying a Rasberry Pi 4 and manually loading roms, bios, and emulators, and retro pie on a sd card. Will the rasberry pi 4 allow better emulation of the games and allow me to play more systems
Yes, a RPi4 is definitely more powerful than this system. I would recommend you check our Dr.K's video on how to install a RPi4 in this device, it's a lot of work! I was interested in doing it but I don't think I have the skills to do so. Getting an RPi4 working on a TV is much easier, but something I haven't done yet myself.
I bought one but the resolution on mine isn't as good as others make it out to be and powkiddy advertises 720p. Mine looks to be 480p at best when playing games but the home screen is 720p. This makes me think a screen upgrade isnt going to do much for the fuzzy resolution of the games themselves.
Are you using the stock firmware? It's been a while since I used that firmware but it sounds like maybe they have bilinear filtering enabled by default on those emulators, which is causing the blurriness. I just played a test game on mine (with the Ruka custom firmware) and it was great.
The RG351P has the RK3326, which comes with a Mali G31. Pretty sure this chip is more comparable to the Retroid Pocket 2.
Ah, fair point, I might have been mixing up my Mali GPU specs with another device.
Please make an review of the Powkiddy X18
I'll ask and see if they can send it to me when it's available (the X18S, that is). Hopefully I can get a review unit because I'm dying to try a handheld device with Gamecube capability!
Is it possible to connect my 2tb USB HDD Seagate to Powkiddy? Wonderful device. I'm planning to buy it. Thanks for the review.
I’ve just got mine and unboxed it. When screwing in the stick it just keeps turning at the end and doesn’t screw in completely tight😖 Is that normal? Is that the same with yours? Thanks
Yeah it doesn't get super tight, that way you can unscrew it easily. It never got so loose that it came off during play, but I would have to periodically rescrew it every 10 mins of so. That's one of the reasons I did the upgrade for a better stick assembly.
@@RetroGameCorps Link please! 😝👍
@@andydavidson1278 here you go: retrogamecorps.com/2021/01/16/powkiddy-a13-hardware-mods-buttons-joystick-and-weight-rebalance/
@@RetroGameCorps Thank you 😃 This is something I NEED to do! 😝
Alas, they’re out of stock😩
Don’t suppose you know how frequently they restock and if they ship to the UK without horrendous delivery and import charges? 😖😝 Thanks