The retro gaming handheld market is heating up, and Powkiddy is throwing its hat into the ring with the newly revealed V90S—a clamshell-style device poised to challenge heavyweights like Anbernic’s RG35XX and Miyoo’s Mini Plus. Leaked details and early previews suggest Powkiddy is aiming to blend nostalgia, portability, and upgraded hardware, all wrapped in a design that pays homage to Nintendo’s iconic Game Boy Advance SP.
Under the Hood: Allwinner A133P Chipset
At the heart of the V90S lies the Allwinner A133P system-on-chip (SoC), a quad-core processor clocked at 1.5GHz. This marks a significant leap over the aging chipsets in Powkiddy’s earlier devices, such as the original V90. The A133P promises smoother emulation for systems up to PlayStation 1 (PS1) and even some Nintendo DS titles, though performance for the latter may vary. Paired with 1GB of RAM and a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, the V90S aims to deliver a lag-free experience for classics like Super Mario World and Final Fantasy VII.
A hands-on preview shared by tech reviewer Taki Udon on YouTube Shorts highlights the device’s snappy menu navigation and crisp 3.5-inch IPS display (640x480 resolution). The screen’s 4:3 aspect ratio is a boon for retro titles, minimizing black bars and preserving pixel-perfect visuals.
Design: Nostalgia Meets Modern Practicality
The V90S retains the clamshell DNA of its predecessor but adds refinements like a matte finish and reinforced hinges. Early images leaked on Twitter/X showcase a sleek, pocket-friendly profile available in multiple colorways, including atomic purple and classic gray. The button layout mirrors the GBA SP, with tactile D-pad and face buttons, while dual shoulder triggers round out the controls for PS1 and arcade games.
Notably, the device includes a microSD card slot for expanding its 32GB internal storage and a USB-C port for charging—a welcome upgrade from older micro-USB standards. Battery life is estimated at 6-8 hours, though this will depend on screen brightness and emulation demands.
Software and Compatibility
The V90S runs on a customized Linux-based OS, similar to other Powkiddy handhelds, supporting emulators for over 20 consoles. Taki Udon’s Twitter thread notes improvements in software stability compared to earlier models, with pre-configured emulators for systems like SNES, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance. However, users may still need to tinker with settings for optimal performance in more demanding titles.
Competitive Landscape
Powkiddy’s move comes as Anbernic and Miyoo dominate the budget retro handheld space. The Anbernic RG35XX boasts a vertical design and GarlicOS customization, while Miyoo’s Mini Plus excels with its Onion OS and vibrant community support. The V90S differentiates itself with its clamshell build—ideal for on-the-go gamers seeking screen protection—and its aggressive 70−70−80 price range (pre-order details via Amazon).
Early Verdict
While the V90S isn’t a powerhouse for PSP or N64 emulation, it’s shaping up to be a compelling option for retro purists. Its blend of ergonomics, screen quality, and upgraded internals could make it a dark horse in the sub-$100 market. As the handheld wars intensify, Powkiddy’s latest proves that sometimes, flipping open the past is the best way to move forward.
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