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| D40max: Gaming handheld is relatively cheap and comes with 1:1 display |
We wouldn’t exactly call the D40max brand‑new anymore. Videos about this gaming handheld have been circulating for months, but the device is now available relatively easily via Banggood for around $74. Delivery is scheduled for mid‑May, so a bit of patience is required. Potential buyers should check the customs regulations in their country before ordering, as import duties or taxes may apply depending on the destination.
Retro Gaming on a Budget
The D40max is designed primarily for retro gaming. It combines a quad‑core SoC with a GE8300 GPU, which isn’t especially powerful but should be enough for emulating various Game Boy systems. The manufacturer claims it can also handle PlayStation One titles, at least for less demanding games. The device comes with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage.
Android 10 and Square Screen Quirks
The operating system is Android 10, so you can also play Android games, provided they’re available as APK files. Simple or older titles are more likely to run smoothly. Given the limited internal storage, games will usually need to be installed on a microSD card. The handheld is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, with up to 6 hours of runtime claimed — though real‑world performance depends heavily on the workload. Charging is supported at up to 10 watts. The 4‑inch touchscreen has a resolution of 720 × 720 pixels, which results in a square display.
Where to Order and What to Watch Out For
If you’re considering picking one up, it’s worth noting that availability has improved significantly over the past few weeks. You can currently order the D40max through Banggood, where it’s listed with a mid‑May shipping estimate. For those ready to take the plunge, you can check the current price and availability here — just remember to factor in potential customs fees depending on your location.
The Verdict
At $74, the D40max sits in an awkward middle ground. It’s more expensive than ultra‑budget Linux‑based handhelds but significantly cheaper than premium Android gaming devices. The square 720×720 display is unusual — great for vertical arcade shooters and Game Boy Advance titles that benefit from the aspect ratio, but less ideal for widescreen Android games or PS1 emulation that expects a 4:3 or 16:9 layout.
For tinkerers and retro enthusiasts who primarily want a dedicated device for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, and undemanding PS1 titles, the D40max offers a decent package. Just go in with realistic expectations regarding performance and the square screen — and don’t forget to budget for a large microSD card right from the start.