PowKiddy X28 -- The New $150 King?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 มิ.ย. 2024
- The new PowKiddy X28 is the sixth T618 handheld released over the past couple of years, offering competition to similar devices like the Retroid Pocket Flip, Retroid Pocket 3+, and the Anbernic RG405M. And at $150 (with free shipping), this is the cheapest among them, too. In this video, we'll see if this value-minded retro handheld will be worth considering over the others.
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Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
01:46 tech specs
02:33 unboxing and impressions
03:51 d-pad testing
05:50 analog stick testing
07:57 other hardware impressions
10:50 size and weight comparisons
14:19 screen and audio testing
18:20 software experience
20:46 emulation testing
25:51 Android games and HDMI
27:31 summary (likes and dislikes)
29:27 conclusion
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#PowKiddy #X28 #emulation - เกม
Damn! If there’s anything I’ve learned after having 4 handhelds, if the controls aren’t good, it doesn’t matter what the machine can do. It’s DOA.
Even just an NES with good controls is better than a lot of consoles with bad controls
yep, saved me from buying this
Lol what a fail. I was excited to check this out, but DOA from the controls looks exactly right.
Which is why I believe snapdragon based devices, with an external controller and a touchscreen are going to be the ONLY devices in a couple years. Youll be able to connect basically any external monitor, controller, or audio output easily while emulating everything up to gamecube/ps2 games seamlessly. Just hold on till 2024/25 and for $300 or less, I think well have 1080p 7"+ touchscreen displays, an external controller of YOUR choice, and much better battery life.
You can already display the top screen externally while making your phone the touchpad on DraStic DS Emu, nintendos been using touchpad for their games for a while now, very few of these handheld consoles are touch compatible. You could also program steam trackpad like input to the screen. An android phone will be THE way to go in a couple years.
Retroid pocket 3 plus or this one?
I wonder what PowKiddy's philosophy is? Put as much junk out until something sticks?
Got it in one.
So does anbernic, they also sells famiclone, PAP II (ps2 slim lookalike emulation box), retroid done that too.
The only company that produce decent retro handheld that wasn't a big company like ASUS, Logitech, or Steam is AYN (the one who make Odin and Loki)
Yeah but has anything really stuck? There's always atleast one or two really big issues....always
@@ErnestJay88 Defending AYN is a real bold move to say the least.
@@ErnestJay88 i heard ayn is related to retroid, both are designed by taki
Thank you for stating whether it was worth getting within the first couple minutes of the video 🙂 that’s really handy for a lot of people who just want to know whether it’s worth buying or not. Of course I still watched the whole video but I appreciate that information ☺️
That's such a shame about the dpad and analogue sticks. All they needed was a bit more effort when it came to Quality Control and this would have knocked it out of the park. ⚾
Powkiddy doesn't have time for quality control. They have to release to market as soon as the prototype is done because by that time, 10 other Chinese knockoffs are hitting the market.
I'm not saying that's the right way to do things....
@@Boogie_the_cat The irony in that a Chinese Knockoff company is afraid of the Chinese market that is going to knockoff their product.
Ya know, maybe they should get Intellectual Property Rights there in China, might be good for the consumers and businesses alike....?
@@Boogie_the_cat yeah they gotta push the t618 before the corpo spies find out it exists and would copy it
@@powkiddy3810 Are PowKiddy open to getting advice for their next handheld build ?
We have plenty of good feedback to give, but we do not know if they are accepted.
@@powkiddy3810 AFAIK this video here shows the issues very clearly. Please watch this review and respond to the actual video with a counter argument. Can Powkiddy release a software fix? A hardware revision? If the answer is yes, then there's hope for this handheld (and Powkiddy) yet.
That dpad is brutal. I had the same issue on an RG353v that I did the "tape mod" on. Definitely something I look out for now before buying. Thanks for testing it.
I would love to see Retroid Pocket 3+ max. I mean Retroid Pocket 3+ with 5.5" screen and Analogue triggers...
6 inch screen. 😉
@Bold One u liking the flip? been considering it.
Is the rp2s ok for a beginner
I'll give them credit for at least one thing - it isn't ugly as sin like most of Powkiddy's other devices.
Doing gods work as always, great video.
Always close but never quite enough for my needs for a secondary retro handheld I can share or take to group meet ups.
A D-pad with a good click (preferably disc shaped Saturn style), analog triggers and a stronger cpu is what I'd expect these days.
The menu buttons all look nicely featured and I like how they use the standard joystick parts to make them repairable.
If this one was much cheaper maybe but I feel like I need just a little more power and some quirks fixed.
An RGC review and a cup of coffee is now a Sunday tradition for me
Ordered mine yesterday! Should be in within 10 days.
Cheers Russ, always appreciate your thoughts on these handhelds.
Love you, man. I can't express how excited I am to get the new Asus handheld.
The could do well if they improve the build quality. Is
Anyone on team powkiddy passionate about what they create?
Another great video 👌🏾
I got mine a month ago, first handheld emulator, took me a day to setup but now I'm playing it everyday, PSP games works great.
Hey Russ great review! Are you also going to make a video on Powkiddys other handheld that can out not too long ago the x55 it has a rk3566 chipset like a lot of the other devices but it is being priced at around $90 and looks like it has nice ergonomics. I saw when it first came out the software was extremely underwhelming but with custom firmware they’ve fixed most of the issues in it and it seems like a great budget device with a bigger screen.
I got this chip in a Retroid pocket 3+ and it is a power house I'd recommend the RP3+ as the control issues that are on this device are not present in the RP3+
I love your voice and would love to hear audiobooks narrated by you
Thanks Russ for another great video and thanks for reviewing my fav budget handheld company.. Pooooowkiddy!!! ❤
I have an 🎉RGB10 Max 2 and with the way things are this is a little too late. I love the screen size but I prefer to wait a year until there are budget devices that can do PS2 and Gamecube well not just 50/50. ❤
This is the best first larger screen handheld, so if you already have a V90 and want a bigger screen that does more this is it.
I am looking for a device that already has games preloaded and easily connect to a TV. What would you recommend? I have 0 experience downloading roms or software edits.
I kind of ignored the warnings about the D-pad and bought an X28 anyway, and I've had it for about 6 weeks now. I wanted a big screen because my old-man eyes don't like the smaller 4" ones (or the 3.8" one that 4:3 content on the Retroid Pocket 3+ works out to be). The 4.3" 4:3 screen size makes a big difference. The 960x720 screen area is high-res enough that stretching and using an interpolation shader and stretching to fill the height looks good enough.
The D-pad is definitely not as good as an Anbernic or Retroid device, but after a bit of an adjustment, I got used to it. I actually really like it for fighting games where you need the Hadouken or Shoryuken movements like Russ said. Platformers are okay with some work. I can play Super Mario World without any issues after some practice.
All that said, this thing is just going to stick around as what I play until my Ayaneo Pocket S Dimensity 1200 arrives early next month. That screen is much nicer and Ayaneo's controls are typically much nicer as well. That device cost me twice what I paid for the X28, so if you don't have the money for that, this can be okay. The D-pad issues are real, but they _can_ be overcome with some practice. It's definitely a con, but so is the display size on the Pocket 3+ (IMO). Which con can you overcome? If your eyes are better than mine, the Pocket 3+ is probably the better bet.
Do you have drift on your x28??
@@alebustamanteq No but in the intervening two months, the L1 button has broken off entirely. The switch mounted on the PCB came loose and fell off. It's inside the system. And I can't really resolder it because the legs broke off. I don't feel like I'm rough on these things; nothing like this has ever happened to a handheld I've owned before. This thing is just kind of junk.
I like it that you played Willow Arcade 21:20. That game doesn't get enough credit on how awesome it is.
I'm loving the race to the bottom! More bang for our bucks!
I'm hoping for a $200 build that has at least a 7-inch screen and can play GameCube games. It's my hope.
I've been really loving mine. Had to swap the lcd out, but this thing is really, really feeling great in my hands. Love the big screen and ergonomics.
Also- about the OTA Uptade- It is there. Go into settings, about game "devies" and it says "wireless update." I used it today and there was one.
You know if the OTA update addressed the analog stick issue? Hope so bc I placed an order for an X28 like a few mins before coming across this vid lol
Could you give your impression of the controls too?
Hey man, can you hit us up with whether the update fixs the dpad and analogue stick issues?
@@lawrence8895 I wish I could but I have no answer. My unit has some prototype hall sticks in it that give the same kind of issues with precision. I know they are still actively trying to update, but also that Gamma is working on it as well. Personally, I'd love to see a wide adoption of GammaOS as he's got a lot of those issues solved out of the box.
@@jedewitz Thanks man, I too would like to see GammaOS on this device but from what I see on the discord, it looks like Gamma has hit a bit of a wall for now. From what I could understand, the problem with the thumb sticks is deeply inbeded in the devices core code and to find it would be a timely case of trial and error. It seems to be the same with the aspect ratio when docking with the TV and audio for headphones. I don't think the issue is that he can't fix the problematic code, it's more that he is struggling to find the problematic code. I'm messaging the Chinese webstore at the moment to see if they can put me in contact with a dev who can at least point us in the right direction. Probably won't amount to anything but I figure it's worth a shot.
with how many saturated the market is right now i think it would be dope if you did like a tier-list/buyers guide video...
"the new $150 king"
Retroid pocket 3 : *the prowler music intensifies*
I was all up for this until the dpad and analogue problems. Great review as usual though!
What I wish people like yourself would add when going over the specs, is a comparison to a known console/handheld....sometimes you get an idea from the emulators but to those of us who have no clue where to start, it would be a great addition.
4:40 caramel smooth delivery of hadokenable and shoryukenable
Thanks for the video. It may be interesting video if you mod it? Swap out the joysticks and look to see if you can sort the dpad out? Maybe just a simple electrical tape fix the diagonal issue?
Thanks a lot for another great video
23:16 God of War: Boyz in da Hood
25:13 I didn't know final fantasy had a boxing minigame
I was really hoping powkiddy made this their windows handheld
Good review. This device seems like it's par for the course for PowKiddy.
I'm actually considering it. I want another affordable handheld with a bigger screen that doesn't have ass software, and so far this is also the first in this category that I don't find ugly, so perhaps...
Hi Russ, thanx for the amazing video and the review. I think I'll stick with RP3+
I have sent U a mail with Miyoo Mini Plus and Anbernic RG35XX mod, hope U will like the tactile mod 😉
Unluckily, the problems with the d-pad, the analogue sticks, and the "faulty" L2 and R2 buttons are way too much. Definitely a no brainer to NOT choose this handheld.
I really don't understand, they have to have a QA that's aware of these kind of problems.
Seems it does some things really good, but how are you supposed to enjoy gaming if the device is lacking of proper controls?
It's such a shame because "Powkiddy x28" is a great handheld console. Better than their usual crappy handhelds. I just the parts are easier to replace. And it has T16 processors which both RP3+ and Anbernic RG505 and 405m both uses so. It can play PS2, GCN, Wii, and PSP and PS1 and other emulators with ease.
I love the size of the display 5.5 inch is still pocketablr size which is great but the quality control makes it not want to get it. I'll stick with RP3+ for now!
It's baffling because Powkiddy *has* hit the mark on button quality many times. The Max 2 was a basically perfect device, why can't they just cram a new chip in that thing?
I see PowKiddy growing each time, we grew with it
Still happy with my RP3+. Recently got a nice charging dock from Etsy, looks good on my table with the Retroid label on it in gray and purple.
can you link me that charging dock?
link pls
Can't. Filters.
I have an RP3+ too that I have lightly modded they are awesome. A dock would be nice could you share a link
@@ArcueidBrunestuddo just replace the . in the url with "dot"
I think you should do a rating system to compare different consoles in the same tier. I feel like you could spend more time comparing them in the video to help in cross shopping. I know you make videos comparing devices but if you just included a small section in these reviews it would be amazing
Personally as an owner of several hand helds I have a hard time spending anything over the $50 mark for anything made from PowKiddy!
Can you do an updated comaprison of the handhelds under 200$ ?
I own one powkiddy device and one thing i like about these is that games are included which i like since i have no idea where to find roms to get games.
I love my x28!!
Wish screen was a bit bit bigger but does look like good system ^^ How does it compare to Powkiddy max 2?
That D-pad is a deal-breaker!
Powkiddy continues affordable line up❤
My psvita crapped out ( bought it day 1 ) this powkiddy and the RP3+ is interesting to me, although after this review, the buttons and dpad are making me lean more to RP3+ .
Is there a gameboy style device that is comparable or equal to the RP3+ in capabilities ?
I would really like something that looks old school like a gameboy and the ability to free up my phone when playing some android games ( I use a gamesir x2 with my phone ) .
How does the RG353V compare to the RP3+ and this powkiddy ?
Dang bro, final fantasy looks different than I remember 25:19 lol
Your intro music always reminds me of Danielle "Danz" Johnson, Computer Magic.
Are the games already built in? Or do you add them your self?
I’m wondering if the tape mod would fix the diagonals?
I know a lot of folks did not have false diagonals with the rg35xx, but mine did, and the tape mod fixed it for me.
I feel like a lot of people did XD I definitely did
A few disappointments with the X28. Looking forward to the previews for the Max 3, Max 3 Pro and Trimui Smart Pro. The X55 is in my Wishlist to possibly purchase later.
The major let down of the X28 is the android OS 😁☺️😇😉
Do you recommend any emulation handhelds (specifically horizontal) that have N64 and alike to be pre installed
Hey! I know this is not a Steamdeck review, but I was wondering if you could do a video about emulation station on the Steamdeck regarding swapping SD cards. For some reason it just never seems to work properly for me. Everytime I switch an SD card, Emulation Station doesn't boot. I tried both cold and hot swapping methods. Thanks in advance! Love your content!
Mine didn’t come with the play store. How do I get it?
You forgot to put Tekken 3 at 21:42 but otherwise, nice video.
Edit: Oh! and is there a micro function? Because I can think of two NDS games that need a device with such function to be finished.
Physical android buttons + sensible start and select buttons. Looks better than a lot of other handhelds.
would be so darn nice to have those android buttons on ALL android-based handhelds.
@@jennyrosedeleon2557 It's the main reason I look at those coming out then think "My GPD XD still seems more usable"
A shame this one got a problematic d-pad.
Except the controls are apparently garbage, so it’s useless.
Good lord, that D-Pad and the analog sticks kill it.
Nice device. Bad timing for me. Already bought the X18S bk. Gonna wait for a more powerful device.
So what would happen if you swapped out the sticks to hall sensor ones? And do you think it would be possible to swap out the d-pad/pads?
It would still have to be calibrated differently.
Thanks for the grad review!
I have a short question becaus I couldn't find a solution.
I bought a X28 and I want to put some games on the INTERNAL Storage (64GB). When I connect the handheld to my PC, I can't see the storage from X28.
I checked all configurations but cant see any option to allow or disallow that connection/access.
Ho can I put Data into the internal storage from the X28?
Thank you so much!
Is there now custom firmware for this powkiddy? Or not? (And does it help resolve the d pad and analog sensitivity?)
What is the RGB lamp product in the background. Asked multiple times past months. Hope u will share. Thanks
Hi russ does this system play games out of the box with sd card installed. Or do u need to add an emulator to play games.
Can you measure and compare 4:3 games screen size vs other handhelds?
I was going to get the rg405m, is this a better choice?
Hi, I ordered my unit and waiting for it. Do you see a calibration option for the analog stick in the settings menu? As I am planning to replaceit with Guikit. Also, do you recommend me doing that?
Also i need a download link for the official latest software, i can't find it anywhere? 😅
Hi can you do a separate video on how to add new games in this hand held console please
You can probably do a dpad tape fix and guilikit analog stick mod.
But at that price these things should just work out of the box
I just want a handheld that's close to or under $300 that can play GameCube games without tons of tinkering. I keep seeing new devices launching constantly but it seems like they're all either sub-$200 and can't handle GameCube or they're well over $400 and way more powerful than I want. Maybe I'm a niche market, but I don't need or want a device to play AAA games on, just GameCube on down. Can't wait for the day you get to review something like that!
I'll wait for the Retroid Pocket 3S 😋
The false diagonals seems to be a common problem with handhelds/controllers. I wonder if someone could design a better dpad and make a STL of it. I'm not sure how the 'feel' would be but a SLA printer could be really smooth.
There are many designs that don't have this problem, but then they're less comfortable to use. It's hard to get the best of both worlds, but I think this one is good enough especially with an easy tape mod
Can it solved changing the joycons??
which is android launcher you are using and the theme in this x28?
Holy moly the screen bezel is obsurdly huge.
If like what Russ is saying you should pick up a device already. What are waiting for? I got a rg353m after on of these videos. Best toy purchase I've made in years.
This is tempting just because of the battery
What is the daijisho theme you are using when comparing screen? Thank you
It’s called “pop”.
Does the x28 come with game system games pre installed like PSP, Game Boy, Sega, Capcon, PC Engine, Nintendo etc. etc.? Cause I’ve got the RGB version and it came with almost 20000 games already installed and I was just wondering if I was to upgrade to an X28 if it would be the same thing, Thanks
Only recently heard of PowKiddy. I love this device's size and shape and screen. Not in love with controls & performance. Wish it had more beef. Those reasons are why I'm not purchasing. If they were better, I'd order it today.
Bad d-pads and analog sticks are a deal breaker. It doesn't matter how good the rest of the package is, you are never not using the controls. That's a pity, because that screen at that price looks pretty attractive otherwise.
So close. I am waiting for a big screen device at this price point.
Why you try the citra mmj emulator for the powkiddy ?
Have you gotten your hands on Yuzu for android?
It seems this is more powerful that the x55. Which would you recommend?
There are plenty of t618 devices. I've noticed that the Retroid requires a largely manual setup. I think you should make your choice not on price, but on setup and operating system, as well as screen and controls.
Im glad its android, I have an rg351p and i put android on it; much smoother and i can even play minecraft on it.
ROG Ally vs. Win 4 comparison, please Russ? But I'll probably still end up with the Steam Deck. I trust Valve more and don't mind the weaker hardware to save $300.
Yes 👏🏻
I prefer the D pad and left stick to be reversed, I wonder why so many of these don't use the offset sticks
Well, this looks good but im done with t618 handhelds. Ill stay with my gpd xp plus until a handheld mini pc cheap is available.
Does it come pre-loaded with games?
For GBA Pokémon games, what’s the max FPS you can get using fast forward?
What about the joystick? Hall joysticks sensor?
Oof! You can tell from your video you patched out the duplication bug for Zelda from that update. Oh well. Great video as usual!
Really, the only step up from the Retroid pocket would be something like a Steam Deck. But in term of android units why would anyone get anything other than the RP or maybe Odin?
Waiting for rp4+ before upgrading my rp3
@retrogamecorps TH-cam commercial right in the middle of the sound test again.
What’s the best for Handhold for zelda twilight princess under 200