Linux. It feels like a gaming console when on Linux and when using Android it feels like a crappy phone with buttons. Since we all have smartphones, I don’t need the ability to go on TH-cam or anything like that. I avoid products that are Android only.
@@albertosaldivar2934 the charm of Linux is that you can play a system that feels like a real first party handheld specifically designed for that purpose.
@@Cujobob I've seen a lot of times people praising the linux os and always wondered why. I thought it was for the better performance but at least on rk3566 devices the performance is better with android. And then I started to figured out what they like about linux is just the front end, like if it were the "mega joy" that the chinese people sell at downtown. It is ok for those who like it but I really thought there was something else but no, it seems there's nothing special besides just the front end.
I personally haven't purchased one of these handhelds yet, because when I am out and about, I usually spend time reading rather than playing games. I just love gaming on a larger screen. I am sure I will eventually buy one but I am waiting until one comes along that I am really impressed with, because I will probably only be buying one for a very long time. I will probably go with a Linux because I find that the Linux OS is rock solid. In fact my main PC dual boots in Windows 10 and Linux Mint. I find myself using Linux most of the time because it is fast and has no frills that you don't need. Great review.
I prefer dual boot systems like Anbernic provides on some of their devices so I can enjoy the best of both worlds. If that’s not an option, then I’m sticking with Linux.
I am team Linux. But Android does have is good things like customization. After the myoo mini+ it has opened my eyes how reliable linux can be with retro gaming.
Is there anything keeping devs from distributing stripped-down Android 'builds' (image files) for retro, just as we see in the Linux camp? I mean, we only turn to Android because there's apparently a universal law that says "no Linux build will ever get everything working on a sub-300 device." Linux builds are much more likely to miss things like touchscreen support, screen brightness control, USB-C to C charging, stable sleep modes, stable performance modes, a proper Home/Exit button, a proper hotkey-enable button, fully custom hotkey option, a proper button mapper, proper 'portable' settings manager, Win/Mac-friendly journaling file system support, plug-n-play multi-player Bluetooth, personal media import manager, etc. I appreciate the work that goes into Linux builds, but it just seems like the devs are re-inventing the wheel every time by eschewing Android as the baseline.
@@wingsfromheaven8788 There are two main issues - Google and the fact that the stripped down Andorid is not as easy to handle as a most Linux distros. Google has some rather strick licensing rules that basically prevent you from using Google Play services if your device has a version coming with other operating systems. And if you go custom, you may end up deiling with drivers that are not quite there yet, becasue they were licensed to work with Android and you get is just a beta version of the driver, that may not may be buggy or just not have the praper calls that were intended for the device. And good luck contacting the original developers. They are either under some NDA and/or they work on something new and have no time to deal with your problems.
As an Android phone user, I already spent a big amount of time. When I sit back to enjoy my retro handheld, I prefer the unique and simplified look and of feel of Linux. It feels more like a console, not a phone. Yes, you can use frontends in Android, but you still need to go back to Android UI here and there, and that breakes the experience for me. Although I have to admit that I also enjoy using my Android phone for emulation with a controller, but it doesn't replace Linux based handhelds for me
Both are pretty good to be honest. But I do like a lot if not all of Android customisation can be done without another computer. Transfering roms and bios aside, I like that with Android I can download new emulators, front ends, stream pc games, discord, and so. Linux handhelds (or at least older ones) are harder to tinker with without a pc. So flashing new firmware, updating emulators, skaping artwork and so on. Bluetooth support as standard. However Linux based handhelds to me tend to be simplier and more optimised for gaming. Less distractions, better battery life. So they are good too.
I bought the Linux only version of this device (RG353VS) and I love it! It's everything that I want in a retro handheld device. I also have the RG35XX which is a great device as well, but I love the WiFi feature that the RG353VS has.
What do you do with the wifi? Just ordered mine. What should I do with mine once I get it? I’d love to have premium games on it. I use a Mac and work pc which might be locked out for me
I use the wifi option to download the latest Ark OS update so I don't need to go through the more involved process outside of the device. There's an "Update" feature in the Options menu...it's really easy that way.@@HotSauceStain
@@HotSauceStain You can set up a FTP and link your PC with your device and transfer games wirelessly. Also wifi allows you to enjoy retroachievements (make sure you login your account from retroarch). You can also download themes, and scrape box art/videos for all your games wirelessly.
I've personally been sticking with Android on my RG353V but that's mostly because I've been using Android for emulation for a long time. Linux was foreign for me out of the box and I found myself gravitating toward the familiarity of Android even if it's more finicky overall.
I think I've encountered that. I just setup two RP3+ and can't get Dolphin-for-Handheld working through Diajisho frontend. I also can't get load-states working in MMJR when launched from Diajisho. Dolphin Official and MMJR2 work as expected in all respects with Diajisho.
I’ve been in to these handhelds for a few years , android is very user friendly where as Linux takes time and patience to work with. Depending on your level of experience if your new use Android I personally prefer Linux.
Awesome that the dweeb gets this kind of support now from tech companies and his fans 😊 also glad to see that the channel is growing. I subscribed to this channel when it had like 2.5k subs 😊
My computers are running Linux. Laptops are running Linux. Phone is running Linux. All my handhelds are running Linux. One of my 3DS systems has Linux on it. It's 20 years to late to turn back. I prefer Linux because I know how to use Linux.
I guess, for my case at least, it depends on how you want to use your device. I am a light traveller, so I want one device with all in one experience with my daily driver for emulation, movies, musics, reading books. So android is perfect for me when I travel but Linux would be my choice if I have a spare time during my commute.
On the other hand, there has yet to be a Linux OS that properly supports rumble on all three RG353 variants. I wonder If Recalbox will finally do this.
Android just doesn't feel right to me for these consoles. I associate it with things like Candy Crush too much. Which reminds me... thank you for not having "free" Android games (which you obviously don't play) as your sponsors.
I bought the 353sv on your recommendation from LITNXT and love it. Adding new games is a snap and the system while not perfect has the Fantastic screen and battery life, plays what I want on the go. I have my phone (android) for you know calls... thank you for the Videos!
Sorry you’re feeling sick, hope you feel better. I’m really skeptical buying any Chinese products now. I had TWO RG35xx die on me in less than a month. The first one died over night. I had to pay for the company to send me a 2nd one. That was my favorite device and I took it everywhere and one day it just stopped working. I went to a retro game convention last week and got both a 3DS and a Vita and even though both devices are used, beat up and over 10 years old they both still work perfectly after jail breaking and putting custom firmware on them. I really want something p emulate N64 and Dreamcast but I’m kind of skeptical dropping $100 bucks, waiting 1-4 weeks just for a Chinese device to possibly stop working either immediately or after I put a lot of work into it and ended up loving it.
@@TechDweeb The emulation is a bit sketchy even on the Vita, but everything else works great. Are there products that seem to be more reliable under $100 mark or is it kind of a crap shoot if you get one that lasts years or days?
Linux FTW! I have a Miyoo Mini Plus and a SteamDeck running linux and it's all I need. I love Launchbox on Windows, but it's not worth buying a custom overpriced Android handheld device. Linux devices typically last longer for updates (Community builds). A custom Android OS is only going to get a couple updates, relying on the manufacturer for updates... never going to happen. They already moved onto the next device.
Linux is better, less fuckery, an easier experience even if setting one of these devices up isn't easy. Android devices _can_ be more powerful and necessary for higher end emulation but all things equal, Linux.
Now that this is your main take everywhere console, would you do a video on how you've set yours up and how you use it? I'm interested to know if N64 and Dreamcast now run really well, given it's been a while since the RG353V came out. Really enjoying your videos!
I know that tinkering with the settings, customization, and making game games run on the device is part of the retro handheld charm, but it’s just not for me. I am willing to install my own custom firmware, maybe change the themes, and that’s it. I want all the systems to be setup and working right out of the box. So for that, I’m going with Linux.
I watched a video about the retroid rp4 pro from you and lost your channel while trying to find the ambernic r353v reviews i figured id find your channel again. Should probably sub
Today I have the best setup for my use case. A big, high-performance android device to play when at home (GPD XP+, everything GC and PS2) and a portable, dual boot device to take with me when outside (RG353M). I prefer Linux to play old games in short gaming sessions, like lunch breaks and doctor waiting rooms, but it's preferable it have an android side, to download things and organize my library. When at home or on vacation I usually play newer and more complex games, so a big screen is desirable and good performance is mandatory.
Completely agree with this assessment. I own several handlhelds (Anbernic 353M, Retroid Pocket 3, etc). I wanted to buy an Anbernic 405M (perfect size and power) but my experience with the RP3 was so frustrating and unpleasant that I decided to avoid buying it. I can't stand Android handhelds because: 1- I hate tinkering with my device (never manage to make it work exactly the way I want, and it's as fun as a visit to the dentist) 2- it feels like you're using a smartphone 3- it lacks the user experience you have on Linux handlhelds, with a better user interface and customization (through themes, options put together in the same menus, etc).
Considering that most gaming handhelds do not easily switch between linux and Android, I think the more important difference is between the devices itself.
In practical terms for these devices, the conclusions reached in the video, and the added points in the comments about flexibility in Android are true, at present. However, it would be possible for a Linux device to have much more flexibility than the systems on these handhelds do. For a real world example of this from the past, we can remember an older device, the OpenPandora, which was an ARM device with Linux that was basically a full ARM computer with a desktop interface and many different options. I would personally love to have a device like this with modern ARM hardware, but that doesn't seem like something easy to pull off. The closest to existence now is the Pyra handheld, which hasn't gone into full production, and has hardware that is already several years out of date. Because I like the utility of this type of device, I'm still hoping to obtain one of those despite all the setbacks the project has had. To be honest, if the plastic parts hadn't become brittle and started to crumble on my old OpenPandora, I would still be using it quite a bit, just because of its flexibility. Of course, the popularity of Android means that there are a lot of applications available for Android devices. It's only that Linux software is open source that made it so a practical amount ended up available for a device like the OpenPandora.
What is dual boot like in practice? Do both OS's read the same ROMs off the SD card, or do you have to do some weird partitioning or something? It's never really explained that well for people that don't have duel boot.
Linux based systems when done right can make you feel like you're holding an actual handheld console, when it's done poorly you feel like you're trying to fill a bath with bucket with a giant hole, everything is difficult. However whenever I use an android based device I just feel like I'm holding a hacky phone that someone attached some controls to. I've tried a couple of different front ends for android but the similarities to a phone are always there, for better or worse.
Also the fact that most of the time you can reflash linux to an sd card in case of "brick" easily is also a win on a linux side. Sleep function on miyoo mini/rg35xx is better in terms of battery saving and overall convenience. PS: I am sooo waiting for garlic os coming to rg405m
Android, but I think that only stems from back in the mid 2000s when I was first doing emulators going in with different ones and configuring them. So it feels about the same to do it with Android on the few standalones RA doesn't natively support. Plus, I ALWAYS end up coming back to my phone to play vs a handheld, not sure why other than it's with me more often.
Keep in mind a full fledged computer like a steam deck is around the $300 pricepoint. $140 new for the RG353V is too much because it is almost half a steam deck. It also only has 2G ram which is not enough to handle Dreamcast and PS2. I have slight buyers remorse of mine and I have not used it yet because the RG405V has 4G of ram which should handle systems like the PS2 and Dreamcast.
Ok so here is a big thing that nobody talks about... the joystick/sticks aren't analogue in sensitivity on the linux side, so essentially no gme functions properly that used them.
I prefer Android by a long shot. One of the main reasons i emulate my games instead of playing on original hardware is that i sometimes have pretty special needs and want some things that i really can't get otherwise. maybe i want to edit a savefile on the go, maybe i have a game where i play the same savefile on PC and my handheld and want quick and easy ways to transfer it, and so on. chances are that, whatever you want, on android you will find a way to make it work pretty well. sure, it might take some time to set up, but once you got it, it will work. linux on the other hand feels much more set in stone. either something works from the get go, or it doesn't and theres is pretty much nothing you can do about it.
Definitely Linux. But I'm biased. I've been using Linux on basically everything since 1996, and it's great having devices "just work" with all my favorite tools.
I havent made the jump to any dedicated devices but i do have a computer and an android phone and ive been running the same emulators on pc for decades without any problems and smartphone emulation seems more sketchy and a headache so id say linux has the win. Plus most things have guides and a fanbase for making custom themes i know ive done that for most of my r4 cards
Two of the most important arguments for android at the moment are myboy! and Pokemmo. Myboy! is the only GBA emulator enabling link cable emulation via wifi/bluetooth. And if you're want to playi Pokemon or other multiplayer games like MMBN, YU-GI-OH or whatever with your friends, link cable emulation is mandatory. But in the future maybe the Linux emulators will be able to emulate link cable too.
So I feel like it's device specific. Linux is probably best for chips that are limited to PS1/N64 and below assuming the device runs full speed on all of those consoles. I find once you can run something like Dolphin fairly well, you want to be on android. If you are all the way up to steam deck level performance, then you are looking at SteamOS (Linux) OR Windows. Why do I believe there is an Android sweet spot? My evidence is the RP3+ & the AYN Odin. BOTH of those devices would NOT be as good on Linux. Those devices live in a higher end android gaming space, an Dolphin/AetherSX2 space, and a game streaming space. ALL of THOSE experiences are better in native android.
As someone who has yet to buy into any of these devices, I'm more interested in knes running Android. I only have so many games I'm interested in emulating, and, while i have even fewer android games I'm interested in, there's always the possibility of more ports of things that I am or in general just new games that I'm interested in.
There is one frontend on Android and Raspberry pi 3 onwards. RetroX a fantastic graphical frontend, that does all the hard work for you, just add Roms, and it where each systems Roms are located, it downloads the emulator required, sets everything up, within 10 minutes a whole system like Megadrive, it scrapes all games artwork, videos and box art, from the cloud. Press one button on a controller, and the frontend recognises it, and runs the games. Only 2 issues, needs to be online to download media, and it's on a subscription based model. But can buy a lifetime key.
Poor Dweeb. I make a killer chicken noodle soup. Too bad I live in the states, and I can't hook you up with some. Get better soon, dude. I hate being 🤢.
At 5:18 you reference that you are "a TechDweeb" and not, "the TechDweeb", are you also "a tax man" and not "the tax man"? Sorry :p I had to find a way to get in a reference to Corner Gas as we simply love that show. Thanks for the breakdown! I recently introduced my wife to emulation and she is still trying to decide which she likes better. I prefer the dual boot systems myself as they allow full customization based on the various emulators and games performance.
Linux is far easier to setup than all the bits you need to collate to get a good experience out of an android device, I don't even turn on my retroid 2+ now, I'm reaching for my Anberic Rg35XX or RG351m
I prefer Android. Only because I'm used to configuring phones into emulation machine that started on Symbian. The odin 2, RG556 and RP4 pro obliterated all budget linux devices easily. The only thing I can give to Linux will be Steam Os on the deck. However, it doesn't come cheap.
Does Batocera work in this context, considering it is also Linux? Of course, it's strictly gaming, unless you use Kodi for media, but you don't get any other OS functions, like web-browsers or app access
Is someone going to tell him that Android is Linux? Yes! You heard that right! Android is based on Linux. Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software.
I Linux. The problem with the android devices is software support. After a while the underlying android OS will no longer be compatible/supported by the installed applications creating security issues and a diminished experience. You know the device manufacturers are not going to provide OS updates on these cheap handhelds. I have yet to find a review on an android based handheld a year after purchase.
I really see that winning point of android for tinkering as major con. So was the customization thing unfair since like you said there really is only one good frontend for android while emulation station at least has themes which change the look significantly. You can get touchscreen to work in linux. You can install standalone emulators in Linux. They just require you to follow some instructions online about connecting with ssh and running couple commands. The only real benefit of android is if you want to run mobile games. In pure retro gaming Linux wins every category.
Touch screen does work on Linux. It's just that there's no driver installed. Android itself runs Java on Linux, which Java itself is a virtual machine (like emulator, but worse performance) so there's no competition on performance here.
Android is not an operating system, well pretty much it isn't, Android is powered with a Linux backend and the front end or graphical experience is Android, Android is just just a GUI front end to Linux. Kind of like Gniome/KDE/Rox-Joes WM/Icewm etc.
I just purchased a RG35XX Plus so I will be on Garlicos in the future but I have to say I love the design of Batocera or Daijisho. I would love to have something as graphical impressive. Is it really Emulationstation that is on these devices?
Looking at this, I think I want Linux as my gaming setup but android for my other 'media' type uses - I like to have some movies and TV shows downloaded to watch while traveling, so if I can connect a Bluetooth headset it would be nice to be able to use Android only for those purposes while I run my games in Linux - So a dual-boot system seems to most fit that.
Would be nice to see an update on this considering ES & emudeck are now available on android, plus is it me or if you want to play anything above most dreamcast android appears to be the way to go.
Fifth category: Stability -> winner Linux, doesn't need reboot from time to time because an usually working fine game stops behaving as expected or there is loss of performance. Overall winner... Linux 3/5 wins over Android 2/5 wins! Thank you! ;)
Linux for me. Tried GammaOS, but wound up flashing RockNIX to the emmc of my RG351P. I actually find I get better performance in RockNIX than in GammaOS.
I’ll settle it before I’ve even seen the video: Linux. Can’t be bothered with my RP3, at all. The whole ‘app’ frontend pisses me off, and I do something else instead.
![[MV] A leap of faith...ความเชื่อใจครั้งสุดท้าย (From "Petrichor the series")](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/U1piZH2CNXA/mqdefault.jpg)
Linux. It feels like a gaming console when on Linux and when using Android it feels like a crappy phone with buttons.
Since we all have smartphones, I don’t need the ability to go on TH-cam or anything like that. I avoid products that are Android only.
We have a winner! 🏆
This is definitely the best comment here. 👍
It's like that "hidrogen bomb vs coughing baby" thing lol
So the charm of the Linux is just a frontend like if you were a noob having no clue what an emulator is?
@@albertosaldivar2934 the charm of Linux is that you can play a system that feels like a real first party handheld specifically designed for that purpose.
@@Cujobob I've seen a lot of times people praising the linux os and always wondered why. I thought it was for the better performance but at least on rk3566 devices the performance is better with android. And then I started to figured out what they like about linux is just the front end, like if it were the "mega joy" that the chinese people sell at downtown.
It is ok for those who like it but I really thought there was something else but no, it seems there's nothing special besides just the front end.
I personally haven't purchased one of these handhelds yet, because when I am out and about, I usually spend time reading rather than playing games. I just love gaming on a larger screen. I am sure I will eventually buy one but I am waiting until one comes along that I am really impressed with, because I will probably only be buying one for a very long time. I will probably go with a Linux because I find that the Linux OS is rock solid. In fact my main PC dual boots in Windows 10 and Linux Mint. I find myself using Linux most of the time because it is fast and has no frills that you don't need. Great review.
I prefer dual boot systems like Anbernic provides on some of their devices so I can enjoy the best of both worlds. If that’s not an option, then I’m sticking with Linux.
Exactly, that's what I bought
I am team Linux. But Android does have is good things like customization. After the myoo mini+ it has opened my eyes how reliable linux can be with retro gaming.
I think with devices that are (often) underpowered, it's hard to justify the overhead of Android unless it has something you REALLY want.
Is there anything keeping devs from distributing stripped-down Android 'builds' (image files) for retro, just as we see in the Linux camp? I mean, we only turn to Android because there's apparently a universal law that says "no Linux build will ever get everything working on a sub-300 device." Linux builds are much more likely to miss things like touchscreen support, screen brightness control, USB-C to C charging, stable sleep modes, stable performance modes, a proper Home/Exit button, a proper hotkey-enable button, fully custom hotkey option, a proper button mapper, proper 'portable' settings manager, Win/Mac-friendly journaling file system support, plug-n-play multi-player Bluetooth, personal media import manager, etc. I appreciate the work that goes into Linux builds, but it just seems like the devs are re-inventing the wheel every time by eschewing Android as the baseline.
@@wingsfromheaven8788 There are two main issues - Google and the fact that the stripped down Andorid is not as easy to handle as a most Linux distros.
Google has some rather strick licensing rules that basically prevent you from using Google Play services if your device has a version coming with other operating systems.
And if you go custom, you may end up deiling with drivers that are not quite there yet, becasue they were licensed to work with Android and you get is just a beta version of the driver, that may not may be buggy or just not have the praper calls that were intended for the device. And good luck contacting the original developers. They are either under some NDA and/or they work on something new and have no time to deal with your problems.
As an Android phone user, I already spent a big amount of time. When I sit back to enjoy my retro handheld, I prefer the unique and simplified look and of feel of Linux. It feels more like a console, not a phone. Yes, you can use frontends in Android, but you still need to go back to Android UI here and there, and that breakes the experience for me. Although I have to admit that I also enjoy using my Android phone for emulation with a controller, but it doesn't replace Linux based handhelds for me
Agreed 👍
Both are pretty good to be honest.
But I do like a lot if not all of Android customisation can be done without another computer. Transfering roms and bios aside, I like that with Android I can download new emulators, front ends, stream pc games, discord, and so. Linux handhelds (or at least older ones) are harder to tinker with without a pc. So flashing new firmware, updating emulators, skaping artwork and so on. Bluetooth support as standard.
However Linux based handhelds to me tend to be simplier and more optimised for gaming. Less distractions, better battery life. So they are good too.
I bought the Linux only version of this device (RG353VS) and I love it! It's everything that I want in a retro handheld device. I also have the RG35XX which is a great device as well, but I love the WiFi feature that the RG353VS has.
What do you do with the wifi? Just ordered mine. What should I do with mine once I get it? I’d love to have premium games on it. I use a Mac and work pc which might be locked out for me
I use the wifi option to download the latest Ark OS update so I don't need to go through the more involved process outside of the device. There's an "Update" feature in the Options menu...it's really easy that way.@@HotSauceStain
@@HotSauceStain You can set up a FTP and link your PC with your device and transfer games wirelessly. Also wifi allows you to enjoy retroachievements (make sure you login your account from retroarch). You can also download themes, and scrape box art/videos for all your games wirelessly.
I'm cool with Linux. I don't bother with customizing much, I just want to jump in and play some games!
I've personally been sticking with Android on my RG353V but that's mostly because I've been using Android for emulation for a long time. Linux was foreign for me out of the box and I found myself gravitating toward the familiarity of Android even if it's more finicky overall.
Patiently waiting for your Anblernic RG505 review...🙏🙏🙏
I'm giving it to Linux. Android has great emulators but the front ends and setup are just terrible. Not every emulator support frontends.
I think I've encountered that. I just setup two RP3+ and can't get Dolphin-for-Handheld working through Diajisho frontend. I also can't get load-states working in MMJR when launched from Diajisho. Dolphin Official and MMJR2 work as expected in all respects with Diajisho.
0:00 my favorite review intro
I’ve been in to these handhelds for a few years , android is very user friendly where as Linux takes time and patience to work with. Depending on your level of experience if your new use Android I personally prefer Linux.
Awesome that the dweeb gets this kind of support now from tech companies and his fans 😊 also glad to see that the channel is growing. I subscribed to this channel when it had like 2.5k subs 😊
Thanks for saying so! It's awesome how far the channel has come in a short time :)
@@TechDweeb Next year or the year after you will have your first youtube award :)
My computers are running Linux. Laptops are running Linux. Phone is running Linux. All my handhelds are running Linux. One of my 3DS systems has Linux on it. It's 20 years to late to turn back. I prefer Linux because I know how to use Linux.
I guess, for my case at least, it depends on how you want to use your device. I am a light traveller, so I want one device with all in one experience with my daily driver for emulation, movies, musics, reading books. So android is perfect for me when I travel but Linux would be my choice if I have a spare time during my commute.
I loved that intro 😂 cheers Dweeb!
Team Linux here - the speed and performance, as well as native console access via SSH for management is awesome to me.
Nasally, extra Nasally or super extra Nasally still the best voice for tech reviews ever!
Linux is better. Android gets outdated and you lose support for games and apps.
On the other hand, there has yet to be a Linux OS that properly supports rumble on all three RG353 variants. I wonder If Recalbox will finally do this.
@@AguFungusrumble? Like vibration? My rg350 with the Adam image has rumble working
Android just doesn't feel right to me for these consoles. I associate it with things like Candy Crush too much. Which reminds me... thank you for not having "free" Android games (which you obviously don't play) as your sponsors.
Both are loads of fun to tinker with, and each a valuable, beautiful thing within the gaming community, so...can't we all just get along?❤😊
The internet isn't about "just getting along"!
@@TechDweeb ..candy is dandy.. but liquor is quicker.🎩😉
I bought the 353sv on your recommendation from LITNXT and love it. Adding new games is a snap and the system while not perfect has the Fantastic screen and battery life, plays what I want on the go. I have my phone (android) for you know calls... thank you for the Videos!
It better be Linux or I'm unsubscribing
ok me too
That's reasonable.
@@androidmon cana depend on the linux flavor and or emulator
u would think linux since you should have more heqd room
then again isnt android a port of linux i mean tbh
android VS linux a universe shattering battle
Technically they are the same. Android uses linux kernel. Only difference is software stack over it.
@@user-eq2fp6jw4g 😲
@@user-eq2fp6jw4g damn bro , wallahi 🤓 moment
@@user-eq2fp6jw4g And some modifications of the kernel yeah
@@user-eq2fp6jw4gthat's what I was thinking, that's why I think it's a dumb rivalry
Sorry you’re feeling sick, hope you feel better.
I’m really skeptical buying any Chinese products now. I had TWO RG35xx die on me in less than a month. The first one died over night. I had to pay for the company to send me a 2nd one. That was my favorite device and I took it everywhere and one day it just stopped working.
I went to a retro game convention last week and got both a 3DS and a Vita and even though both devices are used, beat up and over 10 years old they both still work perfectly after jail breaking and putting custom firmware on them.
I really want something p emulate N64 and Dreamcast but I’m kind of skeptical dropping $100 bucks, waiting 1-4 weeks just for a Chinese device to possibly stop working either immediately or after I put a lot of work into it and ended up loving it.
That's a good point. These emulation devices definitely aren't built to the quality of real consoles.
@@TechDweeb The emulation is a bit sketchy even on the Vita, but everything else works great.
Are there products that seem to be more reliable under $100 mark or is it kind of a crap shoot if you get one that lasts years or days?
woah! this is way more intensive than i thought it would be! i might be out of my depth with this device
Linux FTW! I have a Miyoo Mini Plus and a SteamDeck running linux and it's all I need. I love Launchbox on Windows, but it's not worth buying a custom overpriced Android handheld device. Linux devices typically last longer for updates (Community builds). A custom Android OS is only going to get a couple updates, relying on the manufacturer for updates... never going to happen. They already moved onto the next device.
Linux is better, less fuckery, an easier experience even if setting one of these devices up isn't easy. Android devices _can_ be more powerful and necessary for higher end emulation but all things equal, Linux.
I'm with ya
Now that this is your main take everywhere console, would you do a video on how you've set yours up and how you use it? I'm interested to know if N64 and Dreamcast now run really well, given it's been a while since the RG353V came out.
Really enjoying your videos!
Great suggestion!
I favor Android because I prefer to have as many options as possible, but I can see the appeal of a more simple, essentials-only device.
Thanks to your theme on the miyoo mini + my kids are into it again over their rp3+
Nice!
I know that tinkering with the settings, customization, and making game games run on the device is part of the retro handheld charm, but it’s just not for me. I am willing to install my own custom firmware, maybe change the themes, and that’s it. I want all the systems to be setup and working right out of the box. So for that, I’m going with Linux.
I watched a video about the retroid rp4 pro from you and lost your channel while trying to find the ambernic r353v reviews i figured id find your channel again. Should probably sub
Today I have the best setup for my use case. A big, high-performance android device to play when at home (GPD XP+, everything GC and PS2) and a portable, dual boot device to take with me when outside (RG353M). I prefer Linux to play old games in short gaming sessions, like lunch breaks and doctor waiting rooms, but it's preferable it have an android side, to download things and organize my library. When at home or on vacation I usually play newer and more complex games, so a big screen is desirable and good performance is mandatory.
Oh thank God, I thought you weren’t gonna use the 👊🏻🐱 graphics. Thank you 🙏🏻
Completely agree with this assessment. I own several handlhelds (Anbernic 353M, Retroid Pocket 3, etc). I wanted to buy an Anbernic 405M (perfect size and power) but my experience with the RP3 was so frustrating and unpleasant that I decided to avoid buying it.
I can't stand Android handhelds because:
1- I hate tinkering with my device (never manage to make it work exactly the way I want, and it's as fun as a visit to the dentist)
2- it feels like you're using a smartphone
3- it lacks the user experience you have on Linux handlhelds, with a better user interface and customization (through themes, options put together in the same menus, etc).
Considering that most gaming handhelds do not easily switch between linux and Android, I think the more important difference is between the devices itself.
Well said
I value ease of use and performance most of all too. With that said, i find linux harder simply bc i have no experience with it.
In practical terms for these devices, the conclusions reached in the video, and the added points in the comments about flexibility in Android are true, at present.
However, it would be possible for a Linux device to have much more flexibility than the systems on these handhelds do. For a real world example of this from the past, we can remember an older device, the OpenPandora, which was an ARM device with Linux that was basically a full ARM computer with a desktop interface and many different options.
I would personally love to have a device like this with modern ARM hardware, but that doesn't seem like something easy to pull off. The closest to existence now is the Pyra handheld, which hasn't gone into full production, and has hardware that is already several years out of date. Because I like the utility of this type of device, I'm still hoping to obtain one of those despite all the setbacks the project has had. To be honest, if the plastic parts hadn't become brittle and started to crumble on my old OpenPandora, I would still be using it quite a bit, just because of its flexibility.
Of course, the popularity of Android means that there are a lot of applications available for Android devices. It's only that Linux software is open source that made it so a practical amount ended up available for a device like the OpenPandora.
Well said. And I didn't know about the Pyra, that looks super interesting!
I like duel boot systems, Linux for gaming, android for watching TH-cam, and reading comics
I'm all for dual boot. Overall just more versatile.
What is dual boot like in practice? Do both OS's read the same ROMs off the SD card, or do you have to do some weird partitioning or something? It's never really explained that well for people that don't have duel boot.
You're the best Tech Dweeb!!!
Linux based systems when done right can make you feel like you're holding an actual handheld console, when it's done poorly you feel like you're trying to fill a bath with bucket with a giant hole, everything is difficult. However whenever I use an android based device I just feel like I'm holding a hacky phone that someone attached some controls to. I've tried a couple of different front ends for android but the similarities to a phone are always there, for better or worse.
Great Mr. Deeds reference 😉
I been subed for a while gg on 26k
by the way do you know if Voice AI is safe like no viruses :)
Thanks buddy! I know you've been around for a long time 🤓
I haven't checked out Voice AI yet, but I probably should huh?
Also the fact that most of the time you can reflash linux to an sd card in case of "brick" easily is also a win on a linux side. Sleep function on miyoo mini/rg35xx is better in terms of battery saving and overall convenience.
PS: I am sooo waiting for garlic os coming to rg405m
I don't care who is better at playing games. I just want my favorite Tech Dweeb to feel better soon!
Android, but I think that only stems from back in the mid 2000s when I was first doing emulators going in with different ones and configuring them. So it feels about the same to do it with Android on the few standalones RA doesn't natively support. Plus, I ALWAYS end up coming back to my phone to play vs a handheld, not sure why other than it's with me more often.
Keep in mind a full fledged computer like a steam deck is around the $300 pricepoint. $140 new for the RG353V is too much because it is almost half a steam deck. It also only has 2G ram which is not enough to handle Dreamcast and PS2. I have slight buyers remorse of mine and I have not used it yet because the RG405V has 4G of ram which should handle systems like the PS2 and Dreamcast.
Android is just for phones, not for emulation or games in general. Linux is king for retro consoles!
Ok so here is a big thing that nobody talks about... the joystick/sticks aren't analogue in sensitivity on the linux side, so essentially no gme functions properly that used them.
Yes they are. Check out this video at 10:58 th-cam.com/video/kZ4Mp27Fw2g/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Fph1BHdbpeP8cRmm&t=658
I prefer Android by a long shot.
One of the main reasons i emulate my games instead of playing on original hardware is that i sometimes have pretty special needs and want some things that i really can't get otherwise. maybe i want to edit a savefile on the go, maybe i have a game where i play the same savefile on PC and my handheld and want quick and easy ways to transfer it, and so on.
chances are that, whatever you want, on android you will find a way to make it work pretty well. sure, it might take some time to set up, but once you got it, it will work. linux on the other hand feels much more set in stone. either something works from the get go, or it doesn't and theres is pretty much nothing you can do about it.
My homies techdweeb sounding like Barry white in this video lol great video bro 🤙
Definitely Linux. But I'm biased. I've been using Linux on basically everything since 1996, and it's great having devices "just work" with all my favorite tools.
I havent made the jump to any dedicated devices but i do have a computer and an android phone and ive been running the same emulators on pc for decades without any problems and smartphone emulation seems more sketchy and a headache so id say linux has the win. Plus most things have guides and a fanbase for making custom themes i know ive done that for most of my r4 cards
Linux. Between work, family, home etc. I don’t have time to f around with Android. I just want to play.
Two of the most important arguments for android at the moment are myboy! and Pokemmo.
Myboy! is the only GBA emulator enabling link cable emulation via wifi/bluetooth. And if you're want to playi Pokemon or other multiplayer games like MMBN, YU-GI-OH or whatever with your friends, link cable emulation is mandatory.
But in the future maybe the Linux emulators will be able to emulate link cable too.
Missed point category - battery drain test with the same games and conditions.
Good call. Should have done that.
So I feel like it's device specific. Linux is probably best for chips that are limited to PS1/N64 and below assuming the device runs full speed on all of those consoles. I find once you can run something like Dolphin fairly well, you want to be on android. If you are all the way up to steam deck level performance, then you are looking at SteamOS (Linux) OR Windows. Why do I believe there is an Android sweet spot? My evidence is the RP3+ & the AYN Odin. BOTH of those devices would NOT be as good on Linux. Those devices live in a higher end android gaming space, an Dolphin/AetherSX2 space, and a game streaming space. ALL of THOSE experiences are better in native android.
As someone who has yet to buy into any of these devices, I'm more interested in knes running Android. I only have so many games I'm interested in emulating, and, while i have even fewer android games I'm interested in, there's always the possibility of more ports of things that I am or in general just new games that I'm interested in.
That's a good point
There is one frontend on Android and Raspberry pi 3 onwards.
RetroX a fantastic graphical frontend, that does all the hard work for you, just add Roms, and it where each systems Roms are located, it downloads the emulator required, sets everything up, within 10 minutes a whole system like Megadrive, it scrapes all games artwork, videos and box art, from the cloud.
Press one button on a controller, and the frontend recognises it, and runs the games.
Only 2 issues, needs to be online to download media, and it's on a subscription based model.
But can buy a lifetime key.
I haven't tried it yet but I really should. It looks solid!
Linux or Android? It’s like saying Car or Ford.
More like Car or Car... BUT it have "proprietary" window tint and... can't use regular arm oil because reasons...
Thanks for the great video, TD! Does anybody know which game is being previewed while showing the chapter screens (at 3:25 for example) - looks fun!
3:25 Captain Tomaday
Poor Dweeb. I make a killer chicken noodle soup. Too bad I live in the states, and I can't hook you up with some. Get better soon, dude. I hate being 🤢.
At 5:18 you reference that you are "a TechDweeb" and not, "the TechDweeb", are you also "a tax man" and not "the tax man"? Sorry :p I had to find a way to get in a reference to Corner Gas as we simply love that show.
Thanks for the breakdown! I recently introduced my wife to emulation and she is still trying to decide which she likes better. I prefer the dual boot systems myself as they allow full customization based on the various emulators and games performance.
I definitely prefer using Android, even though it's more work to set up. I just feel like it's easier to customize your device how you like it.
Do you have a video on how to set up the RG353V?
Not yet but soon!
yes sir TechDweeb
Funfact: Android based on Linux ;)
Per social media etiquette, you have to be divided on every issue... so i argue with myself in chat... but Mitchell tire is right Linux all the way
I picture you typing angrily back and forth like Gollum arguing with himself.
One thing we can all agree on. They are both better than Windows and IOS. :)
Linux is far easier to setup than all the bits you need to collate to get a good experience out of an android device, I don't even turn on my retroid 2+ now, I'm reaching for my Anberic Rg35XX or RG351m
Android is a pain in ass because of android 11 alone
I prefer Android. Only because I'm used to configuring phones into emulation machine that started on Symbian.
The odin 2, RG556 and RP4 pro obliterated all budget linux devices easily.
The only thing I can give to Linux will be Steam Os on the deck. However, it doesn't come cheap.
The nitro was sick
Does Batocera work in this context, considering it is also Linux? Of course, it's strictly gaming, unless you use Kodi for media, but you don't get any other OS functions, like web-browsers or app access
I like Linux with ArkOS as I really enjoy the ability to run Port Master and full Pico-8 support
Thanks buddy... that did it!
Is someone going to tell him that Android is Linux? Yes! You heard that right! Android is based on Linux. Android is a mobile operating system based on a modified version of the Linux kernel and other open-source software.
I Linux. The problem with the android devices is software support. After a while the underlying android OS will no longer be compatible/supported by the installed applications creating security issues and a diminished experience. You know the device manufacturers are not going to provide OS updates on these cheap handhelds. I have yet to find a review on an android based handheld a year after purchase.
I really see that winning point of android for tinkering as major con. So was the customization thing unfair since like you said there really is only one good frontend for android while emulation station at least has themes which change the look significantly.
You can get touchscreen to work in linux. You can install standalone emulators in Linux. They just require you to follow some instructions online about connecting with ssh and running couple commands.
The only real benefit of android is if you want to run mobile games. In pure retro gaming Linux wins every category.
Get well soon TD.
Yes sir!
Ok, i thought i was gonna learn about Linux , but im seeing that Linux is "better" because people are just asserting it relentlessly.
Linux overall. Android for some Android Games...
Xbox Gamepass cloud streaming tho?
@@MrGizzyRey Valid point... I do use that on occasion as well on games that work well on the RG353M.
Touch screen does work on Linux. It's just that there's no driver installed. Android itself runs Java on Linux, which Java itself is a virtual machine (like emulator, but worse performance) so there's no competition on performance here.
Android is not an operating system, well pretty much it isn't, Android is powered with a Linux backend and the front end or graphical experience is Android, Android is just just a GUI front end to Linux. Kind of like Gniome/KDE/Rox-Joes WM/Icewm etc.
Different file systems and libraries though. You can't run Linux apps on Android and vice versa.
Um....actually you can now
@@TechDweeb
LINUX OR BUST! I love my purple metal Anbernic RG353M!
I just purchased a RG35XX Plus so I will be on Garlicos in the future but I have to say I love the design of Batocera or Daijisho. I would love to have something as graphical impressive. Is it really Emulationstation that is on these devices?
Linux for retro emulation for better efficiency and performance, but you can play mobile game with android
Out of these OS, I prefer the one that works best, and that is the clear winner...
I prefer Linux over Android for handhelds. 🐐
Looking at this, I think I want Linux as my gaming setup but android for my other 'media' type uses - I like to have some movies and TV shows downloaded to watch while traveling, so if I can connect a Bluetooth headset it would be nice to be able to use Android only for those purposes while I run my games in Linux - So a dual-boot system seems to most fit that.
Would be nice to see an update on this considering ES & emudeck are now available on android, plus is it me or if you want to play anything above most dreamcast android appears to be the way to go.
Fifth category: Stability -> winner Linux, doesn't need reboot from time to time because an usually working fine game stops behaving as expected or there is loss of performance. Overall winner... Linux 3/5 wins over Android 2/5 wins! Thank you! ;)
Linux for me. Tried GammaOS, but wound up flashing RockNIX to the emmc of my RG351P. I actually find I get better performance in RockNIX than in GammaOS.
Can you install Steam on Linux? Or the Steam OS as a whole?
I’ll settle it before I’ve even seen the video: Linux.
Can’t be bothered with my RP3, at all. The whole ‘app’ frontend pisses me off, and I do something else instead.
Android because there's no Sonic 3 AIR on Linux handhelds. I know Portmaster has all the other decomps but it feels incomplete without 3.
Wohooooooo!!!!! Linux!!!