Skip to main content

1UP Pi-Boy XL Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Massive Battery

1UP Pi-Boy XL Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Massive Battery

Overview

The 1UP Pi-Boy XL is a DIY-oriented handheld gaming console built around the Raspberry Pi Compute Module. It features a transparent plastic shell, a 3.5-inch IPS display with 480x320 resolution, and a massive 9000 mAh battery for extended play sessions. Powered by a Broadcom BCM2837B0 processor (Cortex-A53, 1.4 GHz) with 1 GB DDR2 RAM, it runs open-source operating systems and supports emulation up to PlayStation 1 and some N64/NDS titles.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: Cortex-A53 quad-core @ 1.4 GHz
  • GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV @ 300 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR2
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 480x320, 3:2 aspect ratio, 60 Hz
  • Storage: External MicroSD
  • Battery: 9000 mAh
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, 3x USB, Ethernet, HDMI out, 3.5mm audio jack
  • Dimensions: 157 x 99 x 35 mm, 500 g
  • Price: ~$175 (range $150-$200)

Who It Is For

The Pi-Boy XL is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy building and customizing their devices. It offers great battery life and solid performance for 2D and early 3D games (SNES, PS1). However, it may not satisfy those seeking a polished, out-of-the-box experience or high-end emulation of N64/NDS.

Buying Notes

Released in April 2019, the Pi-Boy XL is often sold as a kit or pre-assembled. Check for current pricing and availability from 1UP or third-party sellers. Ensure you have a MicroSD card and are comfortable with setting up Raspberry Pi software. The transparent case shows off the hardware, but plastic build may feel less premium.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A53
GPUBroadcom VideoCore IV
RAM1 GB DDR2
Name1UP Pi-Boy XL
Brand1UP
Weight500 g
Battery9000 mAh
StorageExternal MicroSD
SpeakersDual stereo
Grip TypeVertical
ProcessorBroadcom BCM2837B0
Body ColorTransparent
Dimensions157 mm x 99 mm x 35 mm
Screen PPI164.83
Price Range$150 - $200
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityBluetooth, WiFi, USB x 3, Ethernet
Launch Price$175
Release Date2019 / 04
Video OutputHDMI
CPU Frequency1.4 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemOpen-source
Screen Resolution480 x 320
GPU Core Frequency300 MHz
Screen Aspect Ratio3:2
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportSNES FX and 3D PS1 (60 FPS), N64 and NDS (playable but not smooth)

Full specs and updates on our site: https://www.oldman.dpdns.org/en/handheld/1up-pi-boy-xl

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Anbernic RG Rotate Review: A Compact 1:1 Screen Retro Handheld

Overview The Anbernic RG Rotate is a distinctive vertical handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. It features a 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a 1:1 aspect ratio and 720x720 resolution, offering a unique square display ideal for classic games. Powered by the Unisoc T618 octa-core processor (2.0 GHz) with Mali-G52 MP2 GPU and 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, it runs Android OS, providing access to a wide range of emulators and apps. The device comes in plastic or metal shell options, weighing between 167g and 204g depending on material. Key Specs Highlights Display: 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, 720x720 resolution, 1:1 aspect ratio, 290 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate Processor: Unisoc T618 (Cortex-A75/A55) octa-core @ 2.0 GHz, Mali-G52 MP2 GPU @ 850 MHz Memory & Storage: 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, 32GB internal storage, expandable via TF card slot Battery: 2000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 Audio: Single speaker, USB-C audio output Vibration: Yes Dimensions: 80 x 80 x 21 mm Weight:...
Post a Comment
Read more

R35S Plus (SZDIIER) Handheld Gaming Console Review

Overview The R35S Plus, manufactured by SZDIIER, is a compact and affordable handheld gaming device designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. It runs on an open-source operating system and is powered by a V.R. Technology VT569B processor with a single Cortex-A7 core clocked at 800 MHz, paired with 64 MB of DDR2 RAM. The device features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a resolution of 640x480 pixels, providing a crisp 228.57 PPI. The GPU is a Vivante 3D GPU running at 810 MHz, which handles most SNES and PS1 games at full speed, though some demanding SNES titles and 3D PS1 games may not run smoothly. Key Specs Highlights CPU: Cortex-A7 @ 800 MHz (1 core, 1 thread) GPU: Vivante 3D GPU @ 810 MHz RAM: 64 MB DDR2 Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 60Hz Battery: 3000 mAh Weight: 200 grams Dimensions: 180 x 120 x 50 mm Material: Plastic Colors: Gray, Purple, Orange, Black (transparent variants) Price: Approximately $40 (launch price) Who It Is For The R35S Plus is ideal ...
Post a Comment
Read more

KinHank K36: A Budget-Friendly Retro Handheld with RockChip RK3326

Overview The KinHank K36 is a vertical handheld gaming console that combines retro aesthetics with modern emulation capabilities. Powered by the RockChip RK3326 quad-core Cortex-A35 processor clocked at 1.3 GHz and a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, it offers smooth performance for classic games. The device runs on an open-source operating system and features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and 640x480 resolution, providing crisp visuals for retro titles. Key Specs Highlights Processor: RockChip RK3326 (4 cores, 1.3 GHz) GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz Memory: 1 GB DDR3 Storage: External microSD card slot Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 60Hz, 228.57 PPI Battery: 3500 mAh Connectivity: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack Audio: Dual stereo speakers Weight: 188 grams Dimensions: 82 mm x 130 mm x ? mm Colors: White, Black, Transparent Purple Who It Is For The K36 is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget who want a dedicated handheld for emulating classic consoles. It supports N64,...
Post a Comment
Read more