Skip to main content

Freeplay CM3 / Zero Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Power

Freeplay CM3 / Zero Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Power

Overview

The Freeplay CM3 and Zero are DIY handheld gaming consoles created by Freeplaytech. They are designed for enthusiasts who want to build their own retro gaming device using Raspberry Pi modules. The CM3 version is powered by the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3 (BCM2837B0) with a quad-core Cortex-A53 CPU at 1.4 GHz and 1 GB DDR2 RAM, while the Zero version uses the Raspberry Pi Zero (ARM1176JZF-S at 1.0 GHz) with 512 MB DDR RAM. Both feature a 3.2-inch TFT display with 320x240 resolution (4:3 aspect ratio), a 2000 mAh battery, and a plastic yellow shell reminiscent of the Game Boy Advance. The CM3 variant includes Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, and Mini HDMI output, whereas the Zero lacks these connectivity options. Storage is via external MicroSD card. The devices run open-source operating systems and can emulate games up to N64 and Nintendo DS.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: Cortex-A53 1.4 GHz (CM3) / ARM1176JZF-S 1.0 GHz (Zero)
  • GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV at 250 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB DDR2 (CM3) / 512 MB DDR (Zero)
  • Display: 3.2-inch TFT, 320x240, 60Hz, 125 PPI
  • Battery: 2000 mAh
  • Connectivity (CM3 only): Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, Mini HDMI
  • Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Storage: External MicroSD
  • Dimensions: 145 x 82 x 25 mm, 155 grams
  • Price: Starting at $120 (Zero) / $150-$200 (CM3)

Who It Is For

The Freeplay CM3 and Zero are perfect for DIY enthusiasts and retro gaming fans who enjoy assembling and customizing their own handheld console. They are not for casual users seeking a plug-and-play experience; instead, they require some technical knowledge to set up the software and hardware. The CM3 variant is better suited for those who want built-in connectivity and more power for emulating higher-end systems, while the Zero is a budget-friendly option for simpler retro games.

Buying Notes

As of 2017, the Freeplay CM3 and Zero were available as kits or pre-assembled units from Freeplaytech. Prices were around $120 for the Zero version and $150-$200 for the CM3 version. However, availability may vary, and these devices are no longer in active production. Potential buyers should check second-hand markets or community forums. Note that the Zero version lacks WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB, making it less versatile. Also, the 320x240 display is low resolution by modern standards, but it suits the retro aesthetic. The battery life is decent for a device of this size, but heavy emulation may drain it faster.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A53 (CM3) / ARM1176JZF-S (Zero)
GPUBroadcom VideoCore IV
内存1 GB DDR2 (CM3) / 512 MB DDR (Zero)
名称Freeplay CM3 / Zero
品牌Freeplaytech
存储External MicroSD
电池2000 mAh
重量155 grams
CPU主频1.4 GHz (CM3) / 1.0 GHz (Zero)
处理器Broadcom BCM2837B0
屏幕PPI125
扬声器Mono
连接性Bluetooth, WiFi, USB (CM3)
价格区间$150 - $200
发布时间2017
外壳材质Plastic
外观尺寸145 mm x 82 mm x 25 mm
屏幕尺寸3.2 inches
屏幕比例4:3
屏幕类型TFT
握持类型Horizontal
操作系统Open-source OS
机身颜色Yellow
视频输出Mini HDMI
起售价格$120
音频输出3.5mm headphone jack
GPU核心频率250 MHz
屏幕分辨率320 x 240
屏幕刷新率60Hz
CPU核心和线程数4 cores 4 threads (CM3) / 1 core 1 thread (Zero)
模拟器游戏支持Up to N64 & NDS era games

Full specs and updates on our site: https://www.oldman.dpdns.org/en/handheld/freeplay-cm3-zero

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Retroid Pocket 5 Review: A Powerful Retro Handheld for PS2 and GameCube Emulation

Overview The Retroid Pocket 5 (also known as RP5 or 'Sand Sculpture 5') is the latest retro handheld from Retroid Pocket, designed for gamers who want high-end emulation on the go. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor and Adreno 650 GPU, it delivers smooth performance for demanding systems like PlayStation 2, GameCube, and Wii, with some Nintendo Switch titles also playable. The device features a vibrant 5.5-inch AMOLED touchscreen with 1920x1080 resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio, and 500 nits brightness, making it ideal for both retro and modern games. Key Specs Highlights Processor: Snapdragon 865 (8-core, up to 2.84 GHz) GPU: Adreno 650 (587 MHz) RAM: 6GB or 8GB LPDDR4 Storage: 128GB UFS 3.1 internal, expandable via MicroSD Display: 5.5-inch AMOLED, 1920x1080, 60Hz, 500 nits, 400.5 PPI Battery: 5000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C video output, 3.5mm headphone jack Cooling: Active fan and vents Weight: 280 grams Dimensions: 199.2 x 78.5 x 15....
Post a Comment
Read more

Anbernic RG Vita Handheld Gaming Console Review

Overview The Anbernic RG Vita is a horizontal handheld gaming console running Android, designed for emulation and mobile gaming. It features a 5.5-inch IPS display with 1280x720 resolution, powered by a Unisoc Tiger T618 octa-core processor (2.0 GHz) with Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. The device includes 3GB LPDDR4X RAM, 64GB eMCP storage, and a microSD card slot for expansion. Key Specs Highlights Processor: Unisoc Tiger T618 (8 cores, 8 threads, 2.0 GHz) GPU: Mali-G52 MP2 (850 MHz) RAM: 3GB LPDDR4X Storage: 64GB eMCP + microSD slot Display: 5.5-inch IPS, 1280x720, 60Hz, 267 PPI Battery: 5000 mAh Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 Audio: Dual stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack Sensors: Gyroscope, vibration motor OS: Android Dimensions: 206 x 84 x 18.6 mm, 274g Who It Is For The RG Vita is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a dedicated Android handheld for emulating consoles up to PlayStation Portable and Dreamcast. Its 16:9 screen is also suitable for Android games and str...
Post a Comment
Read more

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