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GamePi43 (WaveShare) Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Inside

GamePi43 (WaveShare) Review: A DIY Retro Handheld with Raspberry Pi Inside

Overview

The GamePi43 by WaveShare is a unique handheld gaming device built around a Raspberry Pi 3B+ single-board computer. It features a 4.3-inch IPS display with a 5:3 aspect ratio and 800x480 resolution, housed in a black plastic shell. The device is designed for hobbyists and retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy assembling and customizing their own hardware. It runs RetroPie, a popular emulation OS, and supports a wide range of classic consoles.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Broadcom BCM2837B0 (Cortex-A53, 1.4 GHz, 4 cores)
  • GPU: Broadcom VideoCore IV at 300 MHz
  • Memory: 1 GB DDR2
  • Storage: External MicroSD card
  • Display: 4.3-inch IPS, 800x480, 60 Hz, ~217 PPI
  • Battery: Two 18650 cells (user-replaceable)
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 4x USB, Ethernet, 3.5mm audio jack
  • Weight: 500 g
  • Dimensions: 171 x 111 x 34 mm
  • Price: $75–$100 (launched at $80)
  • Release Date: August 2019

Who It Is For

The GamePi43 is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, Raspberry Pi fans, and retro gamers who enjoy tinkering. It offers a modular design with easily replaceable batteries and full access to the Pi's ports. However, it's not for those seeking a polished, out-of-the-box experience; assembly and setup require some technical know-how. Emulation performance is good for 2D systems and some 3D (SNES, PS1 at 60 FPS), but N64 and DS games may be choppy.

Buying Notes

The GamePi43 is typically sold as a kit or bare board, often requiring a separate Raspberry Pi 3B+ and assembly. Prices vary, but the base cost is around $80. Availability may be limited as it's a niche product from WaveShare. Check for bundle deals that include the Pi and accessories. Due to its age (2019), consider newer alternatives like the Pi 4-based handhelds for better performance.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A53
GPUBroadcom VideoCore IV
NameGamePi43
BrandWaveShare
Memory1 GB DDR2
Weight500 g
Battery18650 x2
SpeakerMono
StorageExternal MicroSD
Grip TypeVertical
ProcessorBroadcom BCM2837B0
Body ColorBlack
Dimensions171 mm x 111 mm x 34 mm
Screen PPI216.97
Price Range$75 - $100
Screen Size4.3 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityBluetooth, WiFi, USB x4, Ethernet
Launch Price$80
Release Date2019 / 08
Screen Ratio5:3
CPU Frequency1.4 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemRetroPie
Screen Resolution800 x 480
GPU Core Frequency300 MHz
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/gamepi43

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