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LCL CM4 Boy (ChangLiang Li) Review: A Unique Raspberry Pi CM4 Handheld

LCL CM4 Boy (ChangLiang Li) Review: A Unique Raspberry Pi CM4 Handheld

Overview

The LCL CM4 Boy, developed by ChangLiang Li, is a unique handheld gaming console built around the Raspberry Pi Compute Module 4 (CM4). It features a vertical form factor reminiscent of classic Game Boy designs, with a 3.5-inch IPS display at 640x480 resolution. The device is powered by a Broadcom BCM2711 processor (Cortex-A72, 1.5 GHz) and VideoCore VI GPU, with RAM options ranging from 1GB to 8GB LPDDR4. Storage is flexible via built-in eMMC (up to 32GB) and MicroSD card. The CM4 Boy runs open-source software and supports emulation up to N64, PSP, and Dreamcast at playable levels.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Broadcom BCM2711 (4x Cortex-A72 @ 1.5 GHz)
  • GPU: Broadcom VideoCore VI @ 500 MHz
  • RAM: 1/2/4/8 GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: 0-32 GB eMMC + MicroSD
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480, 4:3, 60Hz
  • Battery: 6200 mAh (replaceable)
  • Connectivity: USB-A, Bluetooth & WiFi, HDMI out, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Weight: 328 grams
  • Dimensions: 90 x 148 x 30 mm
  • OS: Open-source

Who It Is For

The CM4 Boy is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering with open-source handhelds. It suits users who want a customizable device with upgradeable RAM and storage, and who appreciate a classic vertical layout. It's capable of emulating N64, PSP, and Dreamcast games, making it a solid choice for fans of those libraries.

Buying Notes

Pricing ranges from $200 to $300, with a starting price of $285. The device was released in April 2021. Available colors include DMG gray, SNES gray, and pink. Note that the CM4 module is not included and must be purchased separately. The ceramic heatsink aids thermal management. As an open-source device, software setup may require some technical knowledge.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A72
GPUBroadcom VideoCore VI
RAM1 / 2 / 4 / 8 GB LPDDR4
NameLCL CM4 Boy
BrandChangLiang Li
Weight328 grams
Battery6200 mAh (replaceable)
CoolingCeramic heatsink
SpeakerMono
StorageBuilt-in 0 - 32 GB eMMC, MicroSD
Grip TypeVertical
ProcessorBroadcom BCM2711
Body ColorDMG gray, SNES gray, pink
Dimensions90 mm x 148 mm x 30 mm
Screen PPI228.57
Price Range$200 - $300
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityUSB-A, Bluetooth & WiFi
Release Date2021 / 04
Screen Ratio4:3
Video OutputHDMI
CPU Frequency1.5 GHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Starting Price$285
Operating SystemOpen-source
Screen Resolution640 x 480
GPU Core Frequency500 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores, 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportN64, PSP and Dreamcast playable

Full specs and updates on our site: https://www.oldman.dpdns.org/en/handheld/lcl-cm4-boy

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