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LCL Pi Gameboy Review: A DIY Raspberry Pi Handheld

LCL Pi Gameboy Review: A DIY Raspberry Pi Handheld

Overview

The LCL Pi Gameboy, crafted by ChangLiang Li, is a DIY-style handheld gaming console that repurposes a Raspberry Pi (3A+, 3B, or 3B+) into a portable retro gaming machine. It mimics the iconic Gameboy design while packing modern internals for emulating classic consoles up to the PlayStation 1 era. With a large 7000 mAh battery and a 3.5-inch IPS screen, it offers extended play sessions and vibrant visuals.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Broadcom BCM2837B0 (1.4 GHz) or BCM2837 (1.2 GHz), quad-core Cortex-A53
  • Memory: 512 MB DDR2 (3A+) or 1 GB DDR2 (3B, 3B+)
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 480x320 resolution, 3:2 aspect ratio, 60 Hz
  • Storage: External MicroSD card
  • Battery: 7000 mAh
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet (3B, 3B+)
  • Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Weight: 363 grams
  • Dimensions: 146 x 89 x 31 mm

Who It Is For

The LCL Pi Gameboy is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts and tinkerers who enjoy DIY projects. It suits players who want to emulate systems like SNES, PS1, and N64 on the go, and who appreciate a customizable, open-source platform. However, it may not be for those seeking a polished, out-of-the-box experience, as it requires some setup and knowledge of Raspberry Pi.

Buying Notes

The device was released around 2017 with a starting price of $195, and typically ranges between $150 and $200. It is available in multiple translucent and solid colors. Since it uses a Raspberry Pi, performance varies by model: the 3B+ offers the best speed. Note that N64 and NDS emulation may not be full speed. The device lacks video output and vibration. Check for current availability from third-party sellers or DIY kits.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A53
GPUBroadcom VideoCore IV
NameLCL Pi Gameboy
BrandChangLiang Li
Memory512 MB DDR2 (3A+) / 1 GB DDR2 (3B, 3B+)
Weight363 grams
Battery7000 mAh
SpeakerMono
StorageExternal MicroSD
Grip TypeVertical
ProcessorBroadcom BCM2837B0 / Broadcom BCM2837
Body ColorBlack, Black Transparent, DMG Gray, Orange Transparent, Green Transparent, Transparent, Orange, White
Dimensions146 mm x 89 mm x 31 mm
Screen PPI164.83
Price Range$150 - $200
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityBluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet (3B, 3B+)
Release Date2017
Screen Ratio3:2
CPU Frequency1.4 GHz (3A+, 3B+) / 1.2 GHz (3B)
Shell MaterialPlastic
Starting Price$195
Operating SystemOpen-source system
Screen Resolution480 x 320
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 may not run at full speed)

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

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