Head-to-Head
GKD Mini Plus vs GKD Mini Plus Classic
GKD Mini Plus vs GKD Mini Plus Classic: a head-to-head comparison of specs, performance, screen, battery, and which one is the better buy for your retro library.
| Spec | GKD Mini Plus | GKD Mini Plus Classic |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Game Kiddy | Game Kiddy |
| Form Factor | Vertical | Vertical |
| Operating System | Linux: JELOS (Unofficial) | Linux: JELOS (Unofficial) |
| Chipset | RockChip RK3566 | RockChip RK3566 |
| RAM | 1 GB LPDDR4 (Source) | 1 GB LPDDR4 (Source) |
| Screen | 3.5 inch | 3.5 inch |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 | 640 x 480 |
| Battery | 3000 mAh | 3000 mAh |
| Price | $109 $123 (with dock) | $139 (Preorder) $149 (Early Bird) $159 (Kickstarter) |
The GKD Mini Plus and GKD Mini Plus Classic are two retro handhelds that often end up on the same shortlist. They are not identical, and the right choice depends on what you actually want to play and how much you want to spend.
Performance and emulation ceiling
The GKD Mini Plus is powered by a RockChip RK3566 with 1 GB LPDDR4 (Source). The GKD Mini Plus Classic uses a RockChip RK3566 with 1 GB LPDDR4 (Source). On our performance scale, the GKD Mini Plus scores 5.5 and the GKD Mini Plus Classic scores 5.5. The GKD Mini Plus grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. The GKD Mini Plus Classic grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. In practice, the GKD Mini Plus reaches N64, PSP & Dreamcast mostly playable but not all full speed. The GKD Mini Plus Classic reaches N64, PSP & Dreamcast mostly playable but not all full speed.
Screen and ergonomics
The GKD Mini Plus has a 3.5 inch display at 640 x 480. The GKD Mini Plus Classic has a 3.5 inch display at 640 x 480. The GKD Mini Plus is a vertical device, while the GKD Mini Plus Classic is vertical. That shape difference matters for how the device feels in the hand and how comfortable it is for longer sessions.
Battery and price
The GKD Mini Plus carries a 3000 mAh battery, and the GKD Mini Plus Classic a 3000 mAh battery. On price, the GKD Mini Plus sits around $109 $123 (with dock), while the GKD Mini Plus Classic is around $139 (Preorder) $149 (Early Bird) $159 (Kickstarter).
Which should you buy?
Choose the GKD Mini Plus if its specific strengths match your library, and the GKD Mini Plus Classic if its tradeoffs suit you better. The best handheld is the one that makes the games you actually play feel natural.