Head-to-Head
X35S vs PowKiddy RGB30
X35S vs PowKiddy RGB30: a head-to-head comparison of specs, performance, screen, battery, and which one is the better buy for your retro library.
| Spec | X35S | PowKiddy RGB30 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | PowKiddy | PowKiddy |
| Form Factor | Vertical | Horizontal |
| Operating System | Linux | Linux (JELOS) |
| Chipset | RockChip RK3566 | RockChip RK3566 |
| RAM | 1 GB LPDDR4X | 1 GB LPDDR4 |
| Screen | 3.5 inch | 4.0 inch |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 | 720 x 720 |
| Battery | 3000 mAh | 4100 mAh |
| Price | $60 | $90 |
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The X35S and PowKiddy RGB30 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 X35S is powered by a RockChip RK3566 with 1 GB LPDDR4X. The PowKiddy RGB30 uses a RockChip RK3566 with 1 GB LPDDR4. On our performance scale, the X35S scores 10/10 and the PowKiddy RGB30 scores 10/10. The X35S grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. The PowKiddy RGB30 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 X35S reaches N64, PSP & Dreamcast mostly playable but not all full speed. The PowKiddy RGB30 reaches N64, PSP & Dreamcast mostly playable but not all full speed.
Screen and ergonomics
The X35S has a 3.5 inch display at 640 x 480. The PowKiddy RGB30 has a 4.0 inch display at 720 x 720. The X35S is a vertical device, while the PowKiddy RGB30 is horizontal. That shape difference matters for how the device feels in the hand and how comfortable it is for longer sessions.
Battery and price
The X35S carries a 3000 mAh battery, and the PowKiddy RGB30 a 4100 mAh battery. On price, the X35S sits around $60, while the PowKiddy RGB30 is around $90.
Which should you buy?
Choose the X35S if its specific strengths match your library, and the PowKiddy RGB30 if its tradeoffs suit you better. The best handheld is the one that makes the games you actually play feel natural.