Skip to main content
Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard,3.5" HD IPS, 20+ Emulators, Open Source Linux with Custom Firmware Support. Your Ultimate Portable for 8 to 64-Bit Classic Games(Purple)
PIVPIV

PIVPIV Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard

Bottom line: The PIVPIV Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard is a specs-and-price decision rather than a crowd-consensus one in the emulation hardware category. Check the specification table below against one or two close alternatives — on price and spec fit, not on star ratings.

Check price on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, SpecPicks earns from qualifying purchases. Full disclosure →

Check price on Amazon → Compare to similar emulation hardware

By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For emulation handhelds, FPGA consoles and flash carts, synthesises manufacturer documentation, community compatibility lists and independent reviews rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Backed by PIVPIV's warranty and support channels

Cons

  • ✗ Check the listed dimensions, connectors and platform compatibility against your setup before ordering
  • ✗ Price, stock, shipping and returns are set by the retailer and may have changed since this page was last updated

Manufacturer description

Original PCB Versions --V21 Original hardware! Supports a variety of custom firmware such as ArkOS/AmberELEC/dArkOS/ROCKNIX/Android (The above systems are not preinstalled on the device and are only supported at the hardware level; knowledge of flashing custom firmware on your own is required.) SOC:RK3326 1.5GHz Cortex-A35 RAM:1GB DDR3L(512+512MB) Screen: 3.5" IPS ( Panel4 ) Others: Dual Joys / OTG / Type-C / 3.5mm Jack

Related Products

Other products in this category you may like:

SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored PIVPIV Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the emulation hardware category. PIVPIV's emulation hardware lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for emulation hardware of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Key Features

  • [Open-Source Emulator] Relive the golden age of retro gaming with the R36S handheld console! It supports a vast library of classic games from this era and is compatible with over 20 emulators. Dual TF card slots provide flexible, massive storage expansion, allowing you to embark on an endless journey of retro gaming
  • [Custom Firmware Supported] Powered by the robust RK3326 chip, this retro handheld ensures smooth performance for its extensive classic game library. It supports various open-source custom firmware,enabling you to personalize your handheld gaming experience
  • [IPS Display] Immerse yourself in vibrant worlds on the crisp 3.5-inch IPS screen, which delivers sharp images and vivid colors
  • [Long-Lasting Battery] With a built-in 3500mAh battery, enjoy extended playtime. USB Type-C charging (5V/2A) is supported. It is forbidden to use an adapter higher than 5V2A for charging, as this will cause damage to the device
  • [User Guide]This device supports a wide range of emulators, and the operation methods and shortcut keys vary among different emulators. Please refer to the user guide uploaded on the product page or explore them by yourself—it is also part of the fun!If you have any questions, please contact us via Amazon

Full Specifications

BrandPIVPIV
ColorPurple
ThemeRetro
Weight128g
PlatformLinux
Unit Count1 Count
Form FactorHandheld
Screen Size3.5 inches
ConnectivityUSB
Display TypeIPS
Power SourceBattery Powered
CompatibilityLinux
Material TypePlastic
Controller TypeButton Control
Item Dimensions5.12 x 3.27 x 1.38 inches
Number of Items1
Included Components128G TFcard
Number of Batteries1 Nonstandard Battery batteries required. (included)
Platform for DisplayLinux
Memory Storage Capacity128 GB
Full listing titleOriginal R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard,3.5" HD IPS, 20+ Emulators, Open Source Linux with Custom Firmware Support. Your Ultimate Portable for 8 to 64-Bit Classic Games(Purple)

Ready to buy?

Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard,3.5" HD IPS, 20+ Emulators, Open Source Linux with Custom Firmware Support. Your Ultimate Portable for 8 to 64-Bit Classic Games(Purple) is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

Check price on Amazon →

Related Emulation Hardware

Keep exploring SpecPicks

Other buying guides

Browse the catalog

Editorial

More guides & deep dives from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all articles & guides →

More reviews from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all reviews →

Earliest SpecPicks reviews

Browse full archive →
Original R36S Handheld Retro Game Console: 128g TFcard,3.5" HD IPS, 20+ Emulators, Open Source Linux with Custom Firmware Support. Your Ultimate Portable for 8 to 64-Bit Classic Games(Purple)
View on Amazon →