Powkiddy RK2023 Review 2025: The Best Budget Retro Handheld?

I’ve spent the last three weeks testing the Powkiddy RK2023, putting it through its paces with everything from 8-bit classics to 64-bit adventures. After extensive hands-on testing, I can confidently say this handheld delivers exceptional value that punches well above its $107 price point.

The Powkiddy RK2023 is a budget-friendly retro gaming handheld featuring a 3.5-inch IPS display and RK3566 chipset, optimized for 8-bit to 64-bit game emulation, making it the perfect entry point for retro gaming enthusiasts on a budget.

What surprised me most about this device is how it addresses the core complaints I’ve heard about budget handhelds for years. The screen quality alone makes this worth considering, but there’s much more to discover about this surprisingly capable machine.

In this review, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the RK2023, from its real-world performance to who should (and shouldn’t) buy it. I’ve tested dozens of games across multiple emulators and even compared it directly to more expensive competitors.

Whether you’re new to retro gaming handhelds or looking for a secondary device, this review will help you decide if the Powkiddy RK2023 deserves your hard-earned money in 2025.

First Impressions: Beyond the Price Tag

When I first unboxed the Powkiddy RK2023, I was immediately struck by the build quality. For a device under $110, the plastic shell feels sturdy without the cheap creakiness I’ve experienced with other budget handhelds. The weight distribution feels balanced in my hands, and the matte finish helps minimize fingerprint smudges during long gaming sessions.

The ergonomics genuinely surprised me. After testing numerous handhelds, I’ve found that many prioritize aesthetics over comfort, but the RK2023 gets it right. The curved edges fit naturally in my palms, and the button placement feels intuitive after just minutes of play. I played through two-hour sessions without the hand fatigue I typically experience with smaller devices like the Anbernic RG353V.

What impressed me most about the initial experience was the screen. The 3.5-inch IPS display immediately stands out with its vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. Even in bright outdoor lighting, I could clearly see the action without squinting – a common problem with budget handhelds that often cut corners on display quality.

The initial setup process took about 15 minutes from unboxing to playing my first game. The device comes with basic firmware pre-installed, but I recommend updating to the latest community-developed version for the best experience. I’ll cover this process in more detail later, but even out of the box, the RK2023 delivers a solid gaming experience.

One small detail I appreciated was the inclusion of a screen protector in the box. While many manufacturers charge extra for this essential accessory, Powkiddy includes it right away, showing they understand the practical needs of handheld gaming enthusiasts who will inevitably take their devices on the go.

Technical Specifications and Features Breakdown

The Powkiddy RK2023 packs some impressive hardware for its price point. The heart of this device is the Rockchip RK3566 quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor running at 1.8GHz, which might not sound impressive on paper but handles emulation surprisingly well. Paired with 2GB of LPDDR4X RAM and an ARM Mali-G52 GPU, this configuration provides solid performance for most retro gaming needs.

Let me break down the key specifications that actually matter for your gaming experience:

• Display: 3.5-inch IPS screen with 640×480 resolution – The standout feature that immediately differentiates this device from competitors
• Processor: Rockchip RK3566 quad-core Cortex-A55 at 1.8GHz – Capable of handling systems up to PS1 with ease
• Memory: 2GB LPDDR4X RAM – Adequate for multitasking and running demanding emulators
• Storage: 16GB internal with expandable microSD slot – Essential for building a substantial game library
• Battery: 3500mAh capacity – Provides approximately 4-5 hours of real-world gaming time
• Operating System: Linux-based (Jelos or ArkOS) – Customizable firmware with active community support

The screen quality deserves special attention. During my testing, I found the IPS display offers exceptional color reproduction and viewing angles that make a significant difference in gaming enjoyment. The laminated screen reduces glare and improves touch responsiveness compared to non-laminated alternatives in this price range.

Storage expansion is handled through a single microSD card slot that supports cards up to 2TB. I tested with a 256GB card and had no issues with performance. The internal 16GB storage is adequate for the operating system and essential applications, but you’ll definitely want to invest in a quality microSD card for your game collection.

Connectivity options include a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and a micro HDMI output for connecting to external displays. While the base model lacks WiFi, this isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker since most retro gaming doesn’t require constant internet connectivity.

The RK2023 runs on Linux-based operating systems, with both Jelos and ArkOS being popular choices in the community. These operating systems provide a user-friendly interface for browsing and launching games, with extensive customization options for advanced users who want to tweak settings for optimal performance.

Gaming Performance: Emulation Capabilities Tested

Performance is where the Powkiddy RK2023 truly shines for its price point. I tested dozens of games across multiple console generations to provide you with a realistic assessment of what this device can handle.

For 8-bit and 16-bit systems, the RK2023 delivers flawless performance. Games from NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy Advance run at full speed with no frame drops. I tested classics like Super Mario World, Sonic the Hedgehog 2, and Final Fantasy VI, and all ran perfectly without any configuration needed.

The device really impressed me with PlayStation 1 emulation. I tested demanding titles like Crash Bandicoot, Final Fantasy VII, and Metal Gear Solid, and all ran at full speed with only minor graphical glitches that are common across all emulators. The 3D capabilities of the Mali-G52 GPU handle PS1 graphics better than I expected from a budget device.

Nintendo 64 emulation is where you’ll start to see some limitations. While popular titles like Super Mario 64 and Ocarina of Time run at playable speeds, more demanding games like Perfect Dark struggle with frame rates. If N64 gaming is your priority, you might want to consider a more powerful option like the Anbernic RG552.

One pleasant surprise was the device’s handling of arcade games. Using Final Burn Alpha, I tested classics like Street Fighter II and Metal Slug, and both ran perfectly. The responsive controls and vibrant screen make arcade gaming a particular strength of the RK2023.

I should note that performance can vary depending on the emulator and settings used. The community has optimized many emulators specifically for the RK3566 chipset, so I recommend checking forums for the best configurations for your favorite games.

For casual retro gaming, the Powkiddy RK2023 handles 95% of what most people want to play. Unless you’re specifically focused on demanding N64 titles or newer systems, this device provides more than adequate performance for an enjoyable retro gaming experience.

Battery Life and Real-World Usage

Battery life is often a deciding factor for portable gaming devices, and the Powkiddy RK2023 delivers mixed results in this area. The 3500mAh battery provided approximately 4 hours of continuous gaming during my testing with moderate screen brightness and volume levels.

This performance puts the RK2023 in line with most budget handhelds in this price range. More expensive devices like the Retroid Pocket 2S offer longer battery life, but they also come with significantly higher price tags. For the price point, 4 hours of battery life is acceptable, though not exceptional.

Charging takes about 2 hours using the included USB-C cable and a 5V/2A power adapter. I appreciated the USB-C connectivity, which means I can use the same charger as my phone and other devices, reducing the number of cables I need to carry when traveling.

Power management options allow you to extend battery life by reducing screen brightness, limiting CPU performance, and disabling unused features. These adjustments can add up to an additional hour of gameplay, which makes a significant difference during long travel days.

During a recent weekend trip, I found the battery life adequate for casual gaming sessions during transit. The RK2023 became my go-to device for waiting at airports and relaxing in hotel rooms, providing entertainment without draining my phone battery or requiring frequent recharging.

The device enters a low-power sleep mode when the screen is off, which is useful for pausing games without completely shutting down. I found this feature particularly helpful during short breaks, as I could resume my game almost instantly without going through a full boot process.

For the best battery performance, I recommend keeping the firmware updated and avoiding background processes that might drain power unnecessarily. The active community around this device regularly releases optimizations that can improve battery efficiency.

Honest Assessment: Pros and Cons

After extensive testing, I’ve compiled a balanced list of strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about the Powkiddy RK2023.

Reasons to Buy

The standout feature is undoubtedly the IPS screen, which offers exceptional brightness and color reproduction for a device in this price range. The viewing angles are impressive, making it comfortable to share with friends or play in various lighting conditions.

The ergonomic design deserves special praise. After hours of testing, I experienced minimal hand fatigue, which speaks to thoughtful design that prioritizes user comfort. The button layout feels natural, and the build quality inspires confidence despite the budget-friendly price.

Value for money is perhaps the strongest selling point. The RK2023 delivers performance that rivals devices twice its price, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to retro handheld gaming. The combination of capable hardware and a vibrant screen creates an enjoyable gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Community support is another significant advantage. The active development community around this device means regular firmware updates, optimized emulators, and extensive troubleshooting resources. This ongoing support ensures the device continues to improve over time.

Reasons to Avoid

The battery life is merely adequate rather than exceptional. At 4 hours of continuous gaming, you’ll need to plan for recharging during longer gaming sessions. This limitation might be problematic for travelers or those who prefer extended gaming without access to charging facilities.

The lack of WiFi on the base model limits convenience for updating software and downloading games. While this isn’t a deal-breaker for most retro gaming, it does add an extra step to the process of updating firmware and transferring files compared to WiFi-enabled alternatives.

Performance limitations become apparent with more demanding emulators. While 8-bit and 16-bit gaming is flawless, N64 and later systems struggle with frame rates and compatibility. If you’re specifically interested in more demanding systems, you might want to consider a more powerful alternative.

The device doesn’t include a protective case in the box, which is disappointing given the portable nature of handheld gaming. You’ll need to factor in the additional cost of a case to protect your investment during daily use and travel.

How It Compares to Alternatives (2025)?

The Powkiddy RK2023 exists in a competitive market with several notable alternatives. Understanding how it compares to other options will help you determine if it’s the right choice for your specific needs.

Compared to the Anbernic RG353M, the RK2023 offers a superior screen quality but lacks the dual-boot capability and WiFi connectivity. The RG353M typically costs around $150-170, making it significantly more expensive while offering similar performance for most gaming scenarios. If screen quality is your priority and you don’t need WiFi, the RK2023 provides better value.

The Retroid Pocket 2S represents a more premium option at approximately $180. It offers better overall performance and a more polished user experience, but the price increase is substantial. For budget-conscious gamers, the RK2023 delivers 80% of the performance for half the price, making it a smarter choice unless you specifically need the additional power of the 2S.

When compared to the Powkiddy RGB20S, the RK2023 features a more powerful chipset and better screen, but comes at a higher price point. The RGB20S uses the older RK3326 chipset, which struggles with PlayStation 1 emulation, while the RK2023 handles these games comfortably. The additional $30 for the RK2023 is well worth the performance upgrade.

For beginners to retro handhelds, the RK2023 represents the sweet spot between price and performance. Cheaper alternatives like the Miyoo Mini+ offer even lower prices but with significantly reduced capabilities and smaller screens that can be difficult to use for extended periods.

Advanced users who want maximum performance might still prefer devices like the Anbernic RG552 or Ayn Odin, but these come with significantly higher price tags ($250-400) that place them in a different category entirely. For most users, the RK2023 provides the best balance of price, performance, and portability.

Final Verdict: Is the Powkiddy RK2023 Worth It in 2025?

After three weeks of intensive testing, I can confidently recommend the Powkiddy RK2023 as the best budget retro handheld for most users in 2025. It delivers exceptional value with a combination of capable hardware, an outstanding screen, and thoughtful ergonomics that punch well above its price point.

The RK2023 succeeds by focusing on what matters most for retro gaming: a great screen, comfortable controls, and reliable performance for the most popular retro systems. While it doesn’t excel at N64 emulation or offer the longest battery life, these limitations are understandable given the price point and don’t significantly impact the enjoyment of 95% of retro games.

I recommend this device for beginners to retro handhelds, budget-conscious gamers, and anyone who prioritizes screen quality and ergonomics over maximum performance. The active community support ensures the device will continue to improve over time, adding value to your purchase long after you’ve unboxed it.

If you’re specifically focused on N64 gaming or need WiFi connectivity, you might want to consider more expensive alternatives. But for everyone else, the Powkiddy RK2023 delivers an enjoyable retro gaming experience that’s accessible without sacrificing quality.

The retro handheld market has become increasingly crowded in 2025, but the RK2023 stands out by understanding what budget-conscious gamers actually need. It’s not the most powerful device available, but it might be the smartest purchase for most people entering the exciting world of handheld retro gaming.