The Powkiddy RGB20 Pro arrived in late 2024 to surprisingly little fanfare. While flashier handhelds dominated headlines, this unassuming vertical device quietly earned a reputation among enthusiasts as something special. Reddit users have called it "the most underrated handheld" of the year—and after extensive testing, we're inclined to agree.
Released in October 2024 at a $70-80 price point, the RGB20 Pro combines a high-resolution 1024×768 display, capable RK3566 processor, and what many users describe as the most comfortable vertical handheld design ever made. In a market flooded with similar candybar-style devices, the RGB20 Pro distinguishes itself through thoughtful engineering that prioritizes the user experience over spec sheet bragging rights.
Design: Ergonomic Excellence
The RGB20 Pro's vertical candybar form factor evokes the classic Game Boy, but with modern refinements that make it genuinely comfortable for extended sessions. Measuring approximately 135 × 65 × 18mm, it strikes an ideal balance between screen size and pocketability.
What makes the ergonomics special:
- Curved back panel: The rear of the device features subtle contouring that nestles into your palms, reducing fatigue during long play sessions
- Thoughtful button placement: The D-pad and face buttons sit at natural thumb positions without excessive stretching
- Shoulder button accessibility: L1/R1 and L2/R2 are positioned for easy reach without hand contortion
- Weight distribution: At approximately 200g, it feels substantial without becoming burdensome
Multiple reviewers have declared this "the most comfortable vertical handheld" they've used—a bold claim in a category that includes well-regarded devices like the Anbernic RG35XX Plus and Miyoo Mini Plus. The RGB20 Pro somehow manages to feel more premium than its price suggests, with build quality that rivals devices costing twice as much.
Display: Sharper Than the Competition
The 3.2-inch IPS display is where the RGB20 Pro truly distinguishes itself from budget competitors. That 1024×768 resolution is the same panel found in the acclaimed TrimUI Brick—but Powkiddy paired it with a more powerful processor.
Why the resolution matters:
| System | Native Resolution | RGB20 Pro Scaling | Typical 640×480 Device |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game Boy | 160×144 | 6.4× perfect integer | 4.4× with filtering |
| GBA | 240×160 | 4× perfect integer | 2.6× with artifacts |
| SNES | 256×224 | 3.4× with minimal borders | 2.1× with stretching |
| PS1 | 320×240 | 2.6× sharp scaling | 2× soft/scaled |
The 4:3 aspect ratio is ideal for retro content, and that extra resolution headroom means sharper pixels, better text readability, and more scaling options without the blurriness that plagues typical 640×480 budget displays. Games look crisp and vibrant on this panel, with excellent color reproduction and viewing angles that IPS technology provides.
Performance: RK3566 Sweet Spot
Under the hood, the Rockchip RK3566 (Quad-core Cortex-A55 @ 1.8GHz with Mali-G52 GPU) provides exactly the right amount of power for its intended purpose. Paired with 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM and dual microSD slots for storage expansion, this is a proven configuration that delivers reliable performance without unnecessary cost inflation.
Emulation Capabilities:
Flawless (no compromises needed):
- NES, SNES, Game Boy/Color/Advance
- Sega Master System, Genesis/Mega Drive, Game Gear
- Neo Geo, PC Engine/TurboGrafx-16
- PlayStation 1 (excellent compatibility with upscaling)
Excellent (minor adjustments for best experience):
- Nintendo 64 (most titles run well, some need specific emulator settings)
- Dreamcast (lighter titles perform beautifully)
- PSP (simpler 2D games and many 3D titles work well)
Challenging (playable with limitations):
- More demanding PSP 3D titles
- Some N64 games with complex microcode
The RK3566 is the same chip found in the Powkiddy X55 and RGB10MAX3, but the RGB20 Pro's smaller screen and lower power requirements mean it runs cooler and more efficiently than its horizontal siblings. Battery life is a strength—expect 5-7 hours of active gameplay depending on the system being emulated.
The "Underrated" Factor
So why has the RGB20 Pro earned its "most underrated" reputation? Several factors contribute:
1. Overshadowed Launches: The RGB20 Pro launched alongside higher-profile devices, causing it to fly under many reviewers' radar. It didn't have the marketing push of Anbernic releases or the community hype of Miyoo products.
2. Powkiddy's Reputation: Powkiddy has historically been associated with ultra-budget devices that compromise on quality. The RGB20 Pro breaks that mold, but preconceptions have slowed its adoption among enthusiasts who dismiss the brand.
3. Screen Supply Constraints: The 1024×768 panel is the same one used in the TrimUI Brick, and both devices have faced availability challenges due to display supply limitations. The RGB20 Pro has sometimes been difficult to find in stock.
4. No Analog Sticks: Like the TrimUI Brick, the RGB20 Pro omits analog sticks—a deliberate choice for a retro-focused device that some gamers interpret as a limitation rather than purposeful design clarity.
The result is a device that punches well above its weight class, delivering an experience comparable to $100+ handhelds at a $70-80 price point, yet remaining relatively unknown outside dedicated enthusiast circles.
Software and Custom Firmware
The RGB20 Pro runs Linux-based firmware with excellent custom firmware support:
Stock Experience: The default firmware is functional but basic. It gets you playing games quickly without extensive configuration.
Knulli (Recommended): The community-developed Knulli firmware transforms the RGB20 Pro into a polished gaming device. It provides:
- Modern, attractive interface
- Better emulator optimizations
- Improved power management
- Regular community updates
Other Options:
- ROCKNIX: Well-maintained distribution with broad device support
- MuOS: Minimalist interface focused on performance
The CFW scene around the RGB20 Pro is active and growing, ensuring the device continues improving long after purchase.
Real-World Usage: Living with the RGB20 Pro
After several weeks of daily use, certain strengths and quirks emerge:
What Surprises:
- The screen quality genuinely elevates the experience compared to typical budget handhelds
- Build quality feels more premium than the price suggests
- Battery life exceeds expectations for a device this compact
- The vertical form factor is genuinely more pocketable than horizontal alternatives
What Requires Adjustment:
- No analog sticks means some N64 and PSP games need control remapping
- The 3.2-inch screen, while sharp, may feel small to users accustomed to larger handhelds
- Speaker quality is adequate but not exceptional (use headphones for best audio)
The Comfort Factor: The "most comfortable vertical handheld" claim isn't hyperbole. The curved back, button positioning, and weight distribution create a device you can play for hours without hand strain. For bedtime gaming, commutes, or casual couch sessions, the ergonomics are genuinely excellent.
Comparison: RGB20 Pro vs. The Competition
vs. Anbernic RG35XX Plus ($85-95)
The RG35XX Plus is the RGB20 Pro's closest competitor, featuring similar RK3566 power in a vertical form factor.
| Feature | RGB20 Pro | RG35XX Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 3.2" 1024×768 IPS | 3.5" 640×480 IPS |
| Resolution Advantage | Sharper display | Standard budget resolution |
| Ergonomics | Excellent curved design | Good, more angular |
| Battery | 3500mAh | 3300mAh |
| Analog Sticks | No | No |
| Price | $70-80 | $85-95 |
Verdict: The RGB20 Pro wins on display sharpness, ergonomics, and price. The RG35XX Plus offers a slightly larger screen and Anbernic's brand reputation. For pure value, the RGB20 Pro is the smarter buy.
vs. TrimUI Brick ($85-100)
This comparison is particularly interesting since both devices share the same 1024×768 display panel.
| Feature | RGB20 Pro | TrimUI Brick |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 3.2" 1024×768 IPS | 3.2" 1024×768 IPS (same panel!) |
| Processor | RK3566 (more powerful) | Allwinner A133 (weaker) |
| Performance | Better N64/PSP | Limited to PS1 and below |
| Battery | 3500mAh | 3000mAh |
| Price | $70-80 | $85-100 |
Verdict: The RGB20 Pro delivers the same beautiful screen with significantly more processing power at a lower price. Unless you specifically prefer the TrimUI brand or interface, the RGB20 Pro is objectively the better value.
vs. Miyoo Mini Plus ($65-75)
The Mini Plus is the darling of the ultra-budget vertical handheld market.
| Feature | RGB20 Pro | Miyoo Mini Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 3.2" 1024×768 IPS | 3.5" 640×480 IPS |
| Processor | RK3566 | Allwinner A133 |
| Performance | Better N64/PSP | PS1 focused |
| Ergonomics | Excellent | Good, very compact |
| Community | Growing | Massive (OnionOS) |
Verdict: The Miyoo Mini Plus wins on community support and ultra-portability. The RGB20 Pro wins on display quality and performance headroom. Both are excellent; choose based on whether you prioritize screen sharpness (RGB20 Pro) or software ecosystem (Mini Plus).
Who Should Buy the RGB20 Pro?
Buy it if:
- You want the sharpest screen available in a sub-$100 vertical handheld
- Ergonomics and comfort matter for long gaming sessions
- You primarily play PS1 and earlier systems but want N64/PSP capability
- Budget is a consideration (it's cheaper than direct competitors)
- You appreciate underrated gems over mainstream recommendations
- You want the TrimUI Brick's screen with more processing power
Skip it if:
- You need analog sticks for specific games
- You prefer horizontal handheld layouts
- You want maximum community support and custom firmware options (Miyoo Mini Plus wins here)
- PS2, GameCube, or later systems are your priority
- You already own a TrimUI Brick or Anbernic RG35XX Plus (incremental upgrade, not transformative)
The Verdict
The Powkiddy RGB20 Pro earns its "most underrated" reputation through a combination of thoughtful design, excellent display quality, and genuine value. It's a device that exceeds expectations at every turn—the screen is sharper than competitors, the ergonomics are better than devices costing twice as much, and the performance hits the sweet spot for retro gaming.
At $70-80, it represents exceptional value. The 1024×768 display alone justifies the price difference over typical 640×480 budget devices, and when combined with the comfortable design and capable RK3566 processor, the package becomes compelling.
If you've dismissed Powkiddy based on their historical budget offerings, the RGB20 Pro demands a reconsideration. This isn't a compromise device—it's a purpose-built retro gaming handheld that understands exactly what enthusiasts want and delivers it at a fair price.
Rating: 8.5/10 – The RGB20 Pro proves that Powkiddy can compete on quality, not just price. Its only real limitation is availability; when you find one in stock, buy it.