Powkiddy has announced the V90S, a budget-friendly clamshell handheld that brings significant upgrades to the original V90 formula. Released in May 2025, this GBA SP-style device targets the ultra-budget segment with a compelling mix of modern specs and retro charm at just $39.99 with code V90SGOOD (regular $44.99).
For US customers, the total comes to $49.99 including shipping—a notable milestone as Powkiddy resumes US shipments following tariff-related delays earlier in 2025.
Major Upgrades Over the Original V90
The V90S isn't just a refresh—it's a meaningful evolution that addresses the original's biggest weaknesses:
| Feature | Original V90 | V90S |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 3" 320x240 | 3.5" 640x480 IPS |
| Battery | 1040mAh | 3000mAh |
| Screen Tearing | Present | Fixed |
| Processor | Allwinner F1C100s | Allwinner A133 |
| RAM | 512MB | 1GB DDR3 |
The jump from a 3-inch 320x240 screen to a 3.5-inch 640x480 IPS panel transforms the experience. That resolution provides perfect 2x integer scaling for GBA games (240x160 → 480x320), while the 4:3 aspect ratio accommodates SNES, Genesis, and PS1 titles beautifully.
The battery upgrade is equally dramatic—3000mAh vs 1040mAh means roughly 6 hours of gameplay compared to the original's 2-3 hours. Perhaps most importantly, the V90S eliminates the screen tearing that plagued the original V90, delivering smooth, consistent visuals.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 3.5-inch IPS, 640 x 480 (4:3) |
| Processor | Allwinner A133 (Quad-core ARM) |
| RAM | 1GB DDR3 |
| Storage | 2x microSD slots (up to 256GB each) |
| Battery | 3000mAh, 5V/2A charging |
| Battery Life | ~6 hours |
| Wi-Fi | External via USB-OTG adapters only |
| Bluetooth | Not included |
| Dimensions | 89 x 85 x 26.5 mm |
| Colors | Yellow, Red, Grey, Transparent Black |
| Extras | Vibration motor, double hinge design |
| CFW Support | Knulli compatible |
The Allwinner A133 is the same chip found in the Powkiddy V20 and TrimUI Brick, delivering solid performance for 8-bit through 16-bit systems plus capable PS1 and GBA emulation. It's not a powerhouse, but it's perfectly suited for the 5th generation console era and earlier.
Connectivity Limitations
One cost-cutting measure to note: the V90S lacks built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Wireless connectivity requires external USB-OTG adapters (compatible chips: RTL8723BU, 8812AU, 8821CU). This won't matter for offline retro gaming, but it's a limitation for those wanting wireless controller pairing or internet connectivity without dongles.
Comparison: V90S vs. The Competition
At $40, the V90S dramatically undercuts every other clamshell handheld on the market:
| Device | Price | Screen | Battery | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powkiddy V90S | $39.99 | 3.5" 640x480 IPS | 3000mAh | Cheapest clamshell |
| Anbernic RG34XXSP | ~$75-95 | 3.4" 720x480 IPS | 3300mAh | Better build, analog sticks |
| Miyoo Flip | ~$70-80 | 3.5" 720x480 IPS | ~2000mAh | More compact |
| AYN Thor | $249+ | Dual 6" + 3.92" AMOLED | 6000mAh | Android, dual-screen |
The RG34XXSP offers better build quality, dual analog sticks, and more refined software, but costs nearly twice as much. The V90S matches its battery capacity and exceeds its screen size while hitting a price point that's almost impulse-buy territory.
Versus the Miyoo Flip, the V90S offers a larger battery and lower price, though the Flip has a more premium feel and better community support.
Custom Firmware Support
The V90S runs Knulli, a community-developed firmware based on the TrimUI Smart Pro's system. This means:
- Regular updates and active development
- Support for a wide range of emulators
- Better interface than stock Powkiddy firmware
- Community-driven improvements
Knulli compatibility is a significant value-add for a budget device, extending its useful lifespan as the community continues optimizing performance.
Who Is This For?
Buy the V90S if:
- You want the cheapest viable clamshell handheld
- You love the GBA SP form factor but don't want to pay $75+
- Your gaming is primarily 8-bit through GBA/PS1 era
- You want a secondary "beat around" device for commutes
- You're curious about custom firmware without risking expensive hardware
Skip it if:
- You need built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
- You want analog sticks for N64/PSP gaming
- Build quality is your top priority (RG34XXSP is noticeably more premium)
- You expect flawless PS1 performance (it's capable but not perfect)
- You're uncomfortable tinkering with firmware
The Bottom Line
The Powkiddy V90S represents a new floor for clamshell handheld pricing. At $39.99, it's hard to complain about compromises like external-only Wi-Fi or the lack of Bluetooth. The core experience—playing retro games on a compact, folding device with a nice screen and all-day battery—is fully realized.
For first-time handheld buyers, GBA enthusiasts on a budget, or anyone wanting a pocketable backup device, the V90S is a compelling option. It proves that the GBA SP magic doesn't require a $100 investment anymore.
Available now from Powkiddy with code V90SGOOD for $39.99. US shipping is available again after months of tariff-related restrictions.