GKD Pixel Second-Look Review: I'm Loving It.
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- čas přidán 16. 05. 2024
- I think now is the time to reconsider the GKD Pixel, one of the best micro handhelds available today. Its price has dropped, and new software updates have greatly improved the user interface and performance with some of the more tricky systems.
Buy one here: bit.ly/GKDpixel
Install MinUI and Add-Ons: github.com/retrogamecorps/GKD...
Turns out there is a screen protector! amzn.to/3PPMmPQ
Other links mentioned in this video:
MinUI: github.com/shauninman/MinUI
Waterfield micro wallet: www.sfbags.com/collections/wa...
TrimUI Smart: • The TrimUI Smart is No...
This was a review unit sent to me by KeepRetro. All opinions are my own, they did not see this review ahead of time, and no money was exchanged in any way.
Ways to support this channel:
YT channel membership: / @retrogamecorps
Patreon: / retrogamecorps
Ko-Fi: ko-fi.com/retrogamecorps
00:00 introduction
01:28 specs and portability
02:35 likes/dislikes update
08:18 GKD Pixel MinUI add-ons
09:01 the finished experience
18:54 installing MinUI and add-ons
30:18 summary and conclusion
Find me on Discord! / discord
Theme song written by Jim Gray of Our Ghosts:
ourghosts.bandcamp.com/track/...
More music here: / posts
Keyboard shown in my videos: bit.ly/RGCnuphy
^^ use code "RGC10" for 10% off your order
Note that this description may contain affiliate links. By clicking on an affiliate link and buying something, I may earn a small commission of the sale at no extra cost to you. You can read more about that here: retrogamecorps.com/about/
This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
#GKD #GKDPixel #emulation #retrohandheld #minUI - Hry
still on my radar this one. Very tempted.
I'm glad this is getting some support. The form factor is appealing, but I had heard there were issues with devs not wanting to support it for various reasons.
Love your videos! You put so much hard work into them and it’s so appreciated!! ❤❤
I love this little device. I almost passed on it because I figured it would be too uncomfortable, but I'm glad I didn't because it's not that bad when I position my index fingers on the top buttons. It now lives in my pocket.
My only gripe is actually with MinUi. I wish it had a video player, because this thing can play a decent number of videos and old tv shows on the stock UI. A very minor complaint at the end of the day, but it would still be cool to have.
Just got my Pixel last week and I love it. I’m replaying Chrono Trigger as we speak and I do it in 10-15 minute sessions. I officially love playing RPGs again just for that reason alone lol.
Can you add games to this device?
@@squirlydan6931 yes you can!
@@squirlydan6931 this is late bute yes you can! All emulators devices afaik allow you to connect the sd card to your computer and add games
@@squirlydan6931 yes
i'm waiting mine gkd to arrive, for me the Portability is the most important factor today... so thanks for the video, i'll try the MinUI as soon as possible
The video I’ve been waiting for. Thank you Russ!
Def getting one. Digging the design choices and WiFi for RA. Time to try something other than Anbernic. Thanks for all the work you put into these videos man.
Just received mine and added your MinUI code. Love it. It's the perfect pocket Pokemon machine.
Great review, Russ! I’m definitely interested in this for those “pick up and play” moments you mentioned. I thought it odd that you said arcade games would be best considering the screen size. But then I thought “pick up and play” which coin-op arcade games are designed for. Great take!
Also, WHAT THE HECK IS NINJA BASEBALL BATMAN?! That sounds like the best game ever
Also also, I really appreciate how much work you put into these videos/guides and all the extra packs you offer to make the retro gaming experience even better. Thank you!
If the Miyoo Mini wasn't available I'd strongly consider this, cause I do love a metal shell, but with the Miyoo Mini V4 being pretty available these days, hard to justify a different micro console in my opinion
Hard not to feel this way when Onion Os has essentially been refined to perfection I recently got a Retroid Pocket for higher end stuff but still use my mini more because of game switcher alone.
agreed. Miyoo mini is small enough already
Not rly available....
I have mine in my pocket right now. I love it, I never leave home without it and it has served me so well these last couple of months. I'll never be bored with my Pixel on hand. Playing through DQ3 on GBC add FF9 on PSX currently.
This device really is the king of 4:3 480p emulation of micro handhelds
@@ramrodbldm9876I don't know what you expected in the comments section for the Retro Game Corps channel
@@PatrickLofstrom why are you so butthurt, Patrick? go be a baby elsewhere.
@@ramrodbldm9876I mean, if you clicked this video yeah you’re a geek lmao
@@ramrodbldm9876Own that nerd
Hey Russ love your vids! Still can’t wait for the future video for the FPGBC! (Day 3 of asking)😁
Been really liking this device. It's been my throw into my workbag to pick up and play while taking a coffee break device. Using Moto's mod of the stock OS with XMAME added back for arcade performance.
Good thing my hands are already used to holding something “micro”
Woa let's not talk about our "micro" private parts, this is a public space sir
😂
Look down at my micro and say "yeah man I wanna do it."
I wonder if they have a nano
It's about how you use it 😢
Russ, my mits are cramping just watching this current video, time to go to OT!
Perfect timing. I just ordered one a few days ago.
I have other small devices like the Mitoo mini plus, but even though they're technically pocketable for most people they're not really for me. I don't have cargo pants and my left front pocket has my phone and my right front pocket is normally my wallet. So I don't have a lot of extra pocket space. And I've almost broken devices by putting them in my back pocket and forgetting about them and sitting on them so I don't like doing that. So I need something tiny that I can throw in my front right pocket without a lot of added bulk that I can easily just pull out in waiting rooms if I'm getting my car service or doctor appointment or whatever.
This will most likely be replacing my trim UI Smart as my super portable device.
Just ordered mine yesterday from the cheapest Aliexpress seller for 8.600 Yen (56$). The blue one ! I also ordered the pack of three 9H screen protectors, and just few hours after, this video came out ! 😁
Ahhh Yes, the Eye Strainer Handheld, i love these.
For those that play this one handed and wears rings, you may want to consider a printed protective case for the device itself.
I wear a ring on my left pointer finger, and in one-handed play it is lined up "absolutely perfectly" against the back edge and can easily scuff it up.
My personal review:
The resolution might be low but it downscales 480p content perfectly. Every 480p console plays perfect here. All gameboys here however have very awkward scaling and extremely unbalanced pixels tho... the best micro device for gameboy and gameboy color is still the rg nano. This one is great for everything but gameboy. Gameboy advance is great on the V4 miyoo mini because that screen has almost perfect gba scaling.
The speaker on this gkd mini is downright amazing and very underrated. It actually has a lot of low end! Sound is very rich and full. All miyoos sound tiny in comparison.
The screen could be IPS for the price, not to metion 480p. 240p is "fine", but it could at least be IPS, because it is TN for sure. It is a very good TN at least.
Build quality is perfect.
Buttons feel perfect in my opinion. The weight they have because of them being metal, gives you an experience that I never had before. Weighty, solid buttons with rubber membranes is actually addicting to click, and now all my other handhelds feel like they have cheap hollow buttons... oh well.
D-Pad is actually lowkey amazing because of this.
I eliminared all rattle by opening it and putting some tape between the buttons and the switches. Only did it on the side buttons, others are fine. While inside I discovered that everything from the buttons themselves to even that think that routes the light from the leds to that right side light bar is all metal, even if it didnt need to! All buttons are metal too, the front buttons, the side buttons, all of them! Yes, EVEN THE R1/2 and L1/2 are metal! This device has such an extremely high build quality level that it actually justifies its price. The speaker has those little balls inside that modern high end phones have to make it sound fuller too. This device shows an extreme effort from GKD and I love that. I hope the next iteration brings an IPS 480p screen and it should be declared the king of micro handhelds. (Maybe a better CPU and OS too)
I'm a bit sad it's not as good for GB, GBC, GBA.
@@bipbop3121Its fine for GB and GBC, but GBA has weird scaling, because the 240p screen doesn't scale GBA very well. It's usable though, but I still prefer playing GBA on miyoo mini v4 (the v4 screen is amazing for GBA)
Using the rg280v and love it, way more comfy while still being a micro device. Just wish it had more updated software.
The 280V is great, its main drawback for me is the screen resolution and scaling.
Indeed, RG280V with MinUI sounds like it would be amazing.
Russ, there are glass screen protectors for it, I got mine from Aliexpress, 3 for $15. They are made for the Pixel specifically and are from a very reputable manufacturer of glass screen protectors.
Also, love the Waterfield case. I use a Waterfield Vita Case for my KTR1, but they make some of the best bags and cases.
Very helpful thank you!!
Thank you!
Found the screen protector, thanks! The same supplier is on Amazon, just grabbed it. Here is the link if anyone is interested and finds this comment: amzn.to/3PPMmPQ
@@RetroGameCorps great find, cancelled AliExpress and ordered Amazon. Thanks! I’m excited to use this guide once my Pixel arrives
Smashed that Like button for Hepcat! ❤
Retro is fun and all but I would love to be able to play indie Steam games on these types of devices...
You know… all year I was looking in the background looking for patterns for the next April fools. 😢
Love your vids!
You can't keep tempting me like this! I already have a MM+ and the 35xx+ but a slightly more pocketable one is very tempting. The only thing holding me back is lack of NDS support. I think my ideal handheld for older hardware would be a touch screen version the the 35xx+.
If you want something small and pocketable with NDS support than the og Miyoo Mini might be your best bet. It still doesn’t have a touch screen but most games run very well on it I love being to carry such a tiny device with me that’s capable of Mario Kart DS and 64 Ds
Hey! Love your pedro tee shirt! Control was one of my favorite albums back in the day. Indian Summer and Penetration still come across my playlists.
Keep up the great work. Got my miyoos cause of you.
It looks so clean.
If the purple color was still available I would pull the trigger. That one looked amazing. The red one is still cool, but I don't really need one of these since I already have the MM+ so it's hard to justify.
Same!! 💜
Might be a good time to show off some horizontal shmups! Like Darius Gaiden!
you can use any silicon android screen protector that can be cut using just scissors.
they feel smooth and strong.
man seeing you make your own emulators n add-ons for the minui for the GKDPixel makes me wish i was capable of doing so for the RG35xx+ i love minui but theres a few things i wish it had like psp emulator for 35xx+ and the scanline and dotmatrix filters for games (and maybe not make the filters limited to native size only)
I wish they would release more of the Evangelion purple one
I want one !!! Mostly for a portable beater
This is my next purchase russ!
Hey Russ, thanks for this really interesting video! It made me think about whether this kind of treatment would be possible for the RG35XX H version of MinUI. From your experience on this mod, do you think it might work out to add more emulators there as well?
I like MinUI a lot, but I am missing Pico8 on the RG35XX H for example.
It's certainly possible, it would require someone to compile RA cores to work with the device (which might be pretty easy since the stock OS has RA cores) and then adjust the launcher apps to accommodate them. There are probably other backend things that need to happen, but I was surprised to find how easy it was to add other pre-compiled RA cores (like Fake08) to my GKD Pixel setup.
@@RetroGameCorps I was wondering the same thing if it was possible to do in a Miyoo Mini Plus. I love the simplicity of MinUI. But I enjoy the configurability of OnionOS. However, if I could play the same games on MinUI I would make the switch.
My commute has me regularly switching busses and trains, so portability is my top priority.
I've been rediscovering my CFW'd 3DS but this might be a bit more consistent.
This device is a KILLER for RPGs and puzzles!!!
Im big fan of you ... we need a video of Ayaneo NEXT lite review !!!
I love this little device (got the purple one).
Here are the solutions for running all ps1 games at full speed and fixing the audio issue using the stock emulator:
-Overclock settings > auto overclock: on, max overclock: 6 (anything beyond this will freeze the device). This will overclock the device on demand
-SPU settings > Interpolation: gaussian or cubic. This will fix the screeching audio
-After that, Save settings > save global settings
Enjoy :)
I still think they should make a plastic version to bring down the cost more. Metal is just not needed when wanting a device on a budget. I feel like this would be a stellar 40-50usd device if it was made with plastic instead.
The thing is some people want a micro device that isn’t a budget device but is more premium.
The entire point of this device is the metal shell and premium feel. If you want a plastic shell just get a miyoo mini or anbernic 280v.
I've been watching this channel for a bit now, but the GKD Pixel might be the one to convince me to jump in and buy one of these handhelds.
Will I be able to use a regular USB-C to connect this to my MacBook to back-up the files, upgrade the OS, etc. or am I going to need another device to do any of this? (Also, can I even do this without a PC?)
Is the Neo Geo emulator the pocket one? I have the MMP and I love to use the MINUI but I hate that I can't play my favorite games from the Neo Geo library
I played some of the recent Metroid games on my Miyoo mini plus and I thought it was borderline too small. I can't imagine playing them on this.
I still stand by my previous comments on these micro devices: If you're over 45 forget it! I'd need a powerful microscope to view the screen, and some decent anti-inflammatories to negate the arthritic cramping!
even if I was half my age it just doesn't appeal to me, it's too small.
Even pushing 40. The miyoo mini was already too small for me. Nevermind this micro deal.
Good, more for us (though this is too big for me I much prefer the Funkey S)
@@gs8494 thatswhatshesaid
I see these devices more as a proof-of-concept than something to actually play on. It's great that you CAN make systems like these. But, if I want to actually play a game, I'm never reaching for one of these ... if for no other reason than I like to be able to actually SEE what I'm playing. Miyoo Mini Plus is about the smallest screen and control setup that I'd reach for to play in 2024.
Ok, seeing the size of this device. I'd love to see a similarly sized one that tries to make viable one handed gaming. Would be great for turn based games. With buttons in the right placements, I think that can be viable.
hey, unrelated question here. Between the RG552 and the RGB30, which one should I get for my first device? Or which one do you prefer currently?
I think the RG Nano is more of a music player though. I think maybe people missed that. Does this have lossless audio?
Intro was gold lol
Is there anything around this size but in a landscape form factor? I’m essentially looking for something like the gameboy micro but with a slightly larger, more modern screen
What version of Virtua Racing was running in the background around 3min10 ? It looks too crisp for the original but it's on a CRT so not a Switch.
Or was I baited and you just edited a video into it ? Or a video of the Switch version ?
That's the 32X version. It's from a screensaver utility in Batocera, so it's a video file downloaded from scraping the game, not the game itself.
Handhelds/Consoles that display the actual name of arcade games are using scrapers to get the name. I don't think there's a systematic way to retrieve the game name from the rom zip, sadly. So yeah, for a youtuber trying to be an engineer, you did pretty darn good! :)
I love my trimui smart but i have to run it at performance mode in MinUI for Pokemon Unbound. How does that game perform on this?
How does the size compare to a standard credit card? Im thinking of getting one, and modding it as one of the plates of a Ridge Wallet if theyre almost the same size.
I have got my pixel since I last saw ur video, but I am still using the stock os
This is a decent argument for how Onion OS now supports the Miyoo mini v5 with the weird screen res now. My favorite thing is swapping my SD card between the small and plus models depending on what pockets/storage I have in a day. And with the game switcher it's really convenient switching between a bigger more actiony game on the plus to playing a smaller puzzle game when I'm on the run with the mini. The fact that the Miyoo has 2 form factors (soon 3) you can swap SD cards between is a really big advantage.
After having the Odin 2 for a few months I'll never go back to a small FF handheld again.
2 diff categories imo.
ODiN on trips when I have a carry on, and all other times a Miyoo, as long as I've a pocket
I use both :D Odin 2 and this.
Love your videoooooos
For a screen protector, is it possible to cut the phone screen protector and use it?
If I am planning on playing Pokémon games from Gameboy, Gameboy Color, and GBA, do I need to do this or will the stock OS work fine?
So after watching this video earlier today… I put my miyoo mini in my pocket for the first time ever.
Previously I always had it in a case, and in sling bag.
Funnily enough I did end up pulling it out when I had 15 minutes while my kid was in a class. Weird mental block told me I had to keep my miyoo safe all this time, and now I’m like “that’s not living”
How is video playback? Like playing MP4s? Can it play videos in full 30fps?
4:34 in your link to the GKD itself they are selling it with a screen protector as an option.
can i use this for my Trimui Smart?
You got it right playing games don’t always require both thumbs while playing, with these small devices.
You should check out some rogue type games or, mystery dungeon type games, they just feel so good on these smaller vertical type devices.
Just found out today that you used to be a food blogger and author. *mindblown*
Just wanna say that you're just awesome and your work is the golden standard for every tech reviewer out there.
ok strange request here... I love that wallet, but I want one from my RG35XX-H... any ideas links Russ?
How do you like this compared to the mini v4? I just canceled the pixel order cause i found a v4 for sale and got that instead
I wish these hardware engineers would remember why handhelds used to have inset screens, back when glass screen protectors weren't considered necessary or even widely available for stuff like this. If it had one I'd consider getting one for my relatives kid, I certainly can't use something this small with my hands, lol.
with the new software for V90, is it worth getting anymore?
Russ! I forgot to get a drink and a snack because nobody reminded me!😆
I'm planning on using MinUI with my 28XX, can these upgrades work on any MinUI device? I want NeoGeo
For the FB emulator… there should be an xml file that the emulator uses to identify the games, this is the same for retroarch.
I've been considering this and will probably order it today since I found it for $65 on Ali express.
There's a case on etsy and I also I found a screen protector on Amazon neither are to pricey either.
Did I spot a GTI steering wheel??? Hell yeah brother
I want one, but for its price and how it gets so warm despite how little it does, I just can't justify it at the moment.
why dont u install non glass screen protector? at least for now while waiting, those screen protector can be cut to shape
9:39 The slams keep on coming 😂 Hahah absolutely brilliant. I still can't believe that video he made. 😂
You have so many of these handheld retro consoles. Do you just set them up play them and then put them away never to be touched again?
I struggle to find a reason to get this.. having tons of handhelds including a miyoo mini and rg nano i feel like this system doesnt remotely scratch an itch that isnt already well scratched already
Thanks Russ
does the mp3 player have shuffle? sounds crazy but this will probably be the determining factor for me 😆
Trimui Smart Pro with Vulkan Support!
Please make a Setup Guide for TomatoOS or the Stock Firmware. Come on Bro!
uhhhhh i clocked revert stock.... how do i undo that???
Is there no way to get shader support on minui?
Just got mine after months of waiting and noticed the select button is loose and shorter than the start button. Anyone else have this issue?
I thought the RG Nano was overpriced,...then I saw this thing for $90 - $150 bucks! 😮
As opposed to the RG 280v I recently purchased for $45!
hello I was downloading minui on my trimui model s but once I turned it on its stuck on the minui menu with no tools options. its almost a black screen n I can't go to setting or anything please help!
Update: So If I take out the sd card start the console n then put it the sd card it'll work but I don't want to do that every time ??
i got a miyoo mini v4, is there a place for this one in my heart (pocket)?
It really comes down to whether you'd like something a little smaller, but more rugged.
10 minute crew ^^
i got the RG Nano instead. wanted something i can play while on bed or couch but the battery drains if i play other than gbc,gba. usually 1hr playing ps1. up to 2hrs playing gba
When is the miyoo flip out?
I already had thumb pain with the RG35XX. Cant imagine using something even smaller.
like i said us millennials have the wrist pain, no way would i play on this lol
i love the intro 😂
When reviewing devices like this, it would be helpful to mention if it support standard USB-C chargers. These chinese devices (e.g. Anbernic) often require USB-A to USB-C cables because the devices are unable to negotiate voltage.
Unfortunately, as you probably know there's no real "standard" USB-C charger, it will vary quite a bit depending on the cable and charging brick. I just did a quick test:
USB-A to USB-C cable with 5v/2a plug: works
USB-C to USB-C cable with 5v/2a plug: works
USB-C cable with MSI Claw PD charger: works
USB-C cable with 65W UGREEN PD charger: works
USB-C cable with AYANEO 45W PD charger: doesn't work
So it's hard to say that all cables and chargers will work, but it's at least capable of using USB-C cables and some PD chargers.
As far as super portable handhelds go, isn't the RG280V still king?
newness always wins. I spent a lot of this video thinking "should I sell my 280v and buy this?"
@@dimentoajbut that doesn't really speak to the objective quality between the two right? Like, not to put words in your mouth but that just sounds like 'new shiny, must get'. Are you sure you wouldn't regret that trade?
@@alastor8780 not speaking to quality at all. Yes, I'm just acknowledging that a lot of this market is really about shiny/new things. In the end, I'm just gonna hang on to my 280v, but I have 10 different handhelds right now, so there's always room for something new
Pedro the Lion shirt!
mi tarjeta SD se formateo completamente y no tengo el sistema operativo original con la que venia mi GKD Pixel, compre una SD nueva y quiero hacer este procedimiento, pero debido a que se formateo mi SD original que venia en la GKD Pixel, pues no puedo hacerlo. alguien puede ayudarme? pasarme un tutorial o algo asi ?
porfavor.