Design and Build Quality
The Powkiddy X70 features a sleek and ergonomic design with a well-balanced build. Its 7-inch IPS screen and overall dimensions (23.6 x 11.7 x 1.6 cm) provide a substantial gaming surface while remaining portable. The device has a good weight to it, enhancing its feel in hand, but the plastic construction feels somewhat cheap and fragile. The smooth grips make it feel okay in the hand—adequate but not perfect for extended sessions. The button layout is good, but the controls are chunky and not very responsive. Overall, while the build quality feels somewhat fragile, the design is acceptable with some comfort and usability. The analog sticks are a notable benefit and feel pretty good, but the D-Pad is subpar.
Performance
Powered by the ATM7051 quad-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor clocked at 900 MHz and supported by 128MB of LPDDR2 RAM, the Powkiddy X70 handles a wide range of retro games efficiently. Performance is generally smooth, though some more demanding games might experience occasional slowdowns. The device is well-suited for playing classic games across various emulators, making it a reliable choice for retro gaming enthusiasts.
User Interface
The Powkiddy X70 runs on a Linux-based operating system, but the user interface is not very good and can be difficult to navigate. The main menu, while intended to be straightforward, often proves challenging to use when trying to access games, settings, and other features. The interface supports multiple languages, including Chinese and English, and allows for customization of various settings such as display brightness and energy-saving options. However, the controls, both physical and touch, are chunky and not very responsive, further complicating the user experience.
Battery Life and Charging
The device is equipped with a 3500mAh battery, offering a commendable battery life that supports several hours of gameplay on a single charge. The charging process is efficient, utilizing a standard USB-C port for quick recharging. The battery life is sufficient for extended gaming sessions, though heavy usage may require more frequent recharges.
Display Resolution
The Powkiddy X70 features a 7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels. The screen provides clear and vibrant visuals, enhancing the gaming experience with sharp and vivid colors. The display’s brightness and clarity are good but due to the glossy, reflective screen with viewing angles, play in daylight is difficult.
Storage and Expansion
With 32GB of internal storage and the capability to expand up to 128GB via microSD card, the Powkiddy X70 offers ample space for a large library of games. This flexibility is advantageous for users who want to carry a diverse collection of retro titles without running out of storage.
Wireless and Connectivity Features
The Powkiddy X70 lacks Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities but does support connecting two wired controllers. The device also supports external game handles and 3.5mm stereo headphones, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Sound
The Powkiddy X70 is equipped with stereo dual speakers that can get quite loud, but they tend to sound somewhat “tinny” and uncomfortable at higher volumes. The 3.5mm headphone jack is a godsend for connecting a good set of earbuds or headphones, significantly improving the sound quality for a more enjoyable audio experience.
Operating System and Emulation
The Powkiddy X70 is in desperate need of an improved custom OS, as the stock OS is not very good. Although it supports a wide range of emulators and game formats, the user experience is hampered by the limitations and navigation challenges of the current operating system.
Pros:
- Sleek and Ergonomic Design: The X70 has a well-balanced build and a good weight, which enhances its feel in hand.
- Substantial Gaming Surface: The 7-inch IPS screen and overall dimensions provide a good-sized display while remaining portable.
- Smooth Grips: The grips are smooth and contribute to a reasonable level of comfort.
- Analog Sticks: The analog sticks are a notable benefit and feel pretty good.
Cons:
- Cheap and Fragile Plastic: The plastic construction feels somewhat cheap and fragile.
- Controls: The controls are chunky and not very responsive, affecting gameplay.
- D-Pad: The D-Pad is considered subpar and affects the overall control experience.
- Stock OS: The operating system is not very good and would benefit from an improved custom OS.
- Audio Quality: The dual speakers sound tinny at higher volumes, though the 3.5mm headphone jack provides better audio quality.
Conclusion:
The Powkiddy X70 offers a sleek and ergonomic design with a substantial 7-inch screen, providing a good gaming surface in a portable form. While it has some redeeming features, such as smooth grips and decent analog sticks, the device is let down by its cheap and fragile plastic construction, unresponsive controls, and a subpar D-Pad. The stock OS further detracts from the user experience, making it clear that an improved custom OS could significantly enhance the device. Overall, the X70 has potential but requires improvements in build quality, control responsiveness, and software to offer a more satisfying gaming experience.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen | 7 inch IPS, 1024 x 600 resolution |
| CPU | ATM7051 quad-core ARM Cortex-A9, 900 MHz |
| RAM | LPDDR2 128MB |
| System | Linux |
| Picture Function | Supports JPG, JPEG, JPE, BMP, PNG formats |
| Video Format | Supports FLV, MP4 formats |
| Music Function | Supports MP3 and full format audio |
| Supported Games | CPS, FBA, FC, GB, GBA, GBC, NEOGEO, SFC, MD, PS |
| Language | Chinese, English |
| Sound | Stereo dual speakers |
| Battery | 3500mAh |
| TF Card | 32GB, expandable up to 128GB |
| Handle Support | Supports external handles and dual handles |
| Other Functions | Supports 3.5mm stereo headphones, display and settings customization (e.g., energy saving, brightness, interface background) |
| Configuration | Console + Cable + Manual + Color Box |
| Product Dimensions | 23.6 x 11.7 x 1.6 cm |
| Product Weight | 0.358 kg |
