Powkiddy RGB20SX: First Impressions

One of the biggest worries many of us have when purchasing a portable is the out-of-the-box experience. Is ArkOS installed on it? Does it run an outdated version of JelOS or ROCKNIX? Which version is it—Android 9 or Android 13? In any case, it's a worry that many of us share, but I had a particular one about the Powkiddy RGB20SX. Now, how is it? I can only hope it turns out well.

Out of all the tiny gadgets, such as the RG28XX and the A30, I would like to shed some light and share my initial thoughts about a gadget with a marginally larger screen.

Specs and Ergo

  • Screen: 4-inch IPS; 720×720
  • Processor: Rockchip RK3566
  • GPU: Mali-G52 MP2
  • Ram: 1GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: Dual Micro SD Cards (1x 16GB Card by Default)
  • Battery: 5,000mAh
  • Dimensions: 143x87x22

It uses the DC USB-C port for charging, and like with the RGB30, I recommend keeping it to a 5-watt brick and a C-to-A connection for complete safety.

Verticals are initially awkward, but I worked my way around them and eventually discovered a comfortable grip. But since those sticks are currently uncomfortable to use, I shall be getting rid of them. Although lightweight, I prefer the feel of the plastic over the RGB30. Although I enjoy it, their design makes candy bar-style handhelds more comfortable. Additionally, this is considerably more comfortable than the Retro Pixel Pocket, another vertical device with a square screen, as I have one to share.

And for reference only. These are some further 3566 handhelds' weights.

  • Powkiddy RGB30 – 207 grams
  • RGB10 Max 3 – 221 grams
  • RGB20SX – 222 grams
  • Anbernic RG503 – 236 grams
  • Anbernic Arc – 246 grams

Screen and Buttons

First, the RGB20SX's 720p screen is a great feature. It suits my favorites, like Pico-8, almost precisely, and is pleasant and bright. It also scales most systems nicely. Traditional 4:3 stuff seems strange to me. It fits nicely in a vertical like the Anbernic 353V because it has no black borders that would make it appear taller. However, the black borders on the SX machine provide the impression that this device is incredibly tall. Even though it wasn't a bad thing, it was worth mentioning because it seemed strange.

Are these buttons, too? I like these better than my RGB30 and RGB10 Max 3. Compared to an RGB20S or R35S/R36S, they are lighter and have quieter shoulders. Compared to the previous Powkiddys, the D-pad seems sharp on the edges. I'm initially pleased with these, but we'll see what happens later.

OS

The one that worried me the most was this one. When I initially loaded up the device, the build of ROCKNIX from April 11th appeared. It's pretty recent, so it's not too awful. Overall, though, this isn't my first pick. I then removed the ArkOS card from my RGB30 and connected it to the SX machine. It booted as well. Everything appeared to function correctly. Even after reconnecting my Wi-Fi, I could access Explore in Pico-8. Fantastic, huh?

Excellent, but not flawless. It makes it logical that the FN button isn't used immediately and can be assigned if necessary. And. I am unable to disable it from the menu. I tried to quit and shut down the system the first time. The RGB20SX was only after I returned with a Diet A&W after setting it down to take care of business. Continue. I discovered that shutting down would only reset the computer, so I used the long press to turn it off.

I'm waiting for ArkOS to provide appropriate support or for something akin to Gamma Core to emerge so that we can all use an operating system I truly desire on a vertical like this. But we wait for now.

Final Words

These are only my first thoughts, but I enjoy this one. Powkiddy has been improving. Even though it still has flaws, I would much rather use this than the original RGB20. You don't need this if you already have an RGB30. If you genuinely want a vertical, this could overtake the 353V if you don't have one or any other 3566 device. However, we'll have to wait and see.

I hope this gadget will benefit significantly from a fully functional OS. In the interim, does anyone want to purchase a Metal RGB30? I am occupied with an RGB20SX machine.