Tips from China: Forget the Steam Deck! These Chinese handhelds cost a fraction of the price and will surprise you with their performance

In the last installment of Tips from China, I showed you affordable Android handhelds capable of emulating games up to PlayStation 2. Today, we’re moving further – from a pocket-sized mini-console for 1,500 CZK to a premium clamshell that can even tackle some Switch titles. Let’s see what the Chinese market has to offer this time.

AMPOWN Mini Zero 28 – tiny but clever for 1,477 CZK

Let’s start with the smallest. The AMPOWN Mini Zero 28 is a handheld the size of an old phone – 130×64×19 mm and weighing just 129 grams. For less than fifteen hundred crowns, you get a 2.8-inch IPS display, an Android system, and surprisingly good build quality.

At its heart is an AllWinner A133P processor with 2 GB of RAM. That doesn’t sound like a rocket, and it isn’t – you’ll manage PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64, and with a bit of luck, even Dreamcast. Forget about PSP or PS2. But beware, Hall effect joysticks in this price category are an absolute rarity.

Reviews agree on one thing – the build quality is beyond expectations. One owner writes: “For 350 Real (about 1,400 CZK), this is the best, smallest, and cheapest portable Android device on the market.” Another adds: “The build quality and hardware are great, Hall effect joysticks for that price are incredible.”

The problem? Lack of a touchscreen, which means constant compromises with Android. Controlling the system via buttons is possible but frustrating. Fortunately, there’s MinUI – a Linux overlay that solves this issue.

Verdict: Ideal for your pocket for a quick retro session. Unrivaled at this price.

Price: 1,477 CZK

TrimUI Smart Pro – a Linux favorite for 1,643 CZK

A level up is the TrimUI Smart Pro with a 4.96-inch IPS display and 1280×720 resolution. This handheld runs on Linux instead of Android, which has its advantages and disadvantages.

Plus? The system is configured and ready to use. No complicated emulator setup, everything works out of the box. Battery life is fantastic – easily 8-10 hours of gaming. Minus? No Android games, no Game Pass streaming.

Reviewers are enthusiastic: “The best handheld I’ve used so far. Plays most ROMs.” Another adds: “Great controls and incredible battery. The display is sharp and bright.” For less than seventeen hundred crowns, you get a device that can easily handle everything up to PlayStation 1.

The community around TrimUI is huge – you’ll find custom firmware like CrossMix OS, which improves the user interface and adds features. An ideal choice for beginners.

Verdict: Best price/performance ratio for worry-free retro gaming.

Price: 1,643 CZK

Anbernic RG406H – Android for 4,145 CZK

Let’s jump to the higher league. The Anbernic RG406H combines a 4-inch touch IPS display with a Unisoc T820 processor and Android 13. For four thousand crowns, you get a console that can comfortably handle PS2, GameCube, and Dreamcast.

Main advantage? Ergonomics and Hall effect joysticks. Reviews praise the comfortable grip and quality buttons. One owner writes: “The best Anbernic system I’ve ever owned. Fantastic ergonomic design and a beautiful display.”

Performance is sufficient for PS2 games at 1.5× resolution with stable 60 fps. GameCube titles run natively or with slight upscaling. The 5500 mAh battery lasts 4-6 hours of intense gaming, which is solid.

Disadvantage? For a similar price, you can already get a Retroid Pocket 5, which has an OLED display. However, Anbernic scores with its compact design, which many people prefer over vertical handhelds.

Price: 4,145 CZK

Retroid Pocket Flip 2 – premium clamshell for 6,003 CZK

At the top of our offer stands the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 – a clamshell handheld with Snapdragon 865 that caused a huge stir. For six thousand crowns, you get a 5.5-inch OLED display, 8 GB of RAM, and performance that can handle even some Switch games.

Why a clamshell? Display protection is built-in – you just close the console and have peace of mind. Plus, the nostalgia of Nintendo DS and Game Boy Advance SP is priceless. The GameCube-colored design with contrasting buttons looks fantastic.

Performance? PS2 and GameCube run with 2× upscaling without issues. Dreamcast even better. Some Switch games are playable, but expect compromises. The 5000 mAh battery lasts 10+ hours of retro games or 4-5 hours of more demanding titles.

Reviews are enthusiastic: “The Pocket Flip 2 is in a league of its own. It’s not the most comfortable or powerful, but for $230, it’s incredible value.” Another reviewer adds: “The OLED display is absolutely gorgeous, colors pop, and perfect blacks.”

The only criticism? Controls are a bit cramped for people with large hands. The joysticks are high, and the triggers are small. Not entirely ideal for FPS games, but manageable.

Verdict: The best Android handheld under $250. If you love clamshells, don’t hesitate.

Price: 6,003 CZK

Do you have experience with gaming handhelds? Which one would you recommend?