The R36S 8 Months Later: Still The King of Ultra-Budget Retro Handhelds?

Summary

After 8 months of use, the R36S handheld remains a strong contender in the budget handheld market, especially with discounts bringing it to around $28. It performs well with retro systems up to PS1 and some Dreamcast, N64, and PSP games, though some tweaks may be needed for optimal performance. While the controls are functional but stiff, the R36S offers great value for those new to retro gaming or looking for a backup device. However, there are variations in hardware, so potential buyers should check which version they're getting. Overall, the R36S continues to be a top ultra-budget option in 2024.

Takeaways

• 😀 The R36s handheld has been available for 8 months and is currently priced under $30 on AliExpress, with occasional sales bringing it even lower.
• 😀 The handheld features an RK 3326 chipset, common in budget handhelds, offering decent performance for systems up to the PS1 and some games on Dreamcast, N64, and PSP.
• 😀 For retro handhelds priced around $30-$40, the R36s performs well for games up to the PS1 and offers better 2X resolution support compared to some more expensive models like the Miu Mini Plus.
• 😀 The R36s is effective for retro gaming, handling systems like SNES, NES, and arcade games easily, making it a solid choice for entry-level retro gamers.
• 😀 The controls on the R36s are functional but not exceptional. The analog sticks, while fine for some games, aren't great, and the buttons are stiff, though playable.
• 😀 There are multiple versions of the R36s, which may have slight differences in build quality, such as screen models and controls, potentially affecting firmware upgrades and overall performance.
• 😀 The R36s uses Aros software, which is functional but lacks built-in Wi-Fi and some other features. Users may need to manually troubleshoot microSD card compatibility and consider upgrading the firmware.
• 😀 Upgrading the Aros OS can be tricky due to microSD card issues and differences between R36s models, but it's possible with some effort, especially if you're dealing with older stock.
• 😀 Despite being a budget device, the R36s has a strong online community (including a dedicated subreddit), where users share valuable insights and support, making it a good choice for first-time buyers.
• 😀 The R36s remains a top choice for budget handhelds, offering good value for money. Even at a higher price point of around $35-$40, it's a solid deal compared to other similarly priced devices like the R35 Plus.

Q & A

What is the current price of the R 36s handheld device?

The R 36s can be found for about $26-$28 during AliExpress sales, and typically costs between $35-$40 when not on sale.

What are the performance capabilities of the R 36s?

The R 36s can handle games up to the PS1 and supports some Dreamcast, N64, and PSP titles. However, more demanding games may not run as smoothly, and performance can vary across different consoles.

How does the R 36s compare to other handheld devices in its price range?

The R 36s offers excellent value for money with solid performance at a low price point, but devices like the Miu Mini Plus or Ambernic handhelds provide better overall experiences for a slightly higher price.

What are the key control issues with the R 36s?

The analog sticks are functional but not highly precise for demanding games. The buttons are stiff, and the D-pad is clicky, which may affect gameplay comfort.

Can the R 36s be upgraded or customized?

Yes, the R 36s runs on Aros, which is upgradeable. However, the process can be tricky due to compatibility issues with SD cards and variations in screen models between different R 36s versions.

What kind of support is available for R 36s users?

The R 36s has a very active community, especially on the R 36s subreddit, where users share tips, troubleshooting guides, and upgrade advice.

Are there any common issues with the R 36s?

Users have reported microSD card compatibility issues, especially with certain cards not working with the device. Some also experience problems when trying to upgrade the firmware.

What is the advantage of the R 36s over other handheld devices?

The R 36s stands out due to its unbeatable price in the budget handheld market, offering strong performance for retro games and a supportive user community, especially for those new to retro gaming.

Does the R 36s have built-in Wi-Fi or internet connectivity?

No, the R 36s does not have built-in Wi-Fi. There may also be issues with using Wi-Fi dongles for internet connectivity.

Should users consider upgrading the R 36s’ software?

While upgrading the software is not necessary, it can improve the experience. However, users should be aware of potential challenges like SD card compatibility and choosing the correct Aros version based on their specific R 36s model.