NEW Powkiddy RGB10 Max 4 Specs Revealed! (UPDATE!)

After what seems like an age, we have finally seen the replacement for the notorious RGB10 Max 3 Pro (triple heart). J. Dewitz, our trusted Powkiddy source (@retrohandheldcollection on Instagram), has given us a wealth of information on the impending RGB10 Max 4, including the eagerly anticipated RK3588S CPU.

Specs

The RGB10 Max 4's current specifications are as follows:

  • Display: 5-inch 720p IPS panel (touchscreen not confirmed)
  • Processor: Rockchip RK3588S
  • RAM: 4GB, LPDDR4X
  • Battery: 5000mAh (8 hours estimated battery life)
  • Connectivity: 2.4GHz Wifi, Bluetooth 5.0
  • Colours: Navy blue, White

The same chassis as the previous RGB10 Max 3 Pro will house all these.

Four gigabytes should be sufficient for practically everything, while it might not be sufficient for the most demanding use cases, such as Switch emulation. Testing with other devices with this chipset indicates that there should be enough power to run anything up to the PS2, GameCube, and Wii with some remarkable upscaling. However, whether the 5,000mAh battery will withstand such power-hungry devices is unclear.

Software

According to J. Dewitz, prototype models of the Max 4 are already running JELOS or ROCKNIX. We expect to see some nice custom firmware soon after release, as one of the ROCKNIX developers has already indicated interest in supporting the device.

Because Linux does not support Vulkan, some more expensive emulators, such as the PS2, may run worse. However, Linux allows the Max 4 to be used with PortMaster. This new chipset's capability offers many interesting new possibilities for the project, and despite recent problems surrounding unlicensed ports, Portmaster is a great value addition to Linux devices. (It should be noted that none of Powkiddy's stock Linux builds currently include pirated Portmaster files.)

But What Will It Cost?

Pricing has not yet been disclosed, and as we lack comparable devices to compare Powkiddy's prices, it is hard to predict precisely how much they will cost. The unfortunate GameForce Ace, which ranged in price from $140 to $230(!!!) depending on the retailer, is the only other handheld device that has used this chipset. However, given the power level displayed and in comparison to comparable devices on the market, a price point of around $150 seems reasonable. Although we are also unsure of the Max 4's release date, it is sensible to assume that preorders will be available soon.

UPDATE (7/29)

Parts of the Powkiddy RGB10 Max 4's specifications have also been verified. The specifications for Powkiddy's upcoming device were also verified in a translated screenshot; it will be powered by the RK3588s processor and is claimed to run PSP games "eight times smoother." The Max 4 prototypes are "temporarily" using the same shell as the RGB Max 3 Pro, suggesting Powkiddy is currently ironing out the design. Finally, given that Powkiddy is aiming for a $100 pricing range, the company may be trying to upend the market. If so, Powkiddy might defeat the competition and release the year's best vintage handheld.

However, what are your thoughts? Are you eager to witness the 3588S in operation at last? Should they have abandoned that body to the dustbowls of e-waste history, or is the return to the chunky, vintage Max 3 Pro form factor a triumphant return? Do expensive Linux handhelds merit consideration at all? Please share your opinions with us on our Discord server or in the comments section!

This page may have affiliate links; if you buy something after clicking on one, Retro Handhelds may receive a small commission at no extra expense.