GKD Pixel 2 Review: Looking for a compact retro gaming handheld? The GKD Pixel 2 offers premium metal build, a high-resolution 2.4-inch screen, and smooth performance for NES, SNES, Game Boy, and PS1 games. Discover its gaming performance, battery life, customization options, and comparison with other handhelds in this detailed review. Find out if the GKD Pixel 2 is worth buying in 2025!
The GKD Pixel 2 is a compact and powerful handheld gaming console designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. As an upgraded version of the original GKD Pixel, it brings a refined design, improved performance, and better usability while maintaining its ultra-portable size. But is it worth the $80 price tag? Let’s break it down in this in-depth review.
Table of Contents
GKD Pixel 2 Review Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | Rockchip RK3326S |
| RAM | 1GB |
| Storage | 64GB microSD (Expandable) |
| Screen | 2.4-inch IPS (640×480 resolution) |
| Build Material | Premium Metal Shell |
| Battery | 1,800mAh (Approx. 3-4 Hours Gameplay) |
| Gaming Compatibility | NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Sega Genesis, PS1, Limited N64 & Dreamcast |
| Operating System | Linux-based Rocknix OS (Supports Custom Firmware like ArkOS, JELOS) |
| Connectivity | 3.5mm Headphone Jack, USB-C Charging, WiFi via USB Dongle |
| Control Scheme | D-Pad, 4 Face Buttons, Shoulder Buttons (No Analog Stick) |
| Weight | 114g |
| Price | Approx. $80 |
GKD Pixel 2 Detailed Review
The GKD Pixel 2 is the successor to the original GKD Pixel, a micro-sized handheld console designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. With a premium metal body, improved performance, and a higher-resolution screen, the Pixel 2 builds upon the success of its predecessor while still maintaining ultra-portability.
At first glance, this tiny console might look like a novelty, but underneath its small frame lies a surprisingly powerful retro gaming device capable of running NES, SNES, Game Boy, PlayStation 1, and even some Dreamcast games. But is it worth its $80 price tag, or are there better options in the market?
This review will dive deep into every aspect of the GKD Pixel 2, including hardware, software, gaming performance, and modding capabilities.
🔩 Design & Build Quality
Unboxing & First Impressions
Opening the box, you’re greeted with a minimalist presentation. Unlike some budget handhelds that include multiple accessories, the GKD Pixel 2 keeps it simple. Inside, you get:
- The GKD Pixel 2 Console
- A 64GB microSD card (preloaded with the OS)
- A quick start guide
⚠️ No USB-C cable is included, which means you’ll need to use your own charger.
Right from the moment you pick it up, you can feel the premium quality of its metal shell. The device has a solid, sturdy feel in hand, making it feel much more premium than typical plastic handhelds.
Metal Body & Durability
One of the standout features of the GKD Pixel 2 is its full-metal construction, which is rare in budget handheld consoles. This adds durability, making it more resistant to drops and scratches. Unlike plastic consoles like the Miyoo Mini Plus, the Pixel 2 feels like a high-end device.
However, there are a few drawbacks to a metal body:
- It gets warm during extended gameplay, especially with higher-end emulation.
- It’s slightly heavier than plastic consoles in the same category.
- The boxy shape can feel uncomfortable for longer play sessions.
👉 Verdict: While the metal build is a plus for durability, it does come at the cost of ergonomics.
Button Design & Ergonomics
The button layout has been improved from the original GKD Pixel, but it still has some drawbacks.
✅ Improvements Over the Original GKD Pixel
- The original GKD Pixel had metal buttons, which were noisy and stiff.
- The Pixel 2 uses soft plastic buttons, making them quieter and more comfortable.
- The wider body makes button placement slightly less cramped than before.
❌ What Could Be Better?
- The shoulder buttons are small and require awkward finger positioning.
- Lack of an analog stick makes it difficult to play certain games (e.g., N64 & Dreamcast).
- The overall design is still quite cramped, limiting its usability for extended gaming sessions.
👉 Verdict: The buttons feel great for a device this size, but the layout remains somewhat uncomfortable for long play sessions.
Portability & Pocketability
One of the biggest selling points of the GKD Pixel 2 is its small size. This is one of the smallest gaming handhelds on the market, making it ideal for on-the-go gaming.
It easily fits in a pocket, making it more portable than larger retro handhelds like the Retroid Pocket 3+. It also includes a lanyard hole, allowing you to attach it to a keychain or wrist strap.
✅ Great for:
- Quick gaming sessions during travel.
- A backup handheld for casual gaming.
- People who want a super-compact gaming device.
❌ Not great for:
- People who need a large screen for comfortable gameplay.
- Long gaming sessions (due to its cramped controls).
👉 Verdict: If portability is your top priority, the Pixel 2 is a fantastic choice.
📊 Technical Specifications
CPU & Performance Capabilities
The GKD Pixel 2 is powered by the Rockchip RK3326S, a slightly modified version of the RK3326 found in many retro handhelds (e.g., Anbernic RG351 series).
✅ Strengths of the RK3326S Chipset:
✔️ Efficient power consumption (extends battery life).
✔️ Well-optimized for retro emulation (16-bit & PS1 games run smoothly).
✔️ Compatible with existing Linux-based OS (ArkOS, JELOS, etc.).
❌ Weaknesses of the RK3326S Chipset:
🚫 Struggles with demanding systems (N64, PSP, Dreamcast).
🚫 No built-in analog stick support (limiting compatibility for 3D games).
👉 Verdict: The RK3326S chipset is solid for 8-bit, 16-bit, and PS1 gaming, but it’s not powerful enough for more advanced systems.
🎮 Gaming & Performance Analysis
One of the most important aspects of any handheld gaming device is its performance and compatibility with retro games. The GKD Pixel 2, powered by the Rockchip RK3326S, is well-suited for classic 2D games but has limitations when it comes to 3D gaming.
✅ Plays Smoothly (Full Speed Emulation)
The GKD Pixel 2 is perfect for 8-bit, 16-bit, and early 32-bit gaming, including:
- Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) – Runs flawlessly with zero lag.
- Super Nintendo (SNES) – Smooth performance, even with Mode 7 effects.
- Sega Genesis & Mega Drive – No issues at all.
- Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance – Sharp visuals and perfect scaling on the 2.4-inch screen.
- PlayStation 1 (PS1) – Most PS1 games run flawlessly at full speed.
⚠️ Playable But Not Ideal
- Nintendo 64 (N64) – Some lighter games like Mario Kart 64 & Star Fox 64 work well, but most 3D-heavy titles struggle.
- Sega Dreamcast – Performance is hit or miss; Marvel vs. Capcom 2 plays well, but games like Sonic Adventure 2 lag.
- Sega Saturn – While Yabause and YabaSanshiro emulators are supported, Saturn requires high processing power, making it mostly unplayable.
❌ Not Recommended
- PSP (PlayStation Portable) – The 16:9 PSP resolution doesn’t scale well to the 4:3 screen, making games look awkward and squished.
- GameCube, Wii, and PS2 – These won’t run at all on the GKD Pixel 2 due to the weaker CPU & lack of GPU acceleration.
👉 Verdict: If you’re looking to play classic 8-bit, 16-bit, and PS1 games, the GKD Pixel 2 is fantastic. But if you want a device for PSP, N64, or Dreamcast gaming, you’ll need a stronger handheld like the Retroid Pocket 3+ or Anbernic RG405M.
🖥️ Software & Operating System
Default UI: IUX vs. Emulation Station
The GKD Pixel 2 comes preloaded with a Linux-based firmware called IUX, which is essentially a fork of Rocknix OS.
1️⃣ IUX (Default UI) – Basic but Functional
By default, the Pixel 2 boots into the IUX UI, which is:
✅ Simple & lightweight
✅ Good for quick game launching
🚫 Limited customization options
🚫 Clunky navigation compared to modern UIs
2️⃣ Emulation Station – Better User Experience
A better alternative is switching to Emulation Station, which provides:
✔️ More polished UI with box art & game previews
✔️ Easier navigation & better organization
✔️ Custom themes & layouts
👉 Tip: To switch to Emulation Station, go to:
Settings → Launcher → Change from IUX to Emulation Station
Emulation Station makes the GKD Pixel 2 feel much more modern, and I highly recommend switching to it.
Custom Firmware Possibilities
Since the GKD Pixel 2 runs on Linux, it has a huge modding community that allows users to install custom firmware.
Some of the best custom firmware options include:
1️⃣ ArkOS – One of the most popular OS options with great performance improvements.
2️⃣ JELOS (Just Enough Linux OS) – Best for customization & experimental features.
3️⃣ AmberELEC – A highly optimized OS originally made for Anbernic handhelds.
Why Install Custom Firmware?
- Better performance & stability
- Easier file organization
- More game compatibility & settings
👉 Verdict: If you’re comfortable with modding, installing ArkOS or JELOS is highly recommended.
🔧 Customization & Modding Potential
One of the biggest strengths of the GKD Pixel 2 is its high level of customization.
1️⃣ Installing Custom Themes
The default theme on Emulation Station is decent, but you can install custom themes to give your console a unique look.
Some popular themes include:
- Switch Mini White – Mimics the Nintendo Switch UI.
- ArtBook Next – Provides a clean, minimalist look.
- LeFlyful – Great for organizing ROMs with a large game collection.
How to Install Custom Themes
- Connect to WiFi using a USB dongle.
- Use FTP to access system files.
- Download new themes from theme repositories.
- Place them in the themes folder and activate them in UI Settings.
👉 Verdict: Installing a new theme greatly improves the UI experience and is worth doing.
2️⃣ Using PortMaster for Extra Games
PortMaster is an incredible app that lets you install & play PC game ports directly on the GKD Pixel 2.
With PortMaster, you can play indie games & classic PC titles like:
✅ Celeste
✅ Stardew Valley
✅ Doom (1993)
✅ Undertale
✅ Sonic Mania
How to Install PortMaster:
- Connect a USB WiFi Dongle.
- Download PortMaster through the built-in App Store.
- Select games to install and enjoy!
👉 Verdict: If you love indie games & classic PC ports, PortMaster is a must-have.
🔋 Battery Performance & Real-World Usage
The GKD Pixel 2 comes with an 1,800mAh battery, which provides around 3-4 hours of playtime.
Battery Life in Different Scenarios
| Usage Scenario | Estimated Battery Life |
|---|---|
| Game Boy / NES / SNES Emulation | 4-5 hours |
| PlayStation 1 / Dreamcast Games | 3-4 hours |
| WiFi & Game Streaming | 2-3 hours |
| Standby / Sleep Mode | Drains ~3% per hour |
⚡ How to Maximize Battery Life
If you want to extend battery life, follow these tips:
✅ Lower screen brightness (5/9 brightness setting is ideal).
✅ Use power-saving settings in Emulation Station.
✅ Avoid WiFi usage unless necessary (WiFi dongles drain battery).
✅ Enable Sleep Mode when not in use.
❌ Sleep Mode Battery Drain Issues
One minor issue with the GKD Pixel 2 is that Sleep Mode drains battery faster than expected (about 3% per hour).
How to Fix It?
- Instead of Sleep Mode, use Shutdown Mode when not in use.
- Keep a USB-C power bank handy for long gaming sessions.
👉 Verdict: The battery life is decent for a device this size, but power users may need to recharge frequently.
🤔 GKD Pixel 2 vs. Other Handhelds: How Does It Compare?
The GKD Pixel 2 competes in the micro-handheld gaming category, which includes devices like the Miyoo Mini Plus, Trimui Smart, and Anbernic RG35XX. Each of these handhelds has unique strengths and weaknesses, so let’s see how they compare.
🔷 GKD Pixel 2 vs. Miyoo Mini Plus
The Miyoo Mini Plus is one of the most popular retro gaming handhelds in the market. It has a larger 3.5-inch display, better community support, and a more comfortable form factor.
| Feature | GKD Pixel 2 | Miyoo Mini Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 2.4 inches (640×480) | 3.5 inches (640×480) |
| Build Quality | Metal Body | Plastic Body |
| Battery Life | 3-4 hours | 5-6 hours |
| Software | Rocknix (Linux-based) | OnionOS / Custom Firmware |
| Comfort | Small & Boxy | More Ergonomic |
| Game Compatibility | Best for 8-bit & 16-bit | Supports More Consoles |
Verdict:
- Miyoo Mini Plus is the better choice for most users because of its larger screen and better ergonomics.
- GKD Pixel 2 is better for portability and premium build quality.
🔷 GKD Pixel 2 vs. Trimui Smart
The Trimui Smart is another ultra-portable handheld, but with a wider screen and better battery life.
| Feature | GKD Pixel 2 | Trimui Smart |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 2.4 inches | 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 114g | 108g |
| Software | Rocknix (Linux-based) | Trimui OS |
| Battery Life | 3-4 hours | 6+ hours |
| Game Compatibility | 8-bit, 16-bit, PS1 | 8-bit, 16-bit, PS1 |
Verdict:
- Trimui Smart has better battery life and a larger screen, but GKD Pixel 2 has a more premium feel and better software options.
🔷 GKD Pixel 2 vs. Anbernic RG35XX
The Anbernic RG35XX is an affordable 3.5-inch handheld that supports more powerful emulation.
| Feature | GKD Pixel 2 | Anbernic RG35XX |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 2.4 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Build | Metal | Plastic |
| OS | Rocknix | GarlicOS |
| Battery Life | 3-4 hours | 5-6 hours |
| Game Support | Up to PS1 | Up to PSP & N64 |
Verdict:
- RG35XX is the better value option for most gamers, thanks to its bigger screen and better performance.
- GKD Pixel 2 is ideal if you want a compact, ultra-portable device.
💰 Price & Availability: GKD Pixel 2?
The GKD Pixel 2 is currently priced at $80 for the base model with a 64GB microSD card. However, prices may vary depending on the retailer, shipping fees, and availability.
📌 Where to Buy the GKD Pixel 2?
As of 2025, the GKD Pixel 2 is not widely available, and it is mostly sold through third-party resellers and niche handheld gaming stores. Here are some places where you might find it:
✅ KeepRetro.com – The official seller where pre-orders were first launched.
✅ AliExpress – Expected to stock the device after Chinese New Year.
✅ Amazon & eBay – Some resellers list it, but expect higher prices due to demand.
✅ Local Gaming Retailers – Some specialized retro gaming stores may stock limited units.
⏳ Limited Stock Alert: Will the GKD Pixel 2 Be Hard to Find?
Unlike mass-produced gaming handhelds like Anbernic and Retroid devices, the GKD Pixel 2 is a limited-run product. The original GKD Pixel sold out quickly, and resale prices skyrocketed to $150+ on eBay.
If you’re interested in getting one, buy early before stock runs out. Once it sells out, prices on the secondhand market will likely increase significantly.
🚚 Shipping & Delivery Times
- AliExpress & KeepRetro Pre-Orders: Shipping estimated by February 2025.
- Amazon/eBay: Availability depends on resellers, with higher prices and potential delays.
- International Buyers: Shipping times may range from 2-6 weeks, depending on location.
🔥 Is the GKD Pixel 2 Worth $80?
The GKD Pixel 2 is more expensive than similar handhelds with the same RK3326 chipset. Here’s how it compares:
| Handheld Console | Price | Chipset | Screen Size | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GKD Pixel 2 | $80 | RK3326S | 2.4 inches | 3-4 hours |
| Miyoo Mini Plus | $60-70 | ARM Cortex-A7 | 3.5 inches | 5-6 hours |
| Trimui Smart | $50-60 | ARM Cortex-A7 | 3.2 inches | 6+ hours |
| Anbernic RG35XX | $55-65 | Allwinner H700 | 3.5 inches | 5-6 hours |
👉 Verdict: The GKD Pixel 2 is priced slightly higher than other handhelds with similar specs, mainly due to its premium metal build and ultra-compact design. If you value portability and durability, the price is justified, but if you want better performance and screen size, alternatives like the Miyoo Mini Plus or Anbernic RG35XX offer better value.
🔔 Final Buying Advice
✅ Buy it NOW if you love tiny, premium handhelds and don’t mind paying a bit extra for build quality and exclusivity.
❌ Skip it if you want the best performance per dollar—go for the Miyoo Mini Plus or Anbernic RG35XX instead.
👉 Would you buy the GKD Pixel 2 for $80? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
✅ Pros & Cons: Who Should Buy the GKD Pixel 2?
🎉 Pros (What’s Great About It?)
✅ Super portable & pocket-friendly – One of the smallest gaming handhelds on the market.
✅ Premium metal body – Feels solid and durable, unlike plastic competitors.
✅ Great for 8-bit & 16-bit gaming – NES, SNES, Game Boy, and PS1 games run flawlessly.
✅ High-resolution display – 640×480 on a 2.4-inch screen provides sharp visuals.
✅ Linux-based OS allows for modding – Can run ArkOS, JELOS, and other custom firmware.
✅ Supports PortMaster – Lets you install PC game ports like Celeste, Doom, and Stardew Valley.
🚫 Cons (What Could Be Better?)
❌ Screen is too small for some games – PSP, N64, and Dreamcast are hard to play on a 2.4-inch screen.
❌ Controls are cramped – Shoulder buttons are awkwardly placed.
❌ Battery life is average – Only 3-4 hours of gameplay per charge.
❌ Sleep mode drains battery quickly – Loses ~3% per hour even when idle.
❌ No built-in WiFi or Bluetooth – Requires a USB dongle for online connectivity.
❌ Limited power for 3D games – PSP, Dreamcast, and N64 struggle on this device.
🎯 Final Verdict: Is the GKD Pixel 2 Worth Buying?
✅ Buy it if:
✔️ You want a small, pocketable gaming handheld.
✔️ You mainly play Game Boy, NES, SNES, and PS1 games.
✔️ You appreciate premium build quality (metal body).
✔️ You enjoy modding and installing custom firmware.
🚫 Skip it if:
❌ You need a larger screen for more comfortable gaming.
❌ You want to play PSP, N64, or Dreamcast games smoothly.
❌ You prefer longer battery life (5+ hours).
❌ You want a plug-and-play experience without tweaking settings.
⭐ Final Rating: 7/10
The GKD Pixel 2 is a fantastic device for what it is – a micro retro handheld, but it won’t be the best option for everyone. If you love ultra-portability and don’t mind its limitations, it’s a great collector’s item.
However, if you want a more comfortable gaming experience, the Miyoo Mini Plus or RG35XX are better choices.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Install Custom Firmware on the GKD Pixel 2?
Yes! The GKD Pixel 2 supports custom firmware like ArkOS, JELOS, and AmberELEC. Installing a custom OS can improve performance, add features, and provide better UI customization.
2. What Games Run Best on the GKD Pixel 2?
✅ NES, SNES, Sega Genesis
✅ Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance
✅ PlayStation 1 (Most games run at full speed)
🚫 PSP, N64, and Dreamcast games are playable but not ideal due to low performance and small screen size.
3. How Can I Improve Performance on the GKD Pixel 2?
- Use custom firmware like ArkOS or JELOS.
- Lower emulator resolution for demanding games.
- Overclock the CPU slightly (only recommended for advanced users).
- Disable WiFi when not needed (reduces power drain).
4. Is the Screen Too Small for Gaming?
It depends. For Game Boy, NES, and SNES, the small screen is fine. But for PSP, N64, and Dreamcast, the text is too small, and gameplay feels cramped.
5. Will There Be a GKD Pixel 3?
There’s no official confirmation, but if the GKD Pixel 2 sells well, the company might release an updated version with a larger screen and better chipset.
💬 Final Thoughts: Is the GKD Pixel 2 Right for You?
If you want a tiny, retro gaming handheld with premium build quality, the GKD Pixel 2 is a solid option. But if you need better ergonomics, a larger screen, or more power, other handhelds like the Miyoo Mini Plus or RG35XX are better choices.
📢 What do you think? Would you buy the GKD Pixel 2? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
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