R36S or Miyoo Mini Plus? Which One Should You Get? A Comprehensive Comparison
Are you torn between purchasing the R36S or the Miyoo Mini Plus? The two handheld gaming devices have been very popular among game enthusiasts and it is not easy deciding which one to purchase. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of both devices, compare their features, and give recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
The R36S and Miyoo Mini Plus are both portable gaming devices that allow users to play classic games from various consoles. The R36S is a retro handheld that boasts a 3.5″ IPS screen is a tested handheld console that comes with Ark OS, two analog sticks, and a sleek design. On the other hand, the Miyoo Mini Plus also has a 3.5″ IPS screen and in this case it is loaded with Onion OS, which means once you get your hands on one, there is not much that you have to do to get started. It also has built-in Wi-Fi for updates and has a comfortable design.
Key Takeaways
- The R36S and Miyoo Mini Plus are both portable gaming devices that allow users to play classic games from various consoles.
- The R36S features higher specifications and includes two analog sticks, making it a powerful and versatile option while the Miyoo Mini Plus has built-in Wi-Fi for updates and a comfortable design, prioritizing ease of use and build quality.
- If you’re looking for a device with better build quality, stability and comfort, the Miyoo Mini Plus is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a better performance and analog sticks, the R36S is a great choice.
Specifications
| Feature | Miyoo Mini Plus | R36S |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 3.5 inch IPS Screen | 3.5 inch IPS Screen |
| CPU | Arm Cortex-A7 1.2GHz | Arm Cortex A35 1.5GHz |
| RAM | 128MB | 1GB |
| Battery Life | 3,000mAh – Up to 6 Hours | 2,900mAh – 4 to 5 Hours |
| Weight | 162g | 189g |
| Others | Has built-in WiFi | Has Analog sticks |
| Price | $79.99 on Amazon | $69.69 on Amazon |
Overview of R36S
It is not hard to understand why the R36S is a very popular console among gamers. Retro games continue to captivate players with their straightforward gameplay and accessibility, highlighting a simplicity often missing in modern titles. The R36S is a retro handheld gaming device that has gained popularity among gamers due to its affordable price and impressive features. The device has a 3.5 inch IPS display with a resolution of 640×480 pixels that delivers sharp and vibrant visuals.
Another feature I found fascinating especially when comparing the R36S to other handheld devices is its dual-analog sticks, which provide a more console-like gaming experience. The sticks are responsive and offer precise control over games that require analog input. The D-pad and buttons on the device can be significantly improved with a simple modification, making them much smoother and more responsive. Even without the mod, the D-pad and buttons still feel decent, but the enhancement from the modification is like night and day.
The R36S is powered by a Cortex A35 Processor couple with 1GB of RAM that delivers smooth and lag-free performance. During my testing, I manage to run a wide range of emulators and games. The R36S also has a built-in 2900mAh battery that provides up to 4 to 5 hours of continuous gaming. This device also features HDMI output, and you can connect the device to a television or monitor, if you prefer gaming on a larger screen.
Overall, the R36S is a solid retro handheld device that offers great value for its price. Its impressive features, including the dual-analog sticks, 3.5 inch IPS display with powerful processor make it a great choice for gamers who want to play retro games on the go. A more comprehensive review of R36S by checking out here.
Overview of Miyoo Mini Plus
The Miyoo Mini Plus is another handheld gaming device that has been receiving attention among the retro gaming audience. For what you are paying and getting, it is an affordable device that offers a range of features, making it a great option for those who are looking for a portable gaming system.
One of the standout features of the Miyoo Mini Plus is its 3.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 640×480. This larger screen size makes it easier to see and play games, especially for those who find smaller screens difficult to use. The device rear has 4 button similar to R36S but they are placed ergonomically and personally i like it more on the Miyoo Mini Plus than the R36S.
Under the hood, the Miyoo Mini Plus uses an ARM Cortex-A7 chip and it has 128MB of RAM. The device is also equipped with WiFi, which makes download of games and other items straight forward. The Miyoo Mini Plus boasts an impressive battery life, thanks to its 3000mAh rechargeable battery that offers up to 6 hours of gaming on a single charge. Additionally, it features USB-C charging, which is a great convenience since many modern devices use USB-C. This means you won’t need to carry multiple cables when you’re on the go.
The Miyoo Mini Plus stands out as an excellent choice for retro gaming fans looking for a portable and affordable device. With its larger screen, ergonomic design, and impressive battery life, it offers great value for money. Its built-in WiFi and USB-C charging add to the convenience, making it a solid option for gamers on the go. A more comprehensive review of Miyoo Mini Plus by checking out here.
Pros and Cons
Pros of R36S
The R36S handheld console has a lot of features that make it a great choice for gamers who want a device that can handle a wide range of games. The R36S also has a powerful processor and a good amount of RAM, which means it can handle even the more demanding games without any lag or slowdowns.
The device has a D-pad, two joysticks, and a set of buttons, which makes it easy to play an array of games, including those that require precise control and options for games that require more buttons. The R36S also has a good battery life, which means you can play games for hours without needing to recharge.
Cons of R36S
While the R36S has a lot of great features, it also has a few drawbacks. One of the biggest cons of the R36S is its size (17.4cm x 8.4cm x 2.1cm). The device is bigger than Miyoo Mini Plus, which makes it less portable than some other handheld consoles.
Another issue with the R36S is the buttons on the front and back. The front buttons may require simple modifications for optimal comfort and usability, though they are adequate out of the box while the back buttons are a little too clicky for my liking.
Pros of Miyoo Mini Plus
The Miyoo Mini Plus excels in portability, with its small and lightweight design making it perfect for on-the-go gaming. It comes pre-loaded with a good selection of games, allowing you to start playing immediately. The control and build quality are also highlights, with a comfortable D-pad and rounded button edges. The rear buttons are quiet and well-differentiated. Additionally, the device’s open-source operating system lets you install custom software and games, offering great flexibility for those who enjoy customizing their gaming experience.
Cons of Miyoo Mini Plus
Despite its benefits, the Miyoo Mini Plus has some drawbacks. Its compact size, while portable, can be uncomfortable for extended play sessions, especially for users with larger hands. The device lacks built-in analog controls, relying solely on a D-pad and a set of buttons, which may not be ideal for games requiring more precise control. This limitation could be a downside for gamers who enjoy a wide variety of game genres.
Our Recommendations
When it comes to choosing between the R36S and Miyoo Mini Plus, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you. Both devices can run thousands of games from various emulators without any issues.
The R36S offers a full set of controls and buttons, providing great value for its price. However, some users find the buttons uncomfortable, although this can be remedied with a simple modification, which adds a bit of hassle.
Conversely, the Miyoo Mini Plus is highly portable with a slightly better battery life. It includes built-in WiFi for easy emulator and game downloads, and enables multiplayer gaming. Its button layout is more comfortable, and it boasts an active community for custom firmware updates.
Both devices have strengths and weaknesses, so consider which features matter most to you before deciding. Below is a table that summarizes the key features of both devices:
| Feature | R36S | Miyoo Mini Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches | 3.5 inches |
| Build Quality | Good | Great |
| Button Layout | Not the best | Comfortable |
| Battery Life | 4 to 5 hours | Up to 6 Hours |
| Other Features | Analog Sticks | Built-in WiFi |
It’s important to note that both devices are capable of running a variety of retro games and emulators. Ultimately, the choice between the R36S and Miyoo Mini Plus comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to the user.
Purchase Yours at:
- R36S Retro Handheld Console | Amazon | AliExpress
- Miyoo Mini Plus | Amazon | AliExpress