HardKernel Odroid Go

The HardKernel Odroid Go is a vertical handheld launched in 2018 that focuses on simplicity, affordability and a DIY spirit. At its core sits the Espressif Systems ESP32-WROVER-B chip, built on the Tensilica Xtensa LX6 architecture with two cores clocked between 80 and 240 MHz, paired with 4 MB of PSRAM.

Performance is modest, so emulation is limited to classic systems: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Master System, Sega Game Gear, TurboGrafx-16 / PC Engine and CHIP-8. For these platforms it delivers an enjoyable experience, but you should not expect more, and screen tearing can show up.

The 2.4-inch TFT display runs at 320 x 240 (QVGA) in a 4:3 aspect ratio, with roughly 167 ppi and a 60 Hz refresh rate, protected by a plastic lens. The 4:3 format suits many of the supported retro systems well.

Controls are minimalist: a cross-shaped D-pad placed in the upper half, two face buttons, plus dedicated Menu and Volume buttons. There are no analog sticks, no shoulder buttons and no rumble. The plastic body measures 105 x 65 x 16 mm and weighs just 115 g, and power is handled by a physical switch.

The 1200 mAh battery charges over Micro USB. The device includes WiFi and Bluetooth, a front-facing mono speaker and 16 MB of storage, with games loaded from a microSD card. There is no headphone jack, and brightness is adjusted through a button combination.

On the software side, the Odroid Go runs Retro ESP firmware and supports the custom Retro ESP32 build, making it an excellent platform for tinkering, programming and modding.

Ideal for: DIY and programming enthusiasts, players who want a light, cheap device for Game Boy, NES or 8-bit Sega titles, and collectors of retro handhelds.