The H36S arrived in 2025 with the mission of standing out among entry‑level handhelds in a highly competitive price range, promising emulation of countless classic consoles and delivering more than just the basics. The big question is whether this handheld truly fulfills its promises and remains relevant today — that’s what we’ll explore in this analysis.
Design
The H36S adopts a compact and functional style, with slightly rounded corners and ABS plastic construction. The horizontal format was chosen to provide greater comfort, while the rear grips improve handling during long gaming sessions, making use more ergonomic and pleasant.
It is available in black, white, and purple, allowing users to choose between options that balance discretion and personality.
Controls
The controls are well‑tuned for its price range, featuring a cross‑shaped D‑pad ideal for platformers and fighting games. It also includes two analog sticks reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch, offering versatility for different play styles.
The ABXY buttons, slightly curved, provide a good tactile feel, while Select and Start are positioned ergonomically for easy access.
On the top, the H36S includes L1, L2, R1, and R2, expanding compatibility with more demanding titles and allowing greater control in games that require additional commands.
Connectivity
Connectivity is simple but covers the essentials. The handheld includes two memory card slots, one dedicated to games and the other to the operating system, ensuring organization and flexibility.
It also features two USB‑C ports, expanding connection options and making charging more practical. A 3.5 mm headphone jack is included as well, enabling a more immersive and discreet gaming experience.
Display
The 3.5‑inch IPS display with 640×480 resolution is one of its strengths, offering the classic 4:3 aspect ratio, considered ideal for retro gaming.
This choice preserves the authentic format of older generations, avoiding cuts or distortions common in widescreen displays.
Battery
The 3000mAh battery provides reasonable autonomy, allowing 3 to 6 hours of continuous play depending on the game and usage intensity.
Charging via USB‑C adds convenience, with recharge times around 2 hours, making the process quick and efficient.
Processor and Storage
The H36S is powered by the RK3326 quad‑core chip paired with 1GB of RAM, a configuration that ensures smooth performance in emulators up to the PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64 generation, while also running many PSP titles with good stability.
For storage, it offers 64GB or 128GB SD card versions, usually preloaded with thousands of games, allowing players to start immediately.
Operating System + Emulable Platforms
The operating system is Linux‑based, with an intuitive and simple interface organized by console, making navigation easy for both beginners and experienced players.
Platforms that run perfectly:
- Arcades: CPS, FBA, MAME
- 8 and 16‑bit consoles: NES, Master System, Super Nintendo, Mega Drive
- 32‑bit consoles: PlayStation 1
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo Pocket, Nintendo DS
- And more
Platforms that run many titles:
- Nintendo 64 (N64)
- Dreamcast (DC)
- PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Price of the H36S
The price of the H36S on AliExpress ranges between $50 and $70.
Is the H36S worth it in 2026? Final Analysis and Alternatives
The H36S is a handheld that, at its current price, doesn’t attract much attention but can be a valid choice for those seeking good ergonomics and the ability to run classic games with satisfactory performance. Still, it’s important to note that there are better options on the market, often at lower prices and with additional features that make the experience more complete.
Alternatives to the H36S
- Powkiddy X55: A handheld with a large screen, strong battery life, and Wi‑Fi support, offering dozens of classic consoles at an affordable price.
- XF35H: Considered the current king of cost‑benefit among cheap horizontal models, with Wi‑Fi, long battery life, and a quality IPS display.
- Anbernic RG35XX H: A great option for those seeking a budget handheld with excellent value, featuring Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, mini HDMI output, and above‑average performance.
- R46H: A newer handheld gaining attention for its higher‑quality screen, solid build, and complete connectivity within its price range.
