The Project X Pro became a sensation on sites like Alibaba and AliExpress, drawing attention with its PS5‑inspired design and the promise of delivering thousands of classic games from the 80s and 90s at an affordable price. But does this handheld really make sense in 2026? That’s what we’ll explore in this analysis.
Design of the Project X Pro
The design of the Project X Pro is inspired by the PS5 controller, featuring RGB details, a wider body, and a central display. However, it uses less durable materials, something understandable given its price range.
The handheld is available in black, silver, and blue, offering customization options and reinforcing its proposal to combine modern looks, functionality, and affordability.
Controls of the Project X Pro
The controls are fairly complete, with a PlayStation‑style D‑pad where each arrow is separated, alongside ABXY buttons in the Nintendo layout. The Select and Start buttons are well positioned, ensuring practicality during use.
On the downside, the small analog sticks fall short in quality and are placed in a less ergonomic position, which can compromise gameplay in titles that demand greater precision.
On the other hand, the console includes L1, L2, R1, and R2 buttons, expanding compatibility with more demanding platforms and allowing a wider variety of playable titles.
Connectivity of the Project X Pro
Connectivity can be considered basic, but it covers the essentials for daily use. The handheld includes a 3.5 mm headphone jack, offering convenience for those who prefer dedicated audio, as well as a USB‑C port for fast charging.
It also features a micro USB port, expanding connection options, and microSD card support, enabling memory expansion and greater customization of the game library.
Another important feature is the mini HDMI output, which allows the console to connect directly to a TV or monitor, transforming the portable experience into big‑screen gaming.
Display of the Project X Pro
The 4.3‑inch screen with 800×480 resolution is one of the main highlights, offering proportions that align perfectly with the emulation of classic consoles.
This choice ensures greater visual fidelity, avoiding distortions often seen on modern screens with different formats, making the experience closer to the original.
Battery of the Project X Pro
The 2500mAh battery provides reasonable autonomy, allowing 2 to 4 hours of continuous gameplay depending on the type of game and usage intensity.
Charging via USB‑C adds convenience, with recharge times between 1 and 2 hours.
Processor and Storage of the Project X Pro
The Project X Pro 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 playing immediately.
Operating System + Emulable Platforms of the Project X Pro
The operating system based on Linux/EmuELEC ensures simplicity and efficiency, providing quick access to games and settings.
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 Project X Pro
The Project X Pro is priced between $30 and $40.
Is the Project X Pro worth it in 2026? Final Analysis and Alternatives
The Project X Pro is a handheld of questionable quality, as there are now alternatives with the same level of performance, better build quality, and even Wi‑Fi connectivity for a lower price. This makes it more advisable to invest in other handhelds that offer superior value and reliability.
