The R36T Max emerges as a direct evolution of its predecessor, aiming to fix flaws and deliver improvements while maintaining its identity as an affordable handheld console for those who want to relive retro classics with nostalgia. Its biggest highlight is the CRT-style display, which simulates the look of old tube televisions and adds a unique retro charm to gameplay. The central question, however, is whether the R36T Max can consistently balance nostalgia and performance—and that’s exactly what this detailed review explores.
Design: Portable and Comfortable
The R36T Max features dimensions of 14.73 x 8.12 cm, ensuring lightness and portability. Rounded corners contribute to a more comfortable grip, while the rear grips have been improved compared to the previous model, offering better firmness and ergonomics during use.
It also stands out for its variety of color options, available in solid black, white, red, blue, and gray, as well as special finishes that simulate light wood, dark wood, and carbon fiber.
Controls: Retro Style Meets Modern Practicality
The controls combine retro aesthetics with modern usability. A circular D-pad is paired with solid ABXY buttons, designed with a look inspired by old TV knobs, evoking nostalgia while providing good tactile response.
Classic Select and Start buttons are present, along with a menu button and a full set of rear triggers (R1, R2, L1, L2), ensuring precision and comfort in classic titles.
Another highlight is the inclusion of two RGB-lit analog sticks, which not only expand compatibility with more demanding games but also add a distinct visual flair to the console’s design.
Connectivity: Simple Yet Modern
The R36T Max comes with a USB-C port for fast charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a microSD slot for storage expansion and easy library organization.
It also supports Wi-Fi, enabling online multiplayer via Netplay, system updates, RetroAchievements integration, and even FTP file transfers, making it far more versatile than a typical entry-level retro handheld.
Display: CRT Simulation as Its Signature Feature
The 4-inch IPS display with a 1:1 aspect ratio and 720x720 resolution delivers sharp definition and vibrant colors. Its standout feature is the convex bubble lens placed over the screen, carefully designed to simulate the curvature of old CRT televisions, creating an authentic nostalgic feel.
This effect is further enhanced by CRT filters available in the system settings, faithfully recreating the visual experience of the classic console era. Compared to the original R36T, the improvement is clear: the annoying black borders are gone, allowing the CRT bubble effect to be reproduced with greater accuracy and immersion.
Battery: Long-Lasting and Reliable
The 4000mAh battery provides up to 8 hours of continuous use, excellent for long gaming sessions without frequent recharges. Duration may vary depending on brightness and emulator, but overall it delivers efficient energy performance.
Charging via USB-C takes about 2 hours, balancing speed and convenience.
Performance and Storage
Equipped with the RK3326 quad-core chip and 1GB of RAM, the R36T Max ensures consistent performance in emulators up to the PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64, offering smooth and stable gameplay.
For storage, it comes in 64GB or 128GB SD card versions, usually preloaded with thousands of games, allowing immediate use without setup.
Operating System + Emulation Support
The R36T Max runs on EmuELEC, a Linux-based system optimized for retrogaming. Its intuitive menus and console-based organization make navigation simple, delivering an authentic retro experience.
Platforms That Run Perfectly:
- Arcades: CPS, FBA, MAME
- 8 & 16-bit consoles: NES, Master System, SNES, Mega Drive
- 32 & 64-bit consoles: PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo Pocket, Nintendo DS
- And more
Platforms That Run Several Titles:
- PlayStation Portable (PSP)
- Dreamcast (DC)
Price: Affordable Nostalgia
The R36T Max is available on AliExpress for around US$40 to US$50, making it one of the most cost-effective retro handhelds with CRT simulation.
Is the R36T Max Worth It in 2025? Final Thoughts and Alternatives
The R36T Max stands out as one of the best value-for-money models, fixing the flaws of its predecessor while keeping advantages like integrated Wi-Fi, long battery life, and solid performance capable of running everything from Atari to PlayStation 1 smoothly. Its CRT-style display adds a unique nostalgic touch, recreating the experience of classic consoles without sacrificing performance, making it a balanced and appealing choice for those seeking retro fidelity and practicality in the palm of their hand.
Notable Alternatives to the R36T Max:
- R36S: Perfect for those who want to spend less while still enjoying classics, currently the best seller on AliExpress.
- R36 Ultra: Offers the best cost-benefit among vertical models, with a square screen, full connectivity, and solid build quality.
- Trimui Smart Brick: Compact handheld with metal accents, a quality display, and a focus on design and portability.
- Miyoo Mini Plus: Highlighted by its large active community, solid construction, sharp display, and complete connectivity—ideal for those seeking total portability.
