GKD Mini Plus - The Compact Powerhouse with Expandable Controls

Hey fam! 👋

Ever wanted a handheld that's small enough to slip into your pocket but powerful enough to handle everything from Game Boy classics to PSP favorites? Meet the GKD Mini Plus, a vertical handheld that proves good things really do come in small packages!

This little dynamo takes the classic Game Boy form factor and supercharges it with modern internals, plus a secret weapon that sets it apart from the crowd. This optional analog stick attachment transforms it into a completely different beast.

📦 What Makes the Mini Plus Special?

The GKD Mini Plus is Game Kiddy's answer to the growing demand for compact yet capable retro handhelds. At first glance, it looks like a lovingly crafted tribute to the original Game Boy, but don't let its nostalgic design fool you - this thing packs serious emulation power under the hood.

The device features the RK3566 chipset, a quad-core ARM Cortex-A55 processor running at 1.8GHz, making it powerful enough to run most retro games, including PSP, PS1, Gameboy, and even some Dreamcast titles. But here's where it gets exciting. The Mini Plus supports an optional joystick attachment that adds analog sticks to the bottom of the device, essentially giving you two handhelds in one!

And yes, it comes equipped with a wireless module supporting Wi-Fi connectivity for smooth online gameplay with friends on LAN, plus compatibility with wireless joysticks, headsets, and speakers. Talk about versatility!

💡 Core Specs

Feature	Details
Display	3.5" IPS LCD, 640x480 resolution
CPU	Rockchip RK3566, 1.8GHz Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A55
RAM	1GB
Internal Storage	Dual microSD card slots
Battery	3000mAh
System	Linux-based OS with multiple emulators
Emulation	Supports PSP, PS1, DC, N64, GB/GBC/GBA, SFC/FC, MAME, etc.
Connectivity	✅ Wi-Fi / ✅ Bluetooth
Ports	USB-C, 3.5mm audio jack, OTG
Colors	Multiple color options available
Special Feature	Optional analog stick "dock" attachment

🎮 Controls and the Game-Changing Attachment

The base Mini Plus rocks a classic vertical layout that'll feel instantly familiar to anyone who's held a Game Boy:

• Crisp D-Pad on the left

• Four face buttons (A/B/X/Y) on the right

• L1/L2 + R1/R2 shoulder buttons

• Start and Select buttons

• Dual vibration motors for tactile feedback

But here's where things get exciting - the optional analog stick attachment! This clever little dock connects to the bottom of the device and adds dual analog sticks, transforming your compact vertical handheld into a more traditional gaming setup. Perfect for those PSP games that really need analog control, or when you want to tackle some light 3D gaming.

The attachment comes in multiple colors to match your GKD Mini Plus, so you can keep your setup looking coordinated while expanding your control options.

🔧 Open Source & Expandable

Running on a Linux-based OS, the Mini Plus offers that familiar open-source flexibility that retro gaming enthusiasts love. The dual microSD card setup means one card for the OS and another for your games, making it easy to organize your library and swap content without messing with your system files.

With OTG connectivity support, you can connect external controllers or accessories, and the wireless capabilities mean you can update firmware or connect Bluetooth accessories without any hassle.

🔋 Battery & Performance

The 3000mAh battery provides solid gameplay sessions, and thanks to the efficient RK3566 processor, you'll get consistent performance across a wide range of systems. The chip is powerful enough to handle most retro games, including the best PSP games, PS1 classics, Gameboy titles, and even some Dreamcast games.

The device also features dual stereo speakers, so you can enjoy your games with decent audio without needing headphones (though the 3.5mm jack is there when you want them).

💵 Price & Where to Buy

The GKD Mini Plus is currently available for around US$88.81, making it a solid mid-range option that bridges the gap between budget devices and premium handhelds.

Non-affiliate link: Buy from AliExpress

Affiliate link (thank you for supporting the site!): Buy via AliExpress (Affiliate)

🛍️ Pro tip: Don't forget to check out the analog stick attachment if you're planning to dive into PSP or other 3D-heavy systems - it's a game-changer for the right titles!

🗣️ Final Thoughts

The GKD Mini Plus occupies a unique sweet spot in the handheld market. It's compact enough for true portability, powerful enough for serious retro gaming, and the optional analog stick attachment gives it a flexibility that most handhelds can't match.

Whether you're drawn to its classic Game Boy-inspired design, impressed by its emulation capabilities, or excited about the modular approach to controls, the Mini Plus delivers on multiple fronts. It's perfect for commuters who want something pocketable, retro enthusiasts who need solid emulation performance, and anyone who appreciates having options.

The ability to transform from a compact vertical handheld to a more traditional gaming setup with analog controls makes this device feel like getting two handhelds for the price of one. Add in the wireless connectivity, dual storage slots, and solid build quality, and you've got a winner.

💬 Share Your Thoughts

Want to talk more about the GKD Mini Plus or see what others are saying? Head over to the Handheld Hodgepodge forum to join the convo or drop your own first impressions!

Until next time 👋

P'Nick ✨