NOVO ANBERNIC WIN600

super happy with this console. I have already installed and tested dozens of games. it would have been handy if more programs had been installed: user-friendly keyboard, resolution change for certain games,...

After a couple of false starts involving installing an alternative OS (I even did accidentally boot into the pre-installed Windows 11, but at least the instructions to avoid the online activation worked), I was able to successfully install Bazzite OS on my WIN600.

I’m not gonna lie - the 3050e is still a pretty weak APU, and the storage is of the slower SATA variant and not NVME, but the WIN600 is able to play some of my favourite Steam games without much issue at around 600p. Think PC ports of PS3 and PS Vita games. I was also able to get the PC port of a PS4 game to somewhat run, although I’m sure I can get it to run even better by using Bazzite’s performance mode setting when plugged in. All this while using mostly-stock settings (I’ve allocated 4GB for v-RAM, but left the RAM speed at normal).

I’m not too fussed about the poor battery life, but I am a bit surprised that it doesn’t charge as fast as claimed, even when using a 65w fast charger.

That said, it’s a pretty solid alternative to the Steam Deck if the latter is not officially available for sale in your country (cough Australia cough), which is why I’m still rating it at least four and a half stars. Just keep your expectations low, and you’ll be surprised - games running at 600p or less will still look pretty good on the small screen.

Extra: the following Linux distros will have issues.

Ubuntu - screen rotation
Void Linux - unable to connect to wifi during the installation process
NixOS (my preferred OS, and currently on my gaming rig) - will not work
Alpine Linux - the Gnome desktop works well, but you need to use an alternative display manager to log in. Wifi works, but prone to false negatives when running Steam.

I really liked this console, much cheaper than steamdeck and very good to use. maybe heavy games won't work on it, but average games like gta 5 go easily, the battery is excellent, the weight and size are ideal for travel. steamdeck is good at home on the couch, and win600 is ideal as a truly portable console for moving and traveling

This was definitely the best bought ever!

Anbernic's Win600 Blue allows me to play with peace of mind. I can play fully-licensed games from GOG, Epic, and Steam. It's pocketable and feels great in the hand. It's half the price of other Windows 11 devices, and way less clunky. Not intended for newly-released AAA titles, it does do great at AAA games from a decade ago. It is perfect for retro PC and Indy games.
Additionally, if the dual stick layout isn't to your liking, or if you want to strap on a battery recharger, there are some handsome accessories you can order from Etsy.