Miyoo Mini Plus Review
In the world of retro handhelds, one name stands above the rest: the Miyoo Mini Plus(often called the MM+ or Miyoo Mini v3). While competitors like the R36S offer raw power, the Miyoo Mini Plus offers something else: perfection. It has become the “Gold Standard” for pocket gaming, famous for its premium build quality and stunning screen.
But is a device that cannot play N64 or PSP really worth $65 in 2025? Why do people buy this over more powerful consoles? This review focuses on the real-world experience, the famous “Onion OS” software, and why this tiny GameBoy clone is loved by millions. If you want a distraction-free, high-quality gaming experience, this honest review will tell you if the Miyoo Mini Plus is the right choice for your pocket.
Real-Life Use Case
The Miyoo Mini Plus is not about power; it is about portability and feeling. It is designed for short bursts of gaming when you have 10 minutes free.
Typical use cases include 👇
- ✅ One-Handed Gaming: It is small enough to play RPGs (like Pokémon) with just one hand while drinking coffee.
- ✅ Commuting: Fits easily in a shirt pocket or jeans pocket without a bulky case.* ✅ Nostalgia:The closest feeling to holding an original GameBoy, but with a modern backlit screen.
- ✅ Multiplayer: Unlike the original version, the “Plus” model has **Wi-Fi**, allowing you to trade Pokémon or play multiplayer games with friends wirelessly.
It is important to note that this device is limited to PS1 and below. Do not buy this if you want to play God of War (PSP) or Mario 64 (N64) ❌.
What Is This Product?
Miyoo Mini Plus Review
The Miyoo Mini Plus is a vertical Linux-based handheld console. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 640×480 resolution. It mimics the classic GameBoy design but adds four shoulder buttons on the back. It is powered by a modest dual-core processor that is optimized perfectly for 8-bit and 16-bit systems (SNES, GBA, Sega Genesis, PS1). It charges via USB-C and has a removable battery.
Key Features
- ✅ Stunning IPS Screen: The 3.5-inch display has incredibly thin bezels and vibrant colors. It is widely considered the best screen in the budget market 📱.
- ✅ Wi-Fi Connectivity: Allows for “Netplay” (online multiplayer), wireless file transfer, and over-the-air updates 📶.
- ✅ Premium Build Quality: The buttons feel soft yet tactile, and the d-pad is responsive. It does not feel like a cheap toy like the R36S 💎.
- ✅ Onion OS Support: The community-made operating system “Onion OS” adds features like “Game Switcher” (instantly resume games) and autosave 🧅.
- ✅ Pocketable Size: It strikes the perfect balance—big enough to see, but small enough to carry everywhere.
✅❌ Real Pros & Cons (Mandatory Honest Section)
| 👍 The Good (Pros) | 👎 The Bad (Cons) |
| ✅ Build Quality: It feels solid and well-made. The plastic is high quality, and the buttons do not rattle when you shake it. | ❌ Limited Power:It maxes out at PlayStation 1. It cannot play N64, Dreamcast, or PSP games smoothly. |
| ✅ The Screen: The display is laminated (no air gap), making the pixels look like they are floating on the glass. The colors pop beautifully. | ❌ Ergonomics: For people with very large hands, playing for more than 30 minutes might cause hand cramping due to its small size. |
| ✅ Software (Onion OS): Once you install Onion OS, the experience is magical. You can turn the device off and on, and it resumes exactly where you left off in 1 second. | ❌ Fragile Screen: The ultra-thin bezels look great but offer little protection. If you drop it on a hard floor, the screen *will* break. Use a case! |
| ✅ Community:There are thousands of custom themes, mods, and buttons available because the community loves this device. | ❌ Shoulder Buttons: The rear buttons (L1/L2, R1/R2) are a bit awkward to press because they are located in the middle of the back. |
| ✅ Controls: The D-Pad is excellent for fighting games and platformers. No accidental diagonal inputs | ❌ Speaker: The stock speaker is decent but not amazing. It can sound a bit flat at max volume. |
Price and Value
Current Market Price: $60.00 – $75.00 USD (varies by AliExpress/Amazon sales).
Is it worth it? Absolutely. Even though the R36S is cheaper and more powerful, the Miyoo Mini Plus offers a better experience. It is polished, refined, and reliable. You are paying for quality, not just raw specs.
| Who Should Buy This Product | Who Should Not Buy This Product |
| ✅ Gamers who primarily want to play GameBoy Advance, SNES, and PS1 RPGs | ❌ Gamers who want to play N64, PSP, or Dreamcast games (Buy the R36S or **Anbernic RG35XX H** instead). |
| ✅ People who value screen quality and build materials over raw power. | ❌ People with very large hands who need a horizontal console for comfort. |
| ✅ Users who want a reliable, pocket-friendly device that “just works.” | ❌ Clumsy users who drop their phone often (The Miyoo screen is fragile). |
| ✅ Anyone willing to install “Onion OS” for the best experience. |
Helpful Buying Guide (Crucial Tips)
To get the most out of your Miyoo Mini Plus, follow these steps:
- 1. Install Onion OS: The stock software is okay, but Onion OS turns this device into a legend. It adds features like “Game Switcher” and better themes. Search “Miyoo Mini Plus Onion OS Guide” on YouTube.
- 2. Replace the SD Card: Like most Chinese handhelds, the included SD card is low quality. Buy a branded SanDisk or Samsung card (64GB is plenty) to prevent data loss.
- 3. Use a Case: Since the screen is fragile, always keep it in a small carrying case or a thick sock when it’s in your pocket.
- 4. Charging: Use a standard USB-A to USB-C cable (5V/1A). Do not use fast chargers, as they can damage the battery.
Final Thoughts
The Miyoo Mini Plus is a modern classic. It is not the most powerful handheld, but it is the most *charming* one. The combination of a beautiful screen, perfect buttons, and the amazing Onion OS makes it a joy to use. It is the perfect companion for retro gaming fans.
You can paste this just before the Buy Now button 👇
👉 If you want a premium retro experience that fits in your pocket, the Miyoo Mini Plus is unmatched. It is the perfect balance of nostalgia, quality, and fun.
People Also Ask Style
Can Miyoo Mini Plus play N64?
No, the hardware is not powerful enough for N64. It is designed for PS1 and older consoles (SNES, GBA, Genesis).
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes, the “Plus” model has Wi-Fi. You can use it for RetroAchievements, multiplayer gaming, and wireless file transfers.
What is Onion OS?
Onion OS is a custom community-made operating system for the Miyoo Mini. It improves performance, adds an autosave feature, and makes the menu look much better. It is highly recommended to install it.
How many games does it hold?
A 64GB card can hold over 10,000 retro games. Since older games are very small in size, you can fit the entire GameBoy library on a small card.
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