Abxylute has announced the E1, a budget retro gaming handheld priced at $69 for early birds, capable of running both Android and Linux. The device features a Rockchip RK3566 processor and supports mid-level emulation without a touchscreen. It includes a unique software workaround to transfer games from a phone, addressing navigation challenges on Android.
Abxylute revealed its E1 handheld game console on December 9, 2025, targeting budget-conscious retro gamers. The device, available directly from the company's website, starts at an early-bird price of $69 including free shipping, with a standard price of $70. It dual-boots Android and Linux, allowing users to switch between operating systems for different purposes: Linux handles emulation, while Android supports streaming services and mobile apps.
Powered by a Rockchip RK3566 processor and 2GB of RAM, the E1 is designed for mid-level emulation, such as N64 and PS1 games, and below. The operating system is stored on an external microSD card, with expandable storage options via additional MicroSD cards. Its 3.5-inch IPS LCD display has a 640 x 480 resolution and a 4:3 aspect ratio but lacks touchscreen support, which poses challenges for Android navigation.
To address this, Abxylute developed a software solution that enables users to send games and apps from their phone to the E1, described as a 'one-stop solution' for the process. This feature builds on the company's experience with the One Pro, which simplified game streaming for non-technical users. The handheld includes asymmetrical dual analog sticks, with one positioned on top—an unusual placement that may aid streaming and Android games—along with a 3.5mm headphone jack and TV-out functionality.
A 3,000mAh battery provides up to five hours of gameplay. While the E1 enters a competitive market with devices like the Pocket AIR Mini, its dual-OS approach and software innovation set it apart in the sub-$100 segment. The early-bird offer's duration remains unspecified, but past releases suggest it may soon appear on platforms like Amazon.