Linix vs. Android – What are the general pros and cons?
Handheld gaming consoles have evolved a lot over time, with the operating system playing a key role. Linux and Android are two popular operating systems in this space, each offering different experiences and capabilities. Linux-based handheld consoles are characterized by their openness and adaptability. Users and developers can deeply customize the system, from the user interface to the way it works. The variety of Linux distributions allows users to choose a version that suits their specific needs. Many Linux handhelds focus on retro gaming and emulation of older consoles and systems. The development of software and games is strongly driven by the community, resulting in a variety of unique and innovative projects. Linux also runs on a wide range of hardware platforms, leading to a greater variety of devices.
But: Android is known for its user-friendly interface, which is particularly attractive for less tech-savvy users. The possible integration with Google services enables a seamless experience across different devices. Android devices often receive the latest games and apps earlier than other platforms. For developers, Android offers a relatively standardized development environment, which simplifies the creation and distribution of games and apps.
the Odin 2 Pro is not only powerful, but also user-friendly and versatile. It runs on Android 13, one of the latest operating systems, and has a startup wizard to help with setup. The user can choose between the standard Android launcher and the special Odin Launcher, depending on personal preference. This offers flexibility in the handling of apps and the user interface. A special feature of the device is the familiar overlay of Retroid handhelds, which offers a range of shortcuts for frequently used functions such as brightness change, screenshots and live broadcasts. Also, the screen mapping feature allows for intuitive control by allowing on-screen controls to be mapped to physical game controls, which is compatible with almost any Android game.
Yes, Linux certainly offers more customization options and is ideal for retro gaming, emulation and users who want deeper technical control over their device. Android, on the other hand, offers a certain selection of current games and apps, a user-friendly interface and better integration into an ecosystem of services and applications. The choice between a Linux or Android-based handheld depends on the user’s personal preferences, technical capabilities and desired use.
The hardware is easily sufficient for Android
As previously described, the Nordic god has a top-class CPU and GPU. Together with the 8GB RAM of my Pro version, there should be no problems with emulations, even if they require more power. The Odin 2 Pro stands out with its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset and an active cooling system that ensures efficient heat dissipation and prevents overheating. The device offers LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 flash memory, which ensures fast access times and smooth performance. With its 6-inch IPS display offering 1080p resolution, the console promises an immersive visual experience. It also supports micro HDMI and USB 3.1 Type-C, making it easy to connect to external displays and accessories
In addition to strong performance and flexible software, the device offers good battery life. During a test, the battery level dropped from 100% to 70% over several hours, which indicates that the console will last around 6 hours with average use. The Android operating system is responsive and offers a variety of options such as power and fan control, HDMI output and screen mapping. Although some aspects such as the LED lighting options could be seen as in need of improvement, the overall performance of the device remains impressive.
Upscaled Playstation 2 to 1080p is no more a problem than any system even older. Also included are some Odin 2-specific adjustments in Android 13, such as the OTA updater and the so-called floating icon. This allows the user to make some quick settings without leaving the game or the emulator and provides information about critical parameters such as FPS, CPU and GPU load or temperature. The controls and display brightness can also be adjusted here.
Problems with performance are only experienced from Nintendo Switch onwards. I have not yet tested PS3 and XBOX. On the Switch, there are a large number of titles that already run at 60 FPS without any problems, but sometimes there are also black sheep. I often have full speed, but this often drops to 40 FPS in critical games. At this particular point, however, I don’t think the high-performance hardware is to blame, but rather the emulator, which is still in its infancy. Android and the ports of emulators to this platform are often simply not yet optimal, because most devices in the (retro) gaming business still rely on Linux.
It will therefore be some time before Switch emulation runs as smoothly as on other systems. Another big plus for hardware-hungry and supported emulators is once again the Adreno GPU: with the latest MESA/Turnip drivers, a lot of optimization and speed increases can be expected in the future, you just have to be a little patient. Oh, that’s right, we want to play with it in the end. So please turn the page again, then it will be fun.
28 Antworten
Kommentar
Lade neue Kommentare
Urgestein
Urgestein
Urgestein
Neuling
Neuling
Urgestein
Administrator
Neuling
Neuling
Urgestein
Urgestein
Mitglied
Urgestein
Urgestein
Neuling
Neuling
Neuling
Urgestein
Urgestein
Alle Kommentare lesen unter igor´sLAB Community →