GameMT E5 Plus can Dual-boot Linux

In the Retro Handheld space often new handhelds come out and they are just more of the same. This has created console war camps: Ayn vs Ayaneo, Anbernic vs Miyoo, Powkiddy vs Famicolones and so on. GameMT is part of a small group of companies that continues to release handhelds so far outside the formula you can’t do anything but pay attention.

I have reviewed a handful of GameMT handhelds over the last year or so with varying results. I pre-ordered, had my order cancelled on me and reordered the E6… 3 times. The handheld has never worked even after spending numerous hours with it replacing memory cards and re-flashing firmware to have it still laying lifeless on the shelf. It’s a bummer because it is a comfortable handheld laid out like a miniature Steam Deck. Now I’m thinking i might give it another try.

Another I reviewed was the E5. I was really excited about this handheld. If you follow me at all you know I like sharing this Retro Handheld hobby with anyone who will listen and this massive square always got people asking questions about it. The E5 has a lot going for it. But then there is the lack luster operating system, probably the worst “D-Pad” I’ve ever tested if you can call it that and I could never get it to work as a charger to power my other handhelds which in the end was the real standout feature.

So I decided to roll the dice and give the E6 Plus a try. This handheld has the same great Steam Deck inspired design as the E6. Oh so comfortable. The E6 Plus can dual boot Linux and Android. Though the Android side doesn’t have any apps installed on it. While waiting for registration with google to go through to use the play store I side loaded everything I need to get some emulation going. Setup on Android is anything but user friendly on the E6 Plus. The handheld turned out to be ok when using Linux. Definitely not worth the price GameMT is asking for it but it can get the job done in a pinch.

Now we have the GameMT E5 Plus. I am still interested in this handheld. It speaks to me for some reason. I know I’m likely setting myself up for disappointment but it’s so neat. The E5 Plus brings the dual boot from the E6 Plus (hopefully setup this time) and the same great looks as the E5.

After reviewing the E5 GameMT asked me for input on the handheld and I told them it’s not going to be anything special until they install a D-Pad. If you ever wondered how little my input matters in the Retro Handheld space… the E5 Plus is being released with the same smooth disc “D-Pad” from the E5. Luckily the E5 Plus comes with dual analog sticks so there is a chance to emulate games and dodge the disc completely. Though playing will be awkward.

I really want to like this handheld GameMT! Are you setting me up to be disappointed or bringing back my faith to your artistic /creative handheld designs?

Should I roll the dice and pickup the GameMT E5 Plus? Would you?

Stay tuned for updates on the New GameMT E6 Pro coming down the line. Maybe the third times a charm.

GameOn

CellPhish