Freeplaytech Freeplay CM3 / Zero
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The Freeplay CM3 / Zero is a horizontal retro gaming handheld released in 2017 by Freeplaytech. It is built around the Broadcom BCM2837B0 (Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ Lite) Broadcom BCM2835 (Raspberry Pi Zero) with 1 GB DDR2 (CM3) 512 MB DDR (Zero), has a 3.2 inch TFT 320 x 240 display, and uses a 2000 mAh battery. Its documented emulation ceiling is PS1 full speed, placing it in the mid-range tier for retro game emulation. Notable hardware features include video output, Bluetooth, WiFi USB (CM3).
How far can it go?
Runs everything up to PlayStation 1 at full speed, and pushes as far as Dreamcast with some compromises.
Realistic ceiling: SNES FX & 3D PS1 (60 FPS), N64 & NDS (playable but can be laggy)
Specifications
| Chip (SoC) | Broadcom BCM2837B0 (Raspberry Pi Compute Module 3+ Lite) Broadcom BCM2835 (Raspberry Pi Zero) |
|---|---|
| CPU | Cortex-A53 (CM3) ARM1176JZF-S (Zero) |
| GPU | Broadcom VideoCore IV |
| RAM | 1 GB DDR2 (CM3) 512 MB DDR (Zero) |
| Screen size | 3.2 inch |
| Screen type | TFT |
| Resolution | 320 x 240 |
| PPI | 125 PPI |
| Refresh rate | 60 Hz |
| Aspect ratio | 4:3 |
| Battery | 2000 mAh |
| Storage | External MicroSD |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, WiFi USB (CM3) |
| Speakers | Single Mono Front facing |
| Charge port | Micro USB |
| Video output | Mini HDMI |
| Audio out | 3.5mm Headphone |
| Dimensions | 145 mm x 82 mm x 25 mm |
| Weight | 155 grams |
| Shell | Plastic |
| Colors | Customizable |
Pros & cons
👍 Pros
- Highly customisable, DIY design
👎 Cons
- Price
Compare prices & buy
from $120 – $330
$120+ (DIY Zero) $200+ (DIY CM3) $240 (Prebuilt Zero) $330 (Prebuilt CM3)
Often sold by: Freeplaytech.com · Retromodding.com