R36S Clones: Difference between revisions

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* Most clone firmware versions still have problems with a dual SD card setup
* Most clone firmware versions still have problems with a dual SD card setup
* Lots of reports about audio output issues and inverted controls
* Lots of reports about audio output issues and inverted controls.
* There are clones with lesser ram - 512MB instead of 1GB
* There are clones/fakes with lesser ram - 512MB instead of 1GB.
* There are clones with the weaker RK3128 chip instead of RK3326
* There are clones/fakes with the weaker RK3128 chip instead of RK3326.
* There are clones with completely different internals (even weaker than RK3128) and absolutely no custom firmware support
* There are clones/fakes with completely different internals (even weaker than RK3128) and as of May 2026 no custom firmware support.
* Lots of people struggling to get the G80 mainboard clones working with custom firmware
* Lots of people struggling to get the G80 mainboard clones working with custom firmware.
* If you lost your SD card, you need to try up to 10 different screen panel files (dtb)
* On ArkOS4Clone on certain V20 clones, the speaker may overvolt, permanently damaging it.
* No compatibility with AmberELEC/PAN4ELEC, LineageOS (Android), Multiboot, Ambian  
* If you lost your SD card, you need to try lots of different screen panel files (.dtb files)
* No compatibility with AmberELEC/PAN4ELEC, LineageOS (Android), Multiboot, Ambian, etc.
* Worse hardware parts are used on some clone models (Worse screen and brightness, louder shoulder buttons + they are very loose, louder L3/R3, Power and volume buttons are harder to press)
* Worse hardware parts are used on some clone models (Worse screen and brightness, louder shoulder buttons + they are very loose, louder L3/R3, Power and volume buttons are harder to press)


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<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ3tfmzPN0s</youtube>
<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ3tfmzPN0s</youtube>
<br>


<span id="ArkOS4clone"></span>
<span id="ArkOS4clone"></span><span id="arkOS4clone"></span></span><span id="arkos4clone"></span>
'''ArkOS4clone'''
'''ArkOS4clone'''


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<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P97HaLOmVA</youtube>
<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P97HaLOmVA</youtube>
<br>
<span id="dArkOSRE"></span>
'''dArkOSRE'''
{{CFW:dArkOSRE}}
<br>


<span id="dArkOS"></span>
<span id="dArkOS"></span>
'''dArkOS'''
'''dArkOS'''
{{CFW:dArkOS}}
{{CFW:dArkOS}}


<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vcQQ-_dfJU</youtube>
<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vcQQ-_dfJU</youtube>
<br>


<span id="ArkOS K36"></span>
<span id="ArkOS K36"></span>
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{{CFW:ArkOS - K36}}
{{CFW:ArkOS - K36}}
<br>


<span id="ROCKNIX"></span>
<span id="ROCKNIX"></span>
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<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zt159TCG4f8</youtube>
<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zt159TCG4f8</youtube>
<br>


<span id="UnofficialOS"></span>
<span id="UnofficialOS"></span>
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One of the first R36S clones on the market. Known for the sticker with the board number.
One of the first R36S clones on the market. Known for the sticker with the board number.


This clone has a '''single RAM chip with 1GB and eMMC with 8GB.''' ArkOS K36 often works without changing dtb files.
EmuELEC clone with a '''single RAM chip (1GB)''' and '''eMMC storage'''. Follow this tutorial to start the firmware on the eMMC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL8PdjGYeVE
 
Firmware compatibility:


BOOT partition files: https://github.com/R36SUser/R36S-Sticker-Clone-Boot-Files
[[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]]: Works without changing dtb files.
 
[[R36S_Clones#ArkOS4clone|ArkOS4clone]]: Select "Game Console HG36 (HG3506)" in the dtb selector tool.
 
[[R36S_Clones#ROCKNIX|Rocknix]]: Use this tool to generate your dtbo file using the stock dtb file [https://rocknix.gosk.in/dtbo/ DTB overlay generator for Rocknix].
 
Stock dtb file: https://github.com/Vi-K36/EE-Clones-DTB/tree/main/HG36%20-%20HG3506/Stock


<div>
<div>
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Temu clones often come with internal storage and one ram chip. These devices typically have 512Mb of ram and a 512Mb swap partition on the MMC. The MMC is 4Gb in size.
Temu clones often come with internal storage and one ram chip. These devices typically have 512Mb of ram and a 512Mb swap partition on the MMC. The MMC is 4Gb in size.


<div><ul>  
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:Partition_layout.jpg|none|400px|partition layout showing 512Mb swap]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:Partition_layout.jpg|none|400px|partition layout showing 512Mb swap]] </li>
</ul></div>
</div>


{{SectionStyleEnd}}
{{SectionStyleEnd}}
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First spotted: 05 / 2025  
First spotted: 05 / 2025  


EmuELEC clone '''without''' eMMC storage. These should work with [[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]] and [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%208 Panel 8] dtb files.
EmuELEC clone '''without''' eMMC storage. Firmware compatibility:
 
[[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]]: Use [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%208 Panel 8] dtb files.


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/G80C-MB%20V1.1-20250319/Panel9 Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
[[R36S_Clones#dArkOSRE|dArkOSRE]]: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.
 
[[R36S_Clones#ArkOS4clone|ArkOS4clone]]: Select "R36S Clone Type 2 without amplifier" in the dtb selector tool.


<div>
<div>
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First spotted: 05 / 2025  
First spotted: 05 / 2025  


EmuELEC clone '''without''' eMMC storage. These should work with [[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]] and [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%208 Panel 8] or [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%209 Panel 9] dtb files. ([https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/utn5woz99540fs4gasaf0/AIxhV1qjyriPQS4saQ6VG9A?rlkey=num1jltfhs92133z4vh3pfuge&e=1&st=zgjmsn5z&dl=0 alternative download link])
EmuELEC clone '''without''' eMMC storage. Firmware compatibility:  


ArkOS with fixed controls: [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB ArkOS-G80CA-MB] - [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB/wiki Controller Mappings]
[[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]]: Use [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%208 Panel 8] or [https://github.com/AeolusUX/K36-DTB/tree/main/Panel%209 Panel 9] dtb files. ([https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/utn5woz99540fs4gasaf0/AIxhV1qjyriPQS4saQ6VG9A?rlkey=num1jltfhs92133z4vh3pfuge&e=1&st=zgjmsn5z&dl=0 alternative download link])


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/G80CA-MB%20V1.2-20250422/Panel9 Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
[[R36S_Clones#dArkOSRE|dArkOSRE]]: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.


<div>
<div>
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ArkOS with fixed controls: [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB ArkOS-G80CA-MB] - [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB/wiki Controller Mappings]
ArkOS with fixed controls: [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB ArkOS-G80CA-MB] - [https://github.com/southoz/ArkOS-G80CA-MB/wiki Controller Mappings]


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/G80CA-MB%20V1.2-20250422/Panel9 Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
[[R36S_Clones#dArkOSRE|dArkOSRE]]: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.


<div>
<div>
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First spotted: 01 / 2026
First spotted: 01 / 2026


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/G80CA-MB%20V1.3-20251212/Panel9 Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
[[R36S_Clones#dArkOSRE|dArkOSRE]]: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] supporting both Panel 8 (default) and [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Panel 9] - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.


<div>
<div>
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== Clones with 2 RAM Chips ==
== Clones with 2 RAM Chips ==
=== RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 ===
Confirmed working with [[R36S_Clones#ArkOS_K36|ArkOS K36]] and [[R36S_Clones#ArkOS4clone|ArkOS4clone]] (choose Type 3 Clone).
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 mainboard.jpeg|thumb|none|400px|RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1rgzmgs/r36s_clone_wont_run_any_3d_cores_on_arkos/ image source]]] </li>
</div>


=== G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 ===
=== G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 ===
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It also boots with Clone Panel 5 files, but has no sound.  
It also boots with Clone Panel 5 files, but has no sound.  
Users are also reporting compatibility with [[R36S_Clones#arkos4clone|arkOS4clone]] and choosing "Type 2 wirhout amplifyer" in the dtb selector tool.


'''Known sellers:'''
'''Known sellers:'''
* SUPER FUN GAME Store
* SUPER FUN GAME Store
* Microcenter


'''Differences compared to a standard R36S'''
'''Differences compared to a standard R36S'''
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== R36S-V20 2025-05-18 ==
== R36S-V20 2025-05-18 ==
First spotted: 09 / 2025  
First spotted: 09 / 2025  
 
{{Warning |ArkOS4Clone seems to work ok, but there is a bug that can overvolt the speaker output and fry the speaker on V20 clones – [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1sf3i02/comment/oeuqlbn/ source #1] - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1no7sw1/comment/ohbqmyd/ source #2]}}
There are two versions of this clone with different panel, battery, and button mappings within the OG Kernel 5.10 dtb files.  
There are two versions of this clone with different panel, battery, and button mappings within the OG Kernel 5.10 dtb files.  


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The best choice for the device is the K36 Community Firmware, as the dtb files preserve advanced RAM timings, allowing the kernel to remap the RAM to 1GB.
The best choice for the device is the K36 Community Firmware, as the dtb files preserve advanced RAM timings, allowing the kernel to remap the RAM to 1GB.


{{Quote|New LPDDR3 clone — this is most likely a re-marked Nanya NT6CL256M32-H1* LPDDR3. The ridiculous part is that ArkOS only reports 719 MB.}}
{{Quote|New LPDDR3 clone — this is most likely a re-marked Nanya NT6CL256M32-H1* LPDDR3. The ridiculous part is that ArkOS only reports 719 MB.}}
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== R36S-V20 2025-09-18 ==
== R36S-V20 2025-09-18 ==
First spotted: 12 / 2025  
First spotted: 12 / 2025  
 
{{Warning |ArkOS4Clone seems to work ok, but there is a bug that can overvolt the speaker output and fry the speaker on V20 clones – [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1sf3i02/comment/oeuqlbn/ source #1] - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1no7sw1/comment/ohbqmyd/ source #2]}}
Compatible with ArkOS4Clone. RK3326, RK817, with Nanya NT6CL256T32BM-H2 LPDDR3 DRAM (896MB total).
Compatible with ArkOS4Clone. RK3326, RK817, with Nanya NT6CL256T32BM-H2 LPDDR3 DRAM (896MB total).


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== R36S-V12 2023-08-18 ==
== R36S-V12 2023-08-18 ==
There are multiple clone mainboards with the R36S-V12 2023-08-18 number, just like the first [[R36S_Overview#R36S-V12_2023-08-18|original R36S]] had.


Variant 1: Single RAM chip clone, with eMMC (KMF720012M-B214) [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1o2aiw8/i_found_a_new_r36s_clone/ Reddit discussion]
Variant 1: Single RAM chip clone, with eMMC (KMF720012M-B214) [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1o2aiw8/i_found_a_new_r36s_clone/ Reddit discussion]


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] with verified [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/R36S-V12%202023-08-18/Variant%201 Variant 1] dtb files - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] with verified [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Variant 1] dtb files - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.


<div>
<div>
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Variant 2: Single RAM chip clone (Micron D9SRZ, 1GB RAM, no eMMC). Comes preinstalled with some old version of custom ArkOS. Can be upgraded to ArkOS4Clone ver 2026-01+, which works great (select DTB as: "Type 2 Without Amplifier").
Variant 2: Single RAM chip clone (Micron D9SRZ, 1GB RAM, no eMMC). Comes preinstalled with some old version of custom ArkOS. Can be upgraded to ArkOS4Clone ver 2026-01+, which works great (select DTB as: "Type 2 Without Amplifier").


dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] with verified [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/tree/main/files/DTB/R36S-V12%202023-08-18/Variant%202 Variant 2] dtb files - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki Wiki] for installation instructions.
dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] with verified [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Variant 2] dtb files - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.


<div><li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;">  
<div><li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;">  
[[File:R36S-V12 2023-08-18 variant 2.jpg|thumb|R36S-V12 2023-08-18 variant 2]]</li>
[[File:R36S-V12 2023-08-18 variant 2.jpg|thumb|R36S-V12 2023-08-18 variant 2]]</li>
</div>
Variant 3: Single RAM chip clone, with eMMC (Sk Hynix, H9TQ32A4GTMCUR-KUM 512MB RAM / 4GB eMMC NAND). Different Panel to Variant 1 and Variant 2
                total        used        free      shared  buff/cache  available
  Mem:          384Mi      111Mi      3.8Mi      3.8Mi      282Mi      272Mi
  Swap:            0B          0B          0B
dArkOS: [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE dArkOSRE] with verified [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOSRE-R36?tab=readme-ov-file#supported-systems Variant 3] dtb files - See [https://github.com/southoz/dArkOS-G80CA-RE/wiki dArkOSRE Wiki] for installation instructions.
<div><li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;">
[[File:R36S-V12 202023-08-18 Variant 3.jpg|thumb|alt=R36S-V12 202023-08-18 Variant 3|R36S-V12 202023-08-18 Variant 3]]
</div>
One of the first clones from September 2024 also had a R36S-V12 2023-08-18 marking.
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S V12 2023-08-18 clone mainboard from september 2024.jpg|thumb|none|400px|[https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1fa1rle/its_a_clone_r36s_motherboard_hope_it_help_some_one/?share_id=R1dLfFoQRDE3ht0gDgE_m&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=1 image source]]] </li>
</div>
</div>
{{SectionStyleEnd}}
{{SectionStyleEnd}}
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* No custom firmware support
* No custom firmware support
* Weaker [[:Category:RK3128|RK3128]] or [[:Category:Allwinner A33|Allwinner A33]] SoC instead of [[:Category:RK3326|RK3326]]
* Weaker [[:Category:RK3128|RK3128]], [[:Category:Allwinner A33|Allwinner A33]] or [[:Category:MediaTek MT6592V|MTK6572V]] SoC instead of [[:Category:RK3326|RK3326]]
* The OS is often on the onboard-storage (eMMC)
* The OS is often on the onboard-storage (eMMC)
* Not compatible with the K36 or ArkOS for clones firmware image
* Not compatible with the K36 or ArkOS for clones firmware image
* Locked down stock OS
* Some models don't have L3 and R3 buttons
* Some models don't have L3 and R3 buttons
== RK3128 Clone ==
First spotted: 11 / 2024
* Rotated weaker RK3128 SoC
* RAMs on the right side
* Locked down OS
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S EmuELEC clone with RK3128.jpg|thumb|none|400px|RK3128 SoC in a R36S shell - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1gr4sde/they_dont_even_try_anymore/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S RK3128 clone.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Another of these "R36S" - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1r5l7rr/will_anything_work_on_it/ image source]]] </li>
</div>


== GA36 Clone ==
== GA36 Clone ==
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* Different GPU
* Different GPU
* Runs custom build of EmuElec 4.7
* Runs custom build of EmuElec 4.7
* No custom firmware support as of February 2026
* No custom firmware support as of April 2026
* Multiple mainboard versions
* Multiple mainboard versions
* Mainboard number: GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 and GA36-MB V1.1–20251025
* Mainboard number: GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 and GA36-MB V1.1–20251025
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<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Batocera Clone GA36 mainboard.jpg|thumb|none|400px|GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1owe3aq/ga36_emuelec_clone/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Batocera Clone GA36 mainboard.jpg|thumb|none|400px|GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1owe3aq/ga36_emuelec_clone/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:GA36-MB V1.1–20251025 mainboard.jpeg|thumb|none|400px|GA36-MB V1.1–20251025 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pptccb/theres_another_useless_allwinner_clone_currently/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:GA36-MB V1.1–20251025 mainboard.jpeg|thumb|none|400px|GA36-MB V1.1–20251025 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pptccb/theres_another_useless_allwinner_clone_currently/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:Osversion Brand new R36S clone.jpg|thumb]] </li>
</div>
</div>


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* Only 512MB RAM
* Only 512MB RAM
* Runs some kind of Batocera version
* Runs some kind of Batocera version
* No custom firmware support as of February 2026
* No custom firmware support as of April 2026


<div>
<div>
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<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:Gaminja Batocera Clones mainboard picture1.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Fake RK3326 marking on the SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p8jdw1/new_clone_r36s_gaminja_store_aliexpress/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:Gaminja Batocera Clones mainboard picture1.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Fake RK3326 marking on the SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p8jdw1/new_clone_r36s_gaminja_store_aliexpress/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S clone A33 SoC.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Alwinner A33 marking on the SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1qi42np/help_for_my_r36s_allwinner_a33_clone/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S clone A33 SoC.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Alwinner A33 marking on the SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1qi42np/help_for_my_r36s_allwinner_a33_clone/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S clone Allwinner A33 and wifi spot.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Some mainboard versions have a wifi solder pad - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1s6uggv/new_owner_and_bit_lost_is_this_a_clone/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Gaminja Batocera clone system info.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Different GPU probably means this is not an RK3326 SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p6lsyo/new_r36s_clone_from_gaminja/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Gaminja Batocera clone system info.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Different GPU probably means this is not an RK3326 SoC - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p6lsyo/new_r36s_clone_from_gaminja/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Gaminja Batocera clone main menu.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Running some modified batocera linux version - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p8jdw1/new_clone_r36s_gaminja_store_aliexpress/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S Gaminja Batocera clone main menu.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Running some modified batocera linux version - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1p8jdw1/new_clone_r36s_gaminja_store_aliexpress/ image source]]] </li>
Line 711: Line 779:
'''Known differences:'''
'''Known differences:'''
* Different chip (probably [[:Category:MediaTek MT6592V|MTK6572V]])
* Different chip (probably [[:Category:MediaTek MT6592V|MTK6572V]])
* No custom firmware support as of February 2026
* No custom firmware support as of April 2026
* Mainboard has a missing section on top
* Mainboard has a missing section on top
* Mainboard number is PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0
* Mainboard numbers are PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 or PS202_6GEN1_MB_V11
* More info about the hardware is available at [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q7q3co/new_r36s_clone_found_on_aliexpress_hidden_android/ this reddit thread]
* More info about the hardware is available at [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q7q3co/new_r36s_clone_found_on_aliexpress_hidden_android/ this reddit thread]


Line 723: Line 791:
<div>
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone mainboard2.jpg|thumb|none|400px|PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1prk69l/r36s_clone_based_on_android_and_mtk_6572_soc/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone mainboard2.jpg|thumb|none|400px|PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1prk69l/r36s_clone_based_on_android_and_mtk_6572_soc/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone mainboard1.jpg|thumb|none|400px|same mainboard from a different user - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pxm6xx/cloned_r36s/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202 6GEN1 MB V11 mainboard from R36S clone.jpg|thumb|none|400px|PS202 6GEN1 MB V11 mainboard - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1r4ov78/r36s_wont_boot_arkos_or_darkos_from_sd_card_boots/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone system list.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Something looks off in the system list - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pxm6xx/cloned_r36s/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone system list.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Something looks off in the system list - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pxm6xx/cloned_r36s/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone system info.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Surprise: it's running some restricted and outdated android version - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1prk69l/r36s_clone_based_on_android_and_mtk_6572_soc/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 R36S clone system info.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Surprise: it's running some restricted and outdated android version - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1prk69l/r36s_clone_based_on_android_and_mtk_6572_soc/ image source]]] </li>
Line 730: Line 798:


<div>
<div>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S PS202 clone running Alternative Launcher for OUYA .jpg|thumb|none|400px|R36S PS202 clone running Alternative Launcher for OUYA - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q4yrtz/r36s_clone_ps202/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36S PS202 clone running Alternative Launcher for OUYA .jpg|thumb|none|400px|R36S PS202 clone is able to run Alternative Launcher for OUYA - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q4yrtz/r36s_clone_ps202/ image source]]] </li>
</div>
</div>


Line 744: Line 812:
== GB350 Clones ==
== GB350 Clones ==


'''There is no known custom firmware for these GB350 clones as of February, 2026.'''
'''There is no known custom firmware for these GB350 clones as of April, 2026.'''


How to restore the stock OS (R36S-H.OS-V1.2): https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pfwwuc/how_i_changed_the_sd_card_on_a_problematic_r36s/
How to restore the stock OS (R36S-H.OS-V1.2): https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pfwwuc/how_i_changed_the_sd_card_on_a_problematic_r36s/


Experiences, setup guide and fixing things on this clone : https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pr60g0/r40_r36s_v26_clone_my_experience_and_guide_to/
Experiences, setup guide and fixing things on this clone : https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pr60g0/r40_r36s_v26_clone_my_experience_and_guide_to/
R36S GB350/v2.6 PS1 Compatibility spreadsheet: https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1sic6m9/r36s_gb350v26_ps1_compatibility_spreadsheet/


=== R36S V2.5 ===
=== R36S V2.5 ===
Line 788: Line 858:


[[File:R36S V2.6 mainboard.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Image Source: [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1lxuao4/what_the_hell_is_this/ reddit]]]
[[File:R36S V2.6 mainboard.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Image Source: [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1lxuao4/what_the_hell_is_this/ reddit]]]
Runs the '''iCube/cubegm''' firmware. Screen resolution: 640×480. Platform backgrounds and UI assets are stored in <code>cubegm/UI_Res.cpd</code> (ZIP archive containing 640×480 BGRA raw images). Cover art should be '''320×240 PNG'''.
For sync scripts, background customization, and full firmware documentation, see: '''[https://github.com/LiamJ74/R36S-V2.6_Wiki R36S V2.6 Wiki & Tools]'''


=== R36S-V2.6(0712) ===
=== R36S-V2.6(0712) ===


This version has a rotated chip.
This version has a rotated chip.
Guide with firmware to restore or use on another SD Card. https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1ridn7u/comment/o8e5z4t/?context=1


[[File:R36S-V2.6(0712).jpg|thumb|none|400px|Image Source: [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1o3snrt/megathreadoct25_clone_vs_r36s_clone_related_qs/ reddit]]]
[[File:R36S-V2.6(0712).jpg|thumb|none|400px|Image Source: [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1o3snrt/megathreadoct25_clone_vs_r36s_clone_related_qs/ reddit]]]
=== R36S-V2.7(2026.01.09) ===
Another bad GB350 fake.
[[File:R36S-V2.7(2026.01.09).jpg|thumb|none|400px|Image Source: [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1shsu40/help_iding_clone_r36sv27_20260109_code_2605_hos/ reddit]]]


=== R36HD ===
=== R36HD ===
Line 824: Line 906:
=== R36SX ===
=== R36SX ===


Some GB350 clones are labeled R36SX.
Some GB350 clones/fakes are labeled R36SX.
 
R36SX Stock OS backup (H.OS V1.2): https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1ridn7u/virgin_stock_backup_for_r36sx_false_r36s_with/
 
How to setup a new SD card and add games: https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1rmbi0t/r36sx_r%C3%A9paration_carte_de_la_carte_sd_et_ajout_de/


<div><ul>  
<div><ul>  
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36SX R36S clone back label.jpg|thumb|none|400px|R36SX back label - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q4nxx2/can_someone_help_me_with_this_weird_r36sx/ image source]]] </li>
<li style="display: inline-block; vertical-align: top;"> [[File:R36SX R36S clone back label.jpg|thumb|none|400px|R36SX back label - [https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1q4nxx2/can_someone_help_me_with_this_weird_r36sx/ image source]]] </li>
</ul></div>
</ul></div>
<youtube width="400">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmYASaTxKso</youtube>


{{SectionStyleEnd}}
{{SectionStyleEnd}}

Latest revision as of 07:12, 2 May 2026

Overview[edit]

There are basically three types of R36S devices.

  • 🟢 Genuine R36S - full custom firmware support, recommended
  • 🟡 EmuELEC clones - limited but improving firmware support
  • 🔴 Bad clones / fakes - no custom firmware support, weaker chip, avoid

Avoid buying a clone[edit]

Check the R36S Buying Guide for

  • links to the cheapest listings
  • trusted sellers
  • general AliExpress advice/tips
  • cheap accessories
  • similar and better handhelds

↪ R36S Buying Guide


⛔️ Clone-Reported Stores - Temu
⛔️ Baijiai on Temu
⛔️ Discount CC shop on Temu
⛔️ FengYuanPreferred on Temu
⛔️ Fly to the sky technology on Temu
⛔️ HHC on Temu
⛔️ LeYiXia on Temu
⛔️ Natural beauty corporate on Temu
⛔️ Staco Digital on Temu
⛔️ Suier on Temu
⛔️ YingShou on Temu
⛔️ YLW Global on Temu
⛔️ YUYIU on Temu
⛔️ Clone-Reported Stores - Others
⛔️ BSTXY on Amazon
⛔️ D-MuXue on Amazon
⛔️ focus_on_mall on eBay
⛔️ Game Global Store
⛔️ LEO BUY SHOP
⛔️ Shenzhen Lanxinda Digital on Alibaba
⛔️ Shenzhen Miratech on Alibaba
⛔️ Shenzhen Smart Concept Electronics on Alibaba
⛔️ shopgamelab.com
⛔️ shop.mashable.com - Retropian brand

1 Buying through these affiliate links helps support the wiki. Your price stays the same. Commissions go toward devices, testing, documentation, and server costs.

Why clones are bad[edit]

  • Most clone firmware versions still have problems with a dual SD card setup
  • Lots of reports about audio output issues and inverted controls.
  • There are clones/fakes with lesser ram - 512MB instead of 1GB.
  • There are clones/fakes with the weaker RK3128 chip instead of RK3326.
  • There are clones/fakes with completely different internals (even weaker than RK3128) and as of May 2026 no custom firmware support.
  • Lots of people struggling to get the G80 mainboard clones working with custom firmware.
  • On ArkOS4Clone on certain V20 clones, the speaker may overvolt, permanently damaging it.
  • If you lost your SD card, you need to try lots of different screen panel files (.dtb files)
  • No compatibility with AmberELEC/PAN4ELEC, LineageOS (Android), Multiboot, Ambian, etc.
  • Worse hardware parts are used on some clone models (Worse screen and brightness, louder shoulder buttons + they are very loose, louder L3/R3, Power and volume buttons are harder to press)

EmuELEC Clones[edit]

refer to the R36S Buying Guide for avoiding these R36S models

Status: 🟡 Usable, often require additional steps during setup, hardware parts often feel worse

First spotted: 08 / 2024

Known Software and Hardware differences and how to spot one of the EmuELEC clone variants:

  • Some clone versions can boot without SD card(s) - Shows error message "We can't find any sytems!"
  • Only one RAM chip instead of two (you can see differences without opening the device if you have a transparent R36S) - Attention: newer clones (G80D board) have 2 RAM chips like the original R36S
  • Some clone versions only have 512MB of ram
  • Standard ArkOS/AmberELEC not working (black screen and flashing red light)
  • Different dtb files on the SD card - or none at all
    • rk3326-evb-lp3-v12-linux.dtb
    • rf3536k4ka.dtb
    • rf3536k3ka.dtb
  • Some run EmuELEC ES V4.7 (same firmware as the Gaminja/Kinhank K36)
  • EMUELEC or EEROMS partition instead of EASYROMS on some clones
  • "ArkOS 2.0 (release date)" loading message is missing during boot on some clones
  • Charging animation when the device is turned off on some clones
  • Different bootup sequence on some clones
  • No wifi option - does not support wifi dongles on some clones
  • FN button is mapped to the Y button (software problem?)
  • Original has larger/thicker volume grills. The fake ones sometimes have thinner volume grills
  • Some clones have buttons with different fonts like a Crooked/italic X button or very thin letters
  • Retroarch System Information shows 497mb of system memory (retroarch > back to main menu > information > system) on some clones
  • Darker shade of blue used for the X button on some clones
  • The amount of different types often leads to problems with the speaker and OTG port during microSD card setup

Image gallery

  • Image by L31x9H from Discord #gameconsole_r36s_etc - Note: some clones have the same board as the original R36S version
    Image by L31x9H from Discord #gameconsole_r36s_etc - Note: some clones have the same board as the original R36S version
  • highlighted RAM chips
    highlighted RAM chips
  • KMQNW000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
    KMQNW000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
  • CLONE WITH 2 RAM CHIPS - G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 mainboards
    CLONE WITH 2 RAM CHIPS - G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 mainboards
  • KMQNW000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
    KMQNW000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
  • "Sticker Clone" - KMQ7X000SA-B315 - Source: Discord
    "Sticker Clone" - KMQ7X000SA-B315 - Source: Discord
  • KMQ7X000SA-B315 - Source: Discord
    KMQ7X000SA-B315 - Source: Discord
  • "Sticker Clone" - KMQ72000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
    "Sticker Clone" - KMQ72000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
  • KMQ72000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
    KMQ72000SM-B316 - Source: Reddit
  • KMQD60013M-B318 - Source: Reddit
    KMQD60013M-B318 - Source: Reddit
  • Clone with 2 ram chips - Source: Discord - RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 - K36 has the internal name of "RF3500KG"
    Clone with 2 ram chips - Source: Discord - RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 - K36 has the internal name of "RF3500KG"
  • BOOT partition of one of the R36S EmuELEC clones
    BOOT partition of one of the R36S EmuELEC clones
  • Image by Striike from Discord #gameconsole_r36s_etc (Retro Handhelds) - zoomed in on the crooked X button
    Image by Striike from Discord #gameconsole_r36s_etc (Retro Handhelds) - zoomed in on the crooked X button
  • BOOT partition of one of the R36S EmuELEC clones - Image by Send_it_96 from reddit
    BOOT partition of one of the R36S EmuELEC clones - Image by Send_it_96 from reddit
  • Looks like a normal R36S but it's a clone - Image by FiveMileDammit from reddit
    Looks like a normal R36S but it's a clone - Image by FiveMileDammit from reddit
  • Almost no options in the menu - Image by FiveMileDammit from reddit
    Almost no options in the menu - Image by FiveMileDammit from reddit
  • One of the clone variants - "ArkOS 2.0 (release date)" loading message is missing during boot, God of War logo during boot sequence, EPIC-CODY is standard theme - (video at discord)
    One of the clone variants - "ArkOS 2.0 (release date)" loading message is missing during boot, God of War logo during boot sequence, EPIC-CODY is standard theme - (video at discord)
  • EMUELEC ES V4.7 - source
    EMUELEC ES V4.7 - source
  • 2 clones sold by Inlighte - Source: reddit
    2 clones sold by Inlighte - Source: reddit
  • 2 clones sold by Inlighte - Source: reddit
    2 clones sold by Inlighte - Source: reddit
  • You can see through the plastic that it has only 1 RAM chip - source
    You can see through the plastic that it has only 1 RAM chip - source
  • Charging animation when the device is turned off - source
    Charging animation when the device is turned off - source
  • slightly different bootlogo (left=real r36s - right=emuelec clone) - source
    slightly different bootlogo (left=real r36s - right=emuelec clone) - source
  • EmuELEC clone boot logo differences: Font, additional "PLEASE WAIT LOADING..." text, brownish background, slightly squeezed image
    EmuELEC clone boot logo differences: Font, additional "PLEASE WAIT LOADING..." text, brownish background, slightly squeezed image
  • Button and dpad differences - More info at this reddit thread
    Button and dpad differences - More info at this reddit thread
  • R36S EmuELEC clone with RK3128 - source
    R36S EmuELEC clone with RK3128 - source

Teardown Gallery

Common problems

The stock SD card is as bad as on a regular R36S and tends to corrupt very fast.

Error Message During Boot - Can't find any sytems

Solution: Install one of the available custom firmwares to a new SD card.

    • Stuck During Boot

    Solution: Install one of the available custom firmwares to a new SD card.

    • Red blinking light during boot

    This happens when you install the standard (or community maintained) ArkOS custom firmware on a clone.

    Solution: Install/flash one of the clone specific custom firmware from below.

    Load video
    YouTube

    Custom Firmware for the EmuELEC Clone[edit]

    Ultimate R36S ArkOS Fresh Install Guide (All R36S Variants)

    Load video
    YouTube


    ArkOS4clone

    arkos4clone (ArkOS for clones)
    arkos4clone
    Latest version arkos4clone.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub Releases
    Documentation / FAQ Github readme
    Info Based on the ArkOS R3XS community maintained firmware.
    Officially Supported Devices
    Devices list (click to expand)
    Load video
    YouTube


    dArkOSRE

    dArkOSRE
    dArkOSRE Logo
    Latest version dArkOS-G80CA-RE.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub
    Documentation / FAQ dArkOSRE Wiki & Setup Guide
    Hotkeys RetroArch Hotkeys
    Officially Supported Devices
    Devices list (click to expand)

    Clone R36S devices:

    • G80C-MB V1.1-20250319 Panel 8
    • G80C-MB V1.1-20250319 Panel 9
    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250422 Panel 8
    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250422 Panel 9
    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250423 Panel 8
    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250423 Panel 9
    • G80CA-MB V1.3-20251212 Panel 8
    • R36S-V12 2023-08-18 Variant 1 with EMMC and AMP
    • R36S-V12 2023-08-18 Variant 2
    • R36S-V12 2023-08-18 Variant 3

    Genuine R36S devices:

    • R36S-V21 2024-12-18
    • R36XX-V21 2024-12-18

    Soysauce R36S devices:

    • Y3506_V04_20250529
    • Y3506_V05_20251215 2551
    • Y3506_V05_20251215 2601


    dArkOS

    Load video
    YouTube


    ArkOS K36

    Development has been stopped for this project on August 25, 2025.

    You need to change these files on your SD card's BOOT partition if you have problems after flashing custom firmware. If you have no sound, go to Ports and click on "audio fix permanent".

    ⬇️ Device Tree Files Repository for the K36 and similar clones

    ArkOS - K36
    ArkOS - R3XS
    Latest version ArkOS-K36.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub
    Documentation / FAQ ArkOS Wiki & Setup Guide
    Hotkeys Global & Emulator Event Keys
    Officially Supported Devices
    Devices list (click to expand)


    ROCKNIX

    Official ROCKNIX is now working on these clones. Use the "b" version from the download page.

    Tool to patch the stock dtb file

    ⬇️ Download

    ROCKNIX
    ROCKNIX Logo
    Latest version distribution.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub
    Documentation / FAQ ROCKNIX Wiki & Setup Guide
    Hotkeys Check device specific pages
    Officially Supported Devices
    Devices list (click to expand)


    Load video
    YouTube


    UnofficialOS

    Clone and R3xS Instructions

    UnofficialOS
    UnofficialOS Logo
    Latest version UnofficialOS.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub Releases
    Documentation / FAQ UnofficialOS Wiki
    Hotkeys Hotkeys and Button Codes
    Officially Supported Devices
    Devices list (click to expand)

    EmuELEC & Others

    Outdated original and modified K36 EmuELEC firmware images. Also contains other firmware types. Not recommended to use. For archival purposes only.

    ▶ Click expand to show this section

    Most of these custom firmwares run a little slower and have limited options compared to ArkOS or AmberELEC.

    ℹ️
    Info
    If your R36S/K36 Clone keeps booting with a black screen / blue LED, take your card out of the right side OS slot and put it into the left TF2 Slot
    • Image by Slowpokefarm - R36S EmuELEC clone running the Kinhank K36 firmware
    EmuELEC 4.8 Beta (Modified by trananhquan)
    Description Modified EmuELEC 4.8 Beta Firmware for R36S Clone
    Download Links Google Drive
    Filename / Info EmuELEC-R36SClone.aarch64-4.8-TEST-04212024-chi.img.gz – Updated RetroArch cores, Ethernet adapter support, Portmaster working
    K36S Stock Firmware (Modified by AeolusUX)
    Description Stock EmuELEC 4.7 firmware for K36S, includes unlocked EmulationStation options and working FN button
    Download Links Google Drive
    Filename / Info EmuELEC-RF3500KG.aarch64-4.7-K36.20240823143713_EXPAND_EEROMS.img.xz – Expand EEROMS partition manually
    K36S Unlocked Stock Firmware
    Description K36S EmuELEC 4.7 with unlocked EmulationStation options
    Download Links Google Drive


    MediaFire
    MEGA

    Filename / Info HuaKeWei_RF3500KG_K36_ZED2024050006_EE4.7_Rlease_20240823.img.gz
    K36 Stock Firmware
    Description Basic stock EmuELEC image for K36
    Download Links Google Drive
    Filename / Info K36-Stock-EmuELEC.img.xz
    R36S/K36 EmuELEC clone dtb files
    Description Device Tree file for R36S-based handhelds
    Download Link Version 1 Google Drive – MediaFire
    Download Link version 2 MediaFire
    Filename / Info rk3326-evb-lp3-v12-linux.dtb
    Mount TF2 roms SD card on the EmuELEC Clone
    Description If you have problems with getting roms to show from the 2nd SD card follow the steps in this video (thanks to dandaman73).

    There’s a 2 step process mount and hard reboot

    How to mount the TF2 card properly

    RetrOS

    RetrOS
    RetrOS Logo
    Latest version retros.png
    Download ⬇️ GitHub
    Documentation / FAQ RetrOS @ GitHub
    Description Hybrid custom firmware for R36S clones.

    Other

    There are also modified UnofficialOS and AmberELEC Firmware versions available that can boot up the device, but have a few issues like no sound, general unstability and are Not recommended! to use. Source: KinHank K36 discord thread

    UnofficialOS Firmware (with EmuELEC kernel)
    Description

    UnofficialOS image built on EmuELEC kernel. Not recommended! UnofficialOS-RGB20S.aarch64-20230208.img.gz

    Download Link

    Google Drive

    AmberELEC Firmware (with EmuELEC kernel)
    Description

    Standard AmberELEC image using EmuELEC kernel. Not recommended! AmberELEC-RG351V.aarch64-20230203.img.gz

    Download Link

    Google Drive

    AmberELEC Pre-Release (with EmuELEC kernel)
    Description

    Pre-release version of AmberELEC on EmuELEC kernel. Not recommended!

    • Linux only
    • Copy games and BIOS to roms (not roms2)
    • Speaker does not work
    • Mupen64Plus controller mapping broken

    AmberELEC-RG351MP.aarch64-prerelease-20240912_1759.img.gz

    Download Link

    Google Drive

    ArkOS R36MAX / R36PRO

    ArkOS R36MAX / R36PRO
    Description ArkOS version for the R36MAX / R36PRO
    Download Link ⬇️ Google Drive - outdated
    More info S0945_RF3536K4KA_YP2024110012_R36MAX_202411131854_ArkOS.img.gz - Source - outdated

    More info[edit]

    Known Manufacturers/Distributors

    Shenzhen Xumeng Technology Co., Ltd

    User manual

    This manual has been found on multiple temu listings. They even added "K36" to the device type info.

    • Link to full manual in lots of different languages: File:R36S-K36 clone user manual from temu.pdf

    EmuElec “Sticker” Clone[edit]

    One of the first R36S clones on the market. Known for the sticker with the board number.

    EmuELEC clone with a single RAM chip (1GB) and eMMC storage. Follow this tutorial to start the firmware on the eMMC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jL8PdjGYeVE

    Firmware compatibility:

    ArkOS K36: Works without changing dtb files.

    ArkOS4clone: Select "Game Console HG36 (HG3506)" in the dtb selector tool.

    Rocknix: Use this tool to generate your dtbo file using the stock dtb file DTB overlay generator for Rocknix.

    Stock dtb file: https://github.com/Vi-K36/EE-Clones-DTB/tree/main/HG36%20-%20HG3506/Stock

  • R36S 3146 2024 11 10 - image source
  • R36S 0202 2024 12 08 - Source: image source
  • R36S 2440 2025 05 15 - image source

    • 512MB RAM Clone[edit]

    Temu clones often come with internal storage and one ram chip. These devices typically have 512Mb of ram and a 512Mb swap partition on the MMC. The MMC is 4Gb in size.

  • partition layout showing 512Mb swap
    partition layout showing 512Mb swap

    • G80C mainboard[edit]

    G80C-MB V1.1-20250319[edit]

    First spotted: 05 / 2025

    EmuELEC clone without eMMC storage. Firmware compatibility:

    ArkOS K36: Use Panel 8 dtb files.

    dArkOSRE: dArkOSRE supporting both Panel 8 (default) and Panel 9 - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

    ArkOS4clone: Select "R36S Clone Type 2 without amplifier" in the dtb selector tool.

  • Image source: baidu R36S thread
  • Image source: reddit

    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250422[edit]

    First spotted: 05 / 2025

    EmuELEC clone without eMMC storage. Firmware compatibility:

    ArkOS K36: Use Panel 8 or Panel 9 dtb files. (alternative download link)

    dArkOSRE: dArkOSRE supporting both Panel 8 (default) and Panel 9 - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

  • Image source: reddit

    • G80CA-MB V1.2-20250423[edit]

    First spotted: 08 / 2025

    Works with the ArkOS K36 and Panel 8 or Panel 9 dtb files.

    ArkOS with fixed controls: ArkOS-G80CA-MB - Controller Mappings

    dArkOSRE: dArkOSRE supporting both Panel 8 (default) and Panel 9 - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

  • Image source: discord
  • Image source: discord

    • G80CA-MB V1.3-20251212[edit]

    First spotted: 01 / 2026

    dArkOSRE: dArkOSRE supporting both Panel 8 (default) and Panel 9 - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

  • Image source: discord

    • Clones with 2 RAM Chips[edit]

    RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508[edit]

    Confirmed working with ArkOS K36 and ArkOS4clone (choose Type 3 Clone).

  • RF35XE-MB V1.1_20240508 mainboard - image source

    • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609[edit]

    First spotted: 07 / 2025

    This is a clone with 2 RAM chips. ArkOS K36 works with the files of the Display Panel 10 version. Display Panel 5 could also work but with audio issues.

    If your device works with Panel 10 files and your sleep mode is broken, try ⬇️these files. Hotkeys still don't work in N64 standalone emulators (September 5, 2025).

  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 mainboards
  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 back
  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 stock OS
  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 stock OS
  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 stock OS
  • G80D-MB V1.0-20250609 vs standard R36S-V21 2024-12-18 different screw holes size

    • Known sellers:

    • SUPER FUN GAME Store
    • Shop1104202276 Store

    Differences compared to a standard R36S

    • Worse screen brightness
    • Shoulder buttons are very loose (very noticable rattling while moving the device)
    • Shoulder buttons are even louder than standard R36S
    • L3/R3 louder than standard R36S
    • Power and volume buttons are harder to press
    • Smaller screw holes
    • No BOOT partition (stock SD card)
    • boot folder is on the EASYROMS partition (stock SD card)
    • Controls in file manager are messed up. Select and start are up and down. dpad and joystick not working. (stock SD card)
    • Wifi not working with dongle (stock SD card)
    • No WiFi interference sound crackling (ArkOS K36)
    • Up and down on the right joystick is inverted (ArkOS K36)

    Boot folder content: https://discord.com/channels/741895796315914271/1344470041986596935/1400903882816622612

    2 RAM Chip Clone R36S-V12[edit]

    First spotted: 08 / 2025

    This is another clone with 2 RAM chips.

    ArkOS K36 ("ArkOS_K36_v2.0_08112025.img") with Clone Panel 8 files works. Sound works perfectly through the speaker, but audio from the 3.5 mm jack is distorted. Using USB-C headphones or a USB-C audio adapter fixes this issue (plug them in before booting to ensure the sound driver loads). The sound quality is very good, making an adapter worth buying.

    It also boots with Clone Panel 5 files, but has no sound.

    Users are also reporting compatibility with arkOS4clone and choosing "Type 2 wirhout amplifyer" in the dtb selector tool.

    Known sellers:

    • SUPER FUN GAME Store
    • Microcenter

    Differences compared to a standard R36S

    • Some comes with a KIOXIA SD card
    • No BOOT partition (stock SD card).
    • boot folder is on the EASYROMS partition (stock SD card). No boot folder in EASYROMS partition. Just two weird .sys configuration files. Panel 8 files working perfectly for ArkOS.
    • Big red omega logo in booting, plus GameBoy ASCII art when launching a game.
    • Controls in file manager are messed up. Select and start are up and down. dpad and joystick not working. (stock SD card)
  • Mainboard of the R36S-V12 clone with two RAM chips - Source: reddit
  • Looks like a standard R36S - Source: reddit
  • Surprise, it's a clone! - Source: reddit
  • KIOXIA microSD card!? - Source: reddit
  • rk3326-evb-lp3-v12-linux.dtb and rf3536k3ka.dtb (files only seen on clones) - Source: reddit

    • R36S-V20 2025-05-18[edit]

    First spotted: 09 / 2025

    There are two versions of this clone with different panel, battery, and button mappings within the OG Kernel 5.10 dtb files.

    The OG Firmware uses a 512MB Swap partition and remaps the initially detected 750MB of Memory to 1GB using the DDR timings found in the dtb files. 

                    total        used        free      shared  buff/cache   available
  Mem:          975Mi       465Mi       181Mi       1.0Mi       327Mi       494Mi
  Swap:         511Mi          0B       511Mi

    The DTB files for Kernel 4.4 firmwares do not include the advanced DDR timings, so the system will not be able to remap the initially detected RAM and only have 750 MB of RAM and no swap partition, providing a limited amount of resources to Emulators 

                      total        used        free      shared  buff/cache   available
   Mem:           640Mi       144Mi       279Mi       7.9Mi       237Mi       496Mi
   Swap:             0B          0B          0B


    The best choice for the device is the K36 Community Firmware, as the dtb files preserve advanced RAM timings, allowing the kernel to remap the RAM to 1GB.

    New LPDDR3 clone — this is most likely a re-marked Nanya NT6CL256M32-H1* LPDDR3. The ridiculous part is that ArkOS only reports 719 MB.

    To use this clone with arkos4clone, you'll want to use the "Clone Type 1 Without Amplifier" configuration. Other users reported success with ArkOS4Clone Panel 3.

    More info

    Another possible fix to get ArkOS K36 running can be found at this reddit thread.

    The R36S-V20 2025-05-18 board is also used in R36MAX consoles - source

  • Image source: discord
  • unlabeled V20 mainboard image source
  • Image source: discord
    • Load video
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    R36S-V20 2025-09-18[edit]

    First spotted: 12 / 2025

    Compatible with ArkOS4Clone. RK3326, RK817, with Nanya NT6CL256T32BM-H2 LPDDR3 DRAM (896MB total).

    Discussions on reddit:

  • image source
  • Front assembled view of V20 R36S (9-18-25) clone.
    Front assembled view.
  • Back view of V20 R36S (9-18-25) clone with battery cover removed.
    Back view with battery cover removed.
  • Back view of PCB
    Back view of PCB on V20 R36S (9-18-25).
  • Front view of PCB.
    Front view of V20 R36S (9-18-25) PCB.
  • Front view of box.
    Front of box for V20 R36S (9-18-25) clone.
  • The PCB IC's, including RK3326, RK817, Nanya NT6CL256T32BM-H2, and the included 64GB TF Card.
    RK3326, RK817, Nanya NT6CL256T32BM-H2, and 64GB TF Card.

    • R36S-V12 2023-08-18[edit]

    There are multiple clone mainboards with the R36S-V12 2023-08-18 number, just like the first original R36S had.

    Variant 1: Single RAM chip clone, with eMMC (KMF720012M-B214) Reddit discussion

    dArkOS: dArkOSRE with verified Variant 1 dtb files - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

    Variant 2: Single RAM chip clone (Micron D9SRZ, 1GB RAM, no eMMC). Comes preinstalled with some old version of custom ArkOS. Can be upgraded to ArkOS4Clone ver 2026-01+, which works great (select DTB as: "Type 2 Without Amplifier").

    dArkOS: dArkOSRE with verified Variant 2 dtb files - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

  • R36S-V12 2023-08-18 variant 2

    • Variant 3: Single RAM chip clone, with eMMC (Sk Hynix, H9TQ32A4GTMCUR-KUM 512MB RAM / 4GB eMMC NAND). Different Panel to Variant 1 and Variant 2 

                    total        used        free      shared  buff/cache   available
  Mem:          384Mi       111Mi       3.8Mi       3.8Mi       282Mi       272Mi
  Swap:            0B          0B          0B

    dArkOS: dArkOSRE with verified Variant 3 dtb files - See dArkOSRE Wiki for installation instructions.

  • R36S-V12 202023-08-18 Variant 3
    R36S-V12 202023-08-18 Variant 3

    • One of the first clones from September 2024 also had a R36S-V12 2023-08-18 marking.

    R36S-Power-MB 01 - 060625[edit]

    First spotted: 10 / 2025

    Works with ArkOS K36 and Panel 8 files according to this reddit thread.

    Fakes[edit]

    Status: 🔴 Avoid

    • No custom firmware support
    • Weaker RK3128, Allwinner A33 or MTK6572V SoC instead of RK3326
    • The OS is often on the onboard-storage (eMMC)
    • Not compatible with the K36 or ArkOS for clones firmware image
    • Locked down stock OS
    • Some models don't have L3 and R3 buttons

    RK3128 Clone[edit]

    First spotted: 11 / 2024

    • Rotated weaker RK3128 SoC
    • RAMs on the right side
    • Locked down OS
  • RK3128 SoC in a R36S shell - image source
  • Another of these "R36S" - image source

    • GA36 Clone[edit]

    First spotted: 11 / 2025

    Known differences:

    • Different chip (Allwinner A33)
    • Different GPU
    • Runs custom build of EmuElec 4.7
    • No custom firmware support as of April 2026
    • Multiple mainboard versions
    • Mainboard number: GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 and GA36-MB V1.1–20251025

    GA36-MB V1.0-20250730: Recovery image and more info is available at this GitHub repository.

    GA36-MB V1.1–20251025: EmuELEC stock card backup is available at this GitHub repository.

  • GA36-MB V1.0-20250730 mainboard - image source
  • GA36-MB V1.1–20251025 mainboard - image source

    • Gaminja Batocera Clones[edit]

    First spotted: 11 / 2025

    Known differences:

    • White outline around the SoC and RAM section
    • Different chip (Allwinner A33)
    • Different GPU
    • Only 512MB RAM
    • Runs some kind of Batocera version
    • No custom firmware support as of April 2026
  • Fake RK3326 marking on the SoC - image source
  • Fake RK3326 marking on the SoC - image source
  • Alwinner A33 marking on the SoC - image source
  • Some mainboard versions have a wifi solder pad - image source
  • Different GPU probably means this is not an RK3326 SoC - image source
  • Running some modified batocera linux version - image source

    • PS202 MTK6572 SoC Clone[edit]

    First spotted: 12 / 2025

    Known differences:

    • Different chip (probably MTK6572V)
    • No custom firmware support as of April 2026
    • Mainboard has a missing section on top
    • Mainboard numbers are PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 or PS202_6GEN1_MB_V11
    • More info about the hardware is available at this reddit thread

    Installing custom emulators and launcher:

    I have seen a few posts regarding the ps202 based R36S clone with android kitkat, and no one has figured out a way to make it better however I have figured it out and would like to share with anyone who is struggling with this like I was, if you boot into the android settings via clicking the serial number several times fast, you can access developer settings, use that to enable USB debugging, then I deleted the launcher it came with as well as the basic trash emulator conglomerate that came with it. Once that was done I looked for a decent launcher to install via adb, ended up settling with an unofficial revamp of the ouya launcher for the ouya system, this gave me access to all the apps right on the home screen including settings, all I had to do from there is install my own emulators and voila I could finally add my own games, mess with emu settings and even use Bluetooth on my device. You could also install a file manager to side load apps without needing adb, but I'm fine with doing it since I have to load up my laptop either way.

    More info about customizing the OS is at this reddit thread.

  • PS202_6GEN1_MB_V1 0 mainboard - image source
  • PS202 6GEN1 MB V11 mainboard - image source
  • Something looks off in the system list - image source
  • Surprise: it's running some restricted and outdated android version - image source
  • Settings screen - image source
  • R36S PS202 clone is able to run Alternative Launcher for OUYA - image source

    • PS101_MB_V1.2[edit]

    First spotted: 02 / 2026

    Another fake without custom firmware support. Similar to the PS202 MTK6572 SoC Clone.

  • PS101_MB_V1.2 mainboard

    • GB350 Clones[edit]

    There is no known custom firmware for these GB350 clones as of April, 2026.

    How to restore the stock OS (R36S-H.OS-V1.2): https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pfwwuc/how_i_changed_the_sd_card_on_a_problematic_r36s/

    Experiences, setup guide and fixing things on this clone : https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1pr60g0/r40_r36s_v26_clone_my_experience_and_guide_to/

    R36S GB350/v2.6 PS1 Compatibility spreadsheet: https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1sic6m9/r36s_gb350v26_ps1_compatibility_spreadsheet/

    R36S V2.5[edit]

    First spotted: 04 / 2025

    It's a gb350 clone. It uses the same OS as the g350 and sf3000. So my guess is it uses the same soc as the sf3000.

    https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1kbpz9y/comment/mtqo15i/?context=3

    Known differences:

    • No visible RAM chips
    • Different SoC chip (weaker)
    • NANYA NT5CB128M16HP-DI 2Gb (256MB) RAM chip
    • Maybe unsoldered mini-hdmi port?
    • TF2-GAME Micro SD card port exists but not working
    • Runs same OS as the GB350 and SF3000

    https://github.com/game-de-it/testrepo/releases/tag/SF3000_StockOS

    Load video
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    R36S V2.6[edit]

    First spotted: 07 / 2025

    Another GB350 clone. Same as the R36S V2.5.

    Image Source: reddit

    Runs the iCube/cubegm firmware. Screen resolution: 640×480. Platform backgrounds and UI assets are stored in cubegm/UI_Res.cpd (ZIP archive containing 640×480 BGRA raw images). Cover art should be 320×240 PNG.

    For sync scripts, background customization, and full firmware documentation, see: R36S V2.6 Wiki & Tools

    R36S-V2.6(0712)[edit]

    This version has a rotated chip.

    Guide with firmware to restore or use on another SD Card. https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1ridn7u/comment/o8e5z4t/?context=1

    Image Source: reddit

    R36S-V2.7(2026.01.09)[edit]

    Another bad GB350 fake.

    Image Source: reddit

    R36HD[edit]

    First spotted: 06 / 2025

    R36HD seems to be another "R36S-like" device with GB350-like hardware/software - this one has a differently shaped d-pad and HDMI output so it's more obviously different from the standard R36S

    More info aboit the R36HD:

    ↪ R36HD

    R36HD 2nd version / M18 / M37 Pro[edit]

    First spotted: 06 / 2025

    Sold as R36HD, M18 or M37 Pro on aliexpress. Also called R46s in some listings.

    Another device with the GB350 internals according to videos and photos found on youtube and reddit.

    R36SX[edit]

    Some GB350 clones/fakes are labeled R36SX.

    R36SX Stock OS backup (H.OS V1.2): https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1ridn7u/virgin_stock_backup_for_r36sx_false_r36s_with/

    How to setup a new SD card and add games: https://www.reddit.com/r/R36S/comments/1rmbi0t/r36sx_r%C3%A9paration_carte_de_la_carte_sd_et_ajout_de/

    Load video
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    Standard ArkOS Compatible Clones[edit]

    R36S Clone #1 (R35S+ or R36S+)[edit]

    This is a "good" clone version. It can run the standard ArkOS version. Compared to the EmuELEC clone, this type is very rare.

    First spotted: 06 / 2024

    Update 09 / 2024: Not available anymore

    Backlabel is R35S+ or R36S+

    Known differences:

    • The holes around the joysticks are smaller
    • Labels on the buttons are thinner
    • Different joysticks
    • Original screen version
    • The buttons feel different
    • Some have a green LED light instead of blue

    Sources:

    It's unclear where/how those clones are sold. If you look at "R36S" listings on aliexpress, and check the review pics, you can spot a few of these clones there. These clones are also found in the reviews from 3C MOKER Store (July 2024).

    • holes around the joysticks
    • Labels on the buttons
    • green LED

    No TF2 roms card slot Clone[edit]

    This is a "good" clone version. It can run the standard ArkOS version. Compared to the EmuELEC clone, this type is very rare.

    First spotted: 10 / 2024

    Known differences:

    • no TF2 roms card slot
    • no removeable battery cover
    • no label on the back buttons
    • color on the front buttons missing
    • latest ArkOS is working fine

    Round D-pad Clone[edit]

    This is a "good" clone version. It can run the standard ArkOS version. Compared to the EmuELEC clone, this type is very rare.

    First spotted: 12 / 2024

    Known differences:

    • Rounded D-pad
    • New box with an Assassins Creed image
    • No indentation for the letters in the face buttons

    Sources:

    Soy Sauce Clones[edit]

    Head over to the R36S_Overview#Soy_Sauce_mainboards section for more info about these models.

    Avoid buying a clone

    Check the R36S Buying Guide for

    • links to the cheapest listings
    • trusted sellers
    • general AliExpress advice/tips
    • cheap accessories
    • similar and better handhelds

    ↪ R36S Buying Guide

    Retrieved from "https://handhelds.wiki/index.php?title=R36S_Clones&oldid=50706"