Just got an Old Arcade M27 Retro Handheld Game Console, or thinking about one? This getting-started guide walks through what is in the box, how to power it on, how to hook it up to a TV, and a few tips for the first weeks. Full specs and current options are on the M27 product page.
What's in the Box
Exact contents can vary slightly by seller listing photos, but the product page and packing images show a ready-to-play kit that typically includes:
- 1× M27 handheld game console (64GB, 128GB, or 256GB; Grey, Green, or Black)
- Micro USB charging cable
- HDMI cable for TV output
- Retail packaging (and, on some listings, wireless gamepads shown as part of a fuller gift-style set)
Before you panic about a missing piece, check every pouch in the box and confirm which storage size and color you ordered on the M27 product page.
What You're Working With
The M27 is built around a large HD screen and home-friendly outputs, not a tiny pocket screen. From the product specs diagram and listing:
- Display: 7-inch IPS HD screen
- System: Linux OS
- Processor: Quad-core Cortex-A55
- Battery: 4000mAh
- Controls: Original 3D analog rockers with RGB light rings
- Games: 20,000+ retro games preloaded
- Storage options: 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB
- Colors: Grey, Green, and Black
- TV output: HDMI connection for living-room play
Use those facts as your baseline. Do not expect features that are not listed on the product page, and treat game counts as the store's published preloaded totals for this model.
Setup Steps
The M27 is meant to play out of the box, so first-run setup is short.
- Unpack and charge. Connect the included micro USB cable and give the 4000mAh battery a solid charge before a long session. A partial charge is fine for a quick smoke test.
- Power on. Hold the power control until the Linux interface appears. The large IPS screen is the main view for menus and games.
- Browse the preloaded library. The console ships with 20,000+ retro games already loaded. Start with a short, familiar title so you can learn the button layout without fighting a tough first boss.
- Learn the analog sticks. The M27 uses 3D analog rockers with RGB light rings. Spend a minute in a simple menu or racing game so the sticks and face buttons feel natural.
- Optional: connect to a TV. Plug in the included HDMI cable, choose the correct TV input, and switch the console to its TV/output mode if the on-screen menu offers one. This is how the listing turns the handheld into a mini living-room setup.
- Pick your storage size next time (or now). If you are still deciding between 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, larger cards leave more room for the bigger libraries and future saves. Current pricing for each option is on the product page.
Tips for the First Weeks
Play on the big screen when you can. The 7-inch IPS panel is already large for a handheld, and HDMI output is there when you want couch co-op or a clearer look at older pixel art.
Mind the battery. A 4000mAh pack covers solid portable sessions, but long TV play still benefits from keeping the micro USB cable nearby.
Use the lights as a cue, not a distraction. The RGB rings around the sticks look flashy; if they are too bright at night, check the system menus for any brightness or LED options before you assume they cannot be toned down.
Compare other portables if you are gift shopping. For smaller pocket handhelds and budget alternatives, browse the Handhelds collection or our guide to the best retro handhelds under $100.
TV Mode vs Portable Mode
Think of the M27 as two play styles in one device:
- Portable: 7-inch IPS screen, built-in controls, and the 4000mAh battery for beds, couches, and travel bags that can fit a larger handheld.
- Home entertainment: HDMI out to a TV, with room for a second player when you have extra controllers available for your setup.
That dual use is the main reason to choose the M27 over a tiny 3.5-inch pocket unit: you get a bigger onboard display and a simple path to the living-room screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many games come on the M27? The product listing states 20,000+ games preloaded.
What screen size does it have? A 7-inch IPS HD display, per the product specs diagram.
What storage sizes are available? 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, in Grey, Green, and Black.
Can it connect to a TV? Yes. The listing highlights HDMI TV output, and packing images show an HDMI cable in the kit.
How does it charge? With the included micro USB charging cable into the 4000mAh battery pack.
What operating system does it use? Linux, according to the product specification diagram.
Where can I buy it? On the Old Arcade M27 product page. US orders over $60 ship free.
Ready to Play
Charge it, pick a classic from the preloaded library, and try both the handheld screen and HDMI TV mode once. If the M27 fits how you play, grab your color and storage size from the M27 Retro Handheld Game Console page, or keep browsing the Handhelds collection for other Old Arcade portables.
Specs and game counts are taken from our product page and listing images. Emulation performance can vary by game and system.
