Building on the success of the original X7, the X7M refines and enhances the retro handheld formula with meaningful upgrades across hardware, display, and controls. If you enjoyed the X7 and want to know whether the M version justifies the step up, or if you are new to the series and wondering where to start, this review covers everything you need to make an informed decision.
What is New in the X7M
The X7M improves over the original X7 in several key areas. The processor has been updated to handle a broader range of emulated systems more reliably, particularly in the more demanding 32-bit era titles that sometimes stretched the original model. The screen panel has been upgraded to offer better brightness and colour accuracy. Button quality has been refined with improved tactile response. These are not superficial changes: each upgrade addresses feedback from users of the original model and makes a measurable difference to the gaming experience.
Display Upgrade
The screen on the X7M is noticeably better than its predecessor. Colours are more vivid, the contrast ratio is improved, and the panel handles bright outdoor environments more comfortably. For games that rely on subtle colour differences to convey information or atmosphere, this upgrade is genuinely meaningful. The display size remains comparable to the X7, maintaining the compact and pocketable profile that made the original model appealing.
Improved Controls
The button improvements on the X7M deserve special mention. The d-pad has been redesigned with a cleaner pivot mechanism that delivers more reliable eight-directional inputs, which directly benefits fighting games and precision platformers. Face buttons have a crisper feel with less travel distance, resulting in faster input registration. The analogue sticks offer better centre return, which is important for 3D games that require neutral stick position for certain moves or actions.
Performance Across Systems
The X7M handles its expanded system support with confidence. Where the original model occasionally showed signs of struggle with demanding titles, the X7M keeps frame rates stable and audio accurate across a wider range of emulated platforms. The operating system has also been refined, with quicker load times and a more responsive interface that makes navigating a large game library an enjoyable experience rather than a chore.
Value Assessment
The X7M carries a modest premium over the original X7, and for most buyers that premium is justified by the real-world improvements it delivers. Better screen, better controls, better performance: these are the factors that matter most in a retro handheld, and the X7M improves in all three areas. For those who already own the X7, the upgrade decision depends on how much the specific improvements matter to your gaming habits. For first-time buyers, the X7M is the easy recommendation. Check out the X7M retro handheld game console for more details.
Summary
The X7M is a successful iterative upgrade that delivers meaningful improvements over its predecessor. It is better in the ways that matter and holds its own against competitors at similar price points. For retro gaming fans who want a reliable, well-specced handheld with a strong game library and quality controls, the X7M is a solid choice.