Retroflag 64Pi case for Raspberry Pi 5

Description

Retroflag 64Pi for Raspberry Pi 5: the Nintendo 64 look with real cooling

Retroflag's 64Pi CASE dresses the Raspberry Pi 5 in a design inspired by the Nintendo 64. It is the first Retroflag case compatible with the Pi 5, and it is about more than style: custom aluminum heatsink, fan, working Power and Reset buttons, front controller ports and access to the microSD card without opening the case. The ideal base for a living-room retro gaming console.

Highlights

• Complete active cooling : aluminum heatsink cut for the Pi 5, fan and thermal pads.
• Working Power button and LED.
• Customizable Reset button connected to the GPIO: programmable by script, and usable by Recalbox and RetroArch according to Retroflag (return to menu, restart).
• Two front USB ports for connecting controllers.
• Side hatch that hides the Ethernet port and two USB ports.
• MicroSD reader under the case and storage space for microSD cards.

Features

Which one should you choose?

For a retro-looking Pi 5 console, the 64Pi is the obvious choice. If you already have a Raspberry Pi 4, the PiStation is its PlayStation-inspired equivalent.

Why active cooling?

The Raspberry Pi 5 is significantly more powerful than its predecessors and runs hotter under load. When it reaches its thermal limit, it automatically lowers its clock speed, which can slow down emulation of the most demanding consoles. The kit supplied with the 64Pi (aluminum heatsink, fan and pads) keeps the processor at the right temperature during long gaming sessions. To understand the cooling options, read cooling your Raspberry Pi 5.

Compatibility and pitfalls

• Raspberry Pi 5 only : neither Pi 4 nor Pi 3.
• No HAT : expansion boards such as the RGB Dual cannot be fitted.
• 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi : according to the manual, using the USB 3.0 ports may interfere with it. Switch to 5 GHz Wi-Fi or Ethernet if needed.
• Reset button : its action depends on the script or system installed.

Recommended accessories

• The Raspberry Pi 5 8GB, more than powerful enough for emulation.
• L'Raspberry Pi USB-C 27 W power supply : 5.1 V / 5 A, recommended to properly power the USB ports and controllers.
• Visit pre-flashed Recalbox microSD card for Raspberry Pi 5 to play from the very first boot.
• Visit Super Nintendo USB controller to plug into the front ports.

Uses and projects

Living-room retro gaming console connected to the TV, arcade station for a lounge area, gift for a Nintendo 64 fan: the 64Pi turns a Pi 5 into a decorative object. Our article on the new Retroflag 64Pi case presents it in detail, and our Recalbox guide for Raspberry Pi 5 walks you through the installation.

Frequently asked questions