RetroCompass
RetroCompass

RGB30 — Custom firmware

Quick answer

Button combo

balenaEtcherwrite CFW RK3566 imagemicroSD in TF-OS slot

Steps

  1. 1Pick a CFW that supports the RGB30: ROCKNIX (recommended, successor to JELOS), ArkOS, or Batocera.
  2. 2Download that project's RGB30 / RK3566 image and write it to a microSD with balenaEtcher.
  3. 3Power off, insert the card in the TF-OS slot, and boot into the new firmware.
  4. 4Put your ROMs on the TF-Game card and run the OS first-time setup to map the game folders.
Last verified: 2026-06-20Source: rocknix.org

The RGB30 runs open-source Linux firmware from microSD, so swapping custom firmware is just flashing a different image. ROCKNIX (the actively maintained continuation of JELOS) is the usual recommendation; ArkOS is a long-standing alternative (its repository was archived in late 2025, so it is no longer actively developed); and Batocera also boots on the RGB30 from its RK3566 image. AmberELEC does NOT support the RGB30. Keep each OS on its own TF-OS card so you can switch by swapping cards.

FAQ

Which custom firmware is best for the RGB30?
ROCKNIX is the current go-to because it is actively updated. ArkOS still works well but is now archived; Batocera is a solid third option.
Does AmberELEC work on the RGB30?
No. AmberELEC targets older RK3326/RK3399 devices (such as the Powkiddy RGB20S) and does not include the RK3566-based RGB30.

Same device — other tasks

Other devices — same task