It is not about what can run what, it is about efficiency.
As another solution, I think, led decoders like HT16K33+discrete RGB LED or similar can be used.
With APA102C, 1 shiftout statement updates color of 1 pixel (3 leds )
In case of HT16K33, 3 shiftout statement will update color of 8 pixels (24 leds), so resulting speed will be 8/3=2.6 times higher.
So I'm seeking for solution in that way.
Of course, there are specialized RGB display modules and controllers, but their issue is, that they either have gigantic brightness, or their pixel distance is very sparse. And I want to make compact display for indoor use - discrete RGB leds are available in 0805 package, and APA102C/WS2812 are available in 1206 package.