Retroid is expanding its lineup of retro gaming handhelds with a new vertical form factor device that harkens back to the company's roots. The Pocket Classic represents Retroid's return to vertical handheld design after focusing on horizontal and clamshell models in recent years, but with modern specifications that promise improved performance for retro gaming enthusiasts.
A New Direction with Untested Hardware
Retroid has taken an interesting approach with the Pocket Classic by implementing a 4nm Qualcomm chipset, marking the first time the company has used such advanced silicon in its products. While Retroid hasn't specified the exact processor model, industry speculation points to the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 as the most likely candidate based on the device's other specifications. This midrange chipset was primarily designed for budget 5G smartphones but could offer solid performance for retro emulation tasks.
Premium Display in a Budget Package
Despite positioning that suggests a budget-friendly device, the Pocket Classic features a surprisingly premium 3.92-inch AMOLED display with a 1240 x 1080 resolution. This high-quality screen stands out among retro handhelds in this category and suggests Retroid is targeting visual quality as a key selling point. Reports indicate the display panels might be sourced from the LG Wing smartphone, repurposing components from that discontinued device.
Specifications Balance Cost and Performance
The overall specifications paint a picture of a device balanced between affordability and capability. The Pocket Classic comes equipped with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of eMMC 5.1 storage (expandable via microSD), which is adequate for retro gaming but represents a step back from the UFS 3.1 storage used in Retroid's more recent offerings. The device will run Android 14 out of the box and features a substantial 5,000mAh battery that should provide extended gaming sessions. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, which are somewhat surprising limitations given the capabilities of modern chipsets.
Retroid Pocket Classic Specifications
- Processor: Unspecified Qualcomm 4nm chipset (likely Snapdragon 4s Gen 2)
- Display: 3.92-inch AMOLED, 1240 x 1080 resolution
- Memory: 4GB RAM
- Storage: 64GB eMMC 5.1 (expandable)
- Battery: 5,000mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- Operating System: Android 14
- Cooling: Active cooling system
- Special Feature: "Classic 6" model with six-button layout for Sega Saturn emulation
- Color Options: Six variants based on classic gaming consoles
Design Focused on Retro Appeal
The Pocket Classic's vertical form factor is optimized for older console emulation, particularly evident in its button layout. Most color variants feature the traditional four-button ABXY configuration, but the Classic 6 model, styled after the Sega Saturn, includes six face buttons specifically designed for Saturn emulation. This attention to detail shows Retroid's commitment to authentic retro gaming experiences. The device will be available in six different color schemes, each paying homage to classic gaming consoles.
Performance Remains a Question Mark
The biggest unknown factor is how the new Qualcomm chipset will perform in real-world retro gaming scenarios. These midrange 4nm processors haven't been extensively tested in gaming handhelds, creating uncertainty about their emulation capabilities. The lack of analog sticks also suggests the device is primarily intended for 2D gaming and earlier 3D consoles rather than more advanced systems that require dual-stick controls.
Pricing and Availability
Retroid has yet to announce official pricing for the Pocket Classic, though market positioning suggests it could land around USD $150. However, given the vertical form factor's similarities to the original Retroid Pocket from 2019 (which launched at USD $99), there's speculation the company might aim for a similar entry point to appeal to budget-conscious retro gamers. The Pocket Classic is expected to launch alongside the previously announced Pocket Flip 2 in the coming months, expanding Retroid's diverse lineup of emulation-focused handhelds.