In a surprising move just before the holidays, GoRetroid has unveiled the highly anticipated Retroid Pocket 4 and 4 Pro, bringing joy to handheld gaming enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the details of this new release and explore the improvements that come with it.
Retroid Pocket 4 Design Revisited
The Retroid Pocket 4’s design might feel familiar to fans of the previous iteration, raising contrasting opinions within the community. While some appreciate the continuation of the Retroid Pocket 3’s design, others hoped for a more innovative approach. Despite the reused outer design, the Retroid Pocket 4 introduces notable improvements, including the return of the impressive hall joysticks from the Retroid Pocket 2S. The relocation of Android Home/Back buttons and Start/Select to the face enhances the overall user experience. Additionally, well-designed trigger buttons add a touch of premium and ergonomic feel.
Retroid Pocket 4 Colourways and Variants
The initial colour offerings include opaque black, two SNES 16-bit retro colours, transparent red, transparent blue, and a new clear model. While the absence of the fan-favourite transparent green might disappoint some, there are expectations of additional colours and even a metal shell in the future.
Retroid Pocket 4 Performance Powerhouse
The Retroid Pocket 4 introduces a significant leap in gaming performance with two distinct models featuring MediaTek Dimensity chipsets. The MediaTek Dimensity 990 and MediaTek Dimensity 1100 offer users the choice of desired performance levels. With the 1100 model, players can expect substantial improvements, putting the Retroid Pocket 4 in the league of Game Cube, Sega Saturn, Nintendo 3DS, and Playstation 2 capabilities.
Retroid Pocket 4 Specifications Overview
- Processors: MTK D900 (Retroid Pocket 4) / MTK D1100 (Retroid Pocket 4 Pro)
- CPU: Various cores and clock speeds
- GPU: G68 MC4 (Retroid Pocket 4) / G77 MC9 (Retroid Pocket 4 Pro)
- RAM: 4GB LPDDR4X (Retroid Pocket 4) / 8GB LPDDR4X (Retroid Pocket 4 Pro)
- Storage: 128 GB UFS 3.1 + TF Card Slot
- Display: 4.7-inch touchscreen
- Operating System: Android
- Connectivity: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
- Battery: 5000mAh Fast Charging
- Heat Dissipation: Active-Cooling
- Size: 184.8mm x 82.6mm x 15.8mm / Weight: 261g
Retroid Pocket 4 vs. 4 Pro
The Retroid Pocket 4 series is available in two configurations: the base Retroid Pocket 4 priced at $150 and the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro at $200. The Pro model boasts a more powerful Dimensity 1100 chip and 8GB of RAM, offering a notable performance boost over the standard version. Additionally, the Pro model supports 1080p video output over the USB-C port, a feature absent in the entry-level model.
Impressions and Conclusion
Despite the reused outer design, it’s challenging to find fault with the Retroid Pocket 4, especially for long-time GoRetroid fans yearning for a more potent handheld device. The improvements in processors, graphics, memory, storage, and wireless capabilities make it a promising choice for retro gaming enthusiasts. As we await its availability on the GoRetroid website, it’s clear that the company has delivered a commendable update to the Retroid Pocket series, making it a potential highlight for gaming enthusiasts this holiday season.
