Pimax Portal Handheld Gaming Device Review
Pimax · 2023-05-01
The Pimax Portal is a versatile Android-based handheld gaming device powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset, featuring a 5.5-inch 4K LCD touchscreen, up to 256 GB storage, and support for emulation up to GameCube/Wii at full speed.
Overview
The Pimax Portal is a handheld gaming device that runs on Android, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor. It features a 5.5-inch LCD touchscreen with a stunning 3840x2160 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, delivering crisp visuals for both native Android games and emulated titles. The device comes in multiple storage variants (128 GB or 256 GB) and supports expansion via MicroSD. With dual stereo speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB-C video output, it offers versatile connectivity. The Portal also includes a cooling fan, vibration, and a 4000 mAh battery.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 (8-core Kryo 585, up to 2.84 GHz)
- GPU: Adreno 650 at 900 MHz
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 128 GB / 256 GB internal, MicroSD expandable
- Display: 5.5-inch LCD, 3840x2160, 120Hz, 801 PPI
- Connectivity: WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
- Battery: 4000 mAh
- Weight: Not specified
- Dimensions: 225 x 89 x 14.2 mm
Who It Is For
The Pimax Portal is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who want to emulate GameCube, Wii, and some PS2 titles at full speed. It also suits Android gamers looking for a high-resolution display and modern connectivity. The device's 4K screen and 120Hz refresh rate make it a good choice for media consumption and streaming.
Buying Notes
Available since May 2023, the Pimax Portal has a price range of $300–$400, with specific models: Portal Retro at $299, 128 GB at $299, 256 GB at $399, and a QLED 256 GB version at $549. Prices may vary by region and retailer. The device is made of plastic and comes in white. Consider your storage needs and whether the QLED display upgrade is worth the extra cost.
| CPU | Kryo 585 Prime (Cortex-A77) / Kryo 585 Gold (Cortex-A77) / Kryo 585 Silver (Cortex-A55) |
|---|---|
| GPU | Qualcomm Adreno 650 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Name | Pimax Portal |
| Brand | Pimax |
| Battery | 4000 mAh |
| Cooling | Cooling fan and vents |
| Storage | Internal 128 GB / 256 GB, External MicroSD |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Body Color | White |
| Dimensions | 225 mm x 89 mm x 14.2 mm |
| Screen PPI | 801.06 |
| Price Range | $300 - $400 |
| Screen Size | 5.5 inches |
| Screen Type | LCD touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Release Date | 2023 / 05 |
| Screen Ratio | 16:9 |
| Video Output | USB-C video output |
| CPU Frequency | 1.8 GHz - 2.84 GHz |
| GPU Frequency | 900 MHz |
| Other Sensors | Camera, gyroscope, proximity sensor, Hall effect joysticks |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Starting Price | $299 (Portal Retro) / $299 (128 GB) / $399 (256 GB) / $549 (QLED 256 GB) |
| Operating System | Android |
| Screen Resolution | 3840 x 2160 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Gamecube & Wii mostly full speed, some PS2 playable |