Retroid Pocket 2+ Review: Specs, Price, and Performance

Retroid Pocket · 2021-12-01

Retroid Pocket 2+ Review: Specs, Price, and Performance

The Retroid Pocket 2+ is an affordable Android handheld with a 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, Unisoc T310 chipset, and support for retro gaming up to some Saturn and GameCube titles.

Overview

The Retroid Pocket 2+ (also known as RP2+, RP2.5, or Sandiao 2.5) is a popular Android-based handheld gaming device released in December 2021. It features a 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a 4:3 aspect ratio (640x480 resolution), ideal for retro gaming. Powered by the Unisoc T310 processor (Cortex-A75/A55) and PowerVR GE8300 GPU, it offers solid performance for emulation up to some Saturn and GameCube titles. The device includes 2GB LPDDR4X RAM, 32GB eMMC storage (expandable via MicroSD), and a 4000mAh battery.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Processor: Unisoc T310 (4 cores, 4 threads, 1.8-2.0 GHz)
  • GPU: PowerVR GE8300 @ 800 MHz
  • Display: 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, 640x480, 60Hz, 228.57 PPI
  • RAM & Storage: 2GB LPDDR4X, 32GB eMMC + MicroSD
  • Battery: 4000 mAh
  • Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.0, Micro HDMI out, 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Sensors: Gyroscope, vibration motor
  • Audio: Dual stereo speakers
  • Dimensions: 150 x 81 x 17-30 mm, 196g
  • Colors: Black, Blue, Yellow, Retro Gray, 16-Bit Gray
  • OS: Android
  • Price: Originally $99, now typically $75-$100

Who It Is For

The Retroid Pocket 2+ is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a dedicated handheld for emulating classic consoles up to the 5th generation (PS1, N64, Dreamcast) and some Saturn and GameCube. It's also suitable for Android gaming and media consumption. The 4:3 screen is ideal for older games, and the compact size makes it portable. However, it may not satisfy those seeking high-end performance for modern games or demanding emulation.

Buying Notes

As of 2023, the Retroid Pocket 2+ is often available for around $75-$100 from various online retailers. It has been succeeded by newer models like the Retroid Pocket 3 and 3+, but remains a solid budget option. Check for deals on AliExpress, Amazon, or the official Retroid website. Ensure you buy from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit products. Note that the device runs Android, so you can install emulators from the Play Store. The included 32GB storage is limited; a MicroSD card is recommended for game ROMs.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A75 / Cortex-A55
GPUPowerVR GE8300
RAM2 GB LPDDR4X
NameRetroid Pocket 2+
AliasSandiao 2.5, RP2.5, RP2 Plus
BrandRetroid Pocket
Weight196 grams
Battery4000 mAh
CoolingNone
StorageInternal 32 GB eMMC, External MicroSD
SpeakersDual stereo
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorUnisoc T310
VibrationYes
Dimensions150 mm x 81 mm x 17-30 mm
Screen PPI228.57
Body ColorsBlack, Blue, Yellow, Retro Gray, 16-Bit Gray
Price Range$75 - $100
Screen Size3.5 inches
Screen TypeIPS touchscreen
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi 5, Bluetooth 4
Launch Price$99
Release Date2021 / 12
Screen Ratio4:3
Video OutputMicro HDMI
CPU Frequency1.8 GHz - 2.0 GHz
Other SensorsGyroscope
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemAndroid
Screen Resolution640 x 480
GPU Core Frequency800 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportUp to some Saturn and Gamecube