Retroid Pocket Mini Review: A Compact Powerhouse for Retro Gaming
Retroid Pocket · 2024-09-01
The Retroid Pocket Mini is a compact Android handheld with a 3.7-inch AMOLED 4:3 screen, Snapdragon 865 chip, and 6GB RAM, capable of emulating up to GameCube, Wii, PS2, and some Switch games.
Overview
The Retroid Pocket Mini (also known as RP Mini or Shadiao Mini) is a compact Android handheld gaming device designed for retro enthusiasts. It features a 3.7-inch AMOLED touchscreen with a 4:3 aspect ratio and 1280x960 resolution, delivering vibrant colors and sharp visuals. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor with an Adreno 650 GPU, it offers smooth performance for emulating classic consoles up to GameCube, Wii, PS2, and even some Nintendo Switch titles. The device runs on Android, providing access to a wide range of emulators and Android games.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Snapdragon 865 (8 cores, 1.8-2.84 GHz)
- GPU: Adreno 650 @ 587 MHz
- RAM: 6GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 128GB UFS 3.1 internal, expandable via MicroSD
- Display: 3.7-inch AMOLED, 1280x960, 60Hz, 432.4 PPI
- Battery: 4000 mAh
- Connectivity: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, USB-C video output, 3.5mm audio jack
- Cooling: Active fan and vents
- Weight: 215g
- Dimensions: 165.28 x 77.62 x 16.5-29.3 mm
Who It Is For
The Retroid Pocket Mini is perfect for retro gaming fans who want a portable device with a high-quality screen and enough power to emulate demanding systems like PS2 and GameCube. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, while the active cooling ensures sustained performance during long sessions. It's also suitable for Android gamers looking for a dedicated gaming handheld with physical controls.
Buying Notes
The Retroid Pocket Mini was released in September 2024. Pricing is approximately ¥1348 (pre-order) to ¥1448 (regular retail). Available colors include SFC gray, white, black, red, and orange. The device supports USB-C video output for connecting to external displays. Note that performance for Switch emulation is limited to select titles.
| CPU | Cortex-A77 / Cortex-A55 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Qualcomm Adreno 650 |
| RAM | 6 GB LPDDR4 |
| Name | Retroid Pocket Mini |
| Alias | Shadiao Mini, RP Mini |
| Brand | Retroid Pocket |
| Weight | 215 g |
| Battery | 4000 mAh |
| Cooling | Cooling fan, vents |
| Storage | Internal 128 GB UFS 3.1, External MicroSD |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Dimensions | 165.28 mm x 77.62 mm x 16.5 - 29.3 mm |
| Screen PPI | 432.4 |
| Body Colors | SFC gray, white, black, red, orange |
| Price Range | ¥1000 - ¥1500 |
| Screen Size | 3.7 inches |
| Screen Type | AMOLED touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Launch Price | Pre-order ¥1348, regular ¥1448 |
| Release Date | 2024 / 09 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | USB-C video output |
| CPU Frequency | 1.8 GHz - 2.84 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Microphone |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Android |
| Screen Resolution | 1280 x 960 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 587 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 8 cores 8 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to Gamecube / Wii / PS2; some Switch also playable |