When I first came across the Trimui Smart Pro, I was intrigued. With its promise of a large, sharp screen, intuitive design, and support for retro gaming, it seemed like a handheld console designed for enthusiasts like me. After spending about a week testing its features and playing a variety of games, I’ve gathered my thoughts on what it does well and where it misses the mark. If you’re thinking about picking one up, here’s everything you should know.
Design and Build Quality: Sleek, Compact, and Retro-Inspired
The Trimui Smart Pro stands out with a sleek, horizontal form factor that feels just right for extended gaming sessions. It draws inspiration from iconic devices like the PSP, and its analog sticks remind me of the PS Vita. Available in black, white, and retro-inspired gray, the console has a minimalist charm that appeals to both seasoned gamers and newcomers.
While the plastic casing feels smooth and reasonably sturdy, it’s not exactly premium. The black version, in particular, shows fingerprints easily, so if smudges bother you, I’d suggest opting for the white or gray models. Overall, the device is lightweight and comfortable to hold, making it ideal for portable gaming.
Buttons and Controls: Usable but Could Be Better
A handheld console lives or dies by its controls, and the Trimui Smart Pro offers a mixed experience. The D-pad and action buttons are smaller and firmer than what you might find on competing devices like the Anbernic RG405M. While they’re functional, they lack the tactile satisfaction of softer, more responsive buttons. If you’re used to gaming on premium devices, this could take some getting used to.
The analog sticks are a highlight and a frustration. Modeled after the PS Vita’s sticks, they’re compact and functional, but their small size and partially plastic finish can make them slippery during intense gameplay. A fun touch is the built-in LED lighting on the sticks, which changes colors based on the emulator you’re running. It’s a quirky feature, but the inability to customize these colors feels like a missed opportunity.
Display: Sharp Resolution with a Few Drawbacks
The 4.96-inch IPS screen is one of the best features of the Trimui Smart Pro. With a resolution of 1280×720 and a pixel density of 294 PPI, the screen delivers sharp, vibrant visuals that enhance retro games. Compared to other devices in this range, the display’s resolution is a significant step up.
That said, brightness is a weakness. The screen struggles in well-lit environments, making outdoor gaming challenging. Another downside is the lack of an oleophobic coating, which means fingerprints and smudges accumulate quickly. While the display isn’t touch-sensitive, this oversight affects the overall user experience.
Performance Across Platforms: Retro Gaming at Its Core
Powered by the Allwinner A133P processor with 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM, the Trimui Smart Pro is built for retro gaming. Its hardware is modest but sufficient for its target audience. Here’s how it handles various platforms:
- PlayStation 1 and earlier: These systems run seamlessly, making it a great choice for fans of classic games.
- PlayStation Portable, Sega Dreamcast, and Nintendo 64: Performance here is hit-or-miss. Simpler games work well, but more demanding titles exhibit occasional lag or stuttering.
- Game Boy Advance and similar systems: These games run flawlessly, showcasing the console’s strengths.
While the console doesn’t compete with higher-end devices for modern gaming or resource-heavy emulation, it’s a solid option for fans of the 16-bit and 32-bit eras.
Battery Life and Charging: Functional but Dated
The 5000mAh battery provides about 4–5 hours of gaming on a full charge. This is decent for a handheld device, but nothing extraordinary. Charging is where things get frustrating. The console requires low-powered chargers (5V, 2A max), and using a modern high-wattage adapter can cause malfunctions. I had to dig out an old phone charger just to get it to work, which felt inconvenient in an era of fast-charging devices.
Connectivity and Features: A Few Extras but Room for Growth
The Trimui Smart Pro includes WiFi and Bluetooth, which are welcome additions. Bluetooth support, added in a recent update, enables the use of wireless controllers and accessories, broadening its appeal. However, the lack of a Mini HDMI port limits its versatility. Competing consoles in this range often include this feature, allowing gamers to connect their devices to TVs or monitors for a bigger-screen experience.
Software and Interface: Simple and Effective
The Linux-based operating system on the Trimui Smart Pro is straightforward and user-friendly. Menus are clean, well-organized, and easy to navigate, even for beginners. Regular firmware updates have improved the experience over time, adding new emulators and features like Bluetooth support.
I appreciated how polished the system felt right out of the box. While there are custom firmware options available for those who want to tinker, the stock interface is perfectly functional and doesn’t require much setup.
Pros and Cons: Weighing It All
Pros:
- Excellent Display: The 4.96-inch screen offers sharp visuals and a comfortable size for gaming.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and hold during long sessions.
- Retro Appeal: A great fit for fans of classic games, with solid performance for PS1 and earlier platforms.
- Bluetooth Support: Added functionality for wireless accessories.
- Simple Software: User-friendly interface with ongoing updates.
Cons:
- Dim Screen: Brightness levels aren’t sufficient for outdoor or brightly lit environments.
- Charging Limitations: Requires low-wattage chargers, which feels outdated.
- Mediocre Buttons: Smaller and firmer controls may not suit all players.
- No Mini HDMI Output: Limits its use for home gaming setups.
- Fingerprint Magnet: The lack of an oleophobic coating affects the display’s cleanliness.
Q&A on Trimui Smart Pro Console Usage Experience
1. Does the console come with any pre-installed games?
No, the console doesn’t include pre-installed games. You need to load your own game files onto a microSD card to play.
2. How easy is it to set up the console for the first time?
Setting it up is straightforward. Insert a microSD card with your game files, power it on, and use the intuitive menu system to select and play your games.
3. What is the build quality of the console’s box and packaging?
The packaging feels premium compared to many competitors. It includes protective foam inserts that match the console’s color, which adds a nice touch.
4. Can you use the console for multiplayer gaming?
Yes, the WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities allow for some multiplayer functionality, depending on the game and emulator used.
5. What happens if you accidentally use a high-powered charger?
Using a high-powered charger can cause malfunctions, such as the console refusing to power on. It’s crucial to stick to low-wattage chargers.
6. Does the console have any vibration feedback during gameplay?
Yes, some games include vibration feedback, which adds a tactile layer to the gaming experience.
7. What are the available customization options for the buttons?
The system allows you to reassign functions to certain buttons, such as enabling silent mode or energy-saving features using the function (FN) button.
8. Is there any way to distinguish the top and bottom USB-C ports?
No, the ports look identical, which can lead to confusion. Plugging the charger into the top USB-C port instead of the bottom one can cause issues.
9. Does the console support fast charging?
No, the Trimui Smart Pro doesn’t support fast charging. It’s designed to charge only with low-power adapters.
10. How well do the shoulder buttons and triggers perform?
The shoulder buttons and triggers are functional but feel less ergonomic compared to some competitors. They are smooth and lack a pronounced grip, which may feel less comfortable during long sessions.
11. Can the console play arcade games?
Yes, the console supports arcade games through emulators and runs them smoothly, making it great for nostalgic arcade experiences.
12. Does the system interface support multiple languages?
Initially, the system didn’t support many languages, but later firmware updates added options like Russian, with more potentially being added in future updates.
13. Does the console have an energy-saving mode?
Yes, the FN button can be configured to enable an energy-saving mode, which helps extend battery life during gameplay.
14. How loud are the button clicks during gameplay?
The buttons have a distinct clicking sound, which might feel satisfying to some but distracting to others during quiet gameplay sessions.
15. Can you adjust the LED lights on the analog sticks?
The LED colors change automatically based on the emulator in use, but there’s no manual option to customize the colors, which feels limiting for users who prefer personalized setups.
Final Thoughts: Is the Trimui Smart Pro Worth It?
The Trimui Smart Pro is a solid option for retro gaming enthusiasts who value portability and a sharp display. It’s a fun device that handles classic games well and comes with thoughtful touches like Bluetooth support and LED-lit analog sticks. Its lightweight design and simple interface make it an accessible choice for newcomers to handheld gaming.
That said, it’s not without flaws. The dim screen, outdated charging requirements, and lack of Mini HDMI connectivity may be deal-breakers for some. If you’re focused on screen quality and button responsiveness, you might prefer alternatives like the Anbernic RG405M.
For those who prioritize a larger screen and don’t mind its quirks, the Trimui Smart Pro remains a capable handheld console that delivers a satisfying retro gaming experience.
