Retro gaming has always fascinated me, and handheld consoles that deliver that nostalgic punch keep getting better. When I first got my hands on the Retroid Pocket 5, I was genuinely excited. This device has been the buzz among retro enthusiasts, and I knew I had to dive deep to figure out what it’s truly capable of. So, let’s break down everything about this new handheld console: its performance, gaming potential, and where it stands in the crowded market of retro handhelds.
First Impressions and Build Quality
The Retroid Pocket 5 gives an impression of high-quality craftsmanship right out of the box. The sleek plastic shell and the overall feel in hand are premium, which is a huge plus compared to some other retro handhelds I’ve tested. The design immediately brings to mind classic controllers but with a refined touch, especially with those curved grips that make holding it super comfortable. Ergonomically, it’s a massive upgrade from its predecessor, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
The grips remind me of those featured on higher-end gaming handhelds like the AyaNeo Air. It’s got this nice, subtle textured feel that ensures a good grip, even if your hands get sweaty during intense gaming sessions. The buttons are clicky yet firm, the 3D hall sticks are fantastic with their RGB illumination, and the L2/R2 triggers have a satisfying depth. All these design elements come together to make the Pocket 5 more enjoyable to use for long periods.
Specifications That Matter
- CPU: Snapdragon 865 (8-core)
- GPU: Adreno 650
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR4x
- Storage: 128GB UFS 3.1 (expandable via TF card)
- Display: 5.5-inch AMOLED, 1080p @ 60fps
- OS: Android 13
- Battery: 5000mAh
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
The Snapdragon 865 chip is solid, although it’s not the latest by today’s standards. It was initially released in smartphones some years back but still holds its ground in the emulation scene. Compared to newer chips, it’s not going to compete, but for retro gaming and moderate Android games, it performs well.
Gaming Performance Across Platforms
Android Gaming
Playing Android games on the Retroid Pocket 5 feels like you’re using a well-made smartphone with physical controls attached. The AMOLED screen is a highlight, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrasts, which makes action games and RPGs pop. For more demanding games like Genshin Impact, I had to lower the graphics settings from “Very High” to “High” to achieve a smooth 60 FPS. It’s not the most powerful chip, but it’s more than capable of handling a range of titles at decent settings.
The built-in button mapping software lets you map touchscreen controls to the physical buttons easily, which is helpful for Android games that don’t have native controller support. The active-cooling system keeps things from overheating, but you will hear the fan kick in during more intense gaming sessions.
Emulation
This is where the Retroid Pocket 5 shines. From classic platforms like NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis to more demanding ones like Dreamcast and even some PS2 and Wii titles, the performance is solid. With systems like Game Boy Advance and PSP, the larger 5.5-inch screen is a treat, even though the 16:9 aspect ratio can sometimes leave black bars on the sides for games that aren’t natively widescreen.
PlayStation 2 and GameCube emulation at 1080p is possible for many titles, but don’t expect perfection across the board. Games like Shadow of the Colossus and Gran Turismo 4 will require you to dial down the resolution a bit for smoother gameplay. Even so, the experience is far better than what older handhelds could deliver.
Wii and Dreamcast games run exceptionally well, and I loved playing Mario Kart Wii and Crazy Taxi. The GPU handles upscaling well, and the OLED screen’s vibrant output makes these older games feel fresh. Nintendo 64 titles also play smoothly, often at higher-than-native resolutions, making them look much crisper than you’d remember.
Cloud Gaming and Streaming
Thanks to Wi-Fi 6, the Retroid Pocket 5 also shines as a cloud gaming device. Streaming games from my PC using Steam Link was smooth, with almost negligible input lag. Even cloud gaming services like GeForce Now worked seamlessly, allowing me to enjoy graphically intense PC titles without needing to lug around a full-sized laptop or gaming rig.
Controls and User Experience
One of the standout features of the Retroid Pocket 5 is its precise analog sticks and responsive triggers. The hall sensor joysticks feel fantastic and offer smooth, lag-free input, which is great for both shooters and racing games. The triggers have a bit of texture that adds to the overall grip, and they feel nice and firm under the fingers.
The only thing I found lacking was the d-pad. While it’s responsive, it uses clicky mechanical switches rather than conductive rubber, which might not appeal to hardcore fighting game fans. It’s not bad, but it’s not quite up to par with premium d-pads on devices like the Anbernic RG series.
Software and Customization
Running on Android 13, the software experience is much more polished than older Android-based retro handhelds. The built-in setup assistant helps you get started, suggesting which emulators to install based on your needs. This is handy if you’re new to the emulation scene.
The interface is familiar if you’ve used an Android device before. Customization options are plentiful, allowing you to tweak everything from performance modes to RGB lighting on the analog sticks. I recommend setting the fan mode to “Smart” to balance noise and cooling, especially when playing heavier games.
If Android isn’t your thing, the Retroid Pocket 5 also supports Linux-based operating systems like Batocera and RockNix. These OSes are still in beta, but they offer a streamlined experience for emulation, which could be a game-changer for those who don’t want to deal with Android’s complexities. Linux setups often provide better stability for retro games, though they require a bit of tech-savviness.
Questions & Answers
1. What comes in the box with the Retroid Pocket 5?
The box includes the Retroid Pocket 5 console, a USB Type-C charging cable with the Retroid logo, a protective case, and a user manual. It’s pretty minimal, but it covers the essentials.
2. How is the unboxing experience of the Retroid Pocket 5?
The unboxing experience is straightforward and practical. The console is protected well, and while there aren’t many extras, the protective rubber case is a nice touch for preventing damage.
3. What can you tell me about the buttons and layout?
The button layout feels similar to classic controllers. The face buttons use conductive rubber, making them soft and responsive. The start and select buttons are clicky, while the back and home buttons are easy to access.
4. How does the Retroid Pocket 5 handle sound?
The device has front-facing stereo speakers hidden behind white mesh grills. The sound quality is decent, and having the speakers at the front makes the audio experience better than handhelds with side-firing speakers.
5. What is the cooling system like on this console?
It features active cooling, which works to prevent overheating during intense gaming sessions. The ventilation is well-placed, with air entering from the rear and exiting from the sides, which keeps the system from getting too hot.
6. Does the Retroid Pocket 5 have any grip enhancements?
Yes, it has textured grips on the back that feel great in the hands. The rough texture prevents slipping, making it comfortable to use even during extended sessions.
7. How does the Retroid Pocket 5 compare in size to the Nintendo Switch OLED?
The Retroid Pocket 5 is smaller than the Switch OLED but noticeably thicker, especially with the curved grips. It’s more compact but isn’t something you can easily fit in a small pocket.
8. What makes the Retroid Pocket 5 more ergonomic than previous models?
Its rounded edges and well-placed grips make it easier to hold than the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. The improvements in the handle design make a big difference in comfort.
9. Are the analog sticks customizable?
Yes, you can customize the RGB lighting on the analog sticks through the settings. However, the program for customization can occasionally be unstable, causing it to crash.
10. What is the build quality of the L2 and R2 triggers like?
The triggers are a bit clicky but not in an unpleasant way. They have a textured finish, adding grip for your fingers, and the click sound is noticeable but not bothersome.
11. Can you compare the Retroid Pocket 5 with the Retroid Pocket Mini?
The Retroid Pocket 5 has a larger screen, better ergonomics, and more internal storage compared to the Mini. The Mini is slightly thicker in the center but overall more compact, making the Pocket 5 better for gaming on the go.
12. How does the display perform outdoors?
The AMOLED display is bright enough for outdoor gaming, handling sunlight better than many IPS screens. It’s not perfect, but you can still see the screen well in daylight.
13. Is the Retroid Pocket 5 suitable for streaming PC games?
Absolutely. Thanks to its 5.5-inch screen and Wi-Fi 6, streaming games from your PC is smooth and enjoyable. The controls work seamlessly with streaming services like Steam Link.
14. What are the connectivity options available on this device?
It includes a USB Type-C port for charging and video output, a headphone jack, and a slot for microSD expansion. The USB-C port supports DisplayPort, but you’ll need to buy a compatible cable separately.
15. How does the Retroid Pocket 5’s screen compare to older models?
Compared to previous Retroid models, the OLED display has better contrast and more vibrant colors. It’s a significant upgrade from the older IPS screens and makes a noticeable difference in the overall gaming experience.
Final Thoughts
The Retroid Pocket 5 is an impressive handheld that ticks a lot of boxes for retro gaming fans. The performance is more than adequate for most emulation needs, and the OLED screen elevates the visual experience. While it may not be the most powerful device out there, it offers a well-rounded package.
Would I recommend it? If you’re after a portable device to play retro games and don’t mind tinkering with settings, this could be your next favorite gadget. For most retro gaming fans, the Retroid Pocket 5 strikes an excellent balance between quality, performance, and features.
