We've Tested the Retroid Pocket 5: It's Still the Queen of Retrogaming, and Much More!

Nintendo is often the first name that comes to mind when discussing portable consoles. The Retroid Pocket 5, with its PlayStation Vita-inspired design, aims to impress immediately, offering a modern alternative for gamers nostalgic for Sony's handheld. The black model, in particular, evokes a sleek, well-finished aesthetic reminiscent of 2012. The Chinese manufacturer prioritized quality, incorporating a high-quality glass face and rounded edges designed for comfortable handling. The device features ergonomic curved grips on the back and strategically placed air vents for cooling. The thoughtful arrangement extends to the sticks and buttons, ensuring a comfortable grip. One limitation is its compact size, similar to the Switch Lite. This may make it less comfortable for users with larger hands during extended gaming sessions. However, its dimensions of 8.9 cm × 7.3 cm × 1.6 cm and weight of 256 g make it ideal for children.

After four months of use, the Retroid Pocket 5 remains a top contender for retro gaming in a competitive market, supporting both classic and modern games at an affordable price. This performance validates its position as the fifth model in the series. Its high-quality construction in a compact design makes it an excellent portable console, especially suited for younger users, though perhaps less comfortable for adults during long play sessions. The Retroid Pocket 5 demonstrates careful construction, with highly responsive keys, D-pad, and side buttons that provide a satisfying tactile experience. The device also features 3D Hall effect analog sticks, which use magnets and sensors to minimize wear and prevent stick drift. While the D-pad is somewhat small for complex fighting game combos, users can adapt to it with practice. The combination of a glass front and matte back provides a premium feel, and the precise finishing enhances the overall robustness and responsiveness of the buttons.

Upon powering up the Retroid Pocket 5, illuminated RGB rings around the analog sticks create an immersive atmosphere. The 5.5-inch AMOLED touchscreen displays 1080p resolution at 60Hz, delivering crisp visuals, vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high contrast. The 16:9 format and near-borderless design further enhance the viewing experience. The Retroid Pocket 5 is well-suited for retro gaming. Setting aside the legal complexities of ROMs, the console provides an excellent platform for revisiting classic games from systems like the Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and GameCube, and even some early Nintendo Switch titles. The console requires manual setup and configuration, as it doesn't include built-in tutorials; however, numerous step-by-step guides are available on YouTube. While the setup process requires some effort, the resulting gaming experience on this compact console is impressive, offering a nostalgic experience that rewards the user's effort.

Retroid Pocket 5: Beyond Retro - Streaming & Customizable Gaming on the Go

Beyond retro gaming, the Retroid Pocket 5 can stream games from PS5, Xbox Series, or PC via services like GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass, provided a stable Wi-Fi connection is available. The device also boasts a 5000 mAh battery that outlasts the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. To further appeal to different tastes and gaming histories, the Retroid Pocket 5 is available in several colors, including a GameCube-inspired purple, a Super Nintendo-esque gray, a PSP-like black, and a classic white. In summary, the Retroid Pocket 5 combines thoughtful design, impressive performance, and versatile functionality, making it a compelling option for gamers seeking a portable and customizable gaming experience.