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Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro Review: The Ultimate Handheld Gaming Console for Retro and Modern Gamers

Toasty the Toaster

August 28, 2024

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The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a powerhouse of modern gaming technology wrapped in a sleek, portable package. With the Mediatek Dimensity 1100 Octa-Core CPU and G77 MC9 GPU, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro offers unparalleled gaming performance. In this Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro review, we’ll dive deep into its specs, features, and performance to see if this handheld console is worth your investment.

Product Specifications Table

High-Performance Computing

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is a powerhouse of performance and efficiency:

• Mediatek Dimensity 1100 Octa-Core CPU: Features four high-performance A78 cores clocked at 2.6 GHz, delivering rapid and efficient gameplay.
• G77 MC9 GPU: Runs at 836 MHz, providing exceptional graphics quality with detailed visuals and fluid animations.
• 8GB LPDDR4X RAM: Enhances multitasking capabilities and ensures quick load times for a seamless gaming experience.
• Balanced Architecture: Designed to prevent overheating and extend battery life, making it perfect for both casual and hardcore gamers.

This powerful combination of CPU, GPU, and RAM makes the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro a top choice for gamers who demand high performance from their handheld consoles.

Retroid Pocket 4 / 4Pro

Powerful handheld gaming console with high-performance specs, vibrant display, and extensive storage for retro and modern games.

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Expansive and Flexible Storage Options

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro impresses with its 128GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage, providing ample space for an extensive game library. This high-speed storage ensures quick access to your games and media, reducing load times and enhancing the overall gaming experience. For those who need even more space, the device includes a Micro SD card slot, allowing for easy expansion. This flexibility means you can carry a vast collection of games and media without worrying about running out of space. On the downside, users might find the initial setup and configuration of the external storage a bit cumbersome, especially for those who are not tech-savvy. Despite this minor inconvenience, the storage capabilities of the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro cater well to both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts.

Superior Display and Video Output

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro boasts a 4.7-inch touchscreen display, delivering vivid and crisp visuals that enhance the gaming experience. The display’s resolution ensures that games look sharp and detailed, making every gaming session more immersive. Additionally, the device supports 720P output via HDMI and 1080P output through USB Type-C, providing versatile options for playing on larger screens. Whether you’re at home or on the move, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro adapts to your needs. Some users might find the 4.7-inch screen a bit small for extended gaming sessions, which could strain the eyes over time. Despite this, the combination of superior display quality and versatile video output options makes this handheld console stand out.

Advanced Connectivity and User-Friendly Design

Featuring WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro ensures fast and stable connections for seamless online gaming and content streaming. This advanced connectivity allows for smooth multiplayer experiences and easy integration with wireless peripherals. The device’s ergonomic design, weighing only 251g and measuring 18.4 x 8.2 x 1.5 cm, makes it comfortable to hold and easy to carry. Available in six attractive colors, it caters to various aesthetic preferences. One potential drawback is that the compact design might feel cramped for users with larger hands, potentially affecting long-term comfort during extended gaming sessions. While the user-friendly design and advanced connectivity are significant advantages, this ergonomic issue is worth considering for some gamers.

Long Battery Life with Efficient Cooling

Equipped with a 5000mAh battery, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro supports extended gaming sessions and features fast charging capabilities, minimizing downtime. The active cooling system with a fan ensures that the device remains cool, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal performance. This combination allows for long, uninterrupted gaming experiences, whether you’re at home or on the go. The active cooling system, however, can produce noticeable noise, which might be distracting during quieter gaming moments. Despite this drawback, the efficient cooling and impressive battery life make the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro a reliable choice for gamers who prioritize performance and longevity.

Fun Facts About Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro

• Nostalgia Meets Modernity: The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro merges classic gaming nostalgia with cutting-edge design, offering a unique blend of past and present.
• Color Choices: Available in six vibrant colors, there’s a Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro to match every personality.
• No Preloaded Games: Unlike many other handheld consoles, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro comes with no preloaded games, giving you the freedom to curate your game library from scratch.

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro Fan Noise Issue

The active cooling system, which includes a built-in fan, is essential for preventing overheating and ensuring optimal performance. However, this can lead to a constant hum or whirring sound that may distract from the gaming experience, especially during quieter gameplay or when using the console in a silent environment.

Fixing the Fan Noise

If you’re experiencing issues with your Retroid Pocket 4 Pro fan noise, there are a few steps you can take to reduce or manage it. One of the most effective solutions is ensuring your device is running the latest firmware. Retroid has released updates designed to optimize fan control and reduce noise levels. Updating to the latest firmware (such as version 1.28) can enhance the fan’s operation, making it less noticeable during gaming sessions. To update, navigate to the device settings menu, check for updates, and install any available firmware updates.

Additionally, using the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro in a well-ventilated environment can improve airflow around the device, allowing the cooling system to function more efficiently and potentially reducing the need for the fan to operate at higher speeds. Some users also find it helpful to adjust the device’s performance settings. By switching to a balanced or power-saving mode, you can reduce the strain on the CPU and GPU, which in turn may lower the fan speed and noise. This adjustment can be made through the settings menu, helping you achieve a quieter gaming experience without compromising too much on performance.

These simple adjustments can help manage the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro fan noise, making your gaming sessions more enjoyable and less intrusive while maintaining the device’s performance and longevity.

Gaming on the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro

Gaming on the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern technology. This handheld console brings classic and contemporary games to life with its impressive specs and features. The high-performance computing power, combined with the superior display and expansive storage options, ensures you can enjoy a vast array of games seamlessly. Whether you’re a fan of retro classics or new releases, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro has you covered.

Must-Play Games for Your Handheld Console

Here are some must-play titles that showcase the capabilities of this powerful device:

• Retro Classics:
  • The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
  • Super Mario World
  • Sonic the Hedgehog
  • Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
• Modern Hits:
  • Stardew Valley
  • Minecraft
  • Terraria
  • Dead Cells
• Indie Favorites:
  • Hollow Knight
  • Celeste
  • Undertale
  • Shovel Knight

The Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro handles these games effortlessly, providing smooth gameplay and vibrant graphics that make each title a joy to play. The expansive storage allows you to keep a large library of games at your disposal, while the advanced connectivity options make multiplayer gaming a breeze.

During our Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro review, we found that the device’s ergonomic design and long battery life make it perfect for extended gaming sessions. You can easily switch between games without experiencing lag, thanks to the high-speed RAM and efficient cooling system. The ability to output video in 720P and 1080P also means you can enjoy your favorite games on a larger screen, making gaming even more immersive.

Despite its many strengths, it’s worth noting that some users might find the screen size a bit small for certain games, especially those with intricate graphics or text-heavy interfaces. Additionally, the fan noise from the cooling system can be a minor distraction during quieter gaming moments. Nevertheless, these are small trade-offs for the overall exceptional gaming experience the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro offers.

Should You Buy the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro?

After thoroughly examining the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro, it’s clear that this handheld console offers a compelling mix of nostalgia and modern gaming capabilities. The Mediatek Dimensity 1100 Octa-Core CPU and G77 MC9 GPU ensure robust performance for both classic and contemporary games, while the 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage provide a seamless and extensive gaming experience. The superior 4.7-inch touchscreen display and versatile video output options allow for immersive gameplay, whether on the go or on a larger screen at home.

The advanced connectivity features, including WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, make online gaming and connecting to peripherals hassle-free. The ergonomic design, available in six colors, ensures comfort during long gaming sessions, though users with larger hands might find it a bit cramped. The device’s 5000mAh battery and active cooling system enable extended play without overheating, albeit with some fan noise that could be distracting in quieter environments.

Pros:

• High-performance CPU and GPU for smooth gaming.
• Expansive internal storage with expandable options.
• Vivid 4.7-inch touchscreen display.
• Versatile 720P and 1080P video output.
• Fast and stable connectivity with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Ergonomic and portable design.

Cons:

• Small screen size might strain the eyes during long sessions.
• Initial setup of external storage can be cumbersome.
• Fan noise from the cooling system can be distracting.

So, should you buy the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro? If you’re a gamer who values high performance, extensive storage, and the ability to play both retro and modern games on the go, this device is an excellent investment. Its powerful specs and versatile features make it a standout in the handheld gaming market. While there are minor drawbacks, such as the small screen size and fan noise, the overall gaming experience it offers far outweighs these issues. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated gamer, the Retroid Pocket 4/4Pro is designed to meet your needs and elevate your gaming adventures.