Head-to-Head
RG DS vs Retroid Pocket
RG DS vs Retroid Pocket: a head-to-head comparison of specs, performance, screen, battery, and which one is the better buy for your retro library.
| Spec | RG DS | Retroid Pocket |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Anbernic | Retroid / Moorechip |
| Form Factor | Clamshell (Dual Screen) | Vertical |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Android 6, Retroid OS |
| Chipset | RockChip RK3568 | MediaTek MT6580A |
| RAM | 3 GB | 512 MB DDR2 |
| Screen | 4.0 inch x2 | 3.5 inch |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 | 640 x 480 |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Price | $94 (+ shipping) | $75 |
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The RG DS and Retroid Pocket are two retro handhelds that often end up on the same shortlist. They are not identical, and the right choice depends on what you actually want to play and how much you want to spend.
Performance and emulation ceiling
The RG DS is powered by a RockChip RK3568 with 3 GB. The Retroid Pocket uses a MediaTek MT6580A with 512 MB DDR2. On our performance scale, the RG DS scores 10/10 and the Retroid Pocket scores 8/10. The RG DS grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. The Retroid Pocket grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo DS in the B range. The Retroid Pocket reaches PSP mostly playable but some need frameskip, Dreamcast barely playable, and N64 is hit and miss.
Screen and ergonomics
The RG DS has a 4.0 inch x2 display at 640 x 480. The Retroid Pocket has a 3.5 inch display at 640 x 480. The RG DS is a clamshell (dual screen) device, while the Retroid Pocket is vertical. That shape difference matters for how the device feels in the hand and how comfortable it is for longer sessions.
Battery and price
The RG DS carries a 4000 mAh battery, and the Retroid Pocket a 4000 mAh battery. On price, the RG DS sits around $94 (+ shipping), while the Retroid Pocket is around $75.
Which should you buy?
Choose the RG DS if you want the stronger overall package for the money. The best handheld is the one that makes the games you actually play feel natural.