Retroid Pocket 4 vs 4 Pro – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Retroid Pocket 4 Pro & Retroid Pocket 4 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro rather than the Retroid Pocket 4.

Why Do I Recommend The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro?

  • The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro features MediaTek Dimensity 1100 processor for higher multi-core performance and improved stability in demanding PS2 and GameCube emulation, whereas the Retroid Pocket 4 uses the MediaTek Dimensity 900 processor.
  • Retroid Pocket 4 Pro has 4× Cortex-A78 performance cores for stronger sustained processing power during shader compilation and high-resolution rendering, while the Retroid Pocket 4 has 2× Cortex-A78 performance cores.
  • It comes with a Mali-G77 MC9 GPU for handling higher internal resolutions and more complex 3D effects in Android games and emulators, while the Retroid Pocket 4 uses a Mali-G68 MC4 GPU.
  • The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro includes 8 GB LPDDR4X RAM for smoother multitasking between emulators, Android apps, and background services, while the Retroid Pocket 4 includes 4 GB LPDDR4X RAM.
  • Retroid Pocket 4 Pro supports heavier PS2 and GameCube titles at more consistent frame rates due to its stronger CPU and GPU configuration, whereas the Retroid Pocket 4 uses a lower-tier chipset configuration.
  • It comes with Android 13 for broader compatibility with newer Android apps and updated system-level features, while the Retroid Pocket 4 comes with Android 11.
  • The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro features higher CPU clock speeds up to 2.6 GHz on its Cortex-A78 cores for faster game loading and reduced frame drops in demanding scenes, while the Retroid Pocket 4 reaches up to 2.4 GHz on its Cortex-A78 cores.
  • Retroid Pocket 4 Pro includes greater memory headroom for running HD texture packs and higher emulator internal resolution settings without forced app reloads, whereas the Retroid Pocket 4 includes 4 GB RAM.

Maybe the Retroid Pocket 4 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureRetroid Pocket 4 ProRetroid Pocket 4
SoCMediaTek Dimensity 1100MediaTek Dimensity 900
CPU big cores4× Cortex-A782× Cortex-A78
CPU little cores4× Cortex-A556× Cortex-A55
Cortex-A78 max clock2.6 GHz2.4 GHz
GPUMali-G77 MC9Mali-G68 MC4
GPU core configMC9MC4
GPU clock836 MHz900 MHz
RAM capacity8 GB4 GB
RAM typeLPDDR4XLPDDR4X
OS (as listed)Android 13Android 11
Android major version1311
Launch MSRP (USD)199149
PriceCheck Retroid Pocket 4 Pro PriceCheck Retroid Pocket 4 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Display Size: Both devices use a 4.7-inch screen, which creates a compact handheld footprint while still providing enough viewing area for retro and modern Android titles. This size balances portability with comfortable gameplay.
  • Display Resolution: Each model features a 1334 × 750 resolution panel. This resolution aligns well with many classic console aspect ratios and reduces GPU strain compared to higher resolutions.
  • Display Type: Both use IPS LCD panels, ensuring consistent color reproduction and wide viewing angles. This is important for multiplayer sessions or angled handheld use.
  • Touchscreen: Each system includes touchscreen functionality. This allows full Android navigation, emulator configuration, and compatibility with Android games that require touch input.
  • Aspect Ratio: Both devices use a 16:9 aspect ratio. This format matches many PSP, Android, and modern console titles without excessive stretching.
  • Battery Capacity: Both are equipped with a 5000 mAh battery. This capacity supports extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
  • Charging Port: Each device uses USB-C for charging and data transfer. USB-C provides reversible connection and broad cable compatibility.
  • Wi-Fi: Both support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax). This enables stable cloud gaming, OTA updates, and multiplayer connectivity.
  • Bluetooth: Each model includes Bluetooth 5.2. This allows pairing with wireless controllers, headphones, and other peripherals with stable low-latency connections.
  • microSD Card Slot: Both devices support microSD expansion. This is essential for storing large ROM libraries and Android game files.
  • Built-in Storage: Each unit includes 128 GB of internal storage. This provides space for apps, firmware, and a base game collection before expansion.
  • Analog Sticks: Both systems use dual Hall sensor analog sticks. Hall technology reduces mechanical wear and stick drift over time.
  • Shoulder Buttons: Each device features analog L2/R2 triggers. Analog input is important for GameCube, PS2, and streaming use cases that rely on variable trigger pressure.
  • Operating System: Both run Android as the base operating system. This provides access to the Google Play ecosystem and wide emulator compatibility.
  • HDMI Output: Each supports video output over USB-C with DisplayPort functionality. This allows the handheld to function as a home console when connected to an external display.
  • 3.5 mm Headphone Jack: Both include a 3.5 mm audio jack. Wired audio support ensures compatibility with low-latency headphones.
  • Built-in Speakers: Each device features stereo speakers. Dual speakers provide balanced audio positioning for gameplay.
  • Form Factor: Both share a horizontal handheld layout. This design supports ergonomic grip and symmetrical control placement for longer play sessions.

Common Features

FeatureRetroid Pocket 4 ProRetroid Pocket 4
Display Size4.7-inch4.7-inch
Display Resolution1334 × 7501334 × 750
Display TypeIPS LCDIPS LCD
TouchscreenYesYes
Aspect Ratio16:916:9
Battery Capacity5000 mAh5000 mAh
Charging PortUSB-CUSB-C
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6Wi-Fi 6
BluetoothBluetooth 5.2Bluetooth 5.2
microSD Card SlotYesYes
Built-in Storage128 GB128 GB
Analog SticksDual Hall sensor sticksDual Hall sensor sticks
Shoulder ButtonsAnalog L2/R2Analog L2/R2
Operating SystemAndroidAndroid
HDMI OutputYesYes
3.5 mm Headphone JackYesYes
Built-in SpeakersStereoStereo
Form FactorHorizontal handheldHorizontal handheld
Price Check Retroid Pocket 4 Pro Price
Check Retroid Pocket 4 Price

FAQ

Do both devices use the same display?
Yes, both Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and Retroid Pocket 4 feature a 4.7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1334 × 750 and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The screen size, resolution, and panel type are identical on both models.

Is the RAM different between the two models?
Yes, Retroid Pocket 4 Pro includes 8 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, while Retroid Pocket 4 includes 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM. The higher memory capacity in the Pro model supports heavier multitasking and more demanding emulators.

Do both models have the same internal storage?
Yes, both devices come with 128 GB of internal storage. They also support microSD card expansion for additional game and media storage.

Can both devices run Android apps from the Play Store?
Yes, both systems run Android and support standard Android applications and games. This allows access to emulators, streaming apps, and native Android titles.

Is battery capacity the same on both models?
Yes, both Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and Retroid Pocket 4 are equipped with a 5000 mAh battery. Real-world battery life depends on workload and performance settings.

Do both devices support HDMI output?
Yes, both models support video output through the USB-C port using DisplayPort functionality. This allows connection to an external monitor or TV for console-style gaming.

Are the analog sticks the same on both models?
Yes, both devices use dual Hall sensor analog sticks. Hall sensor technology reduces mechanical wear and helps prevent stick drift over time.

Do both models have analog triggers?
Yes, both Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and Retroid Pocket 4 include analog L2 and R2 triggers. This is important for systems like GameCube and PS2 that rely on variable trigger input.

Is wireless connectivity identical on both devices?
Yes, both devices support Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2. This ensures stable wireless networking and compatibility with modern Bluetooth accessories.

Do both devices include a headphone jack?
Yes, both models feature a 3.5 mm headphone jack. This allows wired audio connections without requiring adapters.

Is the physical design the same?
Yes, both share the same horizontal handheld form factor with similar button layout and control placement. The ergonomic structure and overall footprint are effectively identical.

Which model is better for PS2 and GameCube emulation?
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is generally more suitable for heavier PS2 and GameCube titles due to its stronger CPU and GPU configuration. Retroid Pocket 4 can run many titles but may require lower internal resolutions or settings in more demanding games.

Do both devices support microSD cards?
Yes, both models include a microSD card slot for storage expansion. This allows users to maintain large ROM libraries and media collections.

Is the operating system version the same on both models?
No, Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is listed with Android 13, while Retroid Pocket 4 is listed with Android 11. The newer Android version may provide broader app compatibility and system-level updates.