Meet the MagicX One Flip 50: a sub-$100 clamshell handheld ready to take on the Retroid Pocket Flip 2

MagicX is jumping into the clamshell gaming handheld scene with the One Flip 50, a budget-friendly device that folds up for easy pocketability while promising familiar hardware under the hood. The company is targeting a price around $95, putting this model squarely in the ultra-affordable category and positioning it as a direct challenger to pricier clamshell rivals.

At its core, the One Flip 50 runs the MediaTek Helio G85, the same chipset found in MagicX’s One 35 and One Retro 45. That means two ARM Cortex-A75 CPU cores for heavier tasks, six Cortex-A55 cores for efficiency, and a Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. It’s paired with 4 GB of RAM, a sensible match for an entry-level handheld. On the front, a 5-inch display outputs at 1080p in a classic 16:9 aspect ratio, a sharp resolution for this size that should make retro titles, indies, and lighter mobile-style games look clean and crisp.

Storage comes in at 64 GB onboard, which is modest but manageable for a system in this price bracket. Mock-ups shared by MagicX indicate a microSD card slot for easy expansion, letting users carry larger libraries without juggling installs. Controls include in-line shoulder buttons, silicone ABXY buttons, and a silicone D-pad—choices that may divide opinion but should offer a familiar feel for handheld enthusiasts.

While there’s no confirmed release date yet, the One Flip 50 clearly aims to undercut established clamshell devices while capitalizing on growing interest in folding handheld designs. If MagicX hits its price target, the One Flip 50 could become a compelling entry point for gamers who want a compact, travel-ready console without breaking the bank.

Key specs at a glance:
– Chipset: MediaTek Helio G85 (2x ARM Cortex-A75 + 6x Cortex-A55; Mali-G52 MP2 GPU)
– Memory: 4 GB RAM
– Display: 5-inch, 1080p resolution, 16:9 aspect ratio
– Storage: 64 GB internal; microSD expansion suggested by mock-ups
– Controls: In-line shoulder buttons, silicone ABXY buttons, silicone D-pad
– Form factor: Clamshell design
– Target price: Around $95
– Availability: Release date not yet announced

The combination of a 1080p 5-inch display, expandable storage, and a proven mobile chipset makes the One Flip 50 an intriguing option for budget-conscious players. It’s designed to slip easily into a pocket, protect the screen when closed, and deliver a straightforward pick-up-and-play experience. For anyone curious about the clamshell handheld trend but hesitant to invest in premium models, this could be the affordable entry point to watch.

As MagicX finalizes launch details, the big questions will be battery life, build quality, and software experience. But on paper, the One Flip 50’s blend of portable design, accessible pricing, and familiar hardware puts it in a strong position among low-cost handheld gaming consoles.