Retroid has unveiled a new version of its Pocket Flip 2 handheld gaming console, now powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 1100 chip. Priced at $200, this version is $30 cheaper than the Snapdragon 865 model, yet it maintains the sleek clamshell design, a vibrant 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED display, and runs on Android 13.
In a detailed hands-on session, Retro Game Corps’ Russ explored the capabilities of the Dimensity 1100 model across several retro emulators. The device effortlessly handled systems such as the Game Boy Advance, PSP, and Dreamcast, and delivered smooth gameplay for most GameCube and Wii titles at 2x resolution.
Russ also conducted a 20-minute looped GPU benchmark test using the 3DMark Wild Life Stress Test. Both the Dimensity 1100 and Snapdragon 865 exhibited 99.5% stability, remained under 30°C, and showed minimal battery drain—10% and 9% respectively—demonstrating similar thermal performance and sustained load handling.
Despite its solid performance, the Snapdragon variant remains more versatile for emulation. According to Russ, the Dimensity 1100 lacks support for custom GPU drivers and can’t dual boot into Linux, limiting its compatibility with complex platforms like PS2 and Switch. During gameplay tests, titles such as God of War II and Wind Waker HD experienced frame drops and visual glitches, challenges the Snapdragon version managed better.
In terms of streaming and Android gaming, both Flip 2 variants perform admirably, although the Dimensity model shows slightly higher video decoding latency, registering 8 to 10 ms compared to the Snapdragon’s 2 to 4 ms.
The Flip 2 supports docked mode via USB-C, with testing showing effective performance using third-party adapters or Retroid’s official dock. With a Bluetooth controller, it transforms seamlessly into a compact Android console.
For enthusiasts of retro and sixth-gen gaming, the Dimensity 1100 Flip 2 is still a compelling option. It offers responsiveness, capable performance, and USB-C video out for big-screen play. Battery life varies: up to 16 hours for lighter games like GBA or SNES, 6 to 8 hours for more demanding systems such as GameCube and PS2, and over 3 hours when running intensive GPU benchmarks. The device also includes 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and is available in four colors.
Overall, this new variant of the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 provides an attractive choice for retro gaming fans, balancing affordability with substantial performance.
