Is this the ‘endgame’ Android handheld? Not quite — but it’s close
The Pocket S Mini could have been an excellent pocket-sized handheld. But a couple of weaknesses mean it's merely great.
When AYANEO announced the Pocket S Mini earlier this year, it declared it to be an “endgame handheld.” In simpler terms, the company suggested that this device would be the pinnacle of handheld gaming, and consumers wouldn’t need to purchase another gaming handheld after this. While the claim is ambitious, the Pocket S Mini does present several compelling features that make it an attractive option for gamers.
The device boasts a 4.2-inch 4:3 LCD screen, which is perfect for retro emulation. The compact size of the screen makes it ideal for handheld gaming, allowing users to enjoy their favorite games on the go without sacrificing too much screen real estate. The Pocket S Mini is powered by a Snapdragon G3X Gen 2 processor, which should provide ample performance for most tasks. This processor is designed to handle demanding applications, making it a solid choice for gaming enthusiasts.
In addition to its technical specifications, the Pocket S Mini also features a compact design with premium materials. The build quality and aesthetics of the device are top-notch, making it a pleasure to hold and use. However, the Pocket S Mini isn’t cheap, with early bird editions priced at $319 and a recommended retail price of $399. This raises the question of whether the device is worth the investment, and if it truly lives up to the “endgame handheld” hype.
To determine the answer, I decided to put the Pocket S Mini through its paces. The first weakness I encountered was the battery life. While the device is compact and lightweight, the battery didn’t last as long as I hoped. This could be particularly disappointing for users who plan to use the Pocket S Mini for extended gaming sessions.
Another area where the Pocket S Mini falls short is its software. Although the device runs on Android 11, the user interface and overall software experience felt a bit clunky. This could be due to the compact screen size, but it did make navigating menus and settings a bit cumbersome. Additionally, some games had minor compatibility issues, which could be frustrating for users looking for a seamless gaming experience.
Despite these shortcomings, the Pocket S Mini still offers a solid gaming experience. The screen size and resolution are excellent for retro gaming, and the performance of the Snapdragon G3X Gen 2 processor is more than sufficient for most games. The device also supports a wide range of emulators, allowing users to play a vast library of games.
In conclusion, while the Pocket S Mini is an impressive device with many strengths, it doesn’t quite live up to the “endgame handheld” label. The battery life and software issues are significant drawbacks that could deter some potential buyers. However, for those looking for a compact, high-quality handheld gaming device with excellent screen and performance, the Pocket S Mini is still a great choice. Ultimately, whether the device is worth the investment depends on the individual priorities of the user. For those who prioritize portability and retro gaming, the Pocket S Mini could be a worthwhile addition to their collection.
