Skip to content
All comparisons
Head-to-head comparison

Anbernic RG557 vs Retroid Pocket 2S

The Anbernic RG557 (~$210) and Retroid Pocket 2S (~$120) are closely matched Android handhelds. The right pick comes down to display, battery, and form factor — not raw performance.

Anbernic RG557 handheld

Anbernic RG557

Budget AMOLED option
Price~$210
VS
Retroid Pocket 2S handheld

Retroid Pocket 2S

Best entry-level Android
Price~$120
Key differences
What sets these handhelds apart
  • Retroid Pocket 2S costs $91 less (~$210 vs ~$120) — roughly 43% cheaper than the Anbernic RG557.
  • Processor: Anbernic RG557 runs a Mid-range ARM (T820-class) vs Unisoc T610 in the Retroid Pocket 2S.
  • RAM: 8GB vs 3GB — Anbernic RG557 has the memory advantage for multitasking and heavier emulators.
  • Listed battery specifications: 5,500mAh vs 4,000mAh. Capacity alone does not establish runtime; game, settings, and power draw matter.
  • Display: Anbernic RG557 has an OLED/AMOLED panel (5.5" AMOLED) vs the Retroid Pocket 2S's 3.5" touchscreen 640x480 — better contrast and black levels.
  • Weight: ~350g vs ~190g — Retroid Pocket 2S is more pocketable.

Specs comparison

Side-by-side technical details. The glowing value wins its row.

SpecAnbernic RG557Retroid Pocket 2S
Price~$210~$120(best)
Display5.5" AMOLED(best)3.5" touchscreen 640x480
ProcessorMid-range ARM (T820-class)Unisoc T610
RAM8GB(best)3GB
Storage128GB + microSD(best)64GB + microSD
Battery capacity5,500mAh(best)4,000mAh
Weight~350g~190g(best)
OSAndroidAndroid 11 / RetroidOS
Performance comparison
Spec-based catalog ratings, not measured game benchmarks

Portability

Retroid Pocket 2S wins
Anbernic RG557
76
Retroid Pocket 2S
85

Battery

Anbernic RG557 wins
Anbernic RG557
83
Retroid Pocket 2S
78

Anbernic RG557 is best for

  • AMOLED display on a budget
  • Good battery life
  • Value-focused buyers

Retroid Pocket 2S is best for

  • Entry into Android emulation
  • Touchscreen for Android games
  • Budget-conscious buyers stepping up

Anbernic RG557 watch outs

  • Less powerful than flagship competitors
  • Anbernic's learning curve for setup

Retroid Pocket 2S watch outs

  • Less powerful than RP5/Mini
  • Screen is smaller than modern handhelds
  • Some setup required for dual boot
The verdict

Compare the specs and tradeoffs for your target games. Anbernic RG557 has the higher or equal average catalog rating; Retroid Pocket 2S has the lower or equal listed starting price. Catalog ratings are not measured game benchmarks.

Still unsure?

Let our picker quiz find your perfect handheld in 60 seconds.

Take the quiz

Anbernic RG557 vs Retroid Pocket 2S FAQ

Which is better, the Anbernic RG557 or the Retroid Pocket 2S?

Compare the specs and tradeoffs for your target games. Anbernic RG557 has the higher or equal average catalog rating; Retroid Pocket 2S has the lower or equal listed starting price. Catalog ratings are not measured game benchmarks.

What is the price difference between the Anbernic RG557 and the Retroid Pocket 2S?

The catalog lists Retroid Pocket 2S from $119 and Anbernic RG557 from $210, a $91 starting-price difference. Configuration, shipping, tax, and availability can change the final cost. A higher price does not by itself establish better performance.

Which has better performance, the Anbernic RG557 or Retroid Pocket 2S?

The Anbernic RG557 uses Mid-range ARM (T820-class) with 8GB RAM; the Retroid Pocket 2S uses Unisoc T610 with 3GB RAM. Catalog ratings are not measured game benchmarks. Check testing for your games, emulator version, resolution, and power settings before choosing.

How does battery life compare between the Anbernic RG557 and Retroid Pocket 2S?

The Anbernic RG557 ships with a 5,500mAh battery. The Retroid Pocket 2S has a 4,000mAh. Capacity alone does not establish battery life. Compare runtime tests using the same game, brightness, and power settings; manufacturer claims may use different workloads.

Which is more portable, the Anbernic RG557 or Retroid Pocket 2S?

The Anbernic RG557 weighs ~350g, while the Retroid Pocket 2S weighs ~190g. Lighter devices are easier for pocket carry and long sessions but often tradeoff battery capacity or grip comfort.

Should I buy the Anbernic RG557 or wait for the Retroid Pocket 2S?

Check each official store for current stock, preorder status, and shipping estimates. Choose around the games and features you need now. This comparison does not verify delivery dates or predict when either manufacturer will release a replacement.

More comparisons

The Anbernic RG556 (~$250) and Retroid Pocket 2S (~$120) are closely matched Android handhelds. The ...
The Retroid Pocket 2S (~$120) and Retroid Pocket 5 ($179) are closely matched Android handhelds. The...
The Retroid Pocket 2S (~$120) and Retroid Pocket Mini V2 (~$179) go head-to-head in this Android han...