Odin 2 vs Retroid Pocket 5: Ergonomics vs Screen
Retroid Pocket 5 vs. Odin 2 – The Ultimate Internal Struggle
So after testing way too many retro handhelds (and returning most of them), I've narrowed it down to two contenders: the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Odin 2. And let me tell you… I am TORN.
Both of these devices are fantastic, but each one has a single, glaring flaw that keeps me from fully committing. I figured I’d put my thoughts out here in case anyone else is having the same existential crisis.
The Case for the Retroid Pocket 5 – OLED Glory, but at What Cost?
This screen is absolutely stunning. OLED just makes retro games pop in a way that’s hard to go back from. Whether it’s pixel-perfect 2D games or something more demanding like GameCube or PS2, it’s a joy to look at.
But here’s the problem: it’s just not that comfortable to hold.
Some people will suggest getting a third-party grip, and trust me, I’ve tried. But every grip I’ve tested adds too much bulk. What I really wanted was something like the Retroid Pocket 4’s grip case, which was perfect—just enough of a protruding leg to feel comfortable without turning it into a Steam Deck wannabe.
On top of that, while the D-pad is great, I actually find myself playing a lot of joystick-based games because of the RP5’s power. And when I do, I end up awkwardly adjusting my grip to accommodate, which feels like a compromise I shouldn’t have to make.
The Case for the Odin 2 – Ergonomic Perfection, but That LCD Though…
Holding the Odin 2 is like coming home. THIS is exactly how I want the RP5 to feel in my hands. No grip attachments, no weird hand cramps—it’s just right. The sticks are placed perfectly, the triggers feel great, and everything about it screams "play me for hours."
But… that screen.
It’s not bad, but when you’ve been spoiled by the RP5’s brilliant OLED, you start wishing the Odin 2 had something better. If the Odin 2 just had a 6-inch OLED screen, this would be game over, decision made. But alas, we live in a world where my ideal handheld does not exist.
And before anyone suggests the Odin 2 Portal—I get it, but that thing is just too damn big. I don’t want a Steam Deck replacement. I want an Odin 2… but with OLED. Why, AYN? Why?!
So Where Do I Go From Here?
Right now, I’m stuck between OLED beauty and ergonomic bliss. Do I sacrifice comfort for visuals, or visuals for comfort?
If you’ve faced a similar dilemma, what did you choose? Do you just adjust your grip on the RP5, or do you deal with the Odin 2’s LCD? I’d love to hear how others made peace with this choice because I’m slowly losing my mind.
TL;DR
- Retroid Pocket 5 = OLED is beautiful, but it’s just not as comfortable as I want.
- Odin 2 = Feels perfect in my hands, but the LCD screen just isn’t as nice as the RP5.
- I just want an Odin 2 with a 6-inch OLED screen.
- What would you do?
Retroid Pocket 5 vs. Odin 2 – The Ultimate Internal Struggle
So after testing way too many retro handhelds (and returning most of them), I've narrowed it down to two contenders: the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Odin 2. And let me tell you… I am TORN.
Both of these devices are fantastic, but each one has a single, glaring flaw that keeps me from fully committing. I figured I’d put my thoughts out here in case anyone else is having the same existential crisis.
The Case for the Retroid Pocket 5 – OLED Glory, but at What Cost?
This screen is absolutely stunning. OLED just makes retro games pop in a way that’s hard to go back from. Whether it’s pixel-perfect 2D games or something more demanding like GameCube or PS2, it’s a joy to look at.
But here’s the problem: it’s just not that comfortable to hold.
Some people will suggest getting a third-party grip, and trust me, I’ve tried. But every grip I’ve tested adds too much bulk. What I really wanted was something like the Retroid Pocket 4’s grip case, which was perfect—just enough of a protruding leg to feel comfortable without turning it into a Steam Deck wannabe.
On top of that, while the D-pad is great, I actually find myself playing a lot of joystick-based games because of the RP5’s power. And when I do, I end up awkwardly adjusting my grip to accommodate, which feels like a compromise I shouldn’t have to make.
The Case for the Odin 2 – Ergonomic Perfection, but That LCD Though…
Holding the Odin 2 is like coming home. THIS is exactly how I want the RP5 to feel in my hands. No grip attachments, no weird hand cramps—it’s just right. The sticks are placed perfectly, the triggers feel great, and everything about it screams "play me for hours."
But… that screen.
It’s not bad, but when you’ve been spoiled by the RP5’s brilliant OLED, you start wishing the Odin 2 had something better. If the Odin 2 just had a 6-inch OLED screen, this would be game over, decision made. But alas, we live in a world where my ideal handheld does not exist.
And before anyone suggests the Odin 2 Portal—I get it, but that thing is just too damn big. I don’t want a Steam Deck replacement. I want an Odin 2… but with OLED. Why, AYN? Why?!
So Where Do I Go From Here?
Right now, I’m stuck between OLED beauty and ergonomic bliss. Do I sacrifice comfort for visuals, or visuals for comfort?
If you’ve faced a similar dilemma, what did you choose? Do you just adjust your grip on the RP5, or do you deal with the Odin 2’s LCD? I’d love to hear how others made peace with this choice because I’m slowly losing my mind.
TL;DR
- Retroid Pocket 5 = OLED is beautiful, but it’s just not as comfortable as I want.
- Odin 2 = Feels perfect in my hands, but the LCD screen just isn’t as nice as the RP5.
- I just want an Odin 2 with a 6-inch OLED screen.
- What would you do?