Retroid is expanding its Duo Lite lineup with the Pocket Duo Lite Plus, a new handheld that targets gamers looking for a middle ground between the entry-level Lite and the more powerful standard model. This release offers a specific compromise for buyers who want the standard Duo's processing speed without paying the full premium price, though it requires accepting some hardware reductions. The announcement follows community feedback about Retroid's launch strategy, positioning this device as a direct response to user demand for a more balanced option.
Retroid Pocket Duo Lite Plus combines standard Duo CPU power with Lite form factor
The new Pocket Duo Lite Plus combines the internal components of the standard Duo with the physical form factor of the Lite. It utilizes the Dragonwing Q-7790 CPU, which provides the higher processing power found in the standard model, paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination allows the device to handle more demanding emulation tasks than the base Lite, while retaining the compact design that defines the Lite series.
Specifications
- CPU: Dragonwing Q-7790
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 128GB
- Shoulder Buttons: Inline
- Display: Dual LCD panels (presumed)
Retroid has made specific trade-offs to hit the target price point, most notably by reverting to the inline shoulder buttons found on the original Duo Lite rather than the bumpers on the standard model. The device ships with 128GB of storage, a capacity that matches the standard Duo but exceeds the Lite's base offering. We presume the display uses dual LCD panels, as OLED screens would likely push the price beyond the $199 target, though the source material treats this as a likely rather than confirmed specification.
The Retroid Pocket Duo Lite Plus is priced at $199, a discount from the $219 list price when using the code LITEPLUS. Shipping is scheduled to begin in November, giving buyers a few weeks to plan their purchases. We've been tracking Retroid Pocket Duo Lite Plus closely — see our earlier coverage on Retroid Pocket Duo Lite Discount Extended for context on the brand's recent pricing moves. This device fills a gap in the lineup by offering standard-level CPU performance at a Lite-level price, provided users can live with the inline triggers.
Retroid stated that the company is "Listening to the community!" with the release of this middle stepchild device. The announcement confirms the existence of a model that bridges the gap between the two existing Duo Lite variants. Buyers seeking a balance of power and cost now have a concrete option to consider, with availability confirmed for the upcoming November shipping window.
Source: RetroHandhelds
