MANGMI Announces Pocket Max Retail Price and Early Bird Sale

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The Pocket Max is the second device released by the manufacturer. MANGMI previously launched the Air X, a device that is widely regarded as the current king of the budget handheld space. The Air X delivers a 1080p resolution on a 5.5-inch 16:9 display and features a chipset capable of excellent PSP performance while also dipping into lighter PlayStation 2 and GameCube titles.

And today, MANGMI revealed additional details about the Pocket Max, including its launch pricing:

Between February 5 and February 12, the device will be available with Super Early Bird pricing at $199.99. After that window closes, the Pocket Max will retail for $239.99 USD.

The device is also said to feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, the same chipset found in devices such as the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Lite version of the AYN Thor. Emulation performance on the Snapdragon 865 should yield fairly positive results with PlayStation 2, GameCube, and similar platforms, though compatibility ultimately depends on the performance demands of individual titles.

MANGMI made waves with the Air X by offering strong performance at an unusually low price point. The Pocket Max enters the market at a time when new handhelds are facing higher costs due to the ongoing RAM shortage. Currently, the Retroid Pocket G2 surpasses this device in performance and costs roughly the same. The Retroid Pocket 5 matches it in power, though both devices lack one key difference that could help the Pocket Max stand out.

The Pocket Max features a 7-inch display, rivaling the screen size of popular devices such as the Steam Deck, though its performance is not intended to compete with full PC handhelds. The offset asymmetrical analog sticks may play a role in shaping future Snapdragon 865-tier devices and their usability. However, the current state of retro handheld pricing could make the Pocket Max a more challenging sell compared to the Air X.

For more information on the Pocket Max, follow MANGMI on Twitter and engage with the company through their official Discord.

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