KTR1S becomes KTR2: KT Pocket targets budget retro gamers with premium build and features
In the competitive landscape of new retro handhelds popping up in the tech space, where devices have been trading blows in the $100 to $200 price range, a different challenger has stepped into the ring, and no, it’s not from Retroid, Anbernic, or AYANEO. The latest contender is the KTR2 from KT Pocket, revealed in a last-minute announcement by RetroGaming with DeadFred on X.
Initially teased as the KTR1S, the handheld’s name was rebranded to KTR2. The KTR2 aims to break away from the premium pricing of retro handhelds and shake up the competition with aggressive yet budget-friendly pricing. However, the question remains. Can KT Pocket live up to those promises, given the current memory crisis climate?
To the surprise of many, the product formerly known as KRT1S, now KTR2, features a magnesium alloy build and is already setting itself apart from its ABS-plastic competitors. It is also powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset, a 2024 SoC making its debut on the KT Pocket lineup.
The retro handheld features an active-cooling design to prevent any thermal throttling during demanding gaming sessions. As for connectivity, the KTR2 offers dual Wi-Fi and 4G options for gamers who want to take their online gaming on the go. Pre-sales are already in full gear in China, with international availability expected soon.
KT Pocket is slashing prices to attract customers seeking premium yet budget-friendly handhelds that aim to undercut the retro handheld industry. The base model comes with 6GB RAM and 128GB of storage, with the Wi-Fi model priced at $142, rising to $255 for the top-of-the-line 12GB/512GB 4G version. During this time, pre-sale and retail bumps are aiming to keep most configurations under $200.
However, the retro handheld market is becoming increasingly crowded, with plenty of options eyeing the same segment. Competition is stiff for the KTR2 from the get-go. For comparison, the Mangmi Air X is priced at $90 and features a Snapdragon 662 with Android 14, capable of running most PS2 and GameCube titles on its 5.5-inch 1080p screen, making it a viable choice for entry-level retro gamers.
Retroid’s Pocket G2, which bumps the price to $199 for early backers, features a Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a vibrant 5.5-inch AMOLED display running Android 15. It’s capable of efficiently emulating daunting PS2 and GameCube titles.
Another interesting retro handheld is the AYANEO Pocket Air Mini, which starts at $70 for its basic 2GB RAM and 32GB setup. It boasts a 4.2-inch screen and exclusively focuses on light-retro emulation. Given the spec sheet, it lags behind the competition in terms of horsepower.
For now, the KTR2 by KT Pocket is in a tough spot, but it could make a breakthrough with its high-end build quality and features at an affordable price. The magnesium alloy, built with active cooling, could mitigate thermal throttling, while the Dimensity 7300 gives it a performance edge over its Snapdragon 662-equipped competitors, such as the Mamgmi Air. However, shipments are expected to be delayed until 2026. Crowdfunding for the KTR2 is wrapping up soon. All in all, the KTR2’s success lies in international rollout and real-world reviews.
The KTPocket is now available on pre-sale with discounts in tow for those interested. For those looking for a different, more readily available option, the significantly pricier Ayaneo Pocket ACE is available on Amazon and ships via Prime to multiple states within a 2-day period.
Source(s)
Retro Gaming with Deadfred – X KTPocket (Preorders/Presale)
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