XU Retro has revealed the final build design of the XU35 H50 and given concrete specs for the upcoming handheld. This news follows shortly after revealing the design and final specs for its smaller 4:3 brother, the XU35 H40.
XU Retro, closely associated with MagicX, has been constantly dropping updates about its budget-friendly devices for the past few months. MagicX, their closest business partner, has been helping them in this goal seeing as MagicX primarily focuses on the same ideals through their handhelds like the original XU Mini M and Mini Zero 28.
XU Retro is New Retro
The company has been constantly dropping info about their slate of devices for 2025, but now they’ve finally given a concrete list of specs alongside a view of the final build design. Unlike other renders, this design looks to be as close to final as the launched handheld will be. On its face, it features the standard fanfare of four action buttons, D-pad, start, select, and home buttons, alongside dual analog sticks.
The XU Retro XU35 H50 specs, design, launch window, and price.
The included chipset is said to be the Mediatek G85, which should have comparable performance to the Unisoc T618, so you can expect decent PS2 and GameCube performance, but don’t set your expectations too high. The device will perform best with consoles released before the PS2 and GameCube eras, but for anyone looking to play less extensive games like Animal Crossing or the slew of 2D RPGs on the PS2, this may be a good option to look into.
Outside of the above specs, the console will feature 4GB of RAM, 64GB of onboard storage, and a 5-inch 720p screen at 16:9. In the most MagicX way possible, the device features a slightly unique screen build with the screen itself protruding beyond the base body of the device. It harkens similarity to the PSP, but not exactly. Speaking of PSP, the 720p resolution should allow for 2x integer scaling on those titles, but also 2.66667 scaling if maxed out for the screen.
The company is also asking for community input as they seek out the most popular colorways and designs. Those interested can fill out this Google Form to cast their vote, and who knows, maybe your favorite color will be one of the ones released when October comes.
Budget Friendly Competition
The budget aspect of the device is not understated either. It will retail for $85, but will have an early bird price of $75. With devices like the Mangmi Air X releasing soon at similar price points, MagicX is showing up to bring consistent competition to the retro handheld space. With this, we can expect more unique innovations and creations from various different companies. Competition breeds better devices for us all; something we have all become more aware of over the past year plus.
The device is said to release in October, but no page has been made available just yet. However, when it is available for purchase, you’ll know exactly where to look: right here on Retro Handhelds.
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