Analogue has announced yet another limited edition version of the Pocket. The company had previously released glow-in-the-dark, transparent, and solid-color editions of their console.
Announced via Twitter, Analogue is launching an aluminum version of the Pocket. It comes in Natural (white), Noir (gunmetal), Black, and Indigo.
Analogue Pocket Aluminum Edition colors
The new Aluminum Edition of the console joins a growing list of all-metal variations of retro handhelds, emulation devices, and FPGA units. MiSTerAddons sells an aluminum version of their MiSTer case, BoxyPixel has numerous aluminum shells for older handheld consoles. Plus, Makho sells the Slate, a modified aluminum shell for the original SP.
With the exception of the screen and PCB, all of its parts are said to be made entirely from aluminum. Utilizing all aluminum parts does take the Pocket’s already premium build quality to a higher level, but also doubles the price of the unit from its current selling price.
Aluminum Handhelds Aren’t Uncommon
RetroCN, a China-based parts seller, has been selling a DIY aluminum shell for the Analogue Pocket alongside other metal shells for retro handhelds since November 2023. However, an official release by Analogue themselves removes any hesitation players may feel trying to open, piece together, and properly assemble a Pocket using third-party parts.
Bob Wulff recently made a video detailing the build process, appearance, and usability of the RetroCN shell. In the video above, he talks about slight sacrifices made in order to build the Aluminum Pocket. This includes things like a difference in adhesive quality and a lack of logos or identical markings.
The original black and white Analogue Pocket retailed for $199 when initially launched in December 2021. Subsequent restocks and limited editions would retail for $249.99, a $50 increase. A reason was never publicly shared. But after the 2020 – 2023 chip shortage, it’s assumed prices increased due to more difficult sourcing of needed materials to build the console. With the Aluminum Edition, the price increase over the current retail price can be attributed to the manufacturing costs for pure metal.
Aluminum bits in the Analogue Pocket Aluminum Edition
Analogue’s limited edition consoles are notorious for selling out within seconds of pre-orders opening. And they rarely — if ever — see any restocks. Pre-orders for the Aluminum Editions begin July 15, 2024, at 8 AM PDT. Shipping begins two days later on July 17, and it retails for $499.99.
Are you going to purchase an Aluminum Edition version of the Pocket? Are you satisfied with your current model? Let us know in the comments below, and chat with us in our Discord!
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