PocketTerm35 has been listed on the Waveshare as a compact handheld PC designed for DIY users, developers, and retro computing enthusiasts. The device combines a small touchscreen with a built-in keyboard and is based on hardware from Raspberry Pi, making it part of the growing ecosystem of portable Pi-powered systems.
The PocketTerm35 is available in two configurations. One version uses a Raspberry Pi 5 paired with 1GB of RAM and includes a pre-installed 64GB storage card. The second option is based on a Raspberry Pi 4 with 2GB of RAM. Both configurations aim to serve different user needs, from newer hardware support to slightly more stable, widely supported older-generation performance.
Unlike some compact handheld designs that rely on compute modules, this device does not use a Raspberry Pi Compute Module. As a result, the motherboard is not fully integrated into the main body, leaving a raised section behind the display. This design choice prioritizes accessibility and flexibility but compromises the device’s overall slim profile.
The front of the PocketTerm35 includes a 3.5-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 640×480. It is paired with a six-row silicone keyboard that supports direct number entry without function-key combinations. The layout also includes arrow keys and ABXY-style buttons, which makes the device suitable for basic control schemes in retro gaming or emulation scenarios, although the soft keyboard design may not deliver a highly tactile typing experience for all users.
Power is supplied by a 5000mAh battery designed for mobile use cases such as terminal access, lightweight coding, and portable development tasks. In terms of connectivity, the device includes an HDMI output for external displays and a 3.5mm audio jack for wired audio.
The chassis measures between 20mm and 37mm in thickness, depending on the internal configuration and component placement. Despite its compact footprint, the device offers a wide range of functionality for maker projects and experimental computing setups.
With a starting price of $149, PocketTerm35 positions itself in the entry-level handheld computing segment. It is primarily targeted at users who want a portable Raspberry Pi-based system with integrated input options rather than a conventional handheld gaming device.
