Complete Comparison of Historical Models and Specs of SONY's Wearable Air Conditioner "REON POCKET"
A complete comparison of the historical models and specifications of the wearable air conditioner "REON POCKET." This includes differences in cooling performance by model, battery life comparisons, and an explanation of which model is the best to buy.
Modified at: 2025.5.28Posted at: 2024.7.25
Table Of Contents
- Historical Models and Model Numbers of REON POCKET
- Comparison of Battery Performance Across REON POCKET Models
- Comparison of REON POCKET Models by Size and Weight
- Comparison of REON POCKET Models by Thermo Module
- How to Distinguish Between REON POCKET Models
- Which REON POCKET Model Should You Buy?
- Footnotes
Historical Models and Model Numbers of REON POCKET
Sony’s wearable air conditioner, the “REON POCKET,” has released upgraded models almost every year since the first generation was launched in 2020, reaching five generations with the 2024 model, the REON POCKET 5.
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | 2020 |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | 2021 |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | 2022 |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4T | 2023 |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | 2023 |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5T | 2024 |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | 2024 |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | 2025 |
For REON POCKET model numbers, the first through third generations start with "RNP," while from the fourth generation onward, they begin with "RNPK."
Models with a “T” after the number include the “REON POCKET TAG,” a temperature sensor.
In 2025, the new model “REON POCKET PRO” was released, with the “P” representing PRO added at the beginning of its model number.
Comparison of Battery Performance Across REON POCKET Models
First, let’s compare the most important factor in actual use: battery life and charging time.
The operating times for each mode are based on information from SONY’s official page1.
Operating Time in COOL Mode
Here are the differences in battery life during COOL mode operation:
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | COOL 1 | COOL 2 | COOL 3 | COOL 4 | COOL 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | Approx. 2.5 hrs | Approx. 1 hr | - |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | Approx. 2.5 hrs | Approx. 1 hr | - |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | Approx. 4.5 hrs | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3.5 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | - |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | Approx. 9 hrs | Approx. 8 hrs | Approx. 7 hrs | Approx. 4 hrs | - |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | Approx. 17 hrs | Approx. 12 hrs | Approx. 10 hrs | Approx. 7.5 hrs | Approx. 4 hrs |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | Approx. 34 hrs | Approx. 27 hrs | Approx. 18 hrs | Approx. 10 hrs | Approx. 5.5 hrs |
A major difference is the introduction of the COOL 5 mode, which provides up to about 1.5 times the heat absorption capacity of COOL 4. COOL 5 mode is available starting from the REON POCKET 5.
Looking at battery performance, the improvements are clear:
- From REON POCKET 2 to 3, a significant increase in battery life during COOL 4 mode
- From REON POCKET 3 to 4, a significant increase in COOL low-mode battery life
- From REON POCKET 4 to 5, nearly doubled battery life across all COOL modes
In terms of COOL mode performance, the latest REON POCKET PRO and the REON POCKET 5 offer overwhelming long-life usage.
Therefore, even if they are slightly more expensive, models from REON POCKET 5 upward can be considered the best buy.
Operating Time in WARM Mode
Next, let’s look at the differences in battery life when using the WARM mode.
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | WARM 1 | WARM 2 | WARM 3 | WARM 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | Approx. 2.5 hrs | Approx. 2 hrs |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | Approx. 2.5 hrs | Approx. 2 hrs |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | Approx. 4 hrs | Approx. 3 hrs | Approx. 2.5 hrs | Approx. 2 hrs |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | Approx. 8 hrs | Approx. 6 hrs | Approx. 5 hrs | Approx. 4 hrs |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | Approx. 8 hrs | Approx. 6 hrs | Approx. 5 hrs | Approx. 4 hrs |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | Approx. 10 hrs | Approx. 8 hrs | Approx. 6.5 hrs | Approx. 5.5 hrs |
WARM mode shows fewer differences across generations. The upgrade from REON POCKET 3 to REON POCKET 4 doubled the operating time, and the 2025 REON POCKET PRO further extended it by about 20%.
Therefore, when considering only WARM mode, it’s best to choose REON POCKET 4 or newer.
Charging Time of the Built-in Battery
Here we compare the full charging times of the built-in batteries. The values are based on data from SONY’s official page2.
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | Charging Time |
|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | 150 min |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | 150 min |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | 100 min |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | 170 min |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | 170 min |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | 200 min |
Starting from REON POCKET 4, charging times became slightly longer, but generally, a full charge is reached in around 2 to just under 3 hours. Since the REON POCKET PRO features dual contact surfaces and a larger body size, it is likely that the battery capacity has increased.
However, the REON POCKET series can also be used while charging via a USB port, so there is no situation where it suddenly becomes unusable due to charging.
Comparison of REON POCKET Models by Size and Weight
Next, let’s compare the historical models in terms of size and weight.
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | Size (mm) | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | 54 x 20 x 116 | 85 |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | 54 x 20 x 116 | 89 |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | 54 x 20 x 116 | 92 |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | 55 x 23 x 117 | 109 |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | 55 x 23 x 117 | 116 |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | 58 x 36 x 134 | 194 |
Starting from the REON POCKET 4, the weight exceeded 100g, and the size also became slightly larger. This is likely due to the redesign of the main body and the significant performance upgrades introduced with the REON POCKET 4. However, even with the older models, the differences in weight and size are around 10%, so it’s not something that would be a major concern.
The REON POCKET PRO, which adopts the new dual-thermo module, is not only larger in size but also nearly twice as heavy. This is likely a performance trade-off that cannot be avoided.
Comparison of REON POCKET Models by Thermo Module
Next, let’s compare the thermo modules of each model.
| Model | Manufacturer Model Number | Thermo Module |
|---|---|---|
| REON POCKET | RNP-1A | Silicon |
| REON POCKET 2 | RNP-2 | Stainless |
| REON POCKET 3 | RNP-3 | Stainless |
| REON POCKET 4 | RNPK-4 | Stainless |
| REON POCKET 5 | RNPK-5 | Stainless |
| REON POCKET PRO | RNPK-P1 | Stainless |
Only the first-generation model uses a silicon thermo module, while all subsequent models use stainless steel.
It is often said that the first-generation model is the “least effective at cooling” among all REON POCKET generations, and this is likely due to its silicon thermo module.
Originally, silicon was chosen to reduce the impact on the skin, but in later models, the main unit switched to stainless steel, while silicone sheets were sold separately as an optional accessory.
How to Distinguish Between REON POCKET Models
Since the REON POCKET models have very similar appearances across generations, it can be difficult to identify them at a glance. However, the REON POCKET 4 introduced a design renewal, making it the first checkpoint for distinguishing models.
Up to REON POCKET 3, only the lower part of the front panel has an air intake mesh, while from REON POCKET 4 onward, the entire front panel is mesh. Performance also saw a significant upgrade starting with the REON POCKET 4, so it’s good to remember: “If only the lower part is mesh, it’s an older generation and not worth buying.”
The difference between REON POCKET 4 and REON POCKET 5 is the size of the intake mesh. With the REON POCKET 5, most of the front is covered by intake mesh, whereas the REON POCKET 4 has a larger gap at the bottom.
In the image above, the left is REON POCKET 4, and the right is REON POCKET 5. By closely examining the front panel, you can distinguish between them.
The REON POCKET PRO has a completely different design and color scheme compared to previous models, making it instantly recognizable.
Which REON POCKET Model Should You Buy?
With the Release of REON POCKET 5, Older Models Have Lost Their Appeal
The 2024 model, REON POCKET 5, represents such a significant evolution that previous models almost feel irrelevant in comparison.
Therefore, when considering which REON POCKET to purchase, “REON POCKET 5 or later” should be the benchmark. That’s how much the performance differs between the REON POCKET 5 onwards and the earlier generations.
Looking at the used market, REON POCKET devices have been heavily targeted by resellers. As a result, older models are often sold at prices similar to the manufacturer’s retail price of the latest model. This means that the smartest choice going forward is “to buy the latest REON POCKET at release, even if competition is fierce.”
REON POCKET PRO is Attractive but Price is a Concern
Equipped with a new dual thermo-module and offering up to double the operating time (in COOL 1 mode compared to REON POCKET 5)3, the REON POCKET PRO is undoubtedly an attractive device.
However, since REON POCKET is generally used at COOL 4 / WARM 3 or above, it’s important to note that the operating time at these levels has not doubled.
That said, the dual thermo-module should improve the actual cooling and warming sensation, so the key consideration is whether this enhanced comfort justifies the higher price.
Models Before REON POCKET 3 Should Be Avoided
While the REON POCKET 5 is undoubtedly the recommended model in terms of battery life and cooling performance, conversely, the REON POCKET 3 can now be considered hardly worth buying from a performance standpoint.
It is said that the REON POCKET 5 represents the first truly practical advancement in battery capacity and cooling capability. Therefore, purchasing the REON POCKET 3—whose performance is less than half of that—cannot be recommended today.
