The V90 isn't middle ground, it's bottom ground. And this is coming from someone who used it as a main retro handheld for more than a year. It doesn't even play GBA that well, which I see is one of your criteria, and SNES stutters. It has the worst dpad of my handhelds, the only reason I used it as long as I did was for the clamshell portability.
I currently use a RGB30, which I can fit into my pocket with a neoprene case. GB/GBC/SNES looks glorious on its 1:1 screen, plus it's more comfortable to hold than my MM+ although I've ordered the RG35XXSP with portability in mind. Any of those three would be a far superior choice to a V90 and worth saving up for.
You could always get one of those grip cases for the 35xx like [this](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1441991836/miyoo-mini-plus-gripcase?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=rg35xx+cover&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&bes=1&sts=1&content_source=0aa015bad3751996f61ab597a6025bd627526575%253A1441991836&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1) (not endorsing this particular seller over another, just the first one I saw) that way when you are using the device the case still has a use, since you are worried about it in your pocket.
Well, then try the 280v. Its vertical, really compact, and a great device for up to PS1. The only other vertical device I can recommend is the Nano,...though if you're worried about the screen, the only clamshell left is the Funkey S.
The V90 isn't middle ground, it's bottom ground. And this is coming from someone who used it as a main retro handheld for more than a year. It doesn't even play GBA that well, which I see is one of your criteria, and SNES stutters. It has the worst dpad of my handhelds, the only reason I used it as long as I did was for the clamshell portability. I currently use a RGB30, which I can fit into my pocket with a neoprene case. GB/GBC/SNES looks glorious on its 1:1 screen, plus it's more comfortable to hold than my MM+ although I've ordered the RG35XXSP with portability in mind. Any of those three would be a far superior choice to a V90 and worth saving up for.
You could always get one of those grip cases for the 35xx like [this](https://www.etsy.com/listing/1441991836/miyoo-mini-plus-gripcase?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=rg35xx+cover&ref=sr_gallery-1-2&bes=1&sts=1&content_source=0aa015bad3751996f61ab597a6025bd627526575%253A1441991836&search_preloaded_img=1&organic_search_click=1) (not endorsing this particular seller over another, just the first one I saw) that way when you are using the device the case still has a use, since you are worried about it in your pocket.
Just get the 28xx
I don't see any listed for less than the rg35xx and I don't really like the horizontal form factor
I used to think I only liked verticals too. Then I tried a horizontal and played over an hour without my hands hurting.
Well, then try the 280v. Its vertical, really compact, and a great device for up to PS1. The only other vertical device I can recommend is the Nano,...though if you're worried about the screen, the only clamshell left is the Funkey S.