Ranking the Anbernic RG*XX Budget Handhelds

[@karudero575]

The thumbnail for this is perfection

[@thelion9976]

It’s true

[@BigDonSkillz]

10/10 for creativity

[@Mite000]

Took the words out of my mouth

[@robhulson]

Bingo. Full agreement. Made me chuckle this morning.

[@max1311]

Almost perfect, just one device missing to add the question mark.

[@tonythesuperperson]

I find myself watching your coverage whether or not I’m interested in a device because they’re JUST NICE AND CHILL

[@AB_223]

Same. The little differences between these devices is slightly interesting but Russ and his videos are always very calming. Cool community he has around him as well.

[@deaddis]

Finally an answer to the same question I've had for a year now...

[@rickster7373]

The reason why it took so long because a lot of handhelds are coming out and now it's getting harder to decide which one is good for your budget or anybody's budget so definitely be patient if nobody is answering your questions or create a video towards a response to your question

[@jeepee2]

There werent 8 of these a year ago :p

[@1bz2002]

You failed to r36s! For £20 the device is incredible

[@pazzoeo]

You don't even know how perfectly timed this video is, I've JUST started seriously considering buying an anbernic device and was looking for this EXACT video just this morning

[@NomdePlume337]

It’s unfortunately not perfectly timed for me because I JUST ordered an RG350xxh last night and wish this video would’ve come out last night

[@SaberedQuill]

That's the best thing about anbernic. It's always a good week to buy because that's how often their products are released

[@tomlion0116]

Since I bought my RG35XX-H my Switch and PS4 collect dust. I still use the other consoles but the H is my daily driver. Never leave the house without it and since then I play more than ever. As a husband and a family man I just don't have the time to sit down to play on the TV and the Switch is just to big for every day carrying. The H is my main PS1 handheld. Street Fighter Alpha 3, Colin McRae Rally, Chrono Trigger became some of my favourite gaming experiences. Thanks Russ, you are the BEST!

[@luckmanyo]

i just sold my XXH for XXV, never used the 2nd analog though

[@tomlion0116]

@@luckmanyo I don't like vertical handhelds. It's the only reason why I never bought the original RG35XX or the Miyoo Mini+ 😅

[@buckysrevenge]

I just got mine this week, I'm really happy with it, especially with port master capable games

[@robhulson]

I bought a Steam Deck in November of 2022. I bought the original RG35XX two months later in January of 2023. I hardly touched my Steam Deck, my PC, my Switch, 3DS, you name it, over the course of 2023. I decided I wanted to try the RE2 and RE3 Remakes by Halloween, so I did get back into PC gaming at that point. I got the Plus in January of 2024 and while it's taken somewhat of a backseat (I got a new PC in August of this year), it's still my favorite game playing device, ever. PortMaster with AM2R and Undertale is what I'm currently working on.

[@level-zero999]

Dope!

[@hynestimothy411]

I'm 3 weeks sober now and haven't bought any since Tech sobriety is so underrated

[@epicnessbrian5295]

listen to the voices… buy the mini…

[@lhuddyness]

You have my deepest sympathy. Sobriety is overrated. Buy more.

[@Collin_J]

I just relapsed and bought DT 770s I don't really need 😭

[@hynestimothy411]

@@Collin_J it's ok today is yesterday's tomorrow Ahh I'm having a great time with my tech hope you are too, even now Waiting for my 4 mod retro game boys, you know I can't order just one, have to have all the colors

[@ibizamia31]

Great reviews!

[@LastDreamy]

I received my first handheld yesterday thanks to your channel after watching for so long, caved for the RG40XX and been having an insane blast thanks to your tutorials on getting KNULLI and shaders, big props.

[@vitorviana7265]

I got the 35XXSP because of one of your videos and TechDweeb's covering this handheld, and I love that thing. And I love your Soundgarden shirt too

[@andysouthardmusic]

That Soundgarden shirt though 😍

[@Wolfwood428]

Fun fact about Chris Cornell: the leaked photos of him after he... Ya know, were taken by my wife.

[@EliHank]

​@@Wolfwood428 🧢

[@milosmisic89]

the rg35xxH is absolutely amazing, great little device small, pocketable but powerful enough

[@ON8AD]

Got a RG35XX-H and my wife kept stealing it. Bought her one as well. 😂 Hands down the best form-factor/size/bang for the buck.

[@Nordlicht05]

I have the h as well. Really like it. I tried the normal Gameboy factor one. But it was broken and returned it. My hands were too big for it.

[@310smoker]

You should've bought a different one for yourself

[@izharulhakim2804]

I feel you bro, my wife did the same to me. She is hogging the console all to herself playing harvest moon 😂

[@MaikGonbar]

Picked up my RG35XX-H a month ago because of your review and never looked back. I have it running Knulli and love the thing deerly. I have been a subscriber of the channel since. Russ, you are awesome!

[@CF542]

Awesome video, thank you. I really enjoy seeing these comparison videos since there are just so many overlapping options out there.

[@killervacuum]

its funny when KZbinrs say "grab a drink and settle in" as if I'm not laying in bed watching 30 vids back to back in a catatonic state

[@veganhulksmash5412]

Soooooo real I'm rotting away 😂

[@pl2040]

Love how you embrace devices for the options and not just make rant videos on how there is too many

[@PinkDan12345]

Holding out for the Anbernic RG*XXX 😏

[@emerald_grenade3788]

Nahhh that's crazy

[@federicomasetti8809]

Rated Grade 🔞? Naughty naughty! 😏😂

[@RGGeek]

The best handheld to play the Jackbox Naughty Pack! 😂😂

[@xxxent]

just wait until they launch the "freaky plus" edition a week later

[@ExileHeretic]

With extra vibration motors, and "Wii mote" attachment

[@MrMovees87]

Out of all the XX devices, I only have the SP for now, but I absolutely love it. I’m really intrigued by the Cube as well, so I may snag that as well to add to my collection. I *did* just order a TrimUI Smart Pro and Odin 2 Pro recently though, so I’ll hold off on adding anything more for the time being

[@sendoh873]

Same for me regarding the SP and the Cube. I love my SP. I want the Cube, but the original Cube because the T820 is just so much more powerful than the H700 which means I can play N64, Sega Saturn & DC no problem. But, I don't want to pay $160+ for it. I wish the CubeXX could play N64, DC & Saturn better because that $60+ price point is good. Even tho I'd prefer the DPAD on top like the CubeXX has, I'll pass on the CubeXX and hopefully wait for an Anbernic November sale so I can pick up an og Cube for a bit cheaper

[@sleeplessnaito]

Perfect timing on this as there are so many options to chose from! I keep going back and forth on the various models, and this comparison was helpful as this will be my first retro handheld. I am always a sucker for a matrix breakdown and you added the tiered ranking!!!!! Thanks (as always) Russ!

[@roshn315]

Your rgxx setup guide was so helpful. Thanks a lot!

[@Tepig_V]

Love to see this, Russ. Been debating a few of these with the inevitable 11/11 sale coming up, this video is perfectly timed as always :)

[@ToyKeeper]

As a thermal regulation engineer, I'd invert those "heat transfer" rankings. If the outside gets hot, that means it probably has good thermal design instead of keeping the heat inside. The "S tier" models with no perceptible heat are the ones most likely to overheat or damage themselves.

[@samtambam]

Of course the goddess of flashlights would be into retro handhelds as well 😂

[@SoundToxin]

Some on-device measurements of the average idle and load temperatures would be good to add to the ranking. With them all being Linux devices you should be able to ssh in and run the following to get temps: cat /sys/class/thermal/thermal_zone*/temp | awk '{ print ($1 / 1000) "°C" }' Verified working on my RG353M with ROCKNIX. No additional software needs to be installed on the device. For the ones without WiFi it may be trickier to test. Maybe if you can plug in a keyboard and log in on another TTY you could run that once per minute or so in a loop in the background and output to a text file, then switch back to the graphical environment to play games for a few minutes, finally check the file on the SD card for the stats afterward (or go back to that TTY and view the file contents in less on the device itself).

[@lowaltitudeninja1818]

Nah, they all heat up pretty much the same. The 'S-tier' models, however, are designed to keep your hands farther away from the CPU.

[@DoubleGreatRock]

Would love to see this for each manufacturer!

[@RaveDubin]

This is so thorough, really helpful and impressive. Opted to go with the RG40XX V. Thanks, man.

[@Jadisons]

I already had the RG35XX original, and I didn't think I needed another. But once I got my hands on the H model, I can see why there's so many different variations. It is much more comfortable to hold, without a doubt, and that screen is to die for. Probably my favorite handheld Anbernic has come out with.

[@De.Grandi]

Your image quality is one of the best in KZbin

[@SidhArts]

Buncha people in the comments who haven't watched the video; "Oh man I can't wait to be the first person to let you know about the ARCXX"

[@Cobalon]

what about the GGACXX+R

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

It's not even confirmed.

[@benjamenmaher7315]

The tier list was an excellent idea! This video answered many of the questions I had as someone new to the hobby. I'd love to see more content like this!

[@justinbostick4619]

Thank you; for your channel,guides,tutorials,and reviews. I recently purchased a 405m used for 80 dollars and you were extremely helpful in my enjoyment of this device.

[@herogear_art]

Considering all the comments about how many of these Anbernic makes…I’ve gone back and forth on being for and against it. I’ve landed in the realm of “I don’t HAVE to buy all of these, so how is it bad that a bunch of models exist? Having choice is nice. It means for a slightly better handheld than the one I have, I could get the same form factor (351M to 35XXH). Or I could get something retro (SP). Or I could get something easier on my eyes and hands (Cube). If Anbernic had only one solution at the budget price, it would be a take it or leave it situation. If say the H was the only model, then anyone looking for a vertical option, or one with stacked shoulders, would look elsewhere. So to me, variety is fine. At least they aren’t releasing these as incremental chip upgrades with the same form factor at this pace.

[@evilord22]

Thank you for this video. It helped me a lot to finally decide which retro gaming handheld device to buy. And now I am a happy owner of RG35XX H

[@Pridetoons]

I'm happy we have so much variety with the XX line of Handhelds. Sadly you might want to add nine to the list because I've Heard Anbernic is making a RG-ARC XX. 😅

[@hatherlow]

Someone who didnt watch the video

[@urielr6285]

Someone who didn’t watch the video

[@TatsuyaWow]

variety but the same inside h700

[@Pridetoons]

@@hatherlow I did watch the video. I just typed this Comment before I heard Russ say that he heard the rumor.

[@TheOvernowhere]

Best video so far about all the retro consoles! Thanks a mil!

[@ronderev]

I am so loving my red SP! You are the reason I bought it😊

[@MNaka-uf9yz]

Waiting for the RG40XXSP! C'mon Anbernic!

[@martinh4982]

Gets a vote from me too!

[@dtape]

Would be an instabuy for me

[@jamesconors88]

Waiting for mine too I missed out on all the Pokémon’s after yellow so going to see if I can get them , any worth playing ?

[@SoundToxin]

@@jamesconors88 Check out some of the romhacks that fix or modernize the games, like for Emerald there's "386" which makes it possible to catch every Pokemon by yourself, no trading or missable IRL events needed. Especially ideal for emulating since you won't be able to use a link cable. There are also some romhacks with a totally new story and stuff. I've been playing Pokémon Unbound lately, it's a romhack for Fire Red, but they've also added Pokémon from up to Gen 6 into it I think, plus it has lots of nice quality of life features. Other than that, maybe play something from each gen and gradually introduce yourself to the Pokemon of that region. It'll be easier to get used to ~150 new ones at a time than to go too far ahead and have them all introduced at once.

[@sinoleao]

i will definitely buy RG40XXSP if it is thinner than 3.5 inch version

[@gagz9k]

I love how TOC Russ is with the devices, it give me so much joy when he comment on the types of plastics and stuff hahaha

[@gagz9k]

Also CHAAAAAAAAAAARTS, good, good, we are being spoiled.

[@beebindy]

I have the 35xx H and the 28xx. I love them both and have no regrets!

[@RGGeek]

I was just thinking someone should make an overview video of all the RG XX devices. Good to see you're on it! 😁🔥

[@zacxlee8428]

Easily my favorite videolayout for a comparison of devices. I love the spreadsheet, and I'm happy you're being subjective since I believe that's always more interesting and useful in the end. Big up!!

[@dertyp6767]

I bought the RG40XXV in blue, because I couldn't believe how good the design is in relation to the price. Thanks for your content. Just discovered you some weeks ago and watched a lot of your stuff since then. :)

[@janX9]

_How_ did you make "RG50XXV" *Searchable?*

[@mariogarza9241]

Absolutely phenomenal video! Thank you so much for this. Really informed my decision as to which to get my kid for Christmas. 👍🏻

[@No.Cap_]

Perfect timing, I’ve been looking and wondering about these for soooo long now. I miss OG Pokémon so bad

[@sandplasma]

Soundgarden! Rock on!

[@Robodob0]

Great vid as always Russ! One big caveat to this video is that Russ helped in the conception of the RGcubeXX, so there's a good hint of bias there. I mean im sure it's pretty close to heart if you helped make it. Also, the gap between these ratings are considerably low for the most part, as most of their pros and cons may even be very situational. I mean i wouldnt endure the heat of the sun just so i could appreciate that my screen's still readable, you know? Personally, i dont like square screens. I had the RGB30 because of all the hype it got for its highres screen, and it turned out i hate the screen where almost every system has additional black border. The high resolution is definitely nice, but something in the shape of it doesnt sit well with me. Square screens to me are compromises with 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9. I still prefer good ol' 4:3 or 16:9. Objectively, i think the best ones are the 35XX H, the 40XX H and the 40XXV. The dpad "flaws" are honestly a nitpick. They have dual analog sticks too which is nice with the PSP and PSX as remapping camera controls modernizes the experience with older games, and also as extra hotkeys. Doom PS1, Vagrant Story, Alien Resurrection, etc, benefit greatly from a second analog. I like the SP a lot too, but more because of the nostalgia factor. The flip's screen protection doesnt really feel like an objective deal breaker. The lack of analog sticks puts it below the ones with analogs, but that said, i still think it is one of the best handhelds to get if you like a flip or has SP nostalgia. But as Russ mentioned, the biggest difference in these devices are preference-based. Except for the 28xx. I hate that thing from the first time i saw it, and of course, the abomination that is the vertical 2024.

[@akuji330]

Great video. After a lot of thinking I decided that my first handheld is going to be the Miyoo mini v4. It looks perfect for my needs, after that I will definitely check an Anbernic device.

[@retrorebootmusic]

I got the SP recently and I'm actually really loving it. Great fun

[@SoleroStrike]

It’s been 2 weeks and 72 more H700 handhelds have been released. You scream as you look at your credit card but buy another handheld anyway. You set it up with a perfect operating system, curate a perfect selection of ROMs, and then put it onto a shelf never playing a game on it again. The cycle repeats in 2 weeks.

[@mattbtv]

The original RG35XX running MinUI is still such a great device.

[@christophergarcia6064]

I never upgraded from the original because of how great garlic os is. It may not be as good as onion, but it's a great homage!

[@mattbtv]

@@christophergarcia6064 Same here, just with a different OS 👍

[@Drink-rl4wu]

Good reviews but one fonamental thing is missing in all of them, quietness. There are some people in bed and play with someone nearby. Which one is the quietest especially when pressing keys? Which one also allows a screen that is not too dark to avoid didisturbing someone nearby while sleeping?

[@Zappthed]

I love the detailed comparison while being brief, and also provided an alternative devices for each of them. Very mindful, very demure.

[@brighamgarrett7000]

2:55 you’d be hard pressed to find a usb c fast charger that doesn’t support 5v 1.5a charging, 5v is part of the usb c standard and chargers support UP TO a certain amperage, meaning they’ll output any amount of amps below that limit

[@CathrineMacNiel]

This is getting out of hands, now there are EIGHT of them!

[@sendoh873]

About to be 9 with a supposed RG Arc XX on the way

[@Redpanda1214]

The more the better

[@deadriddle5694]

Believe me when i am saying this does not matter if you got to much strikes and renew you youtube channel i will always refollow you. Your review just that great 😁

[@r7ndom]

This is the first time I ever wanted to Thumbs-Up a thumbnail. So good.

[@arberballa6608]

The exact video i needed, extra points for the SG t-shirt

[@PatrickSomazzi-420]

You are a Soundgarden Fan. I respect you even more.

[@lomaxxbr]

Dude, the completed chart at 17:54 is amazing.

[@Zecuto]

To go through with this comparison - an absolute LEGEND!

[@SamPendleton]

At this point, none of us would have been surprised if you'd told us these were all the new devices Anbernic launched _this week._

[@hitmangfx7162]

I think at this price point and with an OLED screen not being an option, I prefer the clamshell option. My DS and SP have survived to this day, mostly due to the design and near-indestructibility.

[@ac17milan]

I have the RG40XX-H since a month, I used the stock OS for a couple of weeks and then I changed to Knulli, and i have never felt a lot of heat coming from it, even playing psp games for a long time.

[@Syssn3ck]

Thanks a lot for your comparison, Russ! If I can make one suggestion: I would like to see “Battery” as another category. The playtime that I can get out of the device, the charging and the longevity of the battery belong to the most important factors for me when considering which device to buy.

[@khungreen9773]

Love this channel - just bought my son the RG Cube XX based on your thoughts.

[@thebirdhasbeencharged]

Incredible video, picked up the SP, 35H and Cube from this!

[@MidnightEnigma1515]

The thumbnail is an all time classic. Automatic like just for that alone. Right... Time to play this video I just hit like to. 😂

[@phonzeh]

I really love my RG40XXV, it's my favorite gaming handheld and it's been so fun going back and playing my favorite titles.

[@thebaffman4898]

I've been using my fast charger with the rg35xx plus for months without issues. Obviously the charging speed is very slow but so far it's working. Maybe I've been lucky.

[@sethoberst6310]

Such a great video thanks for all the hard work that went into that!

[@xIMxMCLOVINx]

Product reviewers take note! This video is simply perfect.

[@jaydarke]

I picked up the 505 and I love it. Despite what a lot of people say, I’ve had zero issues running any of my games. Even some ps2 and GC games run nicely on it. Tbh I only picked it up for DC games lol But these things aren’t as cheap in some countries as you’ve pointed out. With shipped etc. it ended up being a few hundred to get mine.

[@fufu5068]

Few months ago his favourite RG35XXH now not anymore, that's how quick Anbernic device breeds and improved.

[@yohvh]

I love the summaries. But what about different brands that are direct compatitors? Can you do one for all combined.

[@briantwj]

What a great video! I've been doing a lot of reading on all these RGXX devices, and was confused as hell which one should I get. Right now I got it narrowed down to RG40XXV or the RG35XXSP. I never owned any Gameboy devices previously. I recently sold off my Switch V2 coz the new games no longer look appealing to me. And I'm more of a nostalgia guy. Always playing Digimon World Next Order, Digimon World Cyber Sleuth on my switch. LOL. So I wanna pick up one of these retro handheld and go back to the OG Digimon World 1, 2 & 3! But still... Decisions decisions... Need to decide between the RG35XXSP and the RG40XX. LOL!

[@pointeplusplus]

I was watching this video more out of curiosity - my current plan is to use a backbone with my phone (it's on the way!) but I wanted to see what was out there and this is a pleasant watch =]. One thing you can do with a decision matrix is give each category a weight so the score of each device in each category is weighted by how important that factor is. I've used matrices like that to help make important life decisions (I think my nerd is showing)

[@dannyroberts7118]

I have been toying with the clamshell for a while, I would love the cube version but the utility of such a wonderful form factor really helps.

[@BrentBlueAllen]

You can use a USB charger with a higher current rating. The device will only draw current up to its rated maximum, but a charger with a higher-than-required current rating will work fine and won't damage your device.

[@9KandA2]

Thank you very much, I was just looking for this

[@ShupperDupper]

awesome vid, been a fan of your objective reviews for years! might finally check out that faux-SP for christmas gifts this year.

[@zzzsaga]

Watching from Brazil, your channel is amazing!

[@mwitters1]

I own every one of them. These are the best budget handhelds ever created. solid build quality, controls, and performance. They don't do anything the best but they do everything the best in their price category.

[@_Majoras]

nah, best budget are rk3326/rk3566. more power same price range, also has arkos and video snap support

[@tigerbomb1996]

thank you for detail comparison, at first i want order RG40xx H but after i watching your video i change my mind and want to order RG Cubexx

[@Cherri_Bomb_01]

I got myself an RG28XX about a month or so ago. It's a perfect companion to my Odin 2 and Steam Deck. I can just throw it in my pocket alongside my phone as I head for work. It's perfect for when I wanna just play something quick when I have some downtime or on lunch. I love playing GBA on it specifically, but also been playing some PS1 on it too.

[@nugudave]

preach! i recommend drill dozer, really nice to play in rg28 with rumble. ^^

[@uncaringbear]

I love H and it's my everyday device. I use it way more than my Steam Deck.They could probably eliminate 3 of these models and the line up would feel less bloated, but as it stands, no one is being held by gun point to buy any of these. The only people really complaining are the people who want Anbernic to make a T820 device at H700 prices.

I bought the 35xx h because it’s horizintal and also the best overall and I think it could benefit from having a 3.5” screen vs. the 40xx h because of the screen and no RGB to save little more battery. Besides, it appears to be more compact and don’t risk maybe the lack of quality control on what you said the d-pad on your first unit might have been faulty or not have been improved and on 35xx it’s already great. Overall happy with my purchase (waiting for it to arrive). Thank you so much for your reviews, comparison and guides 🙏

[@Panster7]

I'm still rocking the OG RG35xx follow your guide to put Garlic OS on it with a new sd card. zero issue.

[@E.Cristian7]

I have two of them! I want a third one, the 35XX SP.

[@glengreer9614]

I’ve had no regrets with my RG 35XX H. Fits great in my pocket (it’s smaller than my phone!) and the performance is phenomenal for the price. Not to mention, I think I audibly “squee’d” the first time I beheld it. Despite not looking anything like a Game Boy Color, it somehow still has that nostalgic quality to it. Irrational, maybe, but it has a special place in my heart all the same.

[@overdriver99]

I love this guys review.. you R my the most favorite reviewer. you talk real fast :)

[@henriklundqvist3575]

I was looking for a good deal on the Retroid Pocket 4 this evening but decided a Anbernic device was better since i’m mostly going to play NES, SNES & GBC. This video sure came in exactly the right time 😄

[@Iron_Condorr]

There are 3 new handheld devices every month because people keep buying them like they are candy. No business would keep doing something if it weren't profitable. Just saying imo.

[@_Majoras]

this hobby is also getting much more mainstream

[@mykie242]

Glad a bone was thrown for the TrimUI Smart Pro, it's one of my favorite devices, unfortunately hindered by the A133 chip

[@bryanperaza5426]

Great video! Thank you for the very detailed information.

[@Space_Reptile]

I would love for all handhelds you review to get scored like this It's subjective yes, but it really really helps comparing the flood of devices and having one big chart would be nice

[@hunterval]

waiting for other comparison like: price range 70$, beast of performance...... Nice vid as always Russ

[@Robshotipod]

Really enjoy your videos Russ, also a veteran and I also like all your band tees your always rocking. Lol.

[@justinsimmons4198]

Thanks just ordered two to try out 😊

[@Pookielove1123]

Spectacular video! So much detail.

[@mickiemallorie]

This is perfect because I'm trying to figure out which one I want before Christmas.

[@artofmana]

Amazing thumbnail! Well done, Russ!

[@ItsAnoj]

I have been honest, I was not prepared for him to say that Anbernic released a teaser for their next device in this video. I should have expected it tho lol.

[@rookie3104]

Being my main objective to play NDS games, wich one would be the more fitting? My guess is the Cube because of its bigger display that could hold better both screens of the NDS, am I right?