Anbernic RG35XX H: Budget Horizontal Handheld

[@IIONNICC]

Trippy to see someone playing Cruis'n USA N64; I was a game tester for that game. Fun fact: Nintendo rejected Cruis'n USA the first time Atari/Midway submitted it. The testers, including myself, had to work round-the-clock at the end of the test cycle. I personally worked a 42 hour shift, only breaking to drink espresso. In the end, I was the tester who found the fatal bug that caused the game to get rejected.

[@RetroGameCorps]

That’s an amazing story, thank you for sharing!

[@cxvcnxbzfdhjlaks]

what was the bug?

[@Red-in4fx]

That's a really cool story! If you're interested, some of my favorite videos on the game are by Class Game Room and Matt McMuscles.

[@Zikz0r]

Chainzzzzz of Olympus. Thanks for the video. Very informative as usual.

[@loveless9528]

That is so cool!

[@burkedigital]

Really appreciate the quick breakdown on the software development dynamic when it comes to Anbernic devices. It’s such a huge factor when it comes to the handheld marketplace, and your candor is valuable to consumers.

[@alwaysardent1125]

Agreed. I feel like having that context I was missing brought me closer into the hobby.

[@alwaysardent1125]

Deeper into the hobby

[@MrNeosantana]

Welcome back, Russ. My feed has been absolutely miserable these past couple of weeks so it's nice to have quality content back.

[@thisfooreallysaid]

lol same, why do these content creators have to be so selfish and all take time off during the holidays.

[@shto4782]

Yeah my feed been also like that empty desert with tumbleweed rolling around

[@BopitBrand]

@@thisfooreallysaidare you being sarcastic? Because if you aren’t then let them take a minute bro 😭

[@plightshift]

i appreciate Russ's content as well but there is nothing stopping you from curating your own feed

[@Mikeymikesyeah]

Random question, is there somewhere to see which built in games it comes with? 🤔

[@darth_cruzie]

I couldn't agree more with your take on the software issue. I ran AmberELEC on my RG351P (my first retro handheld), and I don't feel like I've seen that much support any of the Linix based devices ever since. For such a great company on the hardware side you definitely hit the nail on the head for their software side. Great call out and breakdown on the RG35XX H (that's a mouth full).

[@JustinWolfe-s9j]

I loved my 351P but I was VERY underwhelmed when I had to replace it with the 353PS. The CFW I put on it didn't feel like it was tailored to the device, performance increase seemed incredibly marginal to me and it didn't even really utilize the function key. Very disappointing cause I do love the feel of their buttons and stuff

[@joshcollins1383]

Russ, your videos are like a therapy. Instant stress reducer. Thank you for what you do.

[@KyleMcNally]

While Russ stating that Anbernic won't share their source because it's a commercial decision is probably technically true, he skips over the fact the Anbernic is compelled to release their modifications under the license of the Linux kernel (and other software, u-boot, etc...). THAT is why developers are upset with Anbernic. They are breaking the terms of the software they are using.

[@dean_dv]

Anbernic are flogging a device filled with stolen IP, I don't think they give a toss about breaking the terms of service.

[@CalebSmithcordlord]

How do we call them out on this? How do we file a lawsuit??

[@heisenberglinks]

@@CalebSmithcordlord how do we fill a lawsuit for a company which is technically breaking all possible copyright laws to bring those devices into existence (don't get me wrong, I have like 10 anbernic consoles and love them to pieces!)? It is what it is...

[@dean_dv]

@KyleMcNally Anbernic aren't going to change while they are selling tens of thousands of devices and the community continue to fix their rubbish OS.

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

**The issue with Anbernic and Miyoo - and several others, but not all of them - is that they don't have in-house software development teams. Anbernic's project lead known as Maxzhou88 is more intimately involved in PCB and manufacturing, NOT softwae/UX design. ** Anbernic's software always comes from subcontractors who are simply supposed to package up something functional without major key design input. Prime example being the implementation of the sleep light on top, which the firmware updates went back-and-forth on whether to light up until the 20231221 version where they set it to be toggleable. Another example is how some settings are toggleable in the setting menu, but how some others are the shell scripts in the APP folder. This suggests feature creep. I wish we didn't need to deal with this. Moorechip, the company behind Retroid and AYN, is less prone to this mistake, because it has a software team. So is GameKiddy with a fairly meticulously designed iUX/OpenDingux frontend for inGenic chipsets.

[@zwenkwiel816]

Anbernic should just hire black seraph.

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

@@zwenkwiel816 I'd prefer if Anbernic joined the donation rank. Garlic is not supposed to be loyal/bound to anything.

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

Another issue which I'm a lot less knowledgeable about but might be worth discussing is the issue with the makers of the CHIPSET. Making custom firmware for Rockchip devices is a bit less confusing because Rockchip is fairly open with their uboot and peripheral codes, while Allwinner is a bit more murky with some peripheral support functions and kernal and uboot are not open source. Miyoo is similar, with the Miyoo Mini using Sigmastar's very murky SDK (Granted, Sigmastar is a relative newcomer)

[@gluttonousmaximus9048]

Finally correction on JELOS and ARKOS: They're for Rockchip... chips. Not AllWinner and SigmaStar chips.

[@Pridetoons]

Anbernic just hired a Software Team. However I can't speak for how good they are.

[@megslowvsyew]

I got the H after you talked about the software options for it and the sale. I’m excited to give it a try after your newer review!

[@TomCosgrave]

Spot on with the software comments Russ. I am happy I went with the XX Plus as my first retro handheld (gotta love that Gameboy feel!) but the same software issue arises there. I used to be a software developer in a former life and Anbernic definitely need to do better and the way to do better is to stop releasing so many devices so quickly - it would be better if they put 2 devices out every quarter and developed a stable, well developed operating system and not the rush job OS that they release. I bought the XX Plus on the basis that it wasn't fully ready yet and definitely agree that people buying the H need to do the same. I hope that GarlicOS 2.0 comes out in the next few months and really makes both the Plus and H devices to be reckoned with.

[@greyghostinfinite]

I have so many retro consoles + a Steam Deck + a Logitech G Cloud, and yet - I find myself excited to get one of these anyway because of how much I love the RG315P's form factor / portability. I have more powerful handhelds, but something about the RG315P... I tend to bring it with me everywhere. For $60-something dollars or possibly less if there are any coupons from other vendors, I think the RG35XX H might be the replacement I've been looking for (the RG353M would have been, but it's a good bit more expensive than this one will be). Thanks for the review!

[@skycloud4802]

It's a very nice form factor. Compact but comfortable and very playable.

[@B3nG420]

It's true!! Something about something compact and lightweight is awesome in itself.

[@mqprivate]

Greatest tutorials of retro gaming I’ve seen on KZbin. The details provided are simply AWESOME. Super professional reviews. Thank you very much. By far the best channel on this niche :)

[@RetroAdam]

These names are such a mouthful. I still have my RG351M that you recommended and i still love it. Upgraded to amber elec too.

[@herogear_art]

Same here!

[@robertmiller445]

I'm definitely getting this console. This will be my first handheld since the Dingoo. I have faith that the software will catch up and I will help it where I can.

[@_Majoras]

since dingoo? no one has that kind of restraint 🤣

[@robertmiller445]

@@_Majoras oh, I make retro consoles from old micro workstations, and I modded a PSP to play retro games, but this would be my first exclusive retro handheld since my dingoo. Pretty sure I bought it on ThinkGeek too...

[@EliHank]

​@@_Majoras Had to google it. Released in 2009 geez 😅. Actually looks really good aesthetically

[@belak512]

The extra problem with writing custom firmware for the RG35XX Plus (and in extension the RG35XX H) is that the H700 SOC is fairly new and not very well documented at all. Allwinner doesn't provide any programming guides for it, and as mentioned Anbernic doesn't seem willing to share the source code needed to properly boot the device. All custom firmware for the foreseeable future will essentially hack up the stock OS image to use the kernel and bootloader, while putting better software on top.

[@zwenkwiel816]

Which is kind of weird. They really seemed to embrace garlicOS, even going as far to ship the 35xx with it included. And now they don't want any cfw on this device?!

[@belak512]

@@zwenkwiel816 As I understand it, there was a falling out with the JelOS developers where they were asking for the source code for the kernel and bootloader because they wanted to build a more up-to-date kernel - I *think* being able to release the source code was something the JelOS devs required in exchange for providing a build. Unfortunately Anbernic went back on their word. Additionally, Anbernic should be providing the source code for those anyway because the software license for both Linux and U-Boot actually requires them to provide it when requested because they're shipping a physical product with that software. I don't know why Anbernic changed their mind, but because of what they did there are quite a few talented developers who don't want to develop for any future Anbernic devices because that was such a frustrating experienc. Anbernic, a for-profit company, essentially took advantage of developers were passionate about the devices. They lied to those developers to get them to work for free, based on empty promises.

[@Znation437]

seems a** backwards... but seems like a $65 purchase can eventually turn into something worth around $100+

[@remingtonsmith5796]

I was planning on buying a couple of them. I will now wait. Thank you for your review.

[@richarddukard8989]

Anbernic has been failing the Contra test since the RG350 3 years ago. Finally someone has officially said something about it. It’s inexcusable they’ve gone this long without addressing it

[@LukeIs92]

RG35XX+ doesn't have those issues based off of the video about it.

[@jorgerios1616]

This is one of the best product reviews I've found. Good job.

[@dcsteele]

It's crazy how much I appreciate your saying hadokenable and shoryukenable. As important as that is for these handhelds, you'd think there would be more 6 button options.

[@njgiants2562]

thats what im saying. i have the arc and have yet to see any configuration buttons that allow the C and Z buttons to be used

[@TheRealUnconnected]

Thank you, just purchased this in Puple Transparent! my first ever retro handheld. I can't wait to replay my favourites from the good old days with my Game Boy, Game Boy Colour and N64. I was so tempted to go for the XX+ because it has that retro look, but realistically having a console that can play N64 but doesn't have sticks is just silly. Hopefullly GarlicOS can release soon for this system. EDIT: also a big thank you for showing the smudges on the black device, i know that kind of finish, it smuges and scratches overtime and then eventually wears off. As much as i like the black look your review really showed me that purple is the smarter choice for durability.

[@Bmatt3]

How does it play N64 games?

[@Sneakers8b]

I still love this older anbernic look, great looking device.

[@royflores4766]

Nicely done Russ, you've confirmed my thoughts about anbernic in regards to software support from the community. Not the end of the world but the old saying does apply "give some get some". Keep up the work Sir!

[@joepage5000]

Perfect "goldilocks" device for gifting and first timers to retro emulation. I'm ordering all three colors, getting them all set up, keeping my favorite color, then gifting the other two!

[@piotr78]

Best friend/dad/uncle/grandpa material right here 😄

[@danielcornelissen2569]

Ordered the 35xx Plus last week. Will arrive tomorrow. My first retro emulator Happy I ordered that one for these retro games. Dont need the analog sticks and like the classic GB look. D-pad also better. If I wanna play NGC and PSX I'll get an Retroid 4 later on, but for now this'll do. Cant wait to receive it!

[@kevinb5417]

35XX Plus will handle PSX just fine from everything I've seen of it. And seeing as most PSX games don't need an analog stick, I imagine you'll be just fine.

[@yashe6780]

nice to see that retrohandhelds are evolving and getting more popular

[@chadguts600]

I was waiting for your review of my mosted wanted form factor,60$, PS1 full category device. Thank you , Russ!

[@frankpatterson9682]

Anbernic thumb sticks are always so low, that you just have to add a grip to use them. Unless you've got "tiny hands". Another solid video!

[@admralfie]

I would love to see you give an overall score to these devices at the end of your videos, and then rank them comparatively to similar consoles. There's soooo many of these devices now that it's really hard to know what to look for and where!! Just a thought 😊 another brilliant review!

[@Cloud28693]

I love the joy this community puts in these devices, but I think it's reprehensible that Anbernic saves money and makes larger profit relying on custom firmwares: this is enough for me to just not be really interested in their products and go for other options outside. Regarding the RG35XX H in particular, I think function button and audio jack placement is awkward and uncomfortable: I could not stand with strange finger position for hotkeys or a headphone wire falling on the screen. I am so happy with my RP2S that I just occasionally dive deep into other devices specs and impression, but there's one coming out in the next weeks which is tempting and has everything I was asking for when I decided to get my first emulation handheld device: the RP4 Pro. I can't wait to watch your review, Russ 😊

[@robhulson]

With great hardware getting this affordable, the true rescue in 2024 is going to be on the software side. Multi-platform stuff like GarlicOS 2.0 is where I'll be investing my money and time because once optimized it could breathe new life into my RG35XX Plus, my RG35XX, and my Retroid Pocket 2. Really, one of the most important things the community can do is support the hell out of BlackSeraph so he can (once fully recovered from pneumonia) focus on building a fantastic, multi-hardware OS with hardware acceleration support.

[@robhulson]

LOL, and as I get to the end of the video, Russ addresses precisely this.

[@ekinteko]

@@robhulson I wonder if someone can do an updated video on these Custom Firmwares. So there's AmberELEC, jelOS, ArkOS, OnionOS, GarlicOS, and potentially more. It would be good to see if there's differences in terms of performance or battery life. And if not, are they mostly differences in UI. Or a couple niche Features. Which one seems best overall. So many questions!

[@ekinteko]

@@robhulson These (low-end Retro devices) all seem great for devices priced between USD $40 - $70 - $99. Running a Linux-based OS (limited homebrew). And specs ranging based on that, from displays ranging from 3:3 to 4:3 to 5:3 ratio. At sizes ranging from 3.0 inches to 3.5 and to 4.0 inches. And resolutions ranging from 320p to 480p to 540p vertical pixels. Battery Capacity ranging from 2500mAh to 3000mAh to 3500mAh sizes. Internal Storage ranging from 8GB to 16GB to 32GB capacity. Memory that ranges from 0.5GB to 1GB to 2GB RAM. Using a low-end Mali-iGPU. And a processor from a Slow Quad A53, to a Fast A55, and to a Maxed-out Octacore Cortex-A55. All of that to push gaming performance anywhere from upto-GBA, to upto-PS1, to upto-Dreamcast emulation. Once you go above USD $100, you may as well upgrade to an AndroidOS. It'll have lots of useful Programs, better Web Browser, more Features, and obviously access to thousands of Mobile Games (aka better "homebrew"). But it should come at the behest of upgraded specs as well. So taking a similar look to the above, in price brackets of USD $150 - $250 - $350. So all running between 16:10 to 16:9 to 17:9 aspect ratio. Screen resolutions of 720p to 900p to 1080p vertical pixels. Sizes ranging from 4.0 inch, to 4.5 inch, to 5.0 inches to remain pocketable. Battery life is always a concern but the battery sizes can range from 4000mAh to 5000mAh to 6000mAh capacity. Any midrange iGPU ranging from Mali, to something better, upto an optimised Adreno is expected. And for the processor ranging from a Dualcore Cortex-A73, to a Quad-core Cortex-A73, and upto a Quad-core Cortex-A78 chipset. As for Memory it's anywhere from 4GB to 8GB to 12GB RAM. Whilst Storage is ranging from 64GB to 128GB to 256GB of capacity. All of that to push gaming performance anywhere from upto-PSP, to upto-Wii, to upto-PSVita emulation.

[@BigFatCone]

@@ekinteko For my RG353PS, I settled on JelOS. Mostly because you can config lotsa things in RetroArch without leaving EmulationStation.

[@F0r3v3rT0m0rr0w]

I ordered the retroid 4 plus. It's my first one of these retro device's, I can't wait till it arrives. I was tentative to make a pre-order gamble but people were singing the Retroid 3+'s praises so I figured they couldn't eff up the 4+ that much.

[@erdbeerzwiebel3404]

I'll wait a couple more years before buying anything but keep watching those videos in the meantime.

[@CrunchyTire]

In a couple years you better then wait a couple more years because better devices will be just around the corner!

[@erdbeerzwiebel3404]

@@CrunchyTire Yes you're right. The devices are yet just not at a point where I would be willing to spend this kind of money on a solid one. Technology will keep evolving constantly for a few more decades

[@PinkDan12345]

He’s back!!! LFG

[@TheRealAlpha2]

Great review. I agree, I got the RGB30 and it makes this look a bit redundant. It might be cheaper, but this is very much a "get what you pay for" situation where you could add 20 (or so) bucks and get a device with a better screen, custom firmware (w/developer support), and in a similar form factor.

[@buenogoodlive]

Better screen with higher res too.

[@RayLancer]

RGB30 is amazing enough it has flaws. It’s getting cheaper to where it costs as much as this now.

[@provis83]

I have an RGB30 and in fairness this does have better controls out of the box, has rumble motors, is more pocketable, volume buttons aren’t flipped, battery and charging aren’t wonky, it boots faster, and I’ve seen conflicting reports on performance between the two.

[@TheRealAlpha2]

@@provis83 performance might be do to the power settings, to be fair I've never messed much with that option but there will always be quirks in the under 100$ range that require a touch of tweaking for playability.

[@provis83]

@@TheRealAlpha2 yeah I hear you. I find neither of these devices play anything above ps1 in a way id want to use them.

[@discordinc]

I was wondering why there wasnt as much community development on Ambernic devices. Thanks for the history lesson

[@Tamarocker88]

The community stepped in because the stock OS blows and Anbernic's not fixing it lol. And now it's an endless cycle because Anbernic has no obligation to improve its firmware beyond making small tweaks since they know the community will make CFWs for free.

[@TrekCycling]

It's unfortunate that we don't have a timeline for something like GarlicOS for this. It looks like the device many of us have been waiting for (horizontal, pocketable and light). I guess this means I stick with the RP2S or the 351P.

[@Lucifronz]

Well the point of GarlicOS 2.0 is that it can be applied to any device and can be worked on by more than just black-seraph. So while it's still in its infancy and all we have for the RG35XX Plus and other systems that came out already is a very limited alpha, the whole OS has potential to be applied to a wide range of systems that match the necessary criteria. I believe in his interview, he spoke about it being applicable to any Linux-based device, but I'm very much not an expert on that so I'll leave it there. But yeah, once we get past the initial growing pains of the software and a full version is released, black-seraph intends (or intended, prior to getting pneumonia) to do a "porting workshop" which I assume he meant getting a collaboration going to build up GarlicOS 2.0. If I'm not mistaken, the idea is that while he builds the framework for GarlicOS 2.0, anyone else could essentially jump in and make their own boot loaders for systems and expand it with new features, which is going to *really* speed up things as long as other talented fan devs take an interest.

[@harrydavey9884]

I've ordered it anyway. I'm sure GarlicOS will come along shortly, but it runs pretty well for now from what I can see.

[@TrekCycling]

@@harrydavey9884​​⁠In the end I got one as well and I really like it. The CFW MuOS has been quite good.

[@neopac]

I am a big fan of this D-PAD position. I hope in 2024 an alternative to the RG405M will come onto the market in plastic and with the D-PAD on top. I´m getting older and a bigger 4:3 screen would be much appreciated in games with text.

[@sullychow4123]

I was beginning to regret getting the rgb30 when this came out so glad about this video, feel better now. I use ArkOS and it's great, had a lot of problems with the original. Software matters so much.

[@rafauwaxc2871]

Man, I really respect your honest feedback on everything you review. Keep it up, Russ! 🙌🏽

[@cloudkitt]

I got the 353M over the summer and I really like it. This looks like basically an identical form factor (besides nonmetal, obviously), and the pocketability is a huge plus for me, my goal was to be able to take this on the bus and the train without needing a bag and it has fulfilled that role swimmingly. I couldn't get ArkOS to work on it after following the guide. The bootup screen just hangs after I put in the flashed-microSD card.... but really, I haven't had much trouble with the default OS, I must say. I'm not a hardcore guy when it comes to emulator settings and such, so ArkOS mostly would've been an aesthetic bonus more than anything else. Anyway, this is clearly a different firmware, but if it's own par with the 353M's, it could be fine for a filthy casual like me :)

[@banjobear4820]

I FRICKIN LOVE your opening theme!!!

[@jzeroradio]

Thank you for the context around Anbernic! I just got the XX+, fully aware that I would go through the software journey but it still bothers me from a consumer point of view. These have the potential to be perfect devices, but they’re closer to e-waste with how Anbernic operates. I’ve been too annoyed by the software to enjoy emulation, but the RGB30 seems like a magical device… so that’s arriving next week 😅

[@Tamarocker88]

Unfortunately, that's what happens when the community steps in to do Anbernic's job for them. The CFW support on the RG35XX cemented the fact that Anbernic doesn't need to invest time and money into their stock OS. It merely needs to be serviceable at the lowest level because they know there are people out there who will create a CFW and solve the problems. Makes more sense financially to focus on the hardware and pump out iteration after iteration, feeding on FOMO and just letting the unpaid enthusiasts clean up the mess. I already have an RG35XX and RG35XX+, so I opted to get the Retroid Pocket 2S and I'll be selling the RG35XX+.

[@rcarlos6]

I hope Anbernic listens to our feedback regarding their crappy software, and decides on releasing the source code to the community. JELOS on this device would make it a must-have IMO.

[@DanIsNotHome]

JELOS Devs were burned the hardest by Anbernic's shenanigans, the lead JELOS Dev has said he will never ever support anything Anbernic ever again

[@rcarlos6]

@@DanIsNotHome 😢

[@alejandrobarcelo3987]

Waiting for this review, just ordered an RGB30, better for what I´m searching for, thanks!

[@Sadtiric]

I'm glad you put out this video. I'm a smaller KZbin channel and I've been debating whether I should get this device or not and why, especially since I already own the RG35XX, the Plus AND the RGB30. I've also already got the RG405V and the RP4 is coming in, but those are in another class. Anyway, point being, I think your perspective and insight, especially regarding the software, has been enlightening considering the amount of frustration I've had with the stock OS on the 35XX+. So, thank you! 💚 This might be one of those devices I pick up later and compare to the rest once/if better software comes out. I just always worry now that every new device is going to be immediately unavailable after watching/experiencing the OG Miyoo Mini and even the Analogue scarcity situation(s). 😮‍💨

[@13Bellastar]

Hello, I’m trying to get this for someone but there’s so many types. Would you recommend this device or is there another handheld device besides Anbernic you would recommend?

[@Sadtiric]

@@13Bellastar If you've got $200 to spend, I suggest the Retroid Pocket 4 from GoRetroid, and I'd bet they'd agree with me. If the budget is a bit closer to $100, the PowKiddy RGB30 is a great choice. If the budget is closer to $50, you can't go wrong with an Anbernic (OG) RG35XX, as it ships with Garlic OS. These RG35XX Plus/H devices are going to perform better than the original unit for just a bit more (~$75), but as everyone is saying, the software just isn't there yet as far as the Stock OS is concerned. Hope that helps!

[@brokenstyx]

The niche of the RG351P is the 3:2 aspect ratio screen - perfect for Gameboy Advance, the 480x320 screen is a 2x interger scale of the original, and the GBA-style d-pad and colours make me think they knew exactly what they were going for. This new RG35XX H looks nice and I would recommend to friends for a general purpose machine but wouldn't be a replacement for what the 351P does best of all.

[@brokenstyx]

Also thanks for the video :D

[@Smugg]

I’ve been hoping this device was pretty good. I’m hoping the software improves and we get some awesome software!

[@Tamarocker88]

I considered buying one and selling off my RG35XX+, but my main issue with the RG35XX+ is the messy firmware. I opted to keep my original RG35XX with GarlicOS and buy a new Retroid Pocket 2S and I'm very glad I did. The Android experience on the RP2S offers so much more functionality and flexibility than the stock Anbernic OS. Hell, it's got more functionality than Garlic OS 1.x even! Now, if GarlicOS 2.0 gets as polished as Garlic OS 1.x did, I'll put it on my RG35XX+ in a heartbeat, but for now, I'm sticking to muOS.

[@Nucleosynthese]

Another great review. I would love to see more PC reviews on this channel though!

[@sebastianramirezbadilla7954]

Thanks for the video, great explanation. Been looking which device to get (first time) and this video ready helped.

[@overdriver99]

thanks for comparing to RGB30. I had good deal on this one and just finished to install ArkOS(which was pain to me personally...in some SD accident). so I was about to order this RG35XX H from Anbernic site directly... and now I see the software dev. situation. what..?!!? I didn't know Anbernic is stupid enough not to open source or support dev ?? I thought they pay but I guess I didn't know the truth. I am 100% satisfied with RGB30 but I wanted something better D-pad.. and I am kind of expect on RG35XX H because I have RG35XX(and I love its D-pad). .. then I see you says its D-pad goes backward LOL!@!!!! thanks for saving my $$. only thing I may interested in is vertical playing but I am ok with RGB30 for that too. your review nailed it.

[@RetroGamesOneMore]

It's unbelievable that RG350P costs more than this lovely device. A no-brainer that everybody will go with RG35XX H between the two. I bought 350P because of its form factor during Black Friday, and it cost approximately $52, which is a good deal since all I wanted was a horizontal form factor and PS1 games. Seeing that this new device has almost the same form factor, I'd pick it if I were buying it now for the current price. I love my 350P with Adam image; it's worth every penny.

[@ryanrank3070]

Nice review! I don't plan to get this one. I have the 405M and loves the 4 inch screen. It's a little tough to go back to the 3.5 inch screen when I have that laying around.

[@ferkberger747]

Dude. Thank you for showing Captain Skyhawk some love. Very underrated game.

[@maddie24251]

Just bought this instead of RG35xx plus . Analog is the main factor drove me to get this. Grabbed it for $130 Aud on Ebay. Excited to get this handons!!!

[@mushi_k]

Remembered you said you’d review this. Checked and it’s 20mins fresh out the youtube oven, yesss 🎉

[@theonlyoreo007]

Hey Russ, I don’t know if you would find this useful or not, but I have a super simple fix for dpads like the one in this video. I have had this issue on multiple anbernics and 8BitDo controllers, so I’ve had a lot of time to figure out what the issue actually is and how to fix it without compromising button sensitivity. The issue boils down to the d-pad post being ever so slightly too short. This causes a press in any direction on the d-pad to initiate presses on the perpendicular angles as well. All that’s needed to complete these perpendicular presses is a little pressure one way or the other. I know Shane Craig has a popular “fix” for this issue but his fix causes other problems and requires a lot of tweaking to get anywhere close to right. Covering button contacts doesn’t address the issue and ends up requiring firmer button presses to register. My fix is quite simply putting a tiny square of electrical tape or paper sticker under the d-pad post to raise it up slightly. This has perfectly fixed the issue on every device I own with this issue and requires no adjustments or guess work, and it doesn’t cover up any button contacts. I have a deeper explanation in this post and there are pictures of the fix in one of the comments. I hope this helps, I know it has really helped me get back into buying these types of third party devices again. www.reddit.com/r/consolerepair/comments/1312rqs/a_better_dpad_diagonal_fix/?

[@piotr78]

This is great! Would you say most dpads are more likely to need one piece of tape or two? I mean I'm going to test it myself when I do this but just as a starting point. Did you happen to do this fix to this device?

[@shadow306k]

I feel some regrets about buying the 35XX plus on launch, really hoping the H version doesn't make me regret buying the wrong form factor too

[@Moochers]

question about what you were saying at around 17:30 ... the whole waking up from sleep and what not. I am super new to emulating and this kind of handheld, but I have a switch. What I love about switch is that you can just leave it sleeping all day and comeback to it and just wake it and keep playing without wasting battery. Seems like it's not possible with this. My question: is that a software issue? Would that be able to be updated in the future or is that just not possible with this device? Is there a device that is budget similar to this but allows you to do that?

[@karankasana3151]

I am glad that I came across this channel

[@ryanbartlett672]

Thanks for the review and for the background on Ambernic cloning open source then stopping development momentum. I was already leaning towards Miyoo for its Onion OS ( though I prefer horizontal)

[@RayLancer]

Great review. As much as I like the device, after the RG Nano I will not be getting any other Anbernic device due to how they keep their system closed and they were taking fixes from another developer who was fixing the RG Nano.

[@EvanRitchie]

I was going to ask for a comparison with the RGB30 (that I've been loving) so I'm glad you finished up the video with one.

[@ADHDreams]

Awesome video Russ! I was really interested in this device but I’ll wait for custom firmware to develop and maybe then I’ll consider it. Also, I think I rather invest another $30 ish and push for the rp2s for the hall sticks, front facing speakers and stacked shoulders

[@maldjulio]

This review made me feel better about gifting the RGB30 to family members. Thanks.

[@nosgulcivic]

Just ordered this today and will definitely change the OS. Thanks Russ 🤙🏼

[@MrNineties]

Happy New Year! Loved the vid. I was pleased, but not surprised, to hear TATE mode pronounced correctly!

[@Aaron.Cormano]

I'm sticking with the RG35XX plus, love the d-pad quality, sad they failed on this model Still i hope both models sells well and become popular, so we can see more scene/community efforts regarding the software

[@samh5886]

Is psx running at 480p (upscaled)? And yeah, as I age, 3.5 inch screen just feels too small now for my eyes. Hope there will be more minimum 4 inch 4:3 devices (such as the ones used in rg arc etc) in the future, if using 16:9 screen that is around 5 inch.

[@tyo101]

Thanks, Russ, happy new year!

[@CrowScareify]

The vertical arcade games preset has me really really tempted. I have a 351mp but I am not super great at working around button mapping on it, and I LOVE shmups so having a preset mode in there to be able to play those games in the proper aspect ratio with no tweaking sounds brilliant

[@Kennephus]

So it's a plastic RG351MP with a slight spec bump and wifi at a reasonable price. Great budget/entry device.

[@googaboogaloo]

I think I would just save up for the 405m (I wish they would just make them plastic), but that’s me personally. This is still a cool variant for someone who doesn’t like the vertical handheld shape.

[@RetroVGs]

Great review! I ALMOST decided to pick this up but ultimately went with a retroid pocket instead (I liked the trigger design better and heard others compliment the sticks and button quality). But this device at this price point is still an excellent entry handheld!

[@williamwhite2830]

ill be buying the retroid pocket 4 as well it just looks like it can do everything might even sell my switch OLED to bring it down a bit for me.

[@ks1ngh27]

The one advantage this has over rgb30 is the size. It will be more pocketable.

[@falloutspring7747]

Welcome back I look terrible I bought an Odin 2 should be here soon

[@WillC1020]

I was considering in buying this, but the software concerns is a big issue. I do have an R36S and runs Ark OS, so I think I’m good on my end. But the form factor of the 35XX-H is nice.

[@CobraCodex]

Still rocking my RG353P and would only consider upgrading if they made another handheld with that form factor. Thankfully I'm content with the limitations of the device since when it comes to N64 and later I'd rather play on a bigger screen anyway.

[@plumshy5558]

I am happy with my RG35xxI would love a horizontal one, but for sure would wait for CFW

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

I have two questions. Were you able to upscale the PS1 games and when you were playing Dreamcast and N64 where they playing at 240P or 480P?

[@SudeeptoDutta]

Is the Contra Test shown at 4:40 to test the "False Diagonal" issue fixable? Does it affect a lot of games or is it a minor issue? Given that the previous recently released model didn't have this issue.

[@RetroGameCorps]

It’s fixable by applying a small amount of tape to the PCB. Check out my RGB30 starter guide video, I demonstrate it in that video.

[@TheRealAlpha2]

I'd imagine the solution is about the same as it would be fore the RGB30 or other devices, I piece of capton or electrical tape to reduce the surface area of the contacts on the board. It's funny because there are Etsy sellers that have pre-cut stickers for several devices.

[@SudeeptoDutta]

@@RetroGameCorps Thanks for the reply. I'll check that video.

[@Du2andal]

Do these newer Anbernic devices finally allow for charging via a normal usb-c cable? One of the main reasons I don't carry my 351p with me is it requires me to keep track of a USB 2 -> C cable just to charge that device when my power bank has a USBC cable built in.

[@Lucifronz]

12:13 I'm sure you probably tried a few different ways of holding the system, but it should be noted that the way you're holding it in the video is never going to be comfortable for games that use the second stick. If I were holding that, I would have the system elevated in my fingers with my extra fingers on my left and right hands (not my pointer or thumb) essentially propping up the system from the bottom and back. Basically, I would have my pointer finger on the shoulders, my ring and pinky fingers holding up the system from the bottom, middle finger on the back for stability and *then* I would put my thumbs on the sticks. Lots of designs for handhelds use this thin spacing for sticks and I could still see myself using them. In fact, due to its smaller size and lighter weight, it would be far preferable to a larger system like the Switch with its very unwieldy way of playing shooters. I tried getting used to Doom 3 on Switch, but without my full handheld shell it was kind of hard to do because even though it was larger, the space for gripping it was much more inconvenient without the portable shell. Obviously I can see it not being exactly ideal, a small form-factor makes it harder to get a full grip on a system which is better overall, so I do see what you're saying, but maybe someone will see this and adapt if they've already got a small horizontal handheld or are set on getting this device or something like it due to it being the best option for their budget.

[@Loveunknown6853]

All I want to know is it it has Zombies ate my neighbors, Ahhh real monsters and Tomba? I ordered one should be here tomorrow hopefully I enjoy. This was a great review, well done. I am aware and will take heed to the software concerns.

[@hamburgers140]

LCD devices have reached such a "good enough" point now that I'm not touching the handheld market again until there's affordable OLEDs. A slight increase to processing power and maybe one more N64 or Saturn game playable just isn't enough of a draw to shell out full price for a whole new device.

[@nsdocqh1075]

If there was no user firmware... sales of anbernic game consoles would have been less than half of what they are now. In order to sell more... anbernic should release the source code.

[@GodlessTramp-tq5rd]

i cant wait for the retroid pocket 4 review

[@albyx]

27:45 I was going to start this comment with "developers should learn to work with Anbernic" instead of the other way around, but I stopped myself because I think Anbernic is forgetting what kind of audience they're developing products for. While it may be scary to give source code that may leak, I think Anbernic forgets where they're coming from also. They have more to gain by working with the community. I still prefer their hardware and that's good enough for me TODAY, but I do agree with Russ and the community; at some point the software just isn't coming out fast enough and I may end up skipping Anbernic's RG35XXH and grabbing PK's RGB30.

[@andrewthielmann5342]

Is there a tutorial on adding/deleting games? I know it's probably an easy process but I'm not 100% sure how to go about it.

[@TheJoePiper]

The fact that this is just so compact, slim & pocketable, as well as the price. Makes me want to get it for EDC carry, public transport and basic travel. I don’t need perfect emulation past Dreamcast, or pretty menus & software. For home, long travel & holidays, I’m going to want something more. And will probably get the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. Before getting into this channel I always used a modded PSP for travel and a modded Xbox OG running CoinOps software at home. Great channel 🤙

[@iamnotyourbuddyGUY]

It's great to talk about the software issues

[@MrDakti]

Since it is possible to stream games from PC via "Moonlight" to RG35XX H, is it possible to stream somehow it the other way? To NOT connect the HDMI cable to the TV, but do it wirelessly and see gaming from RG35XX H on TV? Regardless of the BACIC, PLUS or H versions, the very important thing for me is that they all have HDMI output, unlike Miyoo Mini, etc. To raise the bar, I think the only thing left to do is to add video streaming from RG35XX H oraz PLUS to the TV.

[@garbagepriest]

the street fighter 2 test is all I ever need to know personally since all I play is KOF games thank you

[@B_Roy7]

I was going to ask if I should prefer rgb30 over this one but you already covered me. Neat review as always.

[@james441]

I have a 351mp still so I’m gonna leave this one but it’s interesting for sure

[@MasDouc]

30:31 - shout out to the RGB30 man I love this thing. Once you mod up a bit and flash ArkOS it becomes the best budget handheld easily. That screen (especially for Pico-8) is glorious.

[@RodolphoAraujoLopes]

How about a video about playing handhelds on CRT TVs?

[@kennethd4958]

I ended up getting an RGB30 so it’s been filling my horizontal handheld needs haha

[@PiannaCh]

Thanks for the review. The software issue is unfortunate. I've been looking for a cheap and small horizontal device as I had a hard time with vertical devices for games that uses shoulder buttons a lot.

[@B3nG420]

i just paid 73$ for it through amazon. Good deal, yes software isn't the best, but it's serviceable. Russ you're completely right. The software needs a revamped, but is it too late for redemption??

[@bdanka50]

What I'm appreciating more and more is how these companies are making multiple varieties of each model (Vertical/Horizontal/Plus/etc). Some folks might think this is bad because of saturation and confusion, but I'm learning more and more about what I DO want, so I can avoid many of them. As of right now, I like vertical and a 4" screen, so the 405V will be my next device, in addition to the Odin 2 for GC/PS2 and streaming. I just don't like the horizontal devices, so I know to skip them. As always, thanks for a great video Russ!!!

[@Lucifronz]

Ehh, saturation doesn't seem like an issue to me. I couldn't care less if these knock-off companies rise or fall, someone else will just take their place, and it's not hard to figure out what you want in a system so it's fine for the consumer who does their research. Having more options is a good thing, I agree. For anyone who absolutely *could not live* without a horizontal stick design, now they have that option in a budget handheld, albeit they would be better off waiting for the OS to be ready before picking one up otherwise they'll be waiting with their thumbs twiddling for a while.