THE Best Handheld of 2024 (Anbernic RG556 Review)

Рет қаралды 100,290

Joey's Retro Handhelds

Күн бұрын

Пікірлер: 370

@laya2662 7 ай бұрын

I'm literally watching this on my RG556

@soldierofthelord9764 7 ай бұрын

Is this handheld for large hands

@rhyselliott9170 7 ай бұрын

You can watch KZbin?😂

@laya2662 4 ай бұрын

@@rhyselliott9170 hell yeah you can do everything you could do on an android phone but obviously it’s not a phone so it doesn’t have a phone number or camera but you can get a bunch of the basic apps like facebook youtube twitch discord ect

@laya2662 4 ай бұрын

@@soldierofthelord9764 compared to the steam deck i would say it’s medium sized but overall it’s on the bigger side which i prefer, the handling is really comfortable too & it’s not really heavy.

@Dus306 4 ай бұрын

Still happy 3 months later ?

@ammrulz6 8 ай бұрын

Ome of the few ppl that directly compare to the odin2 without just saying "odin2 is better hamds down" ❤

@megalon84 9 ай бұрын

I really hope they fix the snapping problem with the sticks because it makes a number of 3D games nearly unplayable. I read it's a software issue and the problem went away entirely when GammaOS was installed on another Anbernic device with the same sticks. I believe it because sticks of a similar size on other devices don't work this poorly.

@Autotrope 4 ай бұрын

Gamma has already released a stick fix for the device. A proper GammaOS is coming for the device but not available yet.

@MadAtreides1 Ай бұрын

@@Autotrope was it fixed in the end?

@Wistz90 9 ай бұрын

I don't regret my Odin 2 base, but I'm still thinking about upgrading my og Steam Deck to a 1TB SSD. I haven't had a lot of time for gaming lately, and definitely want to spend more time on single player titles. I'm still amazed I can play FF-X on my Odin 2 at 1080p tbh. Sometimes I just turn it on and sit at the title sequence, lol...

@alenkiu9886 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for this concise yet thoughtful review of the Anbernic RG556. The comparison between this and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro & Ayn Odin 2 are especially well put and on point. Many of the less thoughtful reviews out there straight on slap "THE BEST HANDHELD" sticker on Odin 2 or Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (when comparing to RG556) just because the specs on paper looks prettier or the performance is better. Also, in my country, I can get Anbernic RG556 at a special deal for $168, while Ayn Odin 2 goes for $487 for the pro package. Kinda no brainer, but your review video sealed the deal for me. Thanks once again. Subbed!

@Autotrope 4 ай бұрын

Yeah. In Australia this device is ~$300, the RP4 Pro is ~$450, the Ayaneo Pocker Air is ~$500, and the Odin 2 is ~$800-900. In the category of things that play up to Gamecube and most PS2, it seems a no-brainer to get this, if it's any good, which it seems like it is. You can buy three of these for the price of an Odin 2.

@Dante-cv3ts Ай бұрын

@@AutotropeHoly f thats a lot of money 😮

@AishRios 9 ай бұрын

Great review joey! I agree the 556 is awesome and im very suprised by how much i like it.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

You and me both! We agree on something!

@nickentros 9 ай бұрын

I was certainly intrigued by the 556, but after the Yuzu drama, I decided to go full send and just got an Odin 2 and it’s awesome

@chthonictonic 3 ай бұрын

One is in the mail, heading my way. I watched a lot of videos first, and I like that you show your face. So many videos were just a desk with a handheld with some moving hands. This is much better.

@mikeyneeley 9 ай бұрын

At first I regretted choosing the RP4 Pro over this, but now I am pretty happy with my choice. Especially after hearing about the sticks and terrible wifi. The RP4 is just so versatile. With a grip it is much more ergonomic, but it can be removed for portability. I also love that I can plug it into a USB C monitor and use the console as a controller, all while charging the device. The best part of this hobby is that there are so many choices and you can find a device that best fits your needs.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Yep! Great way to look at it.

@LoudMime 9 ай бұрын

I agree with the specificity needed in choosing devices for the hobby. For me, the RP4 Pro is too small & thin VS. the ARG556's chunkiness + OLED screen which is amazing for people like me with bad eyesight (farsighted because of surgery + handhelds is a nightmare). The RP4 Pro is more stylish & powerful imo, while ARG556 (which I chose) is a couch potato's dream. I streamed using ARG556, 5Gband, and its not as bad as Joey says (using Steam Link). I guess when there's a choice dilemma at play, since he's a reviewer and gets access to powerful devices, he would choose the higher performance handhelds, but for average consumers like us, its amazing already. The issues Joey missed for me was the power button being too small and deep into the casing (it reminds me of the horrors of old Galaxy phone's side buttons being chipped or janked too deep into the casing) + the potential of the lights software modifications to become a quality of life feature ( tweaks that can customize it for charging led, layout indicator for keymaps would be fire!). The light shouldve been placed under the DPAD instead because of how it doesnt blend so well aesthetically since the buttons lacked grooves.

@prydepythons 9 ай бұрын

I just got mine the other day and I honestly think everyone that says the 556 is good is completely full of 💩@@JoeysRetroHandhelds

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

.... As Long As The Analog Sticks Are As Awesome As Those On The PowKiddy RGB30 So I Can Play Ms Pac Man Speedup Hack As It Should Be Played I'm OnBoard .... Hopefully My Now 4th RGB30 Won't 2 Weeks To A Month Into Ownership I Will Be Happy .... I'm Also Enjoying My PowKiddy X55 Having NO Issues Except The Analog Sticks Are Utter Garbage For MsPacMac And ArCade Games ....

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@LoudMime .... As Long As The Analog Sticks Are As Awesome As Those On The PowKiddy RGB30 So I Can Play Ms Pac Man Speedup Hack As It Should Be Played I'm OnBoard .... Hopefully My Now 4th RGB30 Won't 2 Weeks To A Month Into Ownership I Will Be Happy .... I'm Also Enjoying My PowKiddy X55 Having NO Issues Except The Analog Sticks Are Utter Garbage For MsPacMac And ArCade Games ....

@meredithzinni2900 9 ай бұрын

I agree with the comfort of the Trim UI Smart Pro and the RG353PS. Those have been my favorites but I just received the RG556 and this may top the list. I was about to install emulation station but will wait until I try the built in software since you gave it high praise. Thanks for the detailed review!!

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Good choice!

@samsungfan1982 9 ай бұрын

Looks like a great device but I just got the RP4P so I can’t justify getting this unfortunately…. Unless it’s an Odin 2

@bigstabby 9 ай бұрын

I was torn between this and the RP4P. Ended up going with the RP4P for pocketability and the attachable grip for comfort. Just getting into emulation and it and I'm more amazed at all the options to have your entire childhood library in your pocket.

@tjbroussard3524 8 ай бұрын

Where do you find the grip?

@bigstabby 8 ай бұрын

@@tjbroussard3524 Retroid's official grip from their website. It works really well.

@ianshen5421 7 ай бұрын

@@tjbroussard3524 You can get it from their official website

@ndMaikel 6 ай бұрын

Just got the RG556 for $118... I want a device for PS2, although it might be not not the perfect device for that purpose. But I couldn't resist for that price. It's a great addition to my RG35XX H

@azurekite3870 5 ай бұрын

then maybe you should the rg cude that can play ps2 and some 3ds games.

@jjayala 4 ай бұрын

That's a good deal

@luisrb7348 4 ай бұрын

@@azurekite3870RG cube is the same power and specs as this just different size and screen.

@liksoonlo 3 ай бұрын

I have both 556 and 35xxh too.

@waerart 8 ай бұрын

For the horde! Thanks for helping me cement my decision to buy this :)

@davidsapir3764 8 ай бұрын

If you haven't scored it already you're gonna love it when you do. So glad I went with the 556, it's so good.

@waerart 8 ай бұрын

@@davidsapir3764 It arrived over the weekend and I love it!!

@timothybrown8424 9 ай бұрын

I guess I’ll just use my phone with a telescopic controller for streaming. But for retro games, this has been great.

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@groto27 9 ай бұрын

I need an Odin 2 OLED then I’m good

@nickentros 9 ай бұрын

The Odin 2 is so damn good. If they did an OLED it would be incredible

@groto27 9 ай бұрын

Yeah. I have a steam deck OLED, but am interested in a good Android based device too, but it’s hard to go from OLED backwards. Odin 2 looks great, but I need OLED

@LuisPerez-5 7 ай бұрын

That'll be expensive

@TheFTPchannel 6 ай бұрын

Your moms an OLED Odin 2

@groto27 6 ай бұрын

@@TheFTPchannel I wish then I wouldn’t need one

@JaviPlayRetro 9 ай бұрын

Wow, Joey, Im genuinely surprised by this review. This is why I love your reviews. They're always so different and so well, Joey. Lol, good review. Looking forward to the next.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Thanks Javi! I appreciate that :)

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@mdr8615 9 ай бұрын

Respect that you're able to change your mind on this device and be open about it. I actually passed on it at the low preorder price and have some regrets. But it's anbernic...a better one is only a month away right 😂 I'd like a gray one, with an euro snes color scheme and skittles, and better sticks. Maybe put the d-pad on top. Perfection 🤞👌 In the meantime I have an rg35xx h on the way for 50-ish € - a crazy value proposition I could not resist.

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@drumyogi9281 5 ай бұрын

There are quite a number of PS2 games that play at 2.5x resolution. A few that I have been playing are The Warriors and Tomb Raider Anniversary.

@ThibaultCabanas 9 ай бұрын

Nice review as always! Your unit may have a wifi defect since I get consistently around 240 Mbps with mine. This is the best of my dozen of devices, I even prefer it over my Steam Deck since it’s much more portable and the screen is fantastic. I don’t have the budget for an Odin 2 right now, but who knows I may end up with one instead along the road!

@rosiello5100 18 күн бұрын

Same here, my wifi experience is perfect in almost every room of the house except for one.

@joeh3445 9 ай бұрын

Was just watching your setup guide a little while ago. Looks like a nice device for the price.

@ZeroXeroZX 9 ай бұрын

I chose this because I got it for $108 on a crazy tiktok deal with shipping and taxes. 😂

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@nathanielcruz6300 9 ай бұрын

Same here bro that was an insane deal 😂

@josef689 9 ай бұрын

Same with me😅

@steve-drizzle 9 ай бұрын

bro same 🤣 mine came in 2 days ago i’m still mind blown on how cheap it was. such a great device

@nathanielcruz6300 9 ай бұрын

@@steve-drizzle I’m still waiting for mine to come in it says it’s coming on Thursday

@titantim 9 ай бұрын

I was surprised when you mentioned the grip feeling like a rubberized phone case. Isn't that going to turn into that sticky goo after a couple years then?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Can't say I've had that happen before lol

@seethruhead7119 9 ай бұрын

can't feel any button grating on my black model

@jamesoglover 9 ай бұрын

Thank you! I was waiting for this review!

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Hope you like it!

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@DrakenKnightWorld 9 ай бұрын

@@DroidLocks6971bot

@mikegreen5502 7 ай бұрын

@JoeysRetroHandhelds I'm not that tech savy do all the games come pre loaded into the handheld or does one have to download them ?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 7 ай бұрын

@@mikegreen5502 Mix of both, some come with it, majority don't and you'd load them yourself.

@goyban 9 ай бұрын

I sold my RP4P, and bought this. I'm not going to keep RG556 since I have an O2, I just want to make sure for once, for maybe about one week, get hold of a comfortable Anbernic device 🤣🤣

@Elkabron91 8 ай бұрын

So which one is better for you? RP4P or this anbernic?

@goyban 8 ай бұрын

@@Elkabron91 I just got the Anbernic, the screen is amazing, the controls are ... different, don't know maybe they feel better later, but I have to set it up and have a good comparison. So far, it's better than RP4P (I am biased to bigger better screen)

@davidsapir3764 8 ай бұрын

Awesome review video, niiice! Thanks for all the useful info! I've been rocking my beloved GPD XD+ for years, but the dated chips and old Android 7 OS are starting to show their age so after researching and comparing I went with the RG 556 in black. It makes the 556 look so much more aesthetically and visually clean and tight to me, but that's just my own personal preference. Wow do I love everything about this handheld. It wins you over so fast because it's so freaking great no matter what aspect you're evaluating. My one and only minor gripe is that while I can't fault Anbernic for making the 556's price as competitive and affordable as possible, I would've gladly paid an extra 10 bucks to have a quality case included instead of the $10 I just spent on Amazon buying a custom 556 case from another company. And NO, I got that nice black 556 hard case, not that awful beige one that looks like a ladies handbag! Before you ever turn the 556 on, it's worth mentioning that when your 556 arrives, you get a very satisfying and rewarding unboxing experience that immediately makes you feel like you made the right choice and got your hard earned money's worth. And the RG 566's quality and performance backs that feeling up 1000%. Anbernic absolutely crushed it with the 556. You get so much bang for the buck. You'll have to spend considerably more for something that's only slightly to moderately better, whatever "better" means to you.

@archiiebarrett 8 ай бұрын

I'm just torn now, I had my heart set on an Odin 2, but it lacks the Sim slot, which is a feature I'd like to use it at work. Since it doesnt have one, I'd rather get something cheaper that can do similar emulation. I like my 351P, so this is definitely an option since I don't like the joystick/dpad layout on the retroid.

@Micah-yj6vz 9 ай бұрын

Could someone please help me out, I’m a little lost. Ive been trying to play all the Pokémon games I can and was wondering if any of these could play all of them up to the 3ds and the best one for that. As well as the best on for Pokémon games up to the ds. Also does it work since the ds has 2 screens

@manny1524 9 ай бұрын

My main reason for getting this device was 3Ds and yes it can play up to 3DS. Was going to go RP4 pro but this has a bigger screen which makes 3DS games easier to play.

@xvader9445 18 күн бұрын

can you get a 556 pre-loaded? i dont really want to mess with emulators and stuff. i want to get something for my Grandkids

@printerschamp 9 ай бұрын

Good review. I scored a 556 bundle off tiktok for $100. I really wanted the Odin2, but for the price I couldn't pass on the deal. I also already have an Ally to do pretty much anything on.

@anduril38 9 ай бұрын

You scored an insane deal, nice :)

@stormk-1130 5 ай бұрын

Anbernic tiktok?

@Lambo_567 5 ай бұрын

Please tell me more about this tiktok discount everybody is talking about😂😂😂 do u have a discount code?

@mitchthepreacher1512 8 ай бұрын

What a banger of a handheld!

@cockybirdlover 8 ай бұрын

I recently ordered one expected to be delivered on Monday...I am nervous and excited about it. great vid ty.

@mountainknife 9 ай бұрын

So I keep seeing Tik Toks on these emulators and I’m new to this. Do these have a bunch of games already on them? I’m really interested in playing Backyard baseball 1997. Is that doable on this without to much hoop jumping??

@dgan2304 7 ай бұрын

Mine doesn't have the weird button grating sound, could just be a one-off.

@Eil47 9 ай бұрын

As always, great video. I am ordering one for my nephew as i already have Odin 2 for myself. This console have a lot of potential and i can't wait to tweak the console. Performance-wise, it is way below Odin 2, however - this might be improved once JelOS or ArkOS release support for the console.

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@GhostlyWispers72 Ай бұрын

Should I get this or the retroid pocket 5?

@ypxgame 22 күн бұрын

I want to know too

@GhostlyWispers72 22 күн бұрын

@@ypxgame I bought both and turns out the pocket 5 is the better option. The rg556 fits better in the hand is more comfortable for long periods but I don't play handheld for that long I one sitting. So the my choice is the pocket 5. Hope that helps.

@joepage5000 9 ай бұрын

It’s so close. I think by the end of the year we’re going to have some incredible choices at the $200 price point.

@mendellalvarado4285 9 ай бұрын

Great video. 👍 I'm loving mine!

@davidsapir3764 8 ай бұрын

Same here. It's so awesome.

@adambrash7825 3 күн бұрын

How do you turn off the on screen controls that show on some games?

@tbatrics 9 ай бұрын

I like this device but I don't see myself picking it up. I have no strong interest above ps1 and I have devices for that. 35xxh and arc s serve my needs.

@rantingguy1726 2 ай бұрын

Is there a retro handheld that can handle all pokemon games, past and present, and preferably, ships with them pre-loaded? I understand that learning to download games and install them is a part of the handheld emulator community but I've only recently been playing on the Miyoo Mini + as my first handheld retro and find I struggle to get it to play anything that was on DS. I'd love an easy, preloaded, out-the-box-good-to-go device that could handle them all so I can slowly work my way through all the pokemon games I missed growing up and since I stopped paying attention back when I was a teen.

@NickyG_vz 5 ай бұрын

The ergonomics are comfortable but if you have big hands don't expect very long sessions. I wish it was closer to the hori split pad pro.

@ThecrazycakeEATAH 9 ай бұрын

Great review! Also Joey you have a habit of flourishing your left hand when you try to be emphatic

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

My Italian seeping through!

@olivermirez6667 9 ай бұрын

For me I would consider a device with the best features of the RG556 and the Retroid Pocket 4 pro, even paying a little extra. But until that device exists, and for the price difference, I think the Odin 2 pro is the king of the hill. It's better to save a little more money and get a future proof device, that has great controls and a screen that even if it's not OLED it's still quite nice and it's bigger than the RG556. Great video as always, Joey.

@steakbaguette 9 ай бұрын

was literally about to task if my Odin 2 purchase was the right choice, sounds like it was.. ps2 upscaled 3x on standard performance setting. 9 hours of san andreas on one charge!

@jfklmk13447 9 ай бұрын

Yeah, I agree. There's no way anything will be better than the Odin 2 in 2024

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@mattdrifts 4 ай бұрын

Over twice the price for a non oled device? That's not a smart move

@HeyItsDJB 7 ай бұрын

Not sure if anyone said this yet, but the RG 556 has a Wi-Fi 5 chip as the other devices nowadays have Wi-Fi 6

@jierenzheng7670 6 ай бұрын

I am looking to play games like these: Tales of the Abyss, Front Mission 4, Front Mission 5, Tenchu: Fatal Shadows, Suikoden V, will it run well?

@callsignHUSKER 9 ай бұрын

It would be the perfect handheld at this price point if external display worked properly. Unfortunately my new 556 has touchscreen glitches during and after using an external hdmi display. It starts to misbehave and register taps when I'm not tapping, I've tested it several times, and it keeps happening when using an external display but not otherwise...

@tanyizhongsebastian4415 6 ай бұрын

any problem with saving game progress? i have problem with that on my anbernic RG35xxh while playing GOW, pokemon and GTA... but wierd thing is monster hunter got no problem with saving game progress

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 6 ай бұрын

Replace the stock roms.

@xutiantodd 9 ай бұрын

This one is all good except the cpu t820 - too weak for ps2 3ds and android game

@SirBrucie 9 ай бұрын

Ayn Odin Pro vs RG 556, which one better?

@torq21 8 ай бұрын

I'm here for the screen!

@davemacapagal4312 8 ай бұрын

Hey man, if i already have an rp3 plus is it worth it to get an rg556? Performance wise is worth the upgrade?

@Lambo_567 4 ай бұрын

How to set up the controller for the dolphin emulator?? The game automaticly starts with the wii remote controller but i want to use my joysticks from the rg556! Pls help!!

@chazmcdaniels6173 8 ай бұрын

I own one of these. I feel like you've done a good job of setting expectations for the machine. You will have to tweak and or wait for emulators to get better. Running PS2 at native on this looks ok to these old eyes and I think sometimes we get hung up on the resolutions on these smaller screens. At some point, you can't see the diff. I'm like you, try to slap what ever emulator up to 1080p since it's the native resolution and go from there. Is there a wiki or forum that is listing out some of the settings? I haven't watched your starter set up yet so you may answer a lot of questions there.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 8 ай бұрын

There's kind of something here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/16z49gqJEuzyI1PSMsi231CD8FhCeaBbrZ-NlYpj518E/htmlview My guide goes over brief changes, but nothing too in-depth. You'll have to enable hacks, vbi skip, etc. and it's too game dependent unfortunately.

@nanra491 9 ай бұрын

I vote team retroid rp4 pro. Pocketability is TOP priority. RP4 is max size a pocket console should be. Seperate categories : pocket, bag, couch. Also less jank software wise, plus x2 the power. But the Oled though 😢.

@jayjayhooksch1 7 ай бұрын

Bad sticks and wifi is a non-starter for me on a device this price, which is too bad because that panel is nice and the ergonomics look great. The RP4 pro and this device are both so close. Guess im still waiting for next gen-handhelds because I'm not paying 370 for the Odin 2 (wont buy the black model for 300 because of the smudging and also even 300 is a bit more than I want to spend for retro games).

@maikb1482 6 ай бұрын

The Anbernic RG556 is awesome 👌🏻

@MikePSN09 8 ай бұрын

Question is there a way to play TG16 CD and Sega CD for the unit. I do have the bios for Sega CD and TG 16 CD system. Just wondering.

@WelshDag 9 ай бұрын

Would you do a comparison between the RG556 and the RP4 Pro?

@mattdavis9601 9 ай бұрын

I thought this was another excellent review, and it had the added bonus of being about something I'm interested in buying. The RG556 has been on my radar since it launched. I like the brand, that it runs Android, and that the black version put me in mind of a Sega Game Gear for some reason. There's nothing specific, just the vibe. I'm still not entirely sure if I'm going to pick it up; but, I do really like it. What I do know is that I don't want a Pocket 4; unless it's free in a giveaway. The real competition to this unit, in my mind, is the original AYN Odin. Since the Odin 2 has came out the OG models have gotten price cuts. The last time I checked they were also right at $200. Snapdragon 845 vs Tiger T820? In the comments of your set-up guide for the RG556, I'd mentioned being surprised that Google Play regards the Odin 2 and Pocket 2S as phones. It seems like Anbernic also uses a phone build of Android instead of the tablet build. Tablet Android makes a lot of sense for things, like handhelds, that are expected to live in landscape mode. In ye olde days going into Developer Options and setting DPI to 600 was enough to force apps into Tablet Mode. If you were to try that here with the RG556, what would happen? Would it only act as a flag for apps to change to their more horizontal friendly layouts, or would you get all of the new quality of life features Google has recently added to Android for Tablets too? If it worked that'd be a seriously nice upgrade for these Android handhelds.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

I think you might get your wish. Gamma sent me a test build of tablet Android made for non-Android devices, and it works great. It's a lower headroom version of Android. However, the issue with tablet versions is not all apps work with them and even his build has that problem, along with a whole whack of permission things. I imagine that's why we use phone builds instead, but I'm no expert.

@mattdavis9601 9 ай бұрын

@@JoeysRetroHandhelds - I was thinking of a "tablet build" in the Galaxy Tab, Lenovo Tab, Pixel Tab, and various bargain Chinese Android tablets sense of the words. My own bargain Chinese tab runs stock Android 11 Tablet and has no issues with Daijishō, Retroarch, every free standing emulator I've tried, any Play Store game that the SoC is powerful enough to run, all the Google apps, Reddit, Deezer, etc. I assumed all recent tablets would be similar in that respects. Whenever that Gamma Tablet Android build clears any media embargo it may be under, I'd be happy to watch a video about it. Is the intent of this project to bring Android to these $50-$100 Linux handhelds? Because, if so, the Gamma developer is a miracle worker. Even the last few years of the cut down Android GO requires a minimum of 2GB RAM, as mandated by Google. Finally; I remembered that my prepaid Galaxy runs Android 13. So, I tried forcing it into tablet mode using the method I'd mentioned in my prior comment. It works fine. The OS itself stayed in its phone configuration; but, most of my apps adopted their multi-pane tablet layouts. Chrome and Samsung Internet magically grew page tabs like on a PC. A 20:9 phone is pretty miserable to use in landscape and the changes actively made portrait worse, so I reverted it. But; for a horizontal handheld it would be pretty cool. Samsung heavily customizes Android for their own purposes. I'd read that the Pixel phones actually get the task bar and such when forced into being a tablet. These retro handhelds seem to use a mostly stock build of Android, so I still haven't fully answered my own question. They might just grow the dual pane Quick Settings/Notifications drop down and the task bar. I dunno. What I do know is that this has went way too long. If you read all of this; thanks and sorry. If you skimmed it, I totally understand. I wrote the thing and I haven't read it either!

@christianmercado5510 8 ай бұрын

Thank you for this review bro, I just bought mine today 🙌🏽

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 8 ай бұрын

Hope you enjoy it!

@christianmercado5510 8 ай бұрын

@@JoeysRetroHandhelds Thanks man 😎

@OSW 9 ай бұрын

Great vid! Is there any upcoming device that might challenge the performance/ergonomics of the Odin 2?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Nothing that I know of!

@ZioFrankekko 9 ай бұрын

this was so close to what i'm looking for, if it wasn't for the thumbstiks and the looks and texture (wich i don't like but this one is personal) and also the bad wifi thing, i would have gotten this one... absolutley great size and screen

@XINN1X 6 ай бұрын

Any update on streaming and whether it’s gotten better?

@TechToyTinkerCompany 8 ай бұрын

I do like the 556, it's display is beautiful, but the best handheld of 2024 is extremely subjective. Are we talking best ergonomics? Best screen, best performance?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 8 ай бұрын

Best overall, definitely. I did up my list of devices for the year, I don't see anything beating this.

@rcarlos6 9 ай бұрын

Now, this is an awesome review! Regarding the comparison with the RP4 Pro, I agree with you, but I still prefer it because it's more compact and it has dpad on top. It also makes a good companion for my Odin2.

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@KingKalos5th 7 ай бұрын

Btw have you tried to switch off the access points cuz might be compatibility issue. Worth to check it on mobile hotspot or another network before considering the devices fault. You can also check upload speeds as local streaming will require both being on good level, also latency. I am in no way defending the 556 just interested if you did other tests wi-fi related, though I understand the hustle, taking away that user friendly experience we are looking for. 😅

@johnsducks9816 9 ай бұрын

Its neat but it would be 100x better if they used real joysticks no reason not to at this size. Shame about the wifi chip as well I was considering this for streaming when i heard it was oled but I feel those 2 issues are massive dealbreakers

@stormk-1130 5 ай бұрын

My budget is 200 i think the 556 is the best option. What you guys think?

@supa-hero7184 3 ай бұрын

I have a major stuttering issue when streaming my ps5

@JaRew 2 ай бұрын

I just went through your guide and it helped a lot with setting my RG556. Thanks! I was trying to remote play and I get an error that people are saying is due to it being a rooted android device. Is it possible to do some kind of remote play with this on a PS5? Edit: this is my first and only device like this, so was hoping to try it out and learn from the experience. Just hit that wall late last night and gave up after not finding a quick answer.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 2 ай бұрын

If you're trying to use the official PlayStation remote play app, you can't on anything without the official controllers. You need to use the app PSPlay.

@JaRew 2 ай бұрын

@@JoeysRetroHandhelds I was trying to use the PS Remote Play App. So connecting one of my PS5 remotes will make it work? I would not have expected that but when I tried it a long time ago on my phone that is how I was doing it! I’m give it a shot. Thanks so much for responding! Really enjoying your content.

@clcmx1384 8 ай бұрын

Does anyone know how I can add box art to the front end if I didn’t buy the preloaded sd card sold with the device?

@DialPforPie 7 ай бұрын

Thanks for the review!

@AE-bm4no 9 ай бұрын

why must we keep suffering with down firing speakers 😞

@DroidLocks6971 9 ай бұрын

@imeverywhere9633 9 ай бұрын

why are you spamming this? @@DroidLocks6971

@Pridetoons 9 ай бұрын

I'm happy so many people are enjoying this Handheld. I suggested Anbernic make a Handheld with an AMOLED screen with controls similar to a Xbox Controller. My only issue with this Handheld are the Analog Sticks and the Cardinal Snapping.

@yalcincakiroglu7314 9 ай бұрын

Is it possible to play old PC dos games with this console?

@chemicalburrito782 9 ай бұрын

I'll disagree only slightly with your comparison of the Odin 2 and the RG556. To me, the only clear wins the RG556 has over the Odin 2 are price (obviously) and the OLED screen. I'm including comfort here as well - I've found my Odin 2 to be easier to use than my RG556 for longer gaming sessions - might have to do with the size of the triggers/bumpers and the concave thumbsticks. So my recommendation goes ... if you can only have one of these devices and you have the $299 plus shipping, the Odin 2's the clear winner and it's not even really close. But if the price is an issue, the RG556 is a solid choice particularly if you can get it at some of those $160 plus shipping prices I've seen it at. (My dream Android handheld at this point would be the Odin 2 with an OLED screen like the RG556's.) As for the Retroid Twins. I never bought either one because I did have a Retroid Pocket 3+ and that thing was painful to use. Ergonomics? Nah ... just slap some controls on a candy bar and hope someone can 3D print a grip that MIGHT make it usable. That and the subpar screen Retroid decided to continue using... Also, have you tried to use a dock with the RG556? I can't get my RG556 to both charge and output to a display at the same time no matter what dock/dongle I use.

@luke1804 9 ай бұрын

Agreed with pretty much all of this except my wifi has been fine. I have even played some D2 from the steam link app and I get no stutters or lag

@SergioWillis 8 ай бұрын

Hey I was wondering does it have native screen capture capability???

@mojoman1175 9 ай бұрын

Hey Joey, quick question: I already own a Miyoo mini + and I love it but I really want N64 and especially PS2 games as well. Do you think this device is the best for those systems at this price?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

I'd say this, the RP4 Pro or the Odin 2 would be the only three options. Up to you on which one!

@wwsnolimitj947 8 ай бұрын

How do I download games it’s so confusing ?? Nothings works for me

@Creepa0121 7 ай бұрын

Im looking to by my first retro handheld device and was considering buying this but after seeing the odin im not to sure what to go for could anyone offer some opinions?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 7 ай бұрын

If you have the money for the Odin, you buy the Odin.

@Autotrope 6 ай бұрын

Do you have more tatts? That batman one is cool

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 6 ай бұрын

So many!

@AntonKarpuzikov 6 ай бұрын

Is there any other consoles with oled display, under 200$ ?

@andrerobberts6892 7 ай бұрын

I just noticed you had a maple leafs tattoo i live in downtown toronto and getting access to some of these handhelds without getting assaulted by customs seems to be a big deal. Im definitely gonna take the plunge on the 556 just because of this vid right here! I just wanna be able to play def jam fight for ny and the nba street series on the go. New subsciber here. Thanks for your content!

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 7 ай бұрын

Yep! Go Leafs! (next year..) To avoid customs, just try and avoid DHL as you'll get charged 100% of the time. Always ship via 4PX to avoid any charges.

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 7 ай бұрын

Just saw your Twitter message, best way to buy is the link in the description (use code JOEY for 15% off) and you won't get charged any duties or anything, GoGameGeek ships 4PX.

@andrerobberts6892 7 ай бұрын

@JoeysRetroHandhelds thanks a bunch you're the man! I appreciate that you engage with your subscribers it's awesome. Keep up the great work!

@fennieyuen 9 ай бұрын

Does the L2R2 work on pure android based games? As it was common issue with Anbernic OS that L2R2 does not work. E.g. in dead cells android

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

Yep, this was fixed a few devices ago.

@SEBFeverr 8 ай бұрын

Sub! This review made me bought one! Thanks for the great review😄

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 8 ай бұрын

Hope you enjoy it!

@emilianomontanari283 5 ай бұрын

i can’t find streaming issues on their tests …

@chkrox 9 ай бұрын

For me, specs of rp4 pro + grip is better until the new releases

@wigbertoaponte9289 5 ай бұрын

Does this bring the games instaled or do I have to download the emulator and the games?

@ChrisKliewer 5 ай бұрын

Mine came with games installed from Amazon...but the price goes up consiy

@cho-v4n 9 ай бұрын

Seems pretty awesome. You already know my stance on which device is king though 😉

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

The datafrog?

@cho-v4n 9 ай бұрын

@@JoeysRetroHandhelds that's the one!

@DayHunch 8 ай бұрын

How many games does it come with straight out ?

@ivegyattocomment 5 ай бұрын

how does this tank wuthering waves/zzz?

@SomeOne-wr1wr 9 ай бұрын

Was really wanting to get this device but its around $270 where I'm from and that's definitely not worth the price

@Nintenite 9 ай бұрын

Not sure if I miss it or you did not mention it, but, does the device support HDMI?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 9 ай бұрын

It's USB C to DisplayPort, although USB C to HDMI has been working for me.

@siwy2501 6 ай бұрын

Is it possible to connect via HDMI rg556 to tv and change it at the same time?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 6 ай бұрын

No.

@siwy2501 6 ай бұрын

@@JoeysRetroHandhelds someone said Yes but you said no I'm confused. Maybe it's possible actually. Did you try?

@JoeysRetroHandhelds 6 ай бұрын

@@siwy2501 You can't charge and video out at the same time on the 556, it's a well known issue. Yes, it's something I've tested.

@IcoKirov 9 ай бұрын

i want a 456 or a 506 version of this. this looks too big for me. i already have a steam deck, i don't need another big device. a 4.5 or 5 inch device, and a bit more optimized size so it can be significantly smaller would be better for me. and if the display can be 3:2, it would be awesome.

@chemicalburrito782 9 ай бұрын

To be fair this device is far, far smaller than a Steam Deck.or a ROG Ally. I mean ... this is positively TINY compared to the Deck. But I would be shocked if Anbernic doesn't drop a smaller form factor with this chip they're using - something like a 406V.

@IcoKirov 9 ай бұрын

@@chemicalburrito782 well I'm not saying it's the size of the deck. But this is bigger than the switch... 😅 And honestly when you put them side by side with the deck and take into account that this has 5.5inches, it's surprisingly not that smaller, not what you would expect anyway. Any way, my point is for me personally a retro handheld doesn't need to be this size. Yeah, the comfort would be good, but at that point I would just grab something even bigger, that has bigger display and maybe has more power. For retro device I would prefer it to be more compact. I mean if I'm traveling somewhere, I would never take this along my steam deck. I would either take something smaller, or leave the deck, which is not happening 😂 It's just a personal preference. And I think with a 3:2 display, even if it is 5 inches, this device can become a lot smaller (not so wide)

@chemicalburrito782 9 ай бұрын

@@IcoKirovTechnically, it's a little smaller than the Switch (OG) if you look at how wide it is. The built-in grips on the RG556 do make it a little thicker - but I actually use a Switch case for my RG556. I do suspect that Anbernic will probably roll out some RG406-type handheld with this new chip later on ... They put out at least three variants of the T618, after all.

@IcoKirov 9 ай бұрын

@@chemicalburrito782 yeah, I think so as well. Probably none of them would be what I want, but what can you do.

@22demianz 9 ай бұрын

Man there must be a way to adjust the sticks using software

@ri0t263 4 ай бұрын

I'm having the same streaming problems as you (moonlight / steam link). It's only (barely) playable at MAX 3mbps, but of course it looks terrible at that bitrate. Pretty frustrating they couldn't even offer Wifi 6 in 2024, Wifi 5 is three generations old now.