The best Retro Handheld ? | Anbernic RG35XX SP Review

In this video, we review the Anbernic RG35XX SP, a portable and powerful handheld console for retro gaming. Explore its design, performance, and key features, including its clamshell form factor and extensive game compatibility. We’ll provide a detailed analysis of its build quality, battery life, and user experience to help you decide if this device is right for your gaming needs. Watch for an in-depth gameplay demonstration and our final verdict on the Anbernic RG35XX SP.
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RG35XX SP
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This video is for education and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended for kids.
#emulation #retrohandheld #android #androidgaming #PC #PCgaming #gaming #gameboyadvancesp #anbernic #retrogaming #review #nintendo
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📖Chapters
00:00 - Intro
00:37 - Price and Specs
01:40 - Battery life
02:08 - Plastic feel
02:25 - Hinge
02:50 - Battery
03:20 - Buttons
03:50 - D pad
04:31 - Other buttons
04:42 - Ergonomics
05:20 - Screen
05:56 - Speaker
06:33 - Size
07:20 - Operating system
07:35 - Game room
07:57 - RA game
09:01 - Music player
09:23 - Video player
09:44 - Apps in App center
10:14 - File management apps
10:29 - System settings
10:45 - Thoughts on the stock OS
11:31 - TV Play
12:52 - N64
13:12 - Dreamcast
13:40 - PSP
14:12 - What games play the best
15:02 - DS
15:19 - Conclusion
Thanks for Watching!

[@AishTalksTech]

After the video I added 3 layers of masking tape to the dome switches and it dramatically reduces the button and dpad noise. Update 2 layes on the dpad dome switches and 2 on the buttons has been the best so far.

[@soupnazi81]

Does it make buttons more stiff /harder to press? My main concern is button fatigue over longer sessions since I heard stock they are a bit stiff

[@akirahawk]

How difficult was it to open up and close three device?

[@AishTalksTech]

It makes it feel tighter but it actually takes less pressure to press them.

[@AishTalksTech]

It's really easy to open up, one of the easiest to tear down from Anbernic.

[@seethruhead7119]

why would you want to reduce the sound we out here buying controllers with omron switches for a reason

[@leeharris5135]

I’ve ordered the transparent black. I haven’t bought an Anbernic device since the RG353P but I had to buy this. I’m obsessed with the GBA SP.

[@AishTalksTech]

Transparente black was my first choice since it looks like my GBA sp, but the blue really grew on me.

[@leeharris5135]

@@AishTalksTech I’m a sucker for black handhelds. The transparent black matches my 353P.

[@crypto7365]

Ordered also the black one ❤

[@Pridetoons]

MY NEXT CHECK, THIS HANDHELD, LET'S GO!!!

[@nickentros]

Yo if you’re living check to check….maybe dont waste money on retro handhelds

[@JosephTheRocker]

​@@nickentrospeople generally budget based off their checks week to week, nothing wrong with waiting for the next one. Doesn't automatically deem someone as too poor for their hobbies

[@supermugiboy]

Same here.

[@Frankapotimus]

@@nickentrosyeah dude why assume? He didn’t ask either lmao let the man live

[@JaviPlayRetro]

Your videos always have the cleanest aesthetic. Great job

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I appreciate it

[@crystal_is_cozy]

This video was so chill to watch/listen to. Thanks, friend!

[@AishTalksTech]

I like to go for the chill vibes, I'm glad I was successful 😆

[@crystal_is_cozy]

@@AishTalksTech yeah, absolutely nailed it

[@meghanjames565]

Great review with some helpful information and tips.

[@AishTalksTech]

Glad you liked it

[@SirWendallGame]

Getting my transparent black SP this Thursday! It'll be my first Anbernic device! I'm excited 😀

[@AishTalksTech]

It's a solid one to start out with.

[@chocho2188]

That blue looks amazing 😍

[@Pridetoons]

We NEED an Indigo Color! Get on it Anbernic!!!

[@AishTalksTech]

I'm surprised that wasn't an option out the gate.

[@Pridetoons]

@@AishTalksTech IKR!!!

[@benpregent]

Great review Aish! My blue one is on the way.

[@PianoMan10-4]

How did you get it to ship so soon! I’ve been waiting for mine to start shipping since launch morning, ten minutes after it launched!

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I'm glad you enjoyed it

[@benpregent]

@@PianoMan10-4 Purchased it on the Aliexpress store pretty much the minute pre-orders started. Some people on reddit already received theirs

[@retrohandhelds]

Fantastic review my friend! Man I want to try that blue in person.

[@AishTalksTech]

I have a feeling you'd love it

[@adinwalls]

Very good review!

[@AishTalksTech]

Thanks Adin!

[@NeoSpartan117]

Great video Aish! Looking forward to getting mine, but hope somebody figures out a good mod to help improve those buttons.

[@AishTalksTech]

I'm sure there's going to be some kind of fix, I'm trying to find one myself.

[@DarianWade]

​@@AishTalksTech I heard in another review that you'd probably have to resolder some new, softer switches on since they're not just rubber membranes. I'm not sure how true that is since I'm not too knowledgeable on componentry, but if so that'd probably make fixing it inaccessible to most

[@AishTalksTech]

Normally dome switches are glued on so it wouldn't require soldering, some tape over them helps to dampen the noise but keeps the tactile feel.

[@djwrahfael]

I think the D-Pad of the GBA Classic was much better than the GBA SP. The clamshell design is the only thing I like in the GBA SP. Nice video dude!

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you! And I completely agree the GBA dpad is better

[@kevinmartinez996]

Love your reviews Aish

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I really appreciate it.

[@adhithyaraman]

I thought this video was coming on RH. Didn't even know you had a separate channel. Insta-subscribe. Will watch the video later.

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I appreciate it, some of my videos will still go up on RH but for now I'm focusing on growing this channel.

[@DerekGonsoulin]

Curious if Anbernic made the buttons stiffer as over time they thought they would wear down. This means they gave themselves a slight issue hoping for a longer lifespan.

[@AishTalksTech]

I don't think it was that, they have a tendency to overlook things like that.

[@oliwek70]

Hello Aish and thanks. I'm wondering about the consistency of the hardware : 04:47 about L2 and R2 : retrododo complained that pushes were not always registered if not pushed firmly enough. Did you try with the 'button tester’ window (as in 04:05) opened? So sad they don't propose more 4' (or bigger) 4:3 devices.... 3.5' doesn't really cut it for games with small text or an icone-rich interface

[@AishTalksTech]

I didn't have any input issues with any buttons, and yes I did test all of them. Maybe it was his unit ?

[@oliwek70]

@@AishTalksTech good news then, thanks

[@zayanahmed6915]

Nice to see you again, Aish! absolutely! the GBA SP had my heart and was easy to maintain in terms of pocketablity. I love the blue, personally. Great review, Aish. Keep up the good work! ♥️

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I'm glad you liked it.

[@joaquinsanchezarques4484]

I have got blue version 🎉, my first emulation console portable, only play retro in xbox dev mode

[@AishTalksTech]

It's a great one to start with

[@JT.PlaysGames]

I thought I would sit this one out since I already have the 35XX Plus, but the last few hours of the sale, I buckled. My reshelled GBASP 101 was staring in horror at me while I clicked buy now on the transparent blue 35XXSP. I feel shame.

[@AishTalksTech]

It's ok this is a safe space

[@XINN1X]

great video, although why did you keep that part in where you put text saying it was a mistake instead of just cutting it out lol

[@AishTalksTech]

That wasn't a mistake 😂 that's how long it took to boot up.

[@XINN1X]

@@AishTalksTech oh lol

[@KenzieBenzieee]

Do you have to load anime episodes onto it yourself or does it link to an app through the video feature? I think watching Bleach would be fantastic on this, in fact it totally sold me and I bought my own blue version ☺️

[@AishTalksTech]

You have to load them yourself and use the video app to watch them.

[@semirionu]

Do you use 8bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth controller in the video? I have the same one and was wondering if it would connect to the RG35XX SP.

[@AishTalksTech]

Yes I'm using the ultimate Bluetooth controller and it pairs right away.

[@semirionu]

@@AishTalksTech thanks, great review.

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you

[@user-yg2dm5sf9r]

Which device would you recommend for comfort? Arc s or trimui smart pro? Thanks!

[@AishTalksTech]

I can't speak for the trimUI pro first hand since I haven't used one, but based on what I've been told it feels very similar to a ps Vita so not bad but not great. The arc is very comfortable and feels like using a big saturn controller, between the 2 based just on comfort I would say the arc.

[@user-yg2dm5sf9r]

Thank you, Aish.

[@soupnazi81]

I like how you go into detail about lack of pivot on the dpad which no one mentions about. The Nintendo Switch Pro controller has no pivot and its not good for fighting games at all. (whole dpad pushes down) I wonder if its possible to add a pivot point by extending the center post on back of dpad?

[@AishTalksTech]

I've been trying different things with it and found that adding a few layers of tape under the dpad pivot makes a big difference, you can also add a layer or 2 to the dome switches to make them a little quieter.

[@soupnazi81]

@@AishTalksTech this is excellent to hear. Hopefully Anbernic will make some revision updates. I almost bit during the $6 intro sale but held off since I already have RG35XXH, Trimui Smart Pro, Rgb30 which were on sale. Rg35xxh is identical processor wise but I love the SP form factor. Will wait for Miyoo Flip or Flop to come out to see comparisons.

[@AngelCopout]

Bleach looks clean on this! Huh I might actually throw some Ghibli movies on this if I get a large enough card! Or some short anime series like The Big O.

[@AishTalksTech]

I know! As soon as I saw how good it looks I started thinking about what I could watch, I know I can do it on my phone but there's something cool about watching it on this

[@Cronoo]

Good review

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you

[@joshuabullard7003]

Aish, which Escaflowne dub do you prefer? Original, Funimation, or just stick with subs?

[@AishTalksTech]

The Funimation one is better but I think I have to go with subs on this one but I can go either way, I watched the original first so I have some rose colored glasses for it. Wild card the Latin American dub was great 😂 for some reason Latin American anime dubs made in Mexico are some of the best if not the best in the world.

[@joshuabullard7003]

Watched the original on Fox kids way back in the day so I definitely have nostalgia for that. The way they pronounce things in the Funimation dub bother me. Specifically Shazar and Dilandou. I've heard the Latin American sailor moon dub is way better than the American English. Great review btw.

[@cirmothe9]

Wow I didn't know escaflowne got redubbed. I think I'll have to watch my old dvds now.

[@AishTalksTech]

For the most part latin American dubs are better, especially dragon ball. But honestly with escaflowne I'll watch either way, the first time I watched was on fox kids too. I remember switching between fox kids and warner brothers Saturday mornings so I could watch digimon and Yu-Gi-Oh, but there were some wild shows on fox kids back then like fighting foodons 😂 good times.

[@robertl8069]

The RG35XX SP is fun however I keep going back to the Retroid Flip for my GBA fix

[@AishTalksTech]

The flip is awesome, I just like the sp because it's a little more portable but the flip can do so much more.

[@Sambucashot100]

If the bottoms (buttons error haha) were silent and squishy and there were analogue sticks this device would be pretty perfect. Might hold for the Miyoo flip.

[@AishTalksTech]

I'm ok without the analog sticks but I agree on the buttons, unfortunately it looks like the miyoo flip has clicky buttons too.

[@Sambucashot100]

@@AishTalksTech Ouch for Miyoo clicky buttons. Hopefully Miyoo look at the little issues that the RG35XX SP has and tries to improve on them. They have said the videos showing online are not of the final version, and the plastic quality will be improved at the least on this device.

[@AishTalksTech]

The plastic definitely looks like it's going to be improved, but the button design looks pretty final. I hope they do change it because I'm not a big fan of clicky buttons.

[@wallmachine8780]

can we install standalone mame and run game & watch games? the retroarch mame and handheld electronic core aren't great

[@AishTalksTech]

You can't install standalone emulators on the stock OS, but there should be more options with custom firmware.

[@obsessivefanboy7]

How did you get Pokemon games for the DS on this? Mine doesn't have any

[@AishTalksTech]

You have to add them to the NDS folder, go to RA games and look for DS.

[@obsessivefanboy7]

@@AishTalksTech what site did you download them from? I want to use a reliable site

[@pooooo52]

How u put gba sp logo on the screen

[@AishTalksTech]

It's a belzel that comes preloaded

[@Red-in4fx]

The blue seems lighter in your vidro compared to others', as well as in product shots. If so then I'm glad I got the black instead.

[@AishTalksTech]

It could be a difference in the cameras, color profiles used or the lighting, but I'd say it's fairly accurate to what it looks like in person.

[@soupnazi81]

This is one of the best reviews so far. Concise and you mention how the joystick and c buttons map to the stock controls with the power button toggle. Does this come with a Varcarcade system icon with vertical shootem ups like the RG35XXh where it rotates the screen & controls sideways? Wondering if its even comfortable to play this way.

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I'm glad you enjoyed it. It does have that but it doesn't rotate by default, I did try to play vertically but it wasn't a good experience so I didn't highlight it.

[@soupnazi81]

@@AishTalksTech thank you! The chin is a bit long for sideways holding to reach the buttons

[@AishTalksTech]

Yeah it just felt awkward

[@soupnazi81]

@@AishTalksTech yeah on my Miyoo Mini Plus it wasn't bad sideways and jist had to use the LR buttons for shooting. With a grip case it was a far reach and not usable. On Miyoo Mini non plus it was decent with a grip case. (the storage case that is also a grip)

[@shinobusensui9395]

It's not the GBA I always wanted... I just want a slightly bigger GBA with stacked shoulders and Bluetooth/wifi... I'd do some strange things for that....

[@AishTalksTech]

But just a slightly bigger GBA wouldn't have any use for those things 😂

[@shinobusensui9395]

@@AishTalksTech idk about that, this would be the GBA people really wanted after the A30 failed at that

[@smeff69]

I bought a silver and a blue because I couldn't decide.

[@AishTalksTech]

I don't see anything wrong with that 😂

[@smeff69]

@@AishTalksTech Which is your favorite color?

[@AishTalksTech]

I really like the clear black because I have a GBA SP in that color, but I think the blue one is the best looking one.

[@hong10ly70]

Same i Taken both

[@vhsretrogamer1664]

Was waiting for this one and once it became available I.. ordered rg35xx plus lol. Loud buttons are a huge no no to me

[@AishTalksTech]

The buttons are the big draw back on this one, luckily the plus can do everything this one can.

[@vhsretrogamer1664]

@@AishTalksTech yeah. Rg35xx line naming is confusing enough. But if I knew that sp turns out like this I would have bought the plus a while ago. I guess v90 continues to be the best chinese sp at the moment for me. Gotta see if Miyoo actually makes a good one and not something like a30

[@imokay3397]

Where can i find a full game list?

[@AishTalksTech]

I'm not sure if there is one but I would suggest checking the Anbernic website or emailing customer service.

[@devilsmaycry9877]

Does it let you play game cube games?

[@AishTalksTech]

No you would need something with a lot more power for that.

[@AdmireVega]

how good does Pokemon BW2 run?

[@AishTalksTech]

Runs great, full speed.

[@bobthebuilder9416]

Buttons + better battery + built in fan + not bigger than it is. Someone manufacture it plz

[@AishTalksTech]

Interesting why a fan ?

[@Aereto]

Unless in hot climates, the fan is more warranted in beefier SoC specs for GameCube and PS2 like the RG 556, 405V, and Cube Mainly because the chip and battery are in close proximity to each other for passive cooling.

[@almeidachannel7121]

Nice Video ! Sub & Like ! And Love Retro Gba Games !

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I really appreciate it 😁

[@ThCrimsonReaper]

Bleach!❤

[@seiyamiguelgurangoshibamur3271]

Watching this while taking a huge dump

[@AishTalksTech]

That's like half of the KZbin audience in general...

[@user-qx5xe4kp7j]

Медная пластина нужна под аккумулятор

[@AishTalksTech]

That would have been great

[@adamkane7513]

I am.not a fan of this "see though" nonsense. Fine in lingerie... ...in handheld consoles, not so much!

[@AishTalksTech]

Clear shells have been around since the Game Boy color, it might not be for you but I know a lot of people are big fans.

[@wizzel22]

Those who use Stock Firmware and buy see-through devices have lost Control over their lives. -- Karl Lagerfeld

[@AishTalksTech]

Someone needs to take the wheel!

[@engle42085]

What the heck can I just get something that plays all the games

[@AishTalksTech]

What do you mean ?

[@TooManyMonsters]

This think souds and looks awful and the plastic is cheap as hell.

[@AishTalksTech]

I disagree but you're allowed to have your own opinion, thanks for watching 😁

[@Deathscythe91]

the motherboard design is horrible videos already show the cpu hitting 80c in 20c room temperature....that battery is COOKING its very much not fine in temps , that battery will degrade like crazy

[@AishTalksTech]

Like I said in the video in everyday use the temperature hasn't been an issue, and the battery isn't making direct contact. I completely understand the concerns because I have them too but it hasn't been out long enough to actually know if it's going to be a problem, and I don't feel it necessary to create one where there might not ever be one.

[@Deathscythe91]

@@AishTalksTech yes you can know its a problem the previous rg35xx devices had overheating issues and those had heat shields if people already measure 80c with 20c environment on the cpu and thats right next to the battery , where do you think that heat will go ? not into the plastic....plastic is a bad heat conductor so it does not feel hot to the touch... lithium likes to absorb heat soooo thats what will happen and that battery will degrade at light speed or go boom and in my country its 35c on average so that cpu will already reach 95c , so thats even hotter next to the battery lithium batterys have a operating temperature of 50c , what will happen.... this is simple physics

[@AishTalksTech]

I've never heard of the xx+ or any of the new models overheating, I know the original had some issues when overcloked but not the new ones, where did you see this ? Again I completely understand the concern but at this point it's just that, if or when battery damage becomes a problem from the heat you can be sure I'm going to talk about it.

[@AishTalksTech]

Sorry I forgot to add that the highest temperature I've seen with the SP was around 40C at the hottest spot, where did you see 80?

[@valg.3152]

Aish thank you for reviewing the blue 💙i ordered mine. And can’t wait to receive mine. Love your videos and honesty. 💙🤍

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you I really appreciate it 😁

[@sabd9694]

D pad ruins it

[@AishTalksTech]

I'm not thrilled with it but I've still been enjoying my time with it

[@tonyrosario1940]

Yeah, clicky buttons that are more clicky than the Switch is a no go for me, I can’t stand playing retro game on the joycons. It’s a beautiful looking handheld, otherwise.

[@JB-js4xi]

Great review!

[@AishTalksTech]

Thank you

[@JB-js4xi]

@@AishTalksTech I want it. I just spent all day yesterday adding games to my RGB30 and by the time I actually got GOOD at it I was done. I like how you go over all the details carefully. I'm not techie and just downloading and adding roms is almost a nightmare but the payoff is worth it. I always liked GBA SP....sold my regular GBA to get one ..around 2005 I think. Since then I have 3, one with upgraded backlight. Marvelous design and back then we all wore cargo pants and cargo shorts so it was a perfect thing and fit with room to spare and battery life was really good. Still pretty a awesome system. I never liked the og GBA and to this day don't have one in my collection. Yes I do want one of these......dang it.