This Retro Handheld is BOTH Weird & AMAZING! Anbernic RG Cube Hands On

The Anbernic RG Cube is a new contender in the world of retro gaming handhelds. But is it all it's cracked up to be? This video dives deep into the RG Cube's specs, performance, and design to see if it lives up to the hype. powered by the Unisoc T810 backed by 8Gb of ram is it worth buying?
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#gaming #handheld
00:00 Introduction
00:11 Unboxing the RG Cube
01:08 Overview RG Cube
02:16 Specs RG Cube
03:27 Software RG Cube
05:57 Buttons and overall feel RG Cube
07:13 Gameboy emulation RG Cube
08:34 GBA Emulation RG Cube
08:54 Sega genesis testing RG Cube
09:13 SNES Testing RG Cube
09:28 PS1 emulation RG Cube
09:45 N64 Emulation RG Cube
10:15 PSP emulation RG Cube
11:22 Dreamcast and D-Pad Testing RG Cube
12:03 An Issue i found RG Cube
13:00 First Impressions

[@danielrentube]

for those who are expecting this, there is a huge quality control problem on the screen, there is almost screen bleeding in every single machine produced in the first batch.

[@tomb6576]

I really appreciate the return to a smaller form factor, I'd love a DS clone that doesn't break the bank

[@ferdgerbeler8494]

even if the second screen is tiny and low res, it would still be beyond awesome just to have it in something little, pocketable, cheap, not ayaneo, etc.

[@tomb6576]

@@ferdgerbeler8494 very much feel you with this! I have a steam deck here and I love it but it's kinda huge! I miss being able to just throw things right in my pocket

[@AntonioRodriguezSilver]

Gets a 1:1 screen handheld, doesn't test a single game with a vertical aspect ratio...

[@aaronjames7266]

🥴

[@stavrosspartalis860]

Im with you Antonio. This would work so good with invaders 1942/5/x Aero fighters etc etc. Still needing bezels but I think retro handhelds suit more screens with 4:3 even 1:1 aspect ratio rather than 16:9/10. These would be more suited to Android/pc handhelds with powerful chipsets.

[@wuggleworld]

Haven't got to that point in the video yet but based on similar 'why didn't you test that feature?' moments I've had with some of ETA Prime's past videos, this point does not surprise me.

[@tdata545]

Russ from RetroGameCorp has.

[@abrahamramirez8882]

Can this run the more demanding PS2 games ? I want to be able to play the WWE wrestling games , burnout 3 , shoalin monks

[@nectronx]

I am waiting for mine… so excited….

[@NickBaysingar]

This is such a weird little oddball device and I love it. But man, they really should have done a Gamecube themed colorway for this thing. You can't just name your handheld "Cube" and then not sell it in Gamecube colors!

[@cmbaz1140]

I wish they did gamecube orange or the classic purple/blue...

[@chrisharrison3374]

I saw Purple mentioned and assumed it must be a GC themed colourway...then I saw the actual colour.

[@SansINess53]

Yeah.. its kinda mid hope anbernic adds a new color.​@@chrisharrison3374

[@TheMonster83]

Waiting for mine. Went for the Black.

[@thegreatscode]

I really want this. It's a little quarky but the fact that it could play up to PS2 and GC makes it worth the cost. The only thing keeping me from getting it is that I already have a Odin 2 Pro

[@deadpain2483]

Why sd card is on top of heat exhaustion hole? This can heat up sd card and damage the files or make it corrupted

[@TracLack]

Yes I hear a few handhelds have issues with SD cards, like overheating and not reading cards, etc. Should be looked into

[@rb806gaming2]

I noticed this too while watching this video. I just might skip this one.

[@georgepierre3594]

Wish someone would test the thermal throttling, of the unisoc t820, vs the dimensity 900/1100

[@mariussm7797]

What I like about this is the fact that is running android. You can even play old PC games running different emulators already showed on this channel.

[@robertpintaric7354]

I can tell you my 5yrs old saw it and said "I WANT ONE!!!!" 😄 I kinda like the white one.

[@DeathMetalThrasher]

I'm interested. I'll get one sometime this month. The famicom color looks nice, white too.

[@JustAFatGuyInTX]

Anbernic really is afraid of HDMI with devices this size. It's weird how the Retroid Pocket 2s can fit one but this can't.

[@maxducoudray]

The USB port does support video out.

[@solkalibri1376]

It will add to the price.

[@icerink239]

HDMIs are licensed. Adds to the cost

[@marioparty17]

@@maxducoudray that good news

[@StarmenRock]

Rg35xx h has hdmi tho

[@SansINess53]

Even tho the HDMI is not working, I'll buy this device as this device already does my needs and let me tell you the least important thing for me is HDMI cuz this is a handheld and I'll use it as one.

[@erraddict]

Does it run PS2 and GameCube well?

[@Eragonfrost]

Yes runs most PS2 and GameCube well, look up the RG556 game tests the Cube has the same exact specs

[@SansINess53]

Tbh the black borders are noticable but it doesn't feel off, like literally RGB30 was better compared to the RGB20SX due to that cuz the controls were at the right and left.

[@Miggwilson]

What emulators does it come with? What emulators did you add? Can you have two emulators that play the same titles? I'd like the easy way to set this one up since I am not a techie but loved your video. I'm getting one.

[@devamaria2010]

In the next video u need to test shumps-Tate arcade games - 3DS & NDS which is what this system was primarily made for.

[@I.M.T.S]

I saw Taki's community post three in the morning, immediately got up, turned on my PC, and ordered the grey one right away. This should complement my RP4 pro nicely. But I kinda wish they released two versions, one with dpad on the top.

[@lynxshorts99]

What's the most affordable and best anbernic device in your opinion, ETA prime?

[@Bob_Smith19]

RG35XX H is the best bang for the buck. Stock firmware works really well. Custom firmwares are still in development but work well and will only get better.

[@sommelierz7345]

I can confirm that RG35xx H is really good device. Got mine on sale and doing some CFW stuff. At the moment testing Knulli (batocera lite fork) on it and so far no major issues. You can even play some Dreamcast games on it.

[@GiggaGMikeE]

Im split between this and the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. I already have a Steam Deck, but i want a more portable emulating machine, specifically for handheld emulation(including DS and 3DS) and can comfortably play up to GC generation. I wish there were more hesd to head videos on these two models

[@marvinbavarian3236]

Was waiting for your review on the Cube

[@MrFlashpan]

I'd say £125 for the device, It's £50 over priced.

[@LazyTeeRex]

It's cheaper than the RG556 thats using the same cpu 😂

[@MyCatTookOverMyChannel]

​@@LazyTeeRex a smaller screen better be cheaper

[@youraveragedillon5958]

Lol it's really not overpriced

[@MrFlashpan]

@@LazyTeeRex doesn't the RG556 sport an OLED screen? this has a tiny IPS screen, BIG difference but not that much in price.

[@ezg8448]

Too much unneeded RAM, adds to the cost. 4 GB is already plenty enough.

[@Chopstick2U]

I dont have any other Android devices (aside from my many phones), so im curious to see a variety of android games and how they scale on this screen.

[@3up3rn0va]

Anbernic on fire recently. Their SP model is very good I am so impressed with that thing!

[@Merklynn]

I like that beige one, I am tempted. I find the rg556 is so big I never use it. Shame it isnt oled though

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

No ps2, GameCube, DS or vertical shooter testing? You have a powerful chip there and didn’t test anything over Dreamcast’s

[@VampireJack10]

He does say he wants to do some GC testing in the video. This will come.

[@ZeiZei990]

8:36 Are those nice 1:1 bezels and crt frames for every different console anywhere available for download? I would like to use them on my rgb30 and cant find them anywhere.

[@jonathonearl482]

Actually, I think all the color options look awesome! I just can't get one at this time because I've just purchased 2 previous ANBERNIC devices and 1 PowKiddy device. The RR28XX, RG35XXSP and PowKiddy RGB20SX. Still financially recovering from those previous purchases, lol! I'll just have to keep the RG Cube in my wishlist and purchase one later.

[@daekunkiller]

I am still wondering if multi-player can be possible for PS2/GameCube and not just arcade.

[@StarmenRock]

Probably if you use the otg port

[@frownmastr]

you had CPS 2 and 3 listed, can tiu play those well? having a square screen would be dope of arcade games. Im also curious if with the touch screen if it can run ds games?

[@OzymandiasWasRight]

This has the same specs as the 556 it will handle up to PS2, 3DS, and Wii. Yes. Simple answer is yes.

[@dustinsimoneau4780]

How well can it run Winlator?

[@azucarilla11]

I’m thinking the same.

[@Chopstick2U]

Specifically, I want to see it run splore in Pico 8 via Winlator.

[@IvonaldoLima]

I would love to play Minecraft on this little guy with that square screen. I could remember when I played Minecraft on the PS3 on my CRT TV. It's a shame that I can't find any video testing this game.

[@michaeldemers2716]

For that price I recommend the Backbone Clone and a New Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra with a case. I do need something for Pico 8 but this isn't it. I will know when I find it. The D pad needs to be a cross on top for me.

[@andrewcronkhite8088]

Can you test GameCube's rogue squadron Or Wii's Mario Galaxy please.

[@Leopez02]

If it dosen't run The Gamecube or Wii it's not worth it

[@EliasPfaiffer]

Never!

[@danlopez3251]

In your opinion what is the best handheld and console you recommend for the $

[@michaeldemers2716]

DS would be nice to see. Possibly the English Translation for Game Center CX 2. I bet it would be perfect.

[@Power2Fit]

Hey ETA, have you ever tried to run LaunchBox or BigBox on one of the Android consoles, Pocket 4 Pro? Maybe someday you will make some material and see how it runs on these stronger handhelds ? 💪🏻 best channel on YT 💪🏻

[@leozar69]

How is GameCube gameplay? Can Chibi-Robo run smooth?

[@carwynvan]

Maybe odd sounding, but could you show how well this can run winlator (if at all) for running some indie steam titles

[@andyhello23]

One of these companies should release one of these with a vertical screen, like a5-6ince vertical screen I would consider buying one These they are releasing are all repeating what really exists I am glad they are trying all sorts Would be nice if they could release a hand held with a 5-6 inch vertical screen for vertical games on these things. Just as a niche product

[@pp-zn6kt]

hello? RG556, RG cube, rp4pro, in android 13 system platform to run PS2,wii,NG,NS emulator games. That one is the best? Please advise

[@Leopez02]

That all-new RG Cube no matter what it's One of Anbernic's Weirdest looking small retro hand-held, it's nice RG Cube is The Fastest too and emulators works a surprisilly good on it! If PS1 and PSP works good on Anbernic RG Cube, will PS2 or even PS3 works on it? I've saw there is PS3 Emulator on it. It dosen't matter how small that new Anbernic android hand-held is, it look cool with a beautiful color and joysticks are on The Same Positions than on Nintendo Switch and I love it! That video was good, keep going you do great job thank you ETA PRIME! 💜

[@116darkshooter]

What the quickest way to light this one on fire? Any tips?

[@yorkyalmanzar8959]

Drill into the battery!

[@michaeltaylor4817]

Wish these things had a loop for wrist straps. Seen some slip outta hands by accident.

[@user-qq6vi4eq3p]

waiting for mine, Got the Beige White..

[@michelvanbriemen3459]

Seems like there's a substantial light bleeding issue on the top right of the screen which according to Taki may be an inherent design flaw.

[@BahhBahhBrownSheep]

Telling him won’t do anything, ETA doesn’t care about honesty

[@michelvanbriemen3459]

@@BahhBahhBrownSheep oh it's not about him, it's just general information about the product.

[@Curlyman172000]

I would love the sound on the stereo speakers

[@IDONOTKNOWANYMORELMFAOO]

i am looking for a android handheld/ gaming phone and this fits (def not in my budget as i just spent all my money on a steam deck but in the future)

[@paynomind81]

i am kind of wavering between this cube and the steam deck. what deck did you end up going with? have you played it yet?

[@s6rite62]

That would be pretty hard to get just get a flagship phone and a controller attachments

[@TracLack]

@@paynomind81With the deck I’m pretty sure you can run all emulators plus Steam games. If you don’t have any steam games I’d probably steer away from the Deck.

[@paynomind81]

@@TracLack ideally i want an end all device, with powerful emulation and the ability to play my steam library

[@TracLack]

@@paynomind81 The Deck is right up your alley then. I bought it for your same reason as I plan to use the deck for emulation and my Steam library. Of course there’s better handhelds if you’re also looking for power but Steam Deck is very affordable and casual. Haven’t gotten around to using it cuz life keeps getting in the way.

[@WesleyLynch]

Seems like they should make a 16:10 version, sell it as an xbox companion or cloud device, on top of all the retro capabilities

[@viron_r]

I'm waiting for the heatsink mod! 😄

[@centtimmy4951]

I was wondering if it could remote steam play 😅

[@fabio.domingos]

today is the end of the world. ETA pointed something negative about a product 😂😂 anbernic must have forgotten the payment for this one.

[@airic21]

Id like something that can play castlevania rebirth and has a really nice front end any suggestions?

[@ToyKeeper]

D-pad is stiff... but _how_ stiff? Like, how many grams of force to press the buttons and d-pad?

[@Subzeranea]

cant wait for mine!!!!

[@greenprotag]

This is an odd one. Charming in it's own way

[@SansINess53]

RG cube is a better name cuz I'm bored of numbers. Like literally RG SP is better than RG35XXSP you know what I mean now? I love anbernic's devices but the names are mid expect for some devices

[@user-ql6gm9ev3g]

Why u not doing ds n 3ds game testing?

[@751126thomas]

I would like to see if this device can emulate 3DS Resident evil Revelations with gyro aiming function

[@nach0x]

isn't this the Anbernic version of the Retroid pocket 2S ?????🤔

[@ThisToLink]

No Vertical testing No DS testing No 3DS testing ????

[@dunkdon158]

Seeing god of war on a pink leapfrog device with rainbow joysticks is jarring lol

[@anbernicguy]

Anbernic better release a 6 face button version.

[@ogsmileybill8549]

Could you steamlink with this or do any cloud gaming?

[@goblinphreak2132]

Grey looks nice but that "red" looks brown and yeah not for me.... the "purple" you mentioned looks pink on my oled. Its like maybe it was base purple, but with the silver flake to make it metallic it comes off as pink.... the white is meh so If I bought this I would only buy the black one....

[@ralphmcmahan2139]

Does Dead Cells like the 720sq screen?

[@moritzschwaighofer1609]

I'll buy one

[@yorkyalmanzar8959]

So other than the screen is this better than the rg556!?

[@andrewshatalin9666]

Why not go straight into 3DS, PS2 and GameCube? Testing GB to SNES is not really that interesting.

[@im_organic_mojo]

Waiting for the temu $6 copy

[@esameitsi7837]

Fan noise?

[@Setzer777]

Pass. D-Pad should have been on top and they should have gone with a Linux OS.

[@nec85]

Lack of pico-8 is a big disappointment for this device I think..

[@sendoh873]

Because it uses Android. Big bummer. There is eventually going to be Android support for Pico-8, it's planned, but it won't be for quite a while

[@EightPieceBox]

If you don't have a Powkiddy RGB30, get that first. I ordered the Cube because the RGB30 is my favorite small handheld because I like arcade games. This is just upgraded hardware, but I expect I will prefer ArkOS over Android.

[@nec85]

@@EightPieceBox I’ve RGB30 😉 It’s quality little bit sucks but great screen and pico-8 is very good on it..

[@azucarilla11]

Exists a tutorial with winlator to install pico 8

[@effortvalue]

I think this is a pretty well alternative to Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, if you want to pay less.

[@lexluthermiester]

@Anbernic Seriously? 1:1 Screen ratio? No thanks. That's a hard-core pass! What were you people thinking?

[@cletp758]

I feel like they're just shuffling & recycling parts.

[@snart]

1:1 screen but can't run pico 8 natively. :(

[@hong10ly70]

How much ??

[@Phoenix6652]

I'm dieing to see how F-Zero GX runs on this thing. Yeah I know that game is very taxing, but that's why I want to know how it runs. This game is my absolute favorite GameCube game ever. 😁

[@Saltykernel]

Honestly yeah that's my benchmark tester for GameCube 👌

[@JayGaines5150]

You forgot to mention the price $ with the specs

[@j.a.styles547]

No ps2 and GC emulation?

[@theshinkuakuma]

can test robot alchemic drive for PS2? its a rare game

[@moritzschwaighofer1609]

hdmi output ???

[@austintse5719]

I would like to see PS2 games running on it. In particular FF10 + FF12.

[@mrwoodcat]

no 3ds test no vertical game test 😀its kind of weird when other people specifically talk about that lol

[@lucianfenrir3666]

please try the poco pad for ps2

[@You068]

$?

[@kenduwilliamson5436]

Cool. You got your regular voice back. This device is awesome

[@tappersreviews4677]

Wish it had OLED.

[@darktinyhe]

Perfect for pico-8 except the price

[@Diggsiii]

What's the name of the game playing @ 8:58 anyone?

[@RafaCoringaProducoes]

Altered beast beat em up arcade version, there are some romhacks as well

[@RafaCoringaProducoes]

Altered beast arcade version

[@Diggsiii]

@@RafaCoringaProducoes Dope thanks man!

[@alceearsberry4150]

Does it have video output🤔thru that usb type c port

[@bhume7535]

I've a USB-C phone hub. Guess I'll find out

[@zakyrath]

same chip as the rg556 which has video out thru that port so it should

[@persona2293]

Mali 8GB RAM Will not work for switch and winlator like emulation very well, or not at all.

[@Name_not_visible]

Video got uploaded at 480p

[@PureBavarian]

Bizarre screen size. If they made something like this with 4x3 screen and GCN buttons I'd be all over it

[@RiccardoGrc]

does it run gamecube?

[@mekatronixnemesis]

Hagane se ve muy bien

[@jacobporter419]

What a causal, you don't even test the reason why people would buy a handheld like this in the first place DS and vertical arcade games!

[@nickstarlingch]

I would be interested if the sticks weren't asymmetrical. Why are these handheld manufacturers so lame about that!?