Anbernic RG35XX SP: A First Look

With their latest addition to their 35XX series of gadgets, Anbernic has caused quite a stir in the community. Presenting the RG35XXSP, a clamshell gadget that shares the GBA SP's form factor. I'm here to share my initial thoughts about the gadget with you and determine whether placing a preorder is worthwhile.

The RG35XXSP uses the same H700 and Mali G31 GPU as the prior XX devices. Anbernic has provided the specifications below; please read Andrew's post here for additional information on the internals and specifications.

  • Display: 3.5-inch, OCA, 640 x 480
  • Processor: Allwinner H700, Quad-Core ARM Cortex-A53, 1.5GHz
  • GPU: Dual-core Mali G31 MP2
  • RAM: 1GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: 64GB TF/MicroSD, Dual microSD card slot, Supports up to 512GB
  • Connectivity: 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, 2.4G wireless controller, HDMI-out
  • Battery: 3,300mAh, rated for up to 8 hours
  • Charging: 5V/1.5A, supports C-to-C charger
  • Extras: Magnets in the upper and lower casing to support magnetic closing.
  • Dimensions: 8.9cm x 8.5cm 2.7cm
  • Weight: 0.192kg = ~192g
  • Software: Linux

First Thoughts

This is really a first assessment; our more thorough evaluation and a Zu video will be released shortly, so stay tuned! The item feels fantastic in the hand. It feels suitable for someone with larger hands, even though the bottom half is a little thicker than the original GBA SP. Additionally, the hinge is an excellent duplicate of the GBA SP. Because you can push the screen further back and change the angle at which you want to use it, the hinge is far superior to the Retroid Pocket Flip.

The transparent black model offers a matte texture feel rather than a smooth plastic sensation. Reaching any of the buttons doesn't cause me any pain, and it feels comfortable in my hand. I don't see any strange viewing angles, and the screen is in decent condition.

The Buttons

The buttons on this device have generated a lot of discussion, given that they are categorized as clicky and maybe challenging to push. I'm here to verify that this is accurate. My search for a device with a similar button feel was unsuccessful; the Playdate was the closest I could locate.

The 35XXSP has a significantly louder click. However, the force necessary to press the buttons is equivalent to that of a Miyoo Mini Plus. Pressing them requires some force, but if you don't obsess about that kind of thing, you can get used to it. Bringing this gadget to bed might not be the best option if you want to avoid disturbing your sleeping mate.

Even though the D-Pad is clicky, I really enjoy it. It pivots quite well, but it clicks just like the face buttons. The 28XX was the last device I had a hands-on review with, and this one's button size fits my hands much better.

The rest of the buttons have the same clickiness: the shoulder buttons are clicky, but not as loud and clicky as the 28XX; the power button, start, select, function, reset, and volume buttons are all very loud (yes, volume is a button and not the SP slider). You can watch a video of me pressing the various buttons above.

Things I Like

When I got the transparent black model, I was thrilled since Anbernic had produced a video showing how the front cover could be removed to create a variety of styles. This was not as simple as I had previously assumed—I had thought that you could clip it off. To open it, you must take out the screws and the five rubber membranes that are attached to the screen.

Another fantastic feature is the sleep feature, which turns on when the gadget shuts off. Based on my short experience, this feature is incredibly cool and functional. The lid contains magnets that notify the device whether it is open or closed. The ability to close this and know that my game will resume when I open it again is a game-changer for someone with a newborn.

Although it is a minor detail, a pre-applied overlay that resembles the GBA SP bezel appears when you launch GBA games with RetroArch. Although I am aware that this is only on RetroArch, it is something a bit more that evokes memories.

Performance

Don't expect a difference in performance because this device has the same chipset as other devices in the XX series. You can play some games on the PSP, Dreamcast, and N64, but not all of them or even all of them at full speed. You can play SOME of these again. Some of the button layouts can be challenging because analog sticks are not used.

Although I had to remap the analog stick to the D-Pad, Wave Race on the N64 worked well. I tried God of War: Ghost of Sparta for PSP, and it wasn't as horrible as I had anticipated! The opening cutscene was well-executed, but the gameplay lacked fluidity and was not exceptionally playable. Can you increase performance by adjusting the settings? I didn't attempt that for this first impression, but it's possible.

Performance on lower-end PCs is the main factor in my use case. For the GBA, SNES, NES, Genesis, and other similar devices, this will be my everyday vehicle. Even playing RPGs on the PS1 is enjoyable. Once more, you should be aware of what to anticipate if you have another Anbernic XX gadget.

Final Thoughts

Do I recommend this device because I like it? My response is that, so far, I really like it, and depending on the circumstances, I might suggest it. Do you already have a favorite portable device that does the same function? You don't need this, then. Avoid this as well if you detest clicking buttons. If you can ignore some of the drawbacks, though, this is fantastic if you adore the GBA SP's form factor. I heartily recommend it for that.

I am selling my Miyoo Mini Plus since I only need one portable device with that kind of capability. If we focus on every flaw in a gadget, it will never be flawless. Go ahead and play some of your favorite vintage games if you want to feel nostalgic! I'm eager to watch how CFW will develop in the coming future.

How to Order

The RG35XXSP, which retails for only $64.99, went on sale on May 17 at 3 AM PDT.

Anbernic comes with a USB-C charging cord, screen protector, and 64GB microSD card. A 64GB+128GB combo microSD card is available for $79.99 for those who would like a second card.

Anbernic is already offering $6 off any configuration when the RG35XXSP goes on sale! As a result, the price drops to less than $60, which is a fantastic bargain. You should take advantage of this offer as soon as possible because it will only be available for three days.