Anbernic RG406H First Impressions: A Wider Cube

The RG406H's actual release, which was ostensibly intended to compete with the Retroid Pocket 5 and Pocket Mini, surprised me, but we knew that Anbernic had at least one more device due this year, and I wouldn't be shocked if we saw at least one or two more before the year 2025 flipped.

Anbernic RG406H Specs

I won't bore you with a lot of unimportant facts because you have most likely already read our coverage of the RG406H. Here are the specifications for Anbernic's newest portable, though, in case you're unfamiliar with it.

  • Display: 4-inch IPS, 960 x 720, Touchscreen
  • Processor: Unisoc T820
  • GPU: Quad-core Mali-G57
  • RAM: 8GB LPDDR4X
  • Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2 (Internal) / microSD Card Slot (up to 2TB)
  • Battery: 5000mAh (7 hours estimated battery life)
  • Connectivity: 2.4GHz Wifi, Bluetooth 5.0
  • Extras: 5V/2A Charger / RGB Joystick Lighting / Hall Joystick / Hall Triggers / USB-C DisplayOut / Six-Axis Gyro / Active Heat Dissipation / 3.5mm Headphone Jack
  • Software: Android 13
  • Dimensions: 174 x 81 x 17.9mm
  • Weight: 265 grams
  • Colours: Black / White / Transparent Purple

It should not be shocking to learn that this is essentially the same as the RG406V but with a horizontal form factor.

Anbernic RG406H: What I Like

The first thing I noticed about the RG406H is that it resembles an RG Cube expanded out. The RG Cube and RG CubeXX are two of the more comfortable handhelds I've used this year, so that's definitely not a bad thing.

In contrast to the RG406V's smooth plastic feel, Anbernic even went so far as to add a textured sensation to the back of the grips. I was also presented with a software upgrade after completing the basic setup procedure. Since upgrades typically don't come until at least a few weeks after launch, this is the first time I've witnessed that occur.

This might have been an instance of Anbernic "rushing," but not in a negative sense. In particular, if it intends to compete directly with the Retroid Pocket 5 and Pocket Mini, it wants to get these handhelds into people's hands as soon as possible.

Stubbs noted in his unboxing that he didn't like how loud he felt the L1 and R1 buttons were. The contrary is true for me; I've discovered that I like using the mechanical switches that come with different handheld devices. My sleep routine is already a mess, so even while I doubt I'd use the RG406H in bed while the wife is sleeping, I don't typically play games in bed.

Additionally, I was pleased to notice that the screen is in perfect condition, unlike the original RG Cube. For an LCD screen, the RG406H's display is clear, sharp, and looks really damn good. Although it doesn't precisely match the Retroid Pocket 5's OLED panel, that's okay.

Anbernic RG406H: Playing Games

Regarding gameplay, I haven't had enough time to try out and experiment with other games. Nevertheless, I activated some Pico-8 Celeste in RetroArch and inserted my microSD card into the RG406H. I don't know whether it's just me, but the D-pad's finish feels different.

I haven't had this issue with the RG Cube or the CubeXX, but my thumb was slipping a little. However, neither of those gave me the White colour, so I'll have to wait until I've had over an hour to play around before making any final decisions.

Nevertheless, I wanted to run a brief test to see if I could get any Switch games to load. I enjoy playing a round or two of Hades occasionally, even though I know the Unisoc T820 won't be able to handle more demanding titles.

I was able to play for ten to fifteen minutes with an average frame rate of 18 to 30 frames per second using the most recent version of Sudachi. Note that since this is with the T820, I am unable to experiment with alternative Turnip Drivers to improve the stability of the game. Although it was still playable in the early stages, that will not remain the case as the levels go harder.

The height of the joysticks is another issue about which I'm not entirely sure. They indeed sit much higher than I had anticipated, though I'm not entirely sure why. Although they still sit high, the concave inner surface feels better after I replaced the sticks' tips with those from the Retroid Pocket 5.

Anbernic RG406H: Conclusion

I've just been using the RG406H for an hour or so, but so far, I'm pleased with what I'm seeing. I would have loved to see Anbernic employ other face buttons, if I'm being picky. Instead of merely using the dull white buttons with grey writing, at least add some colour to the ABXY.

Keep an eye out for any other views I may have about the RG406H in the near future. Furthermore, other members of the RH team also received the RG406H, so I'm not the only one. That being said, you may anticipate seeing more ideas and viewpoints in the near future.

While the exact date of Anbernic's RG406H pre-order opening is still unknown, you can prepare by bookmarking the URL in the button below. You'll be ready to go as soon as Anbernic goes live because this will direct you to the landing page on their website.

To remind you, the Anbernic RG406H will cost $167.99 at retail. Pre-ordering it within the first 72 hours, however, will result in a $10 discount, bringing the total price down to $157.99.