Anbernic RG35XXSP Impressions: They Nailed It

The clamshell RG35XXSP is Anbernic's latest handheld, and their first with this form factor. Even though they tried a lot of new features with this one, they actually were able to stick the landing. In this first-look video we'll go over my first impressions in terms of size, look, and feel of the device.

This was a review unit sent to me by the manufacturer. All opinions are my own, they did not see this video ahead of time, and no money was exchanged in any way.

Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
01:26 tech specs
02:13 unboxing and impressions
03:34 shoulders and triggers
05:23 battery and hinge
07:09 d-pad and buttons
11:11 ergonomics
11:42 size and weight comparisons
15:32 color options
16:53 software, screen, and audio
19:43 game testing
22:05 Batocera/Knulli testing
23:27 summary (good/not good)
26:27 conclusion

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This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.

#Anbernic #RG35XX #RG35XXSP #GBA #emulation

[RetroGameCorps]

The price has been confirmed at $59 + shipping at launch.

[Agumon]

I'm excited for this system, NOT because I am interested in a clamshell device, but because this system being popular will mean that my two current 35XXH devices, and my 35XX Plus are going to get a TON of custom firmware support. So glad they used the same chip in this one.

The Anbernic being larger than an SP is fine, especially when you consider it's more than 25 times the performance.

[matt_HM]

I am so glad they removed the logo! Between this and the “RG Cube”, Anbernic are really knocking it out of the park lately! Can’t wait for your full review!

[AlteredCarbons]

brother.. you just made my day, Blaster Master was a game i played as a kid on the nes for hours on end. i forgot the name but as soon as it came over the screen the flood of "THATS IT THATS IT THATS IT!!!!" HIT ME!! and i just went and looked and its 100% the game i was looking for. thanks

[Soaches]

I know we say this with basically every console we buy, but it feels like *this* is what I've been waiting for. This feels like *the* handheld companion for me.

[naughtpoh]

I just have to say, I am so appreciative for the handheld community. Stumbling upon this hobby played a part in dragging me out of a dark place. Russ, you are so great at what you do to get us a most thorough initial first impression of all of these upcoming devices. So many of us here share the joy of what is basically an epic rebirth of the SP. Thanks Russ, this video made my day.

[fg-]

Incredible. MuOS with sleep on close would probably make this my final handheld. This is perfection.

[eschatonik]

As an older gamer, I gotta say: Beware stiff buttons. Not only for short term fatigue, but more importantly for accelerating repetitive stress problems in your wrists and arms. Light actuation force is def. the way to go and there is a reason the big names like Nintendo and Sony keep the buttons light.

[theremingtonjames]

The best place on YT for this type of content

[michaellee]

I was genuinely thinking of getting a GBA SP for my commute, and then this comes along.... Perfect.

[_Flux]

I can't wait for the Anbernic RG35XXPPSSPPCSX2 to release next year 😲😲

[dirtbag_jim]

Anbernic are really on a streak rn. The recent 35XX devices have already been big hits (especially the H), and the SP looks like it's likely to blow them out of the water in popularity.

On a side note, I really appreciate the quality of life improvements anbernics been implementing in their stock os. Honestly with the quick shutdown/close to sleep functions I likely won't even be bothering with cfw (which would be a first for me).

[godminnette]

I have never been so excited. I literally just rewatched the videos ANBERNIC had on their channel for this.

[EricCarter]

For the full review would you be able to test the clap sound when the clamshell closes. The GBA SP always had this very satisfying clap when it would close. So a sound comparison of the two devices closing in the full review would be very much appreciated.

[izakshuvo]

Ahh, the age of the flips have begun! 🎉
Pulling on my heart strings ❤

[Pridetoons]

This is the review I've been waiting for! The GBA SP is my childhood Handheld along with the Gameboy Color. 😌

[eldercristian]

Suddenly we are back 21 years in time... What a time to be alive! It's like an old piece of hardware coming back to life it makes me feel nostalgic yet somehow glad but also it's a bit scary. Thanks for another great video, Russ!

[gluttonousmaximus]

20:55 Do note that stock firmware uses a tap on the POWER button to switch between analog stick and D-pad controls with certain emus in RetroArch. By the way they updated to RetroArch 1.18.0, so you might want to consider a GBA gpSP core wireless adapter-based netplay tutorial.

[retrohandhelds]

LOVE the button pressure test, would love to see more of this. Fantastic vid, looking forward to this one! - Stubbs

[AkumaKumaa]

For people who concern the CPU too close to battery: there's actually have around 2-3mm space between the CPU and battery, and you can stick a 0.3 - 0.5 mm thick thermal pad to improve the warm problem together to ensure it still won't touch the battery.