THE Best Handheld of 2024 (Anbernic RG556 Review)

In this video, we're going to review the Anbernic RG556, the most powerful Anbernic right now and talk about why it might just be the best handheld of 2024.

-----------------------------------------------------------
Support Me:

Recommended Handhelds/Accessories/Stores:

Note: Some of my links may be affiliate links, which could earn me a small commission if you purchase through it, at no extra cost to you.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Timestamps
00:00 - What is this?
01:45 - The Great
09:44 - The Good
11:46 - The Average
13:25 - The Bad
18:59 - Pricing
20:39 - RG556 vs. RP4 Pro
22:28 - RG556 vs. Odin 2
26:01 - Wrap Up

[alenkiu]

Thanks for this concise yet thoughtful review of the Anbernic RG556. The comparison between this and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro & Ayn Odin 2 are especially well put and on point. Many of the less thoughtful reviews out there straight on slap "THE BEST HANDHELD" sticker on Odin 2 or Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (when comparing to RG556) just because the specs on paper looks prettier or the performance is better.

Also, in my country, I can get Anbernic RG556 at a special deal for $168, while Ayn Odin 2 goes for $487 for the pro package. Kinda no brainer, but your review video sealed the deal for me. Thanks once again. Subbed!

[PictishOne]

I've got a Legion Go but wanted something more manageable for my vacation so bought this last nite. I'm blind as a bat so the bigger screen was a must for me. I'm looking forward to playing my Amiga collection on the plane. Thanks for the review, both you & Russ helped a ton.

[laya]

I'm literally watching this on my RG556

[megalon]

I really hope they fix the snapping problem with the sticks because it makes a number of 3D games nearly unplayable. I read it's a software issue and the problem went away entirely when GammaOS was installed on another Anbernic device with the same sticks. I believe it because sticks of a similar size on other devices don't work this poorly.

[ndMaikel]

Just got the RG556 for $118... I want a device for PS2, although it might be not not the right device for that purpose. But I couldn't resist for that price. It's a great addition to my RG35XX H

[Wistz]

I don't regret my Odin 2 base, but I'm still thinking about upgrading my og Steam Deck to a 1TB SSD. I haven't had a lot of time for gaming lately, and definitely want to spend more time on single player titles. I'm still amazed I can play FF-X on my Odin 2 at 1080p tbh. Sometimes I just turn it on and sit at the title sequence, lol...

[AishRios]

Great review joey! I agree the 556 is awesome and im very suprised by how much i like it.

[mikeyneeley]

At first I regretted choosing the RP4 Pro over this, but now I am pretty happy with my choice. Especially after hearing about the sticks and terrible wifi. The RP4 is just so versatile. With a grip it is much more ergonomic, but it can be removed for portability. I also love that I can plug it into a USB C monitor and use the console as a controller, all while charging the device. The best part of this hobby is that there are so many choices and you can find a device that best fits your needs.

[meredithzinni]

I agree with the comfort of the Trim UI Smart Pro and the RG353PS. Those have been my favorites but I just received the RG556 and this may top the list. I was about to install emulation station but will wait until I try the built in software since you gave it high praise. Thanks for the detailed review!!

[ThibaultCabanas]

Nice review as always! Your unit may have a wifi defect since I get consistently around 240 Mbps with mine. This is the best of my dozen of devices, I even prefer it over my Steam Deck since it’s much more portable and the screen is fantastic. I don’t have the budget for an Odin 2 right now, but who knows I may end up with one instead along the road!

[ZeroXeroZX]

I chose this because I got it for $108 on a crazy tiktok deal with shipping and taxes. 😂

[nickentros]

I was certainly intrigued by the 556, but after the Yuzu drama, I decided to go full send and just got an Odin 2 and it’s awesome

[mdr]

Respect that you're able to change your mind on this device and be open about it. I actually passed on it at the low preorder price and have some regrets. But it's anbernic...a better one is only a month away right 😂 I'd like a gray one, with an euro snes color scheme and skittles, and better sticks. Maybe put the d-pad on top. Perfection 🤞👌 In the meantime I have an rg35xx h on the way for 50-ish € - a crazy value proposition I could not resist.

[samsungfan]

Looks like a great device but I just got the RP4P so I can’t justify getting this unfortunately…. Unless it’s an Odin 2

[jamesoglover]

Thank you! I was waiting for this review!

[timothybrown]

I guess I’ll just use my phone with a telescopic controller for streaming. But for retro games, this has been great.

[waerart]

For the horde! Thanks for helping me cement my decision to buy this :)

[olivermirez]

For me I would consider a device with the best features of the RG556 and the Retroid Pocket 4 pro, even paying a little extra. But until that device exists, and for the price difference, I think the Odin 2 pro is the king of the hill. It's better to save a little more money and get a future proof device, that has great controls and a screen that even if it's not OLED it's still quite nice and it's bigger than the RG556. Great video as always, Joey.

[bigstabby]

I was torn between this and the RP4P. Ended up going with the RP4P for pocketability and the attachable grip for comfort. Just getting into emulation and it and I'm more amazed at all the options to have your entire childhood library in your pocket.

[joeh]

Was just watching your setup guide a little while ago. Looks like a nice device for the price.