Anbernic RG35XX Plus: Better in Every Way

Here are my first impressions of the new Anbernic RG35XX Plus, which improves on the original in some key ways: better d-pad and shoulder buttons, a nicer texture plastic, added 5GHz WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2, and a much faster processor. And thankfully, the price increase is minimal, too.

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

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Timestamps:
00:00 introduction
00:59 pricing and specs
01:54 unboxing and impressions
03:12 d-pad testing
04:44 more I/O and battery compartment
06:09 size comparisons
07:25 stock software experience
10:56 emulation testing (up to Dreamcast/PSP)
13:23 summary and conclusion

Theme song written by Jim Gray of Our Ghosts:

^^ use code "RGC10" for 10% off your order

This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only.

#Anbernic #RG35XX #RG35XXplus #emulation #retrohandheld

[RetroGameCorps]

Some updates after messing with the device more this morning:

- Bluetooth controller works fine after manually mapping the controls in RetroArch
- HDMI out works well, but will stretch out the image to full screen (16:9 in most cases). You also can't plug/unplug HDMI while a game is running.
- RetroAchievements and multiplayer are working once configured in RetroArch (achievements are hidden by default!)
- Updating RA controller profiles will break the built-in controller configuration within RetroArch, you'll need to pair a BT keyboard to navigate the RA menu and remap all the native controls
- When charging the device in a power off state, it will show you the % charged when tapping on the power button
- Cheats, shaders, auto save/load can all be configured in RetroArch

So in all, the advertised functionality of this device seems to be working with the stock OS, but the implementation is not very intuitive. If you know your way around RetroArch you'll be fine. Hopefully custom OS options will streamline that experience. GarlicOS 2.0 is already available for it but in an Alpha (test) state, with no GPU access yet. The Koriki and MustardOS devs have also expressed interest in supporting it.

[carlostorres]

I’ve never seen so excitement around garlic and onions

[ismaelaliagabenito]

My biggest complain is no transparent purple option like the original 35XX had, it nailed that Game Boy Color feeling

[emaheiwa]

I’m so happy with my 35XX.. I finished Chrono Trigger, Links Awakening DX and Dragon warrior I 😎👌🏼

[REVOLVERE]

My order for the RG35XX is on the way! Super excited 😊

[iamtirrrred]

I have the original 35XX and bought the New Plus version just for the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. But the fact that we can play DS, PSP, and Dreamcast is a cherry on top. Sure not every game runs perfectly now but we have to wait for Garlic 2.0 to cook. It’s only in Alpha stage right now.

[Harvard_Fairway]

Just got a notice that mine shipped! I LOVE my RG35XX and this one has me very excited

[iSupermanCKi]

I'm glad these devices are getting better and better. I hope Wi-Fi and Bluetooth becomes the new norm. I currently have a Miyoo Mini Plus for easier to run games and I just replaced my Steam Deck with the OLED for everything else.

[zomgitsgabe]

Just got mine and waiting for it to come in the mail! It's going to be my first emulation handheld!

[frenzis]

anbernic is proving to always be very attentive to the criticisms made by you reviewers and every time it manages to improve its products more and more, the new rg35xx plus is an example of this. Even the latest rg405m and v are excellent low cost consoles, much improved in everything compared to the past. Excellent if only you could improve more even on the software and updates ....!

[SzymonSaysStuff]

I have a 35XX and not intending on upgrading - the device is perfect already for me - but will definitely watch it as soon as it premieres! 🎉

[jeddpearce]

GarlicOS day 1 plus Wifi, Bluetooth, and HDMI were what convinced me to order this. I love my MM+, and it feels like this can fill that same niche while also functioning as a mini retro console. It’s the perfect thing for me to bring on vacation.

[WickedGamerCollector]

Anbernic nailed it with this model i'm really positive about this one.

[prettyflyforacompsci]

I literally ordered my first handheld yesterday, lol.I can already tell I'm gonna end up with a bunch of these over the years.

[jamesstinedurf]

i'm really happy about this because i couldn't decide between the Miyoo Mini+ and the RG35XX because i wanted both WiFi and HDMI Out and now this has both. not too concerned with it being more powerful but that's always appreciated

[aldo]

Crazy Taxi on Dreamcast runs SO smooth! Really impressed with this device! I own the Miyoo Mini Plus also, and its now a toss-up!

[SavvasMohito]

I'd love to see a comparison between this and MM+ (even though I've already ordered my MM+). Let's hope community OSes take this to the next level, similarly to the previous model.

[McGregorSack]

So excited to play pokemon the way I did growing up again! Order yesterday and already shipped out allegedly. Can’t wait!

[VGLit]

I'm still going to watch the video, but it was an instant purchase. I'm so happy with my RG35XX. Thank you RGC.

[glitch]

Thanks for the review! I picked up a MM+ and leaned that direction rather than the original RG35XX mostly for netplay and retro achievements, but it felt like a close call. I miss the HDMI. Looking forward to your comparison!