Taki Jr. zeroed out my calipers when they were open, and I didn't notice 😂 Real data: GBA SP DPAD = 17.85mm RG SP DPAD = 21.35mm GBA SP ABXY = 7.7mm RG SP ABXY = 8mm
The fact that we are nearly a decade into USB-C and companies still can't bother to include the two resistors required to properly follow the USB-C Spec and support C to C charging is ridiculous. It is literally just two resistors that need to be connected between the CC1 and CC2 pins of the connector and ground. When the charger sees that it knows to output 5V.
I wonder if it is related to the charge port issues in addition to battery death just after a few days. There's no way to assess, as there wasn't any sign it would just stop
On one side i totally agree, on the other side android phones have been able to emulate those for 6+ years, along with more demanding consoles, which i also think is super cool. Not all phones can manage yet but many top spec phones can emulate most gamecube games, and weaker phones can often play certain titles. Heck many Wii games can run easily on phones too! PSP, Switch games, and sometimes even PS2 game can run! We really are in an amazing time for on the go gaming!
I can't wait to see a DS/3DS clone Edit: I own a modded 3ds XL already. Personally I'd like an emulator with this form factor to take advantage of fast forward and save states for RPGs. Also not spending $1000 on on the Aya neo flip...
@@eatereater6312 Not necessarily, AYANEO brought the Flip to market recently. Making an ARM-based copy of that should be a no-brainer for the handheld industry.
That transparent model is so pretty. I was so tempted but ended up going with the silver for that pure nostalgia. Excited to get my hands on this thing.
@@eunuvreau imho I think the transparent models dissipate heat away from the device better according to the testing. If the outer shell of the transparent model gets hotter than the solid model but inside temps are the same in a "couple minutes" of running GoW, in the long run i think that would mean that the solid colors "project heat back" into the components and that transparent models let heat escape better. I rather have warmer hands than problems with a device due to heat issues. Edit: ow and retro game corps had sound problems with the hinge in his solid colour model. In my experience with different devices transparent models feel smoother to the touch. So maybe because of rougher/stiffer plastic on solid models that produces squeaking in a hinge. So both reasons in mind I decided to buy a transparent color (blue, because i want to play it outside and black stuff gets hot in sunlight quicker). I want this anbernic device to survive as long as my GBA SP (tribal) has. Got it as a present for my birthday from my parents at release and it still works fine, haven't changed or repaired any components. Would be nice if a clamshell emulator held up as long.
@@s1th_THWM i really appreciate the time to answer do detialed ,i will get blue and silver than ,glad i haven t yet ordered .btw any solving to the heating?
I think its a good thing it is a bit chunkier. I have fairly average sized hands for a european and the og SP gives me cramps these days. It was great when I was 14 but not now. The Anbernic is an SP for those of us that grew in size but not mentally lol
hey taki, the temp readings of the silver case console are likely different due to the reflectivity of the paint. light based thermometers aren't reliable on reflective surfaces. a piece of paper tape on the surface would give a much better reading. another great vid btw
I've seen all the first impressions videos i can for this device and your's always come with all the relevant information for me. Thanks for your hard work.
I hope one day soon they'll consider making Oled versions of this, just recently got an AMOLED GBC kit and let me tell you GB/GBC games look absolutely stunning on it! Other than that this console looks really, really solid!
@@No_True_Scotsmanthey always are an only non TFT display. Also, you can tune display settings in emulators quite easily and no current tech is better at imitating older displays than OLED
@@BahhBahhBrownSheep yeah but we weren't talking about emulators we were talking about an OLED screen for a real GBC. No software to adjust there unless it's in the screen controller, but then what's the point of having oled if you adjust the benefit away anyway? Idk I'm skeptical
who needs the case? the whole point of having a flip is so you can just shove it in your pocket and flip open when you need to game. ordered the blue. I never thought I'd ever say it but well done, Anbernic.
Ive been waiting for this. A decently powerful handheld in a gba sp form factor without any sticks to get in the way. That can also basically become an emulator console with bluetooth. Fantastic.
Quality of handhelds for 50-70 bucks is amazing. Same is true of NGC/PS2 capable machines but I'd love the price difference not to be so great between the 2.
I might just be paranoid but that battery issue seems like it could be a bigger problem in the future. Crappy buttons I can do, funky software I can do…. But battery heat issues stress me out….
Hi Taki, thanks for the great review! Btw, regarding sleep mode issues on stock - for newer systems like Dreamcast, N64 and PSP, stock OS has an analog to dpad toggle which is mapped to power button. So the power button does not put the device to sleep on these systems. The other thing about taking long to get into and out of sleep - you had the quick shutdown enabled. In this case the power button doesn't put the device to sleep, but instead it does a "fake" sleep like Onion does in Miyoo mini - save state and turn off. So the long time getting back to the game is actually turning on the device and loading last played game with auto load state turned on. Bato/Knulli don't have either of these features so the sleep there is real, however device energy consumption is about 5% per hour since kernel is not open source and proper sleep is not reachable for cfw devs at this time. Stock OS with quick shutdown turned off, does behave the same regarding sleep (including the energy consumption)
Good to know it has a virtual analog stick button, I was actually curious if they ever updated the 35XX+/H/SP software with this. At this point they should put a lil more funds into cleaning it up and bring it to every device as AnbernicOS. It just needs a kiosk mode in the scripts similar to Batocera.
Hey Taki. The stuttering is because the game is not actually true 60hz, you need to go into the retroarch settings and set the core to run LCD at native game refreshrate. Then your stutters are gone.
@@rosg_07 No problems with mine so far. I'm always making sure to charge it by only using the original USB cable that it comes with it. Just an FYI for anybody thinking of using fast charging cables and or plugs, don't do that. I don't use any plug adapters since I think it only supports 5V/1.5 A charging so I just plug it into my PC or my power strip that has USB A ports to charge it. I pre-ordered mine from the Anbernic website because it was cheaper than getting it on Anbernic's AliExpress store at the time. I think it is still cheaper on Anbernic's website if I'm not mistaken.
Great review. Thanks for pointing out some quality of life issues I haven’t seen elsewhere. No deal breakers but better to know before finding out after purchase.
28:34 Wow, that's Gauntlet: Legends. I played that on an arcade when I was a kid and I never forgot. Always wanted to find it somewhere. Thank you! It's on Dreamcast!
Yeah I've always thought the silver was so bleh. My first ds was that silver and it's the only time I've bought a newer version of a system I already owned. Didn't get the lite, just got another ds that was blue because the lack of color bothered me that much lol. I went with transparent black!
@@IceHedge I agree that on a nintendo console the silver is pretty bland, but in the context of nostalgia with an emulator console I think it's a solid option considering many of us probably had that color as kids lol.
Man watching this gave me so much nestolgia. The form factor is amazing, the only thing preventing me from insta buying is that I just got a 3ds so i can play all the Nintendo handheld games on the go with me. Tempting to abandon that for this, but i would miss my ds gams.
Looking forward to my silver one getting delivered, would love to see an updated video if you manage to find some kind of heatsink to make a decent difference.
A very tempting buy however I am going to wait out for a 2nd generation model. I'm really hoping they can slim down the chassis. We're almost in the year 2025, everything should have USB-C by now. The only reason I can think of not including it is if they were trying to cut costs. However, I think most enthusiasts would be happy to pay the difference for it. My Miyoo Mini Plus is my most used handheld and it's got it.
Why no handheld reviewer mentions or turn off threaded video will always be a mystery to me. Less input latency, smooth screen scrolling without stutters or frame pacing issues and this SoC can play up to PS1 with it off.
@@TakiUdon I was speaking in general terms, I know the stock OS is a bit wonky, but no one ever mentions this setting and all the 35XX OSs have it ON by default.. I know that you know about the setting, I mean, I think you're the best RUclipsr about handhelds, it's just odd that you nor any other mentions it ever...some I KNOW for a fact that don't even know about RetroArch settings besides the basics though, it shows.
I had it in my cart, and then you got to the lack of USB PD. Might as well be micro USB at that point. I even have a handheld vacuum and drill that charges with USB PD, I'm not buying something without in 2024. That battery placement over the CPU is also yikes
@@SToad it's not even a "trick", adding those resistors is literally the proper method for a manufacturer to implement a USB-C port on a product like this (a low power device which only wants 5V). It is currently violating the specification by not having them. It's also the only difference in PCB design between implementing micro USB and USB-C. We are nearing ten years of USB-C and companies are still designing their products like they're using Micro USB.
@@OmairArifMaybe it’s the thermals that prevented them from adding it. I find fast charging produces a pretty significant amount of heat and if your playing while charging it could effect performance or worse
I'm here today to say that hinge doesn't hold. A week ago I noticed cracks on both sides. Yesterday a piece of plastic came out. I had to glue the metal piece to shell so it holds, so far my system is working better than anbernic. Note that i've this handheld about 15-20 times. The material is not good enough to hold the rotations, hopefully they'll improve that in the future
The system does support this as a setting in the options. It can also turn fully off as an other option. I wish there was a setting where it goes to sleep when you close it, then turns off after a specified time, since it drains about 4%/h when in sleep.
@@godminnette2 Oh that's cool that it can go to sleep by closing it. If it shuts itself off wouldn't you lose whatever progress you were making in the video game?
@@bland9876 The shutoff mode saves what you're doing first before turning off, and will pick up there when you turn it back on. The downside of doing that is that it takes about 20 seconds to boot back up, whereas coming out of sleep takes only a second or two.
Great review! Did you try a blutooth controller with analog controls to see if you can use that in the menu? 9:50 Really appreciate the temperature readings for the transparent and opaque. I'm still gonna get the black transparent though, put an insert to customize it and I'm golden.
Keep in mind that his thermal readings may not be accurate due to the silver model having a slightly reflective finish. He should have put matte tape on both units and read that for consistency.
This thing would be a home run if the buttons weren't so stiff, and if Anbernic would follow the code license and release sources for the community to build upgraded OSes with. Joysticks or sliders would be nice too.
They gave out the source to one person before, but that dev didn't publish it. I don't know why they act like their stock code as anything worth stealing at this point...
Might be a dumb question cause you showed that multiplayer works with two RG35XX but I’m wondering if that means you can “Trade” Pokémon from one another using this method. if so this is such a cheaper way to try and complete a Pokédex as opposed to buying the actual copy’s of the games
I think Anbernic realizes they have a killer lineup right now with the XX series, 35xx, 35xx plus, 35xx h, 28xx, 35xxsp. All interchangeably using the same software (muOS is great by the way, works day one on the 35xxsp). Anbernic will probably pump out more of these, this is an insane cashcow.
For the wobbly shoulder buttons you could likely pop them out and apply a drop of superglue to the side of each one then sand the glue down until they fit snug.
I wonder if there are mods that could help woth the heat thing. Or maybe a different battery that runs cooler in the future. I got the RG35XX Plus and i honestly feel this will be my only handheld for the next 10 years, and while the warmth of the system doesn’t bother me, i hope i could mod it to run cooler some day still
Hey Taki, can you share link and infos about that tiny portable 16:9 screen you've used for video output? I remember you did previously in a video but I don't remember which one
I was so close to getting this one, since the SP was my first new handheld when I got it and I have so many good memories with it, but even back then the form factor made my hands cramp up after a short while and I really don't think i could comfortably play with it nowadays, so I ordered the H instead.
I bought one today. The transparent black one. Can’t wait to play Sonic Advance 1-3, Sonic Battle, Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories (yes, there’s a GBA kingdom hearts game), Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! and oddly enough the Dreamcast versions of Sonic Adventure 1&2. Yes, the RG35XX SP has enough buttons for those games. And yes, it apparently can play Dreamcast games. It’s far from the optimal way of playing Sonic Adventure, but it’s a convenient way to have it in your pocket and it is kind of a novelty for me.
9:48 I think I saw on another video review of this device that the dodgy bluetooth controller connection while connected to an external display is fixed when the device is plugged into power (I can't tell from this specific shot if it is or not).
Another option is to just get a DS Lite and a flash cart. You'd have native DS emulation with 2 screens and stylus, and it has emulators for many low end consoles. Sure this has way more features. But it is an option.
Probably won't happen anytime soon. Too many people keep supporting these things that are more or less the same devices for the past decade with slightly different form factors, and those people frequently, and very vocally, look down on anyone looking to use physical cartridges. Between the monetary incentives of continuing to not try at all, and that their current primary customer base tends to look down on anyone that likes physical media (but for some reason won't just buy a Steam Deck or something and call it a day, instead buying tons of the same product over and over), companies like these aren't given much reason to improve. We're just going to be stuck with SNES, NES, and Genesis handhelds for the foreseeable future.
Does the RGXX+ have the wireless 2 player option as well, and if so is it compatible with the RGXXSP? I already have an RGXX+ and it would be hard to justify buying the essentially the same unit with a slightly different form factor, BUT if I could play multiplayer games with my kids, then I could see it being worth it.
just a little FYI the color correction on retroarch is for the original landscape GBA since it had a significantly diffrent color gamut, most early GBA games chose their colors with that gamut in mind making them look way more colorful than they were supposed to on SP models (EX: metroid fusion)
22:20 what would this ideally support a Windows filesystem if it runs Linux. The in-kernel filesystems are going to give you better stability & performance over the proprietary, slow Windows options.
glad to see some emulation handhelds without analog sticks. it's fine that there be ones with analog sticks out there but like, up until the PSP handhelds didnt even have analog sticks. theres plenty of games to emulate that dont need the sticks. plus it really helps the form factor when emulating something like the SP being a clamshell thanks to no stick getting in the way.
Wow, this is actually rather affordable! I was thinking it would be out of reach for me since I don't want to buy anything $100~200 when I already have another handheld.
The Type C to C issue is such a turn off for me along with the heated up battery. Really wanted this to be the one I finally get but guess it ain't it.
@@leonardocosta6038 I got mine about a week after this comment. I love it! Well worth the price. I think it took about 3 weeks but I’d imagine it would be a bit faster these days. I’m still waiting for my A30 and I ordered that in march -_-
I think one of the main advantages of using a more powerful processor in these consoles is being able to take advantage of shaders to make retro games look better. But, strangely, I don't see many creators exploring this .-.
I honestly regret spending $200 on the Analogue Pocket a few years ago. It’s cool that it plays the actual game carts, and it’s obviously a much more premium device, but I feel like RG35XX SP is something I’d actually be more comfortable taking with me due to its form factor and lower price.
In all honesty, I wish they'd make one of these handhelds with 2 screen like the NDS and give you the option to use a stylus to change the games on GBA and other non-DS games. That would be pretty sweet. Would also give them more room to work with, as far as battery capacity/size limitations.
Russ mentioned that this could be a good companion device to the Steam deck because you cannot fit the steam deck in your pocket. But I would argue if you are going to go down the 2 handheld route the Miyoo Mini V4, GKD Pixel or Anbernic RG280V would be a better fit since they are smaller and you already have the steam deck for longer at home sessions. That said I think the 35XX SP is better if it's your only device.
8:19 WOW! Not that I'd actually use it. But the fact that the 2 devices literally behaved as if you were sharing a console and screen. Does that work for all emulators?
The Miyoo version will probably be easier on the thumbs due to softer buttons, and also has joysticks... but the CPU is slower and the software is probably going to be significantly worse.
I've read elsewhere where Gamma wants to port GammaOS Core (Android TV) to these H700 devices. It's taken a back seat to the 3566 handhelds; but, eventually it's expected to be ported over. GammaOS Core is Android TV. That's really useful for us because most televisions aren't touchscreens. That means that Google spent a lot of money optimizing it to work with buttons and d-pad on a remote control. That also means it'll work just fine on touchscreen-less consoles like this RG35XX-SP.
Yeah, I've been on the fence since I've got a Miyoo Mini Plus as well. I really like the SP form factor but don't think I can justify buying it on the grounds of it not being too much of an upgrade from what I have already.
Taki Jr. zeroed out my calipers when they were open, and I didn't notice 😂
Real data:
GBA SP DPAD = 17.85mm
RG SP DPAD = 21.35mm
GBA SP ABXY = 7.7mm
RG SP ABXY = 8mm
Turn on sleep mode 😁
Sleeping issues or work?
Do some meditation
Can any one of you who got it,
just close the freaking screen while the game is running to see wtf happens
bruh, please go to bed
The temptation to buy a silver one and stick some tribal black stickers on it for the nostalgia trip.
So ugly..yet so cool😆
I want that one to paint like the NES SP
Ummmm… no.
go for it
Mine was silver with an all black top 😊 Might just go ham with a sharpie on it 😂
The fact that we are nearly a decade into USB-C and companies still can't bother to include the two resistors required to properly follow the USB-C Spec and support C to C charging is ridiculous. It is literally just two resistors that need to be connected between the CC1 and CC2 pins of the connector and ground. When the charger sees that it knows to output 5V.
I wonder if it is related to the charge port issues in addition to battery death just after a few days. There's no way to assess, as there wasn't any sign it would just stop
could not agree more. it's absolutely ridiculous. pretty much the _only_ thing i dislike about my Miyoo Mini +.
Big tech hates this guy!
agreed
I have no idea what you said but I agree
So surreal to see PS1 and Dreamcast running on a device with this form factor.
Having just played Soul Calibur on it in my car this morning at around 50-60fps I'm completely blown away by this system!
Owning the funkey S and having played ps1 on that I’ll tell you that it gets weirder 😭😂
On one side i totally agree, on the other side android phones have been able to emulate those for 6+ years, along with more demanding consoles, which i also think is super cool. Not all phones can manage yet but many top spec phones can emulate most gamecube games, and weaker phones can often play certain titles. Heck many Wii games can run easily on phones too! PSP, Switch games, and sometimes even PS2 game can run! We really are in an amazing time for on the go gaming!
Not really.... modern smartphones have been powerful enough for years to play those systems with emulators
The fastest phones now can even play some actual PC games....
I can't wait to see a DS/3DS clone
Edit: I own a modded 3ds XL already. Personally I'd like an emulator with this form factor to take advantage of fast forward and save states for RPGs. Also not spending $1000 on on the Aya neo flip...
Looking at about 7 years til that happens
@@eatereater6312there are fold android phone so i dont know man
I''m pretty sure, they have no shame in stealing ideas.
There is the AYANEO Flip DS.
@@eatereater6312 Not necessarily, AYANEO brought the Flip to market recently. Making an ARM-based copy of that should be a no-brainer for the handheld industry.
That transparent model is so pretty. I was so tempted but ended up going with the silver for that pure nostalgia. Excited to get my hands on this thing.
Hey,because the heat right?
Same
@@eunuvreau imho I think the transparent models dissipate heat away from the device better according to the testing. If the outer shell of the transparent model gets hotter than the solid model but inside temps are the same in a "couple minutes" of running GoW, in the long run i think that would mean that the solid colors "project heat back" into the components and that transparent models let heat escape better. I rather have warmer hands than problems with a device due to heat issues.
Edit:
ow and retro game corps had sound problems with the hinge in his solid colour model. In my experience with different devices transparent models feel smoother to the touch. So maybe because of rougher/stiffer plastic on solid models that produces squeaking in a hinge.
So both reasons in mind I decided to buy a transparent color (blue, because i want to play it outside and black stuff gets hot in sunlight quicker). I want this anbernic device to survive as long as my GBA SP (tribal) has. Got it as a present for my birthday from my parents at release and it still works fine, haven't changed or repaired any components. Would be nice if a clamshell emulator held up as long.
@@s1th_THWM i really appreciate the time to answer do detialed ,i will get blue and silver than ,glad i haven t yet ordered .btw any solving to the heating?
Is this a clam shell version of the RG35XX (H)?
I think its a good thing it is a bit chunkier. I have fairly average sized hands for a european and the og SP gives me cramps these days. It was great when I was 14 but not now. The Anbernic is an SP for those of us that grew in size but not mentally lol
I sold my sp with Pokemon Ruby Sapphire and emerald for a Wii and GameCube games just because I know this exists now
hey taki, the temp readings of the silver case console are likely different due to the reflectivity of the paint. light based thermometers aren't reliable on reflective surfaces. a piece of paper tape on the surface would give a much better reading. another great vid btw
you know a handheld is good when taki finally makes another handheld-focused video about it
RIP, I need to address this in a future video.
@@TakiUdonjust make the content you want to make and makes you happy
I've seen all the first impressions videos i can for this device and your's always come with all the relevant information for me. Thanks for your hard work.
I hope one day soon they'll consider making Oled versions of this, just recently got an AMOLED GBC kit and let me tell you GB/GBC games look absolutely stunning on it! Other than that this console looks really, really solid!
Wouldn't everything be extremely over saturated?
Wouldn't everything be really over saturated?
@@No_True_Scotsmanthey always are an only non TFT display. Also, you can tune display settings in emulators quite easily and no current tech is better at imitating older displays than OLED
@@BahhBahhBrownSheep yeah but we weren't talking about emulators we were talking about an OLED screen for a real GBC. No software to adjust there unless it's in the screen controller, but then what's the point of having oled if you adjust the benefit away anyway? Idk I'm skeptical
Not if the OLED will have PWM flickering.
most professional, detailed, and concise video review i’ve seen. instant sub. well done dude.
who needs the case? the whole point of having a flip is so you can just shove it in your pocket and flip open when you need to game. ordered the blue. I never thought I'd ever say it but well done, Anbernic.
Taki video is the one I waited the most on this handheld
Ive been waiting for this. A decently powerful handheld in a gba sp form factor without any sticks to get in the way. That can also basically become an emulator console with bluetooth. Fantastic.
Quality of handhelds for 50-70 bucks is amazing.
Same is true of NGC/PS2 capable machines but I'd love the price difference not to be so great between the 2.
I might just be paranoid but that battery issue seems like it could be a bigger problem in the future. Crappy buttons I can do, funky software I can do…. But battery heat issues stress me out….
It's basically an issue with the entire 35xx line. Thankfully it's a removable battery so it can be replaced when you need to
That silver one is fire.
Hi Taki, thanks for the great review! Btw, regarding sleep mode issues on stock - for newer systems like Dreamcast, N64 and PSP, stock OS has an analog to dpad toggle which is mapped to power button. So the power button does not put the device to sleep on these systems. The other thing about taking long to get into and out of sleep - you had the quick shutdown enabled. In this case the power button doesn't put the device to sleep, but instead it does a "fake" sleep like Onion does in Miyoo mini - save state and turn off. So the long time getting back to the game is actually turning on the device and loading last played game with auto load state turned on. Bato/Knulli don't have either of these features so the sleep there is real, however device energy consumption is about 5% per hour since kernel is not open source and proper sleep is not reachable for cfw devs at this time. Stock OS with quick shutdown turned off, does behave the same regarding sleep (including the energy consumption)
Thanks for that
Good to know it has a virtual analog stick button, I was actually curious if they ever updated the 35XX+/H/SP software with this. At this point they should put a lil more funds into cleaning it up and bring it to every device as AnbernicOS. It just needs a kiosk mode in the scripts similar to Batocera.
Quick shutdown is the default behavior on this. The magnets put it into the normal sleep mode, but they also don't work that consistently.
Woah, that means we can play Pokemon Stadium 1 & 2? Nice!
in knulli can we toggle on analog?
I'm definitely going to get one of these. I'm on my 2nd Powkiddy v90 because I love the format. Thanks for bringing this to my attention.
Hey Taki. The stuttering is because the game is not actually true 60hz, you need to go into the retroarch settings and set the core to run LCD at native game refreshrate. Then your stutters are gone.
Ordered one this morning for my hubby...maybe I shoulda got one for me too.
Are the temps something we need to worry about? Is it worth putting some thermal paste or some other fix on the CPU?
up
This review video quality is unmatched. Great job.
The only one in whole RUclips who made an hdmi test, thank you so much
Im sorry Taki, I only made it to 1:31in this video before I had to pause and find somewhere to order me one of these bad boys!
Saw this vid and bought it instantly in the transparent black, can not wait 😁
I'd been looking for a GBA SP for a long time but I know that I could buy not good ones. I both RG351P and RG350XX. And now this comes. Damnit.
I really wish this came in red. The red SP is such a beautiful handheld!
I bought the silver Anbernic SP model around time of launch. Can't wait
Any problem with? Where did u bought?
@@rosg_07 No problems with mine so far. I'm always making sure to charge it by only using the original USB cable that it comes with it. Just an FYI for anybody thinking of using fast charging cables and or plugs, don't do that. I don't use any plug adapters since I think it only supports 5V/1.5 A charging so I just plug it into my PC or my power strip that has USB A ports to charge it. I pre-ordered mine from the Anbernic website because it was cheaper than getting it on Anbernic's AliExpress store at the time. I think it is still cheaper on Anbernic's website if I'm not mistaken.
Thank you, Taki. Your analysis showed us a lot of aspects to consider about the new 35XXSP.
Bloody good critique lad and oddly, I completely agree.
You really did interesting tests on this ( ex : input latency with controller, button quality, screen comparaisons, many thanks ).
Great review. Thanks for pointing out some quality of life issues I haven’t seen elsewhere. No deal breakers but better to know before finding out after purchase.
28:34 Wow, that's Gauntlet: Legends. I played that on an arcade when I was a kid and I never forgot. Always wanted to find it somewhere. Thank you! It's on Dreamcast!
Nintendo 64 tends to be considered the best version of that game
Love your reviews always man
I appreciate that!
I grabbed one! I"m only sad they didn't have solid black/red/blue like the original SP color lineup
I'm a sucker for atomic purple, but the transparent blue is close enough for me to buy that
Yeah I've always thought the silver was so bleh. My first ds was that silver and it's the only time I've bought a newer version of a system I already owned. Didn't get the lite, just got another ds that was blue because the lack of color bothered me that much lol.
I went with transparent black!
@@IceHedge I agree that on a nintendo console the silver is pretty bland, but in the context of nostalgia with an emulator console I think it's a solid option considering many of us probably had that color as kids lol.
The blue one is so nice thoughh
I like the button sounds. I have them on on my other RG35XX's. Now I have to get this one as well because I want the clamshell form factor.
Man watching this gave me so much nestolgia.
The form factor is amazing, the only thing preventing me from insta buying is that I just got a 3ds so i can play all the Nintendo handheld games on the go with me.
Tempting to abandon that for this, but i would miss my ds gams.
Looking forward to my silver one getting delivered, would love to see an updated video if you manage to find some kind of heatsink to make a decent difference.
A very tempting buy however I am going to wait out for a 2nd generation model. I'm really hoping they can slim down the chassis. We're almost in the year 2025, everything should have USB-C by now. The only reason I can think of not including it is if they were trying to cut costs. However, I think most enthusiasts would be happy to pay the difference for it. My Miyoo Mini Plus is my most used handheld and it's got it.
Seeing Crash Bandicoot run on this thing is insane.
Pressing the button button once toggles dpad to joystick controls for dc or n64 games that require it.
Why no handheld reviewer mentions or turn off threaded video will always be a mystery to me. Less input latency, smooth screen scrolling without stutters or frame pacing issues and this SoC can play up to PS1 with it off.
It's off in this entire video. This device still has stuttering issues without that the company needs to address.
@@TakiUdon I was speaking in general terms, I know the stock OS is a bit wonky, but no one ever mentions this setting and all the 35XX OSs have it ON by default.. I know that you know about the setting, I mean, I think you're the best RUclipsr about handhelds, it's just odd that you nor any other mentions it ever...some I KNOW for a fact that don't even know about RetroArch settings besides the basics though, it shows.
Agreed. Threaded video was one of the first things I noticed that made the device feel "off" and stuttery. Why it's enabled by default confounds me.
Remind me of that gb sp I used to have but now it screen got broke
It was a year ago
Regardless of the flaws, I can’t help but agree with your title, “shut up and take my money”
I had it in my cart, and then you got to the lack of USB PD. Might as well be micro USB at that point. I even have a handheld vacuum and drill that charges with USB PD, I'm not buying something without in 2024.
That battery placement over the CPU is also yikes
For real, companies cheaping out on USB is insane. Maybe you can do the resistors trick and it will 5V charge via PD, but meh
@@SToad it's not even a "trick", adding those resistors is literally the proper method for a manufacturer to implement a USB-C port on a product like this (a low power device which only wants 5V). It is currently violating the specification by not having them. It's also the only difference in PCB design between implementing micro USB and USB-C. We are nearing ten years of USB-C and companies are still designing their products like they're using Micro USB.
For 70$ with shipping il take the risk on the battery placement
@@EragonfrostI wish i could have that mindset over $70. Im still set on that anything over $20 is a luxury item.
@@OmairArifMaybe it’s the thermals that prevented them from adding it. I find fast charging produces a pretty significant amount of heat and if your playing while charging it could effect performance or worse
I'm here today to say that hinge doesn't hold. A week ago I noticed cracks on both sides. Yesterday a piece of plastic came out. I had to glue the metal piece to shell so it holds, so far my system is working better than anbernic. Note that i've this handheld about 15-20 times. The material is not good enough to hold the rotations, hopefully they'll improve that in the future
i mean the c-to-c charge can be fixed with resistor cost like few cents, but seem like they just outsource the charging board.
I'm tempted to buy this just because of the form factor, however the RG35XX-H is my favorite so far. Love Anbernic stuff.
Sleep should work by closing and opening the system not by a button press. The Nintendo DS was able to dot his all the way back in 2005.
The system does support this as a setting in the options. It can also turn fully off as an other option. I wish there was a setting where it goes to sleep when you close it, then turns off after a specified time, since it drains about 4%/h when in sleep.
@@godminnette2 Oh that's cool that it can go to sleep by closing it. If it shuts itself off wouldn't you lose whatever progress you were making in the video game?
@@bland9876 The shutoff mode saves what you're doing first before turning off, and will pick up there when you turn it back on. The downside of doing that is that it takes about 20 seconds to boot back up, whereas coming out of sleep takes only a second or two.
@@godminnette2 yeah naturally will take longer to boot from cold rather than just being asleep.
Mine is on the way! Can't wait.
Great review! Did you try a blutooth controller with analog controls to see if you can use that in the menu? 9:50 Really appreciate the temperature readings for the transparent and opaque. I'm still gonna get the black transparent though, put an insert to customize it and I'm golden.
Keep in mind that his thermal readings may not be accurate due to the silver model having a slightly reflective finish. He should have put matte tape on both units and read that for consistency.
Great review as always. Wish they also made a 4" screen version (SPXL).
This thing would be a home run if the buttons weren't so stiff, and if Anbernic would follow the code license and release sources for the community to build upgraded OSes with. Joysticks or sliders would be nice too.
They gave out the source to one person before, but that dev didn't publish it. I don't know why they act like their stock code as anything worth stealing at this point...
Might be a dumb question cause you showed that multiplayer works with two RG35XX but I’m wondering if that means you can “Trade” Pokémon from one another using this method. if so this is such a cheaper way to try and complete a Pokédex as opposed to buying the actual copy’s of the games
The GBA SP was one of my favorite consoles when I was a kid, so this seems like my kind of thing 😁
7:32 I was watching this in a pitch black room and when you started this viewing andle test I got scared thinking my phone is about to fall
LOLOL
I think Anbernic realizes they have a killer lineup right now with the XX series, 35xx, 35xx plus, 35xx h, 28xx, 35xxsp.
All interchangeably using the same software (muOS is great by the way, works day one on the 35xxsp).
Anbernic will probably pump out more of these, this is an insane cashcow.
Now the only thing they need is a replacement for the RG280V
is this like a lot better than the miyoo mini?
You seem knowledgeable. I’m so green i piss grasst. May I ask Which one is the best in Aug 2024?
@@k-cThey all have the same hardware and are able to run the same things so I think it’s up to personal preference
For the wobbly shoulder buttons you could likely pop them out and apply a drop of superglue to the side of each one then sand the glue down until they fit snug.
I wonder if there are mods that could help woth the heat thing. Or maybe a different battery that runs cooler in the future.
I got the RG35XX Plus and i honestly feel this will be my only handheld for the next 10 years, and while the warmth of the system doesn’t bother me, i hope i could mod it to run cooler some day still
Hey Taki, can you share link and infos about that tiny portable 16:9 screen you've used for video output? I remember you did previously in a video but I don't remember which one
I was so close to getting this one, since the SP was my first new handheld when I got it and I have so many good memories with it, but even back then the form factor made my hands cramp up after a short while and I really don't think i could comfortably play with it nowadays, so I ordered the H instead.
I bought one today. The transparent black one. Can’t wait to play Sonic Advance 1-3, Sonic Battle, Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories (yes, there’s a GBA kingdom hearts game), Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! and oddly enough the Dreamcast versions of Sonic Adventure 1&2. Yes, the RG35XX SP has enough buttons for those games. And yes, it apparently can play Dreamcast games. It’s far from the optimal way of playing Sonic Adventure, but it’s a convenient way to have it in your pocket and it is kind of a novelty for me.
9:48 I think I saw on another video review of this device that the dodgy bluetooth controller connection while connected to an external display is fixed when the device is plugged into power (I can't tell from this specific shot if it is or not).
Question, why haven't they made a gba cartridge that functions as a gba emulator yet that can just play whatever games you want on a standard sp?
Very tempting to throw this on credit and get it now. Thanks for the review!
Insane details and review.
This is why Taki is number 1, despite my bias towards smaller channels
Another option is to just get a DS Lite and a flash cart. You'd have native DS emulation with 2 screens and stylus, and it has emulators for many low end consoles. Sure this has way more features. But it is an option.
I really hope some of these devices get cartridge slots one day. I want to emulate with my actual cartridges and get retroachievements.
Probably won't happen anytime soon. Too many people keep supporting these things that are more or less the same devices for the past decade with slightly different form factors, and those people frequently, and very vocally, look down on anyone looking to use physical cartridges. Between the monetary incentives of continuing to not try at all, and that their current primary customer base tends to look down on anyone that likes physical media (but for some reason won't just buy a Steam Deck or something and call it a day, instead buying tons of the same product over and over), companies like these aren't given much reason to improve.
We're just going to be stuck with SNES, NES, and Genesis handhelds for the foreseeable future.
Does the RGXX+ have the wireless 2 player option as well, and if so is it compatible with the RGXXSP? I already have an RGXX+ and it would be hard to justify buying the essentially the same unit with a slightly different form factor, BUT if I could play multiplayer games with my kids, then I could see it being worth it.
I love the Gameboy Advance SP logo on bottom now that its on the screen
just a little FYI the color correction on retroarch is for the original landscape GBA since it had a significantly diffrent color gamut, most early GBA games chose their colors with that gamut in mind making them look way more colorful than they were supposed to on SP models (EX: metroid fusion)
22:20 what would this ideally support a Windows filesystem if it runs Linux. The in-kernel filesystems are going to give you better stability & performance over the proprietary, slow Windows options.
Super badass I ordered one
Also the screen on your snes gba has some bad bleeding in the corners, do a IPS!
Nice review! What were the exact “tweaks” that you did to make GOW play smoother? Please and thanks!!
glad to see some emulation handhelds without analog sticks.
it's fine that there be ones with analog sticks out there but like, up until the PSP handhelds didnt even have analog sticks. theres plenty of games to emulate that dont need the sticks.
plus it really helps the form factor when emulating something like the SP being a clamshell thanks to no stick getting in the way.
OMG WHERE DID YOU GET THAT GREEN SEE-THROUGH GAMEBOY COLOR I NEEED ONE
Wow, this is actually rather affordable! I was thinking it would be out of reach for me since I don't want to buy anything $100~200 when I already have another handheld.
DIY shouldn't be expected when buying these handhelds. 🍻
The Type C to C issue is such a turn off for me along with the heated up battery. Really wanted this to be the one I finally get but guess it ain't it.
Bought mine right when the order window opened. Hopefully it doesn't take TOO long to get to me!
Did you get it? If so how long did it take? Cheers :)
@@leonardocosta6038 I got mine about a week after this comment. I love it! Well worth the price.
I think it took about 3 weeks but I’d imagine it would be a bit faster these days. I’m still waiting for my A30 and I ordered that in march -_-
Where you got the shell for your gba sp it is so cool !
It’s a tempting buy but I’m waiting to see if the miiyo mini flip ever materializes
I think one of the main advantages of using a more powerful processor in these consoles is being able to take advantage of shaders to make retro games look better. But, strangely, I don't see many creators exploring this .-.
I honestly regret spending $200 on the Analogue Pocket a few years ago. It’s cool that it plays the actual game carts, and it’s obviously a much more premium device, but I feel like RG35XX SP is something I’d actually be more comfortable taking with me due to its form factor and lower price.
In all honesty, I wish they'd make one of these handhelds with 2 screen like the NDS and give you the option to use a stylus to change the games on GBA and other non-DS games. That would be pretty sweet. Would also give them more room to work with, as far as battery capacity/size limitations.
I love the SP design. If I didn't just buy a steam deck two weeks ago I might've considered this
I mean you could always get both. I have a steam deck but it's a bit of a different use case
Russ mentioned that this could be a good companion device to the Steam deck because you cannot fit the steam deck in your pocket. But I would argue if you are going to go down the 2 handheld route the Miyoo Mini V4, GKD Pixel or Anbernic RG280V would be a better fit since they are smaller and you already have the steam deck for longer at home sessions. That said I think the 35XX SP is better if it's your only device.
BUY ITTTTT. I DONT NEED THIS BUT I BUY ITTTTTT
Man, that clear clue one is almost identical to my modded GBA SP, except for the buttons.
8:19 WOW! Not that I'd actually use it. But the fact that the 2 devices literally behaved as if you were sharing a console and screen. Does that work for all emulators?
The SP was my favorite GameBoy. This looks nice.
Hi friend. Great review. Tell me, what kind of portable monitor do you use in the review?
Got a link to the fancy USB cable your using the yellow one?
14:37 how in the world did u even get God of War PSP on the original GBA SP on the left lol
its not a gameboy...
@@_NecroPlayOMG he switched out the GBA for the silver rg35xx and it tripped me out 😂😂
Holding out to see how the Miyoo SP thing looks...pretty tempting to grab one of the 2 to upgrade my v90
The Miyoo version will probably be easier on the thumbs due to softer buttons, and also has joysticks... but the CPU is slower and the software is probably going to be significantly worse.
@@ToyKeeper Guess we will see! Will be a real tragedy if the one with joysticks can't handle many 3D games, lol.
@@Magusguile Sticks are good for older games too, especially for people with "nintendo thumb" injuries.
@@ToyKeeper if I can put onion on it, then the software will be significantly better lol
@@Augrills Onion is part of the "worse", but at least it's better than stock.
Yo, Taki's got the new Anbernic!
OG comment
Mine is in transit and maybe coming in the next few days. Just a quick question, will I be good with just using the stock OS or should i go for cfw?
Is there a handheld with this form factor that has Android?
The closest was the Retroid Pocket Flip, but it’s unfortunately discontinued and getting harder to find
I've read elsewhere where Gamma wants to port GammaOS Core (Android TV) to these H700 devices. It's taken a back seat to the 3566 handhelds; but, eventually it's expected to be ported over.
GammaOS Core is Android TV. That's really useful for us because most televisions aren't touchscreens. That means that Google spent a lot of money optimizing it to work with buttons and d-pad on a remote control. That also means it'll work just fine on touchscreen-less consoles like this RG35XX-SP.
Just bought a RG35XX and RG35XX H and I'll be buying the RG35XX SP to complete the trilogy
This is really cool, but I still don't really see a reason to buy this since I already have a miyoo mini plus. CFW is a must.
I have Miyoo Mini Plus but I’m buying this because it looks too good
Yeah, I've been on the fence since I've got a Miyoo Mini Plus as well. I really like the SP form factor but don't think I can justify buying it on the grounds of it not being too much of an upgrade from what I have already.
@@yazajin I hear you, seeing this device just reminded me of how much I miss my black SP from back in the day