What I really want from Anbernic is an upgraded RG351MP with android, touch screen and RP2+ level power, internal WIFI, better battery and stacked shoulder buttons. That would be the perfect 4:3 handheld for me.
Same here. I had high expectations for Anbernic's next release. I hoped they would have adopted Retroids 2+ chip power, touch screen and stacked shoulder buttons combined with Anbernic's fame for beautiful displays. Unfortunately, they just didn't put it all together with this 503.
I wish Anbernic would actually jump the gun and have a two-fold strategy: Clean things up on the lower end (i.e. keep the RG351V, which is perfect, and an updated model of the RG351MP with internal WiFi). Keep those at ~100 and in plastic and you're set for the lower end systems, and they can really be recommended far and wide for use with AmberELEC. Then, more importantly, they should target the 250-300 USD range with a device that's actually able to do up to Wii/PS2. That, of course, should be a widescreen device with vertical trigger button arrangement.
I agree. Although I’d suggest they do an annual refresh with three models. The small 280v style device, the medium 351MP successor and then the 5” range. I personally love the 351 devices, but there’s always a glaring issue. If they were to just refine each of them and gradually beef up their specs I’d be much more interested than this seemingly random release model they’re on at the moment.
My thoughts as well. At this point it feels like each of their POCs ends up released seeing how iterative and often their releases are. Having a RG351MP I have no reason to buy anything from them until they make a considerable upgrade, otherwise it feels like the same console with few differences that would only convince dedicated collectors.
Agree with all these summaries. This could be an amazing-all-around upgrade to the 351MP, with its better ergos, better WIFI, added BT, added HDMI out, (apparently) better battery life, still better speakers, better grips, (seemingly) even more vivid screen; all at a near identical price! Amazing, but... If the firmware is nowhere near what AmberELEC can do, and is in fact flailing annoyingly between lackluster and near incompetent in some areas....and if better firmware is maybe(!) coming late in the year, why not wait until before Christmas and see who's got the upper hand then?
@@RICHUNCLEPENNYBAGS77 No, I'm not. I said "targetting", and I mean for a future device. Dunno if you know, but the development of CPUs is an ongoing thing. And we're not that far off.
This review was very informative. It moved me from the "might buy" to "probably not" column. I already have a Vita, a couple of low end retro handhelds, and already ordered an Odin Pro. For the Odin Pro I'm somewhere early in the transparent purple queue, so I expect it within a month. So, based on that, I'm probably going to skip the RG503, and play my Vita and lower end handhelds until the Odin gets here.
Not having at least 2gb is definitely crazy in 22' I know most emulators don't need more than that. However dual channel ram would be more efficient and it would be much more capable moving forward. Pretty sure most people wouldn't mind a 10-15$ jump in price to have a little more ram. That said just waiting until we get a new handheld that uses the same screen as the analogue pocket, that screen is gorgeous for old school aspect ratios.
What would you get if you wanted a LARGE HIGH RESOLUTION DISPLAY with higher RAM & other comparable tech specs with ABOVE AVERAGE BUILD QUALITY? Open to suggestions
@@booeybooeydrambuie7540 save up some more money and buy an Odin would be my advice. You won’t need anything new over the next years. That’s what I did. Sold all my other emulation handhelds like the RS97, RG351P and RG350M. Made the upgrade to my Odin Pro much easier
You know, I got one of these and it is actually really nice and my preferred system for anything 2d. I have like 5 other ambernic handhelds including RG552, RG351mp, RG351v, and a few others. I also have RP2+, and an ayn odin pro. Right now anything 3d gets played on the ayn and 2d on the RG503. I never play 3d stuff on the other ambernics anyway so don't really need more power. RG503 has a great screen, great sound, wifi, great controls, and is light and has good battery. I am using Jelos firmware right now.
Man, these companies really need to start pushing some boundaries a bit more aggressively. The RP2+ has set the bar for price/performance in that market while the Odin has now set the bar for the "premium" market. Anbernic needs to put something out that really shakes those standards up. not more "iterations" that address 1 or 2 complaints while leaving 20. And SORT OUT YOUR N64 PERFORMANCE. so many devices across all price points can do at least most N64 just fine. It needs to start being the minimum standard now that everything up to PS1 is pretty much good to go on all devices. Maybe not conquer and rogue squadron, but all the easy ones for sure... There really is no excuse for putting a device out that struggles with N64 this late in the game on anything that costs more than $120.
With the Odin and RP2+ it really puts anbernic in a spot where it feels like "no man's land". If I'm on a budget, I would probably just get the RP2+. If I'm wanting to spend a decent amount, the Odin seems like a really good deal for what you spend. With anbernic's devices costing more than the RP2+ but not giving similar performance, it makes it really hard to go through with buying one. Personally, I was hoping anbernic would try to compete with RP2+ on the low end and offer something closer to the Odin on the high end. If they want to continue to price their handhelds in the $150 range, they need to at least perform the same as the rp2+. Then the bells and whistles they offer can justify the difference in price(screen, ergonomics, button quality).
correct but ambernic still wins in the screen department for their lastest products. i own both the rp2+ and the 552 and i use the 552 WAY more because of the screen alone.
@@buster5661 I don't have any of these retro handhelds and this one isn't changing that. I've been following these devices since the rg351p released but haven't bought a single one because I'm wanting to buy one device and be done with it. Everytime anbernic releases a device it goes backwards in one way or the other. I would get a rp2+ or odin but I'm waiting on those to be easier to get in a timely manner. Ideally it would be through Amazon so returning a defective device is easy. I'm leaning more towards an odin but if somebody releases a comparable device before odin hits retail, I might change my mind.
Unfortunately those two companies aren't companies and their paper launches they only have devices out for reviewers if you actually buy one good luck your money's going to be on hold for about three months then it's going to take about another two months and then an extra month and then give it another month
RIP, Anbernic. The 351m was my first retro device and I loved every minute of it (thanks again for the recommendation and guides!), and my 351v is unique and a great enough device that I'll be keeping it around even though I have an RP2+, a Steam Deck, and eventually an Odin Lite whenever that actually ends up shipping. It seems like Anbernic might just be a company that was perfect for that $80 - $120 price point when every other device was using the same chipset, but can't keep up now that the market has rapidly become more diverse. Their reliance on cutting corners is ultimately costing them more money than putting out devices with slightly lower profit margins would.
I almost bought one when it went on sale but 1gb ram stopped me last second on checkout. Hopefully they do another model with this screen with more ram and a better chip.
Took the advice of getting a Vita. I can't believe I've been sleeping on this for so long such a great hand held and an absolute breeze to mod. I feel pretty satisfied having a Vita and RP2+ while I wait on my Odin.
Hot take: anbernic are doing the flows on purpose. They fix something and "break" another. Then people that are passionate, get both devices so they can choose which problem to avoid per game...
@@DijaVlogsGames I start to think it works just in that way. But I'm talking about the hardware things, not the software and bugs and things like that. Like they add wifi, but leave just 1gb of ram. Or they make everything great, but "forget" to add the wifi. put a great display, but the system can't really utilize it because it's 16:9 and it can't run anything in 16:9
Random thoughts crossing my mind: Whats the point of making a perfect device, what will happen to the other models? What about the chips? Unfortunately there is a limited amount of them, so u need different models with different chips. And of course all companies need to sell. I believe it works this way a bit, not entirely convinced tho.
I loved the addition of function button. As an anbernic device and this function alone, made me pre-purchase the device. It is useful for setting it as a hotkey master button that needs to be pressed together with another button to run stuff. Retroarch has this and it is a life-saver. Try playing neogeo with the unibios. You cannot trigger the unibios menu exactly because it uses start + select. I at the end of the day don't play much on all my other devices exactly because of that. I hope they add this function as a facebutton on a next version.
hmn, but about the function button, aren't you worried/ inclined to agree with Russ that they have managed to put it in the absolutely most awkward spot? Which finger am I meant to press this with? and why is it so, so dangerously close to the reset button, it's weird, no?
It's really feeling like handhelds have stalled for the time being. Anbernic's just filling the space with non-starters in the same range as a 3DS or a Vita, (afaik) no word on an RP3, and the Neo and Odin are a bit more than what most people want to dive into and have direct, high quality competitors with the Switch and the Steam Deck. I'd say it's disappointing but i feel like that's not entirely their fault with the way the world is right now. Hopefully we can get back to progress, we're right on the cusp of something for everyone and the dream of a pocketable handheld with reliable sixth-gen emulation, a good screen, Bluetooth, and 5GHz internal wifi is on the horizon.
I wish anbernic would either make a good device or just make controllers. They would make a SICK compact controller if they implement their recessed analog sticks and good buttons.
Such a shame! Even Anbernic can't ever seem to get things right. Each and every one these emulation handhelds always seems to have a fatal flaw. With this one its the screen resolution. A 480p widescreen is a perfect fit for integer scaled retro gaming. I don't see any reason to ever use anything else unless you really want a 4:3 480p screen. I've been waiting for YEARS for the perfect emulation handheld. The RGB10 MAX 2 was almost there. But... that price compared to it's ODriod clone rivals was STUPID! Unfortunately they "F"ed up AGAIN! It's like they are doing it on purpose! Ugggg.....
I feel your pain. I'm at a point where I'm buying devices second hand at a lower price because the prices so far like for the 552 or the max2 ain't worth it. Still waiting for these guys to get it right.
Well, I definitely agree and have to say - that's typically china for you. A lot of these cheap china products have this problem. Certainly there are some manufacturers who do the right things and a few devices that are really good, but still this goes for the minor part of all the devices out there. AYN Odin is the only one that's almost perfect. Still it isn't because of the issues with the shoulder buttons but then again they have already sent out the upgrade kits that fix these problems. The RG552 and the RG351MP devices from ANBERNIC are almost perfect, too! The RG552 has a shitty battery life only and the RG351MP has a small display. Other than that I consider these two devices as perfect.
The ability to use custom firmware, built by dedicated people who also have put serious hours in making sure things run very well and not just 'at all', really makes all the difference, so I think you've made a wise choice for the foreseeable future. And while the OLED screen might be great for some systems, which may or may not even perform well on it, the screen on the 351MP is already top-tier itself.
I am on the same boat, I basically like more the layout of the V, but felt in love with the screen of the MP, which to me is 100 miles ahead of the first (at least on both stock OS). All in all I would like a bigger screen (I have also a Myioo Mini V2, which is my "to go" solution already, hence looking for a "couch solution"). So I see this as a less cramped and better screen solution for me (80% GBA and some sneek peek on other systems). I could be living with the firmware not being perfect for some time. But the real question is, there will be enough commitment from the community in order to see improvements in this sense at all?
Great video. Just started looking at different retro handhelds and currently do not have one. Anbernic is having a sale where it is only listed for $125-$131 depending on model. Definitely sounds worth it for a first time. The Odin does look sweet but more than I am willing to pay or to wait.
I normally can't stand when retro devices use 16:9 screens, BUT if you're going to get an OLED with true blacks, I'll take that tradeoff since you're not being distracted by light leakage like you normally are with most displays. As far as I know, no one is making 4:3 OLED's, so in this case, with this price, I'm fine with the trade off.
I guess this is what happens when Anbernic goes a little down-market. Except for that OLED display, everything about the build and specs is kind of cheap, and I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing. I mean, after being so widely criticised for the price of the 552, having a cheaper option is good. Probably the only reason they went OLED is because they got a good deal on a bulk lot of Vita screens. I guess if you still have a 351 device, the 503 doesn't offer a lot, but if I were shopping for a gift right now, I'd probably get someone the 503, by the look of this. It seems to have an acceptable, though not perfect, out of box experience.
Yeah, they should have made this thing $40 more expensive and put something like Snapdragon 675 and 4 GB RAM inside... Would be a perfect handheld, with that OLED.
This was an EXCELLENT and balanced review. I have a hacked Vita and RG350p, so while I can’t really do better for PSP games with the 503, as a screen size upgrade for the RG350p this is actually kind of attractive. I play a lot of Genesis and arcade so the 503 would probably work for me. As you pointed out the 503 is a nice device that could tide me over till Odin availability improves. Love the hot takes section too! Please keep that for future reviews. And thanks again for answering questions before the official review went live both on here and on Reddit.
That was exactly my thought going into this, the 503 with its decent performance could hold me over until I got my hands on the Odin or something better than the Odin hit the market! Emuelec is a pretty cool (os) Front end but I'd rather have a really good Android Handheld!
The community seems to hate this device and I can understand the disappointment in the power, but I bought one as upgrade to my RG351MP. I really really like AmberElec so I wouldn't mind a nicer device that could run that. This will be my top retro handheld until my Odin arrives, and my way of running Steam remotely until my Steam Deck arrives. My collection is getting out of control but I'm having fun so who cares
Can I have your opinion between the MP and this? I am using the MP and I love the screen but my big hands are struggling to find a proper position for prolonged use.. :(
Nice vid, and I liked the Hot Takes section since you actually have all of these devices. I think the only thing that concerns me and is a surprise is the face buttons. I have similar issues with my miyoo mini buttons getting stuck to the point that it feels like a chore. I already ordered the 503 so we shall see! Hopefully it varies by unit. The rest of the stuff i mostly expected...basically a potential Max 2 replacement
For me, the perfect set up for an Anbernic-like handheld device would be: - Pocket size dimensions, yet with a good amount of screen sizes (which means a screen ranging from 3.5 to up to no larger than 4.5") - IPS Screen with the following proportions: 3:2, 4:3 or 5:3, which are perfect for retrogames as well as of a couple of modern games - Stacked shoulder buttons (PLEASE Anbernic!) - Performance good enough to run up to N64, dreamcast e PSP flawlessly - 150$ tops That's it
I really like your content man! It's nice to see someone dive this deep into the retro handheld topic. But each time I watch your videos I'm asking myself: Why would anyone buy these devices instead of a PS Vita, New 3DS or Switch? Or just use a phone + attached controller? The homebrew communities of these handhelds are so big, which leads to better emulation support and they are pretty cheap on the second hand market. At least here in Germany. Just bought a 2DS for 30€, for example.
GBA full screen with the zfast crt filter looks really nice on this thing. I don't even notice it being stretched. I was able to get N64 roms working full screen with mupen64 by just changing some of the defaults scaling options. I didn't think I'd like the shoulder buttons but I actually like them better than the stacked buttons on the rgb10 max 2.
Yeah, no idea why they used those screen on a device that can‘t even emulate PSP. Their old 3:2 screens at least made some sense because they could emulate the GBA, but this is just pointless.
Guess you guys have never heard of the wide screen hack I honestly cannot play a normal 4.3 aspect ratio game anymore I have to port them over to my wide screen device and do the wide screen hack and then I can play the game I really don't like smaller screens and I like filling up the whole wide screen and honestly it makes older games way more enjoyable and if you're just going to play the game in a tiny little original screen than you might realize that that's the reason you don't play that game no more but I'm breathing new life into old games giving them a new wide screen look it's something you really got a hold in your hand and experience to feel and then you're going to want to go back to all those old games and make them wide screen its amazing hope you guys can try it one day you will never complain about handheld devices having a widescreen again if you didn't experience it
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude Which Gameboy Emulator Are you using? Because neither of the ones I have on my devices support widescreen with every game? I can only think of a few emulators that support widescreen and even then it does not work on every game. And those who do usually need extra work to adjust the HUD and other aspects.
I really think these screens should be based on the 240p integer. 480p is a great resolution for the majority of retro consoles as well as ports. Maybe one day we'll see something with a 960p screen, but who knows. Once you hit 720p the sharp bilinear shader pretty much eliminates scaling artifacts altogether though.
I think it's hilarious that the Retroid Pocket 2+ is $50 cheaper and better in almost every respect. Anbernic has become a joke if they think ppl will buy these sub-par devices at an inflated price when there are way better and more affordable options out there. On another note, your videos are really amazing, love the long in-depth format, keep up the great work!
Anbernic really missed a great opportunity, if they had used a powerful enough chip to do PSP 2x, and if it had reliable game streaming, at the same price, it would have been very compelling.
Fantastic video, as expected! Nobody was worried about the video you took down... We knew you would come through with an honest, in depth, informative, amazing review. Now - let's talk about the "which should you buy - Odin or Steamdeck" video??? 👍🤔😏
I think this is a good device to add to a collection of retro handheld or if it’s your first time buying one of these handhelds. But there are way better options at a better price point, chipset, and design. The Retroid Pocket 2+ is the best budget handheld and the Ayn Odin is the best emulation handheld at its price, the only problem with those devices is that they take a while to ship right now but I think it’s worth it
Thanks for doing this. I will wait till a device like this can emulate all of the retro hardware full speed before buying. Maybe another 3years it's looking like.
Damn I was looking forward to this one. I love the oled vita screen. I use my oled vita at least once a week and I always wanted better emulation since the few vita front ends are just way too much of a hassle and are super slow. I guess I'll hold off ;) Btw really like the hot takes! Gives your reviews a lot more personality imho.
8:00 while other youtubers go completely insane when it comes to circles and pointy arrows, i would appreciate when the circles would be a bit more visible. those 1px strokes are nearly invisible on my 4k screen. thats my only gripe with this video, the rest is superb quality as always.
They really dropped the ball with bad firmware and lacking ram. The things you would want a more powerful device for like N64, ds, psp, gamecube, dreamcast are the things the stock firmware aren't very good at... Maybe the real MVP's of the community can make this thing worthwhile down the road. Might hold off buying one til then. Cheers.
It seems Anbernic could use some time to really solidify a direction and design cause I feel like they’re just missing the mark with their recent devices :/
The F button may be poorly placed but the function button is an excellent idea. My RG351P you're supposed to click the two analog sticks which is fine except for games where that's something you're meant to do.
Thanks for getting this review out. Decided to pass on this one. Been waiting for you to review a product that works at least 95 % of what everyone is looking for (performance, physical/hardware features and price).
Cheers Russ, great comprehensive review. With a slick optimized firmware, better emulators and ready access to some silicone lubricant it would be pretty good. Even then, decent PSP performance on a 5 inch landscape device for around this money doesn't seem too much to ask for. At some point somebody will nail it. Shirley?
Using the analog sticks and the shoulder buttons simultaneously looks like a real PITA. I think the dpad an the face buttons should have been placed pretty much at the height the start and select buttons are and the joysticks should be closer the the buttons and maybe placed nearer to the center so they're closer to the arc your thumbs travel to get lower. With all that headroom at the lower part of the device, they could make the speakers front firing (which they already could have with the space they had both in the case and in the pc, but with this there would be even less excuses)
Thats unfortunate. The 1GB of ram really puts a hard wall on what can be played/done with the console. Hell, even 2GB would have been fine. I love the console itself, love the Oled screen upgrade an the sleek design upgrades, just not a fan of the ram limitation.
their devices have become more and more ugly. I really liked by RG351M (until I lost it) and I truly believe it has the best form factor of any portable emulator device, and its not too goofy looking. Every time I played it around anyone, they were incredibly intrigued and decided they needed to buy one too. If it could play N64, it would be the BEST emulator device of all time imo.
Still very happy with the 351v. Bought for 80 bucks, still going strong and I don't really care for games past Ps1. With the mounting interest towards these kind of emulation platforms we'll see many more models and rising prices... Too bad.
I've been slamming this device but now, watching this again on my laptop screen I think this might be worth it simply for that screen. If you were considering a PowKiddy RGB10 Max 2 you might be better off with this.
if you are looking for the best android device for retro gaming, look no further than for the Galaxy Fold 3. It has the perfect Aspect Ratio, wenn opened up, for any kind of Retrogaming. From NES to PS2 almost everything looks super cool on the unfolded screen. Even PSP looks super cool and big enough.
Wow! It’s like they’re giving up on the first class hardware designs we’re used to. They set themselves apart with the hardware quality that seemed industry leading. Very disappointing. Not premium!
Still love my 552, and seems like the Odin will replace most retro handhelds anyways. Kinda glad my Odin hasn’t shipped yet, looks like I might get a few hardware updates implemented into mine by the time it ships. Though some of these larger handhelds are not super pocketable, or that I put anything but an SP in my pocket ever. When I ordered my Odin it said that it would ship in Feb, after reaching out and reading updates from them it now seems like it will be May at the earliest.
"If you want a device that can play vertical arcade games" Great vert-shmups with me on the go? YES!!! YES YES YES! Do you have a noob-friendly instruction on how to get that to work btw? Likely not shelling for this one but if they come out with a new, more powerful handheld in the future that can do that too (and still manages to be ergonomic while played vertically; I think they should do something like the mini-egret solution if it's not too difficult) I'd instabuy. It's weird to me that nobody has thought of that as a feature yet (the Switch flip grip is awesome). Imagine the Cave, Raizing and Psikyo libraries + all the rest contained in your pocket (salivating).
i waited for this to come out, and now i'm browsing for a psp3000 refurb because of disappointment. i already have a good vita setup, but i'm one those who hit the 500 bubble limit easily with just vita and psp games on a 500gb. i archive stuff and am in search for a psp-ish unit to house more of my roms. so, the hell with it. i'll just buy a psp straight up.
For me, there are 2 Retro Game Handheld Console, capable of emulating PS1 and bellow, and above. I will have no problem in PS1 and bellow (as this one, because of it RAM), but in this case, do a 4:3 screen size, make it more portable, and if I want a premium experience, include better resolution and screen (and CPU power to scale up the resolution, and put a resolution to scale perfect a few consoles). I fill this device is in the middle of both classifications, but not making happy to anyone.
Smartphone company would properly make a better gaming handheld, meanwhile, if you are playing mostly retro game, best option is RG351p (best for GBA), or the RG351V (best 4:3 screen ratio), if you can pay a little more, go for RG351mp or the best retro pocket 2+
Hey Russ, great video as always but I have to ask. Do you ever play any PS1 RPG games off camera? Perhaps you've been playing through Xenogears or Chrono Cross on a handheld device in secret? It'd be cool to know if reviewers like yourself play quite a bit of their retrogames on these devices when not recording and doing it as a leisure activity, lol.
"We all" He must mean those who bought Anbernic Nintend-a-clone handhelds. I have no expectation of quality having never bought one or owned one and never will unless they do something different from their Nintend-a-clone style devices. That said, I will have to take the word of people who own them they have this apparent agreed quality.
Hey Russ. Thanks for the insight on the 503. I think I’m going to give it a try to replace my Vita 1000 for retro handheld gaming. The Vita will still handle Vita and PSP content. Do you think you will do a video for the 503 running a newer custom firmware like JelOS, AmberELEC or Batocera? I’d be interested on your insights of JelOS running on this device. Thank you
I don’t understand. The 552 was a flop and barely came out, now there is a new device that makes no sense. RP2+ costs 50 bucks less and outperforms this in N64 and PSP.
For all the criticisms that one can lay against this new device, they at least put the D-pad in the right spot! A minor thing maybe to some, but to me, that's a world of difference!
Great screen and I like the look overall. Coming straight from the past when Anbernic was just sort of a nameless company and made stuff like the RS97 and the Pap k2 and pap k3. Always liked the look of the pap k3 over the rs97 because it had the bigger screen. The 503 would have been great with the soc from the rp2+ 😢
I feel like in 6-12 months time there's a possibility that I might be fairly keen to pick this one up, if the community "fixes" it (I'm optimistically assuming that the fixes will mean that it can genuinely outperform the RGB10 Max 2, and the like). Are there many other devices likely to use this chipset, though? Because if not, and this doesn't sell well, it may never happen.
@@tking2199 Because it isn't the same internals, not even "basically". The newer chipset runs at 1.8ghz, not 1.3ghz, it's a cortex A55 not A35, meaning somewhat better performance with improved power consumption (so it can run cooler), and then it has a faster clock speed on the gpu - benchmarking suggests that while it may not be leaps and bounds ahead of the rk3326, even with the same ram, the rk3566 should have the potential to give a solid (albeit unspectacular) improvement in performance over the rk3326. Had it had 2gb ram this would have had so much more potential but, even so, it should be able to outperform similar rk3326 devices, such as the Max 2, without problems - that's why it's so disappointing that it doesn't right now.
Clearly you can the Amber Nick 351p is a weaker processor and acaplay all of those almost at full speed this one with a little bit more powerful processor to play all of those smooth it's just a matter of getting custom firmware and using the Right emulator to play the game most of the time and burn it ships their product out with really doggcrapp emulators so just update them when you get the product and you should be able to play all those systems
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude I disagree tho. I have a 351m and those platforms when u go try to play higher end games does not perform. Games lag, crash or run at 15 FPS. My psp 1004 does a better job and it's a 15 yo device! Not really worth it.
@@FedericoMatarazzo Yeah, i grabbed an 351M after hearing people singing its praises, especially with ArkOS, but honestly in a lot of ways its disappointed me in regards to reliable higher end emulation of those systems among other things. It even struggles on certain PS1 games and i'd hoped we'd be past that by now. Got an RP2+ on the way as well so i can't see myself using my 351M that much longer.
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude no it cannot. N64 is always a hit or miss even for simple things like Paper Mario. Dreamcast can't hit 60 fps consistently on almost any game. Max is between 50-56 fps. PSP is also a hit or miss that even with custom settings there's not consistently good performance. I love my anbernic devices but don't lie about them. That's kinda sad.
@@Foostini Yeah. After the RG350 devices, your best bet is jumping to a Retroid 2+ or an AYA Odin (my choice). Anything between will only deliver disappointment.
Great video! I must have missed the part where you talk about that (either from this or your first impression video) but does the RG503 have a metal or plastic shell?
seems like a way better use of your money to just buy a vita. you can even buy them with custom firmware pre installed pretty easily if you dont want to mess with it. disappointing, been waiting for a good retro device with an oled screen.
What I really want from Anbernic is an upgraded RG351MP with android, touch screen and RP2+ level power, internal WIFI, better battery and stacked shoulder buttons. That would be the perfect 4:3 handheld for me.
Same I want all of that I prefer 351elec over android but 351MP was the perfect device just missing features and not the best shoulder layout
Same here. I had high expectations for Anbernic's next release. I hoped they would have adopted Retroids 2+ chip power, touch screen and stacked shoulder buttons combined with Anbernic's fame for beautiful displays. Unfortunately, they just didn't put it all together with this 503.
I would like the interior of the RG351MP and the exterior of the RGB10 MAX 2.
Powkiddy x28
@Captainzilla418 linux is where it's at imo
Thanks, I made order for this handheld 👍
nice joke
@@SRC267 They're a review channel, Wicked orders basically everything.
@@SRC267 Dunno why you'd order it.
@@user-un2hy8ut1c That is no joke.. can't share screenshot.. bought it myself.
@@nathansstuff1547 i have a handheld addiction and a channel so I love testing them out.
I wish Anbernic would actually jump the gun and have a two-fold strategy: Clean things up on the lower end (i.e. keep the RG351V, which is perfect, and an updated model of the RG351MP with internal WiFi). Keep those at ~100 and in plastic and you're set for the lower end systems, and they can really be recommended far and wide for use with AmberELEC.
Then, more importantly, they should target the 250-300 USD range with a device that's actually able to do up to Wii/PS2. That, of course, should be a widescreen device with vertical trigger button arrangement.
I agree. Although I’d suggest they do an annual refresh with three models. The small 280v style device, the medium 351MP successor and then the 5” range. I personally love the 351 devices, but there’s always a glaring issue. If they were to just refine each of them and gradually beef up their specs I’d be much more interested than this seemingly random release model they’re on at the moment.
My thoughts as well. At this point it feels like each of their POCs ends up released seeing how iterative and often their releases are. Having a RG351MP I have no reason to buy anything from them until they make a considerable upgrade, otherwise it feels like the same console with few differences that would only convince dedicated collectors.
Agree with all these summaries. This could be an amazing-all-around upgrade to the 351MP, with its better ergos, better WIFI, added BT, added HDMI out, (apparently) better battery life, still better speakers, better grips, (seemingly) even more vivid screen; all at a near identical price! Amazing, but...
If the firmware is nowhere near what AmberELEC can do, and is in fact flailing annoyingly between lackluster and near incompetent in some areas....and if better firmware is maybe(!) coming late in the year, why not wait until before Christmas and see who's got the upper hand then?
$250 device that can do PS2? You're dreaming.
@@RICHUNCLEPENNYBAGS77 No, I'm not. I said "targetting", and I mean for a future device. Dunno if you know, but the development of CPUs is an ongoing thing. And we're not that far off.
This review was very informative. It moved me from the "might buy" to "probably not" column. I already have a Vita, a couple of low end retro handhelds, and already ordered an Odin Pro. For the Odin Pro I'm somewhere early in the transparent purple queue, so I expect it within a month. So, based on that, I'm probably going to skip the RG503, and play my Vita and lower end handhelds until the Odin gets here.
Not having at least 2gb is definitely crazy in 22' I know most emulators don't need more than that. However dual channel ram would be more efficient and it would be much more capable moving forward. Pretty sure most people wouldn't mind a 10-15$ jump in price to have a little more ram. That said just waiting until we get a new handheld that uses the same screen as the analogue pocket, that screen is gorgeous for old school aspect ratios.
It's crazy how people are selling these types of underpowered, overpriced handheld
What would you get if you wanted a LARGE HIGH RESOLUTION DISPLAY with higher RAM & other comparable tech specs with ABOVE AVERAGE BUILD QUALITY? Open to suggestions
@@booeybooeydrambuie7540 save up some more money and buy an Odin would be my advice. You won’t need anything new over the next years. That’s what I did. Sold all my other emulation handhelds like the RS97, RG351P and RG350M. Made the upgrade to my Odin Pro much easier
3gb ram better chip and android 11+ with play store this form factor plzzz and keep it at this price
true. u pay 100$ more and get Odin pro with 8 GB ram and better CPU and chipset
You know, I got one of these and it is actually really nice and my preferred system for anything 2d. I have like 5 other ambernic handhelds including RG552, RG351mp, RG351v, and a few others. I also have RP2+, and an ayn odin pro. Right now anything 3d gets played on the ayn and 2d on the RG503. I never play 3d stuff on the other ambernics anyway so don't really need more power. RG503 has a great screen, great sound, wifi, great controls, and is light and has good battery. I am using Jelos firmware right now.
Man, these companies really need to start pushing some boundaries a bit more aggressively.
The RP2+ has set the bar for price/performance in that market while the Odin has now set the bar for the "premium" market.
Anbernic needs to put something out that really shakes those standards up. not more "iterations" that address 1 or 2 complaints while leaving 20.
And SORT OUT YOUR N64 PERFORMANCE.
so many devices across all price points can do at least most N64 just fine. It needs to start being the minimum standard now that everything up to PS1 is pretty much good to go on all devices. Maybe not conquer and rogue squadron, but all the easy ones for sure...
There really is no excuse for putting a device out that struggles with N64 this late in the game on anything that costs more than $120.
With the Odin and RP2+ it really puts anbernic in a spot where it feels like "no man's land". If I'm on a budget, I would probably just get the RP2+. If I'm wanting to spend a decent amount, the Odin seems like a really good deal for what you spend. With anbernic's devices costing more than the RP2+ but not giving similar performance, it makes it really hard to go through with buying one.
Personally, I was hoping anbernic would try to compete with RP2+ on the low end and offer something closer to the Odin on the high end. If they want to continue to price their handhelds in the $150 range, they need to at least perform the same as the rp2+. Then the bells and whistles they offer can justify the difference in price(screen, ergonomics, button quality).
correct but ambernic still wins in the screen department for their lastest products. i own both the rp2+ and the 552 and i use the 552 WAY more because of the screen alone.
@@buster5661 I don't have any of these retro handhelds and this one isn't changing that. I've been following these devices since the rg351p released but haven't bought a single one because I'm wanting to buy one device and be done with it. Everytime anbernic releases a device it goes backwards in one way or the other. I would get a rp2+ or odin but I'm waiting on those to be easier to get in a timely manner. Ideally it would be through Amazon so returning a defective device is easy. I'm leaning more towards an odin but if somebody releases a comparable device before odin hits retail, I might change my mind.
Unfortunately those two companies aren't companies and their paper launches they only have devices out for reviewers if you actually buy one good luck your money's going to be on hold for about three months then it's going to take about another two months and then an extra month and then give it another month
At least Amber Nick had enough success to build a corporation with good practices to actually ship your product in one or two days
@@wes773105333 I guess you are willing to wait another 2 years
RIP, Anbernic. The 351m was my first retro device and I loved every minute of it (thanks again for the recommendation and guides!), and my 351v is unique and a great enough device that I'll be keeping it around even though I have an RP2+, a Steam Deck, and eventually an Odin Lite whenever that actually ends up shipping. It seems like Anbernic might just be a company that was perfect for that $80 - $120 price point when every other device was using the same chipset, but can't keep up now that the market has rapidly become more diverse. Their reliance on cutting corners is ultimately costing them more money than putting out devices with slightly lower profit margins would.
"RIP, Anbernic"... Man, you guys sure are dramatic.
I almost bought one when it went on sale but 1gb ram stopped me last second on checkout.
Hopefully they do another model with this screen with more ram and a better chip.
This sounds like a good choice for a cheap intro retrohandheld. If I didnt get the RG351MP 5 months ago I think I would have bought this.
Took the advice of getting a Vita. I can't believe I've been sleeping on this for so long such a great hand held and an absolute breeze to mod. I feel pretty satisfied having a Vita and RP2+ while I wait on my Odin.
Hot take: anbernic are doing the flows on purpose. They fix something and "break" another. Then people that are passionate, get both devices so they can choose which problem to avoid per game...
I don’t think it works that way.
@@DijaVlogsGames I start to think it works just in that way.
But I'm talking about the hardware things, not the software and bugs and things like that.
Like they add wifi, but leave just 1gb of ram. Or they make everything great, but "forget" to add the wifi. put a great display, but the system can't really utilize it because it's 16:9 and it can't run anything in 16:9
Random thoughts crossing my mind: Whats the point of making a perfect device, what will happen to the other models? What about the chips? Unfortunately there is a limited amount of them, so u need different models with different chips. And of course all companies need to sell. I believe it works this way a bit, not entirely convinced tho.
I loved the addition of function button.
As an anbernic device and this function alone, made me pre-purchase the device.
It is useful for setting it as a hotkey master button that needs to be pressed together with another button to run stuff. Retroarch has this and it is a life-saver.
Try playing neogeo with the unibios. You cannot trigger the unibios menu exactly because it uses start + select.
I at the end of the day don't play much on all my other devices exactly because of that.
I hope they add this function as a facebutton on a next version.
hmn, but about the function button, aren't you worried/ inclined to agree with Russ that they have managed to put it in the absolutely most awkward spot? Which finger am I meant to press this with? and why is it so, so dangerously close to the reset button, it's weird, no?
I'd love to see another review once Custom Firmware is out. This thing theoretically looks really good to me.
I'm after that too.
Hope it will improve.
Making a device with a PS Vita screen that cant even effectively emulate PSP. Welcome to Anbernic.
Maybe it can with amber olec?
It runs it pretty decent now... Of course, it still struggles to run God of Way Chains of Olympus but most devices do!
@@Wedeemgaming All hail the vita!
then buy a PSP. those are cheap as hell
Such a good vid, thank you. Sadly, Anbernic are just releasing non-starters right now. That’s exciting news for manufacturers like Retroid, though.
It's really feeling like handhelds have stalled for the time being. Anbernic's just filling the space with non-starters in the same range as a 3DS or a Vita, (afaik) no word on an RP3, and the Neo and Odin are a bit more than what most people want to dive into and have direct, high quality competitors with the Switch and the Steam Deck. I'd say it's disappointing but i feel like that's not entirely their fault with the way the world is right now. Hopefully we can get back to progress, we're right on the cusp of something for everyone and the dream of a pocketable handheld with reliable sixth-gen emulation, a good screen, Bluetooth, and 5GHz internal wifi is on the horizon.
I wish anbernic would either make a good device or just make controllers. They would make a SICK compact controller if they implement their recessed analog sticks and good buttons.
Such a shame! Even Anbernic can't ever seem to get things right. Each and every one these emulation handhelds always seems to have a fatal flaw. With this one its the screen resolution. A 480p widescreen is a perfect fit for integer scaled retro gaming. I don't see any reason to ever use anything else unless you really want a 4:3 480p screen. I've been waiting for YEARS for the perfect emulation handheld. The RGB10 MAX 2 was almost there. But... that price compared to it's ODriod clone rivals was STUPID! Unfortunately they "F"ed up AGAIN! It's like they are doing it on purpose! Ugggg.....
I feel your pain. I'm at a point where I'm buying devices second hand at a lower price because the prices so far like for the 552 or the max2 ain't worth it. Still waiting for these guys to get it right.
Well, I definitely agree and have to say - that's typically china for you. A lot of these cheap china products have this problem. Certainly there are some manufacturers who do the right things and a few devices that are really good, but still this goes for the minor part of all the devices out there. AYN Odin is the only one that's almost perfect. Still it isn't because of the issues with the shoulder buttons but then again they have already sent out the upgrade kits that fix these problems. The RG552 and the RG351MP devices from ANBERNIC are almost perfect, too! The RG552 has a shitty battery life only and the RG351MP has a small display. Other than that I consider these two devices as perfect.
"I've been waiting for YEARS for the perfect emulation handheld." It came out 10 years ago. It's called the PS Vita.
@@bjornunderabadsign I have 1001 vita. It's beautiful. Not perfect.
@@bjornunderabadsign vita only goes up to ps1
I just recently bought an Anbernic RG351MP despite the news about this coming out, I'm glad I made the right choice
The ability to use custom firmware, built by dedicated people who also have put serious hours in making sure things run very well and not just 'at all', really makes all the difference, so I think you've made a wise choice for the foreseeable future.
And while the OLED screen might be great for some systems, which may or may not even perform well on it, the screen on the 351MP is already top-tier itself.
I am on the same boat, I basically like more the layout of the V, but felt in love with the screen of the MP, which to me is 100 miles ahead of the first (at least on both stock OS). All in all I would like a bigger screen (I have also a Myioo Mini V2, which is my "to go" solution already, hence looking for a "couch solution"). So I see this as a less cramped and better screen solution for me (80% GBA and some sneek peek on other systems). I could be living with the firmware not being perfect for some time. But the real question is, there will be enough commitment from the community in order to see improvements in this sense at all?
I had a feeling something was up when they asked you to take down your initial video
Pretty big fan of the hot takes segment. Suuuuuper informative and fun way of seeing how devices stack against each other.
Great video. Just started looking at different retro handhelds and currently do not have one. Anbernic is having a sale where it is only listed for $125-$131 depending on model. Definitely sounds worth it for a first time. The Odin does look sweet but more than I am willing to pay or to wait.
I normally can't stand when retro devices use 16:9 screens, BUT if you're going to get an OLED with true blacks, I'll take that tradeoff since you're not being distracted by light leakage like you normally are with most displays. As far as I know, no one is making 4:3 OLED's, so in this case, with this price, I'm fine with the trade off.
Good review. Even though he tried not to be harsh, Anbernic might blacklist still...
I guess this is what happens when Anbernic goes a little down-market. Except for that OLED display, everything about the build and specs is kind of cheap, and I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing. I mean, after being so widely criticised for the price of the 552, having a cheaper option is good. Probably the only reason they went OLED is because they got a good deal on a bulk lot of Vita screens. I guess if you still have a 351 device, the 503 doesn't offer a lot, but if I were shopping for a gift right now, I'd probably get someone the 503, by the look of this. It seems to have an acceptable, though not perfect, out of box experience.
Yeah, they should have made this thing $40 more expensive and put something like Snapdragon 675 and 4 GB RAM inside... Would be a perfect handheld, with that OLED.
This was an EXCELLENT and balanced review. I have a hacked Vita and RG350p, so while I can’t really do better for PSP games with the 503, as a screen size upgrade for the RG350p this is actually kind of attractive. I play a lot of Genesis and arcade so the 503 would probably work for me. As you pointed out the 503 is a nice device that could tide me over till Odin availability improves. Love the hot takes section too! Please keep that for future reviews. And thanks again for answering questions before the official review went live both on here and on Reddit.
That was exactly my thought going into this, the 503 with its decent performance could hold me over until I got my hands on the Odin or something better than the Odin hit the market! Emuelec is a pretty cool (os) Front end but I'd rather have a really good Android Handheld!
if custom firmware ends up good, this has the potential to be the best possible buy in it's category
The community seems to hate this device and I can understand the disappointment in the power, but I bought one as upgrade to my RG351MP. I really really like AmberElec so I wouldn't mind a nicer device that could run that.
This will be my top retro handheld until my Odin arrives, and my way of running Steam remotely until my Steam Deck arrives. My collection is getting out of control but I'm having fun so who cares
Can I have your opinion between the MP and this? I am using the MP and I love the screen but my big hands are struggling to find a proper position for prolonged use.. :(
Nice vid, and I liked the Hot Takes section since you actually have all of these devices. I think the only thing that concerns me and is a surprise is the face buttons. I have similar issues with my miyoo mini buttons getting stuck to the point that it feels like a chore. I already ordered the 503 so we shall see! Hopefully it varies by unit. The rest of the stuff i mostly expected...basically a potential Max 2 replacement
For me, the perfect set up for an Anbernic-like handheld device would be:
- Pocket size dimensions, yet with a good amount of screen sizes (which means a screen ranging from 3.5 to up to no larger than 4.5")
- IPS Screen with the following proportions: 3:2, 4:3 or 5:3, which are perfect for retrogames as well as of a couple of modern games
- Stacked shoulder buttons (PLEASE Anbernic!)
- Performance good enough to run up to N64, dreamcast e PSP flawlessly
- 150$ tops
That's it
I would say at lease 90% of the library
Anbernic needs to just clone the retroid pocket 2 + with proper joysticks, and they'll be in business
Rg353p
I really like your content man! It's nice to see someone dive this deep into the retro handheld topic. But each time I watch your videos I'm asking myself: Why would anyone buy these devices instead of a PS Vita, New 3DS or Switch? Or just use a phone + attached controller? The homebrew communities of these handhelds are so big, which leads to better emulation support and they are pretty cheap on the second hand market. At least here in Germany. Just bought a 2DS for 30€, for example.
GBA full screen with the zfast crt filter looks really nice on this thing. I don't even notice it being stretched. I was able to get N64 roms working full screen with mupen64 by just changing some of the defaults scaling options. I didn't think I'd like the shoulder buttons but I actually like them better than the stacked buttons on the rgb10 max 2.
This is just an insult to the Vita, especially its beatiful OLED screen
I just want an RG351MP with built in wifi and that would be the only device I would need forever lol
This device actually makes me mad. What a waste of an oled screen!
Yeah, no idea why they used those screen on a device that can‘t even emulate PSP. Their old 3:2 screens at least made some sense because they could emulate the GBA, but this is just pointless.
Guess you guys have never heard of the wide screen hack I honestly cannot play a normal 4.3 aspect ratio game anymore I have to port them over to my wide screen device and do the wide screen hack and then I can play the game I really don't like smaller screens and I like filling up the whole wide screen and honestly it makes older games way more enjoyable and if you're just going to play the game in a tiny little original screen than you might realize that that's the reason you don't play that game no more but I'm breathing new life into old games giving them a new wide screen look it's something you really got a hold in your hand and experience to feel and then you're going to want to go back to all those old games and make them wide screen its amazing hope you guys can try it one day you will never complain about handheld devices having a widescreen again if you didn't experience it
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude This can make games look super weird. Also for psx games it changes where your input is. Not recommend at all IMO
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude Which Gameboy Emulator Are you using? Because neither of the ones I have on my devices support widescreen with every game? I can only think of a few emulators that support widescreen and even then it does not work on every game. And those who do usually need extra work to adjust the HUD and other aspects.
@@iamnotyourbuddyGUY no im not talking about streaching the image lol 😂🤣
I really think these screens should be based on the 240p integer. 480p is a great resolution for the majority of retro consoles as well as ports. Maybe one day we'll see something with a 960p screen, but who knows. Once you hit 720p the sharp bilinear shader pretty much eliminates scaling artifacts altogether though.
My hot take? If you want an OLED, go with the Vita
What an absolutely awesome video I've never seen before!
Oof. Loads of shortcommings. Thanks again for a great in-depth video.
I really love your screen scaling close ups.
I do really like the form factor. It's a huge improvement over the older models. If only I didn't have a Steam Deck on the way...
I think it's hilarious that the Retroid Pocket 2+ is $50 cheaper and better in almost every respect. Anbernic has become a joke if they think ppl will buy these sub-par devices at an inflated price when there are way better and more affordable options out there.
On another note, your videos are really amazing, love the long in-depth format, keep up the great work!
Anbernic sells these at 85 dollars in China.
@@iamnotyourbuddyGUY do you have a source able to show this?
Looking forward to seeing an update from you with custom firmware :)
Anbernic really missed a great opportunity, if they had used a powerful enough chip to do PSP 2x, and if it had reliable game streaming, at the same price, it would have been very compelling.
you out yo damn mind if you expect PS2 in this price range (let alone at 2x)
@@pickle6529 he said psp
@@atlasthechamp82 i'm out my damn mind
0:02 Great new intro, but I prefer the old song.
Or maybe, I just need to keep watching your channel until I like it 🙌
Fantastic video, as expected! Nobody was worried about the video you took down... We knew you would come through with an honest, in depth, informative, amazing review.
Now - let's talk about the "which should you buy - Odin or Steamdeck" video??? 👍🤔😏
I like the hot take format at the end of the in depth review. Keep up good work
Great Review. Thank you. Seems like they got everything set up pretty well shell-wise. They just do not have enough power under the hood.
I wanted to buy a new Chinese retro handheld this year but I got a ps Vita instead, now I have a lot of RPGs to play until next year!
You made a good choice!
Excellent video review as always. Thanks Russ!
I think this is a good device to add to a collection of retro handheld or if it’s your first time buying one of these handhelds. But there are way better options at a better price point, chipset, and design. The Retroid Pocket 2+ is the best budget handheld and the Ayn Odin is the best emulation handheld at its price, the only problem with those devices is that they take a while to ship right now but I think it’s worth it
Thanks for doing this. I will wait till a device like this can emulate all of the retro hardware full speed before buying. Maybe another 3years it's looking like.
Damn I was looking forward to this one. I love the oled vita screen. I use my oled vita at least once a week and I always wanted better emulation since the few vita front ends are just way too much of a hassle and are super slow.
I guess I'll hold off ;)
Btw really like the hot takes! Gives your reviews a lot more personality imho.
8:00 while other youtubers go completely insane when it comes to circles and pointy arrows, i would appreciate when the circles would be a bit more visible. those 1px strokes are nearly invisible on my 4k screen. thats my only gripe with this video, the rest is superb quality as always.
They really dropped the ball with bad firmware and lacking ram. The things you would want a more powerful device for like N64, ds, psp, gamecube, dreamcast are the things the stock firmware aren't very good at... Maybe the real MVP's of the community can make this thing worthwhile down the road. Might hold off buying one til then. Cheers.
Love the hot take segment man!
Cheers for the well awaited video and hoping chicken feels better as I recall you posting elsewhere that the cat was unwell? 😼🐔❤
It seems Anbernic could use some time to really solidify a direction and design cause I feel like they’re just missing the mark with their recent devices :/
The F button may be poorly placed but the function button is an excellent idea. My RG351P you're supposed to click the two analog sticks which is fine except for games where that's something you're meant to do.
Thanks for getting this review out. Decided to pass on this one. Been waiting for you to review a product that works at least 95 % of what everyone is looking for (performance, physical/hardware features and price).
Cheers Russ, great comprehensive review. With a slick optimized firmware, better emulators and ready access to some silicone lubricant it would be pretty good. Even then, decent PSP performance on a 5 inch landscape device for around this money doesn't seem too much to ask for. At some point somebody will nail it. Shirley?
Using the analog sticks and the shoulder buttons simultaneously looks like a real PITA. I think the dpad an the face buttons should have been placed pretty much at the height the start and select buttons are and the joysticks should be closer the the buttons and maybe placed nearer to the center so they're closer to the arc your thumbs travel to get lower. With all that headroom at the lower part of the device, they could make the speakers front firing (which they already could have with the space they had both in the case and in the pc, but with this there would be even less excuses)
Thats unfortunate. The 1GB of ram really puts a hard wall on what can be played/done with the console. Hell, even 2GB would have been fine. I love the console itself, love the Oled screen upgrade an the sleek design upgrades, just not a fan of the ram limitation.
If you get Pico-8 you can run Celeste on the RG351MP (and likely all other 351 devices), I know because that's how I played it!
I very nearly ordered one of these from Anbernic until I saw they wanted $75 for shipping. Dude.
Anbernic is spiraling in response to the Ayn Odin and Retroid Pocket 2+. Dont go backwards, go forwards. Listen to our criticism!
By 6:00 in I pass. Great reviews!
Thanks Russ . Another great video.
their devices have become more and more ugly. I really liked by RG351M (until I lost it) and I truly believe it has the best form factor of any portable emulator device, and its not too goofy looking. Every time I played it around anyone, they were incredibly intrigued and decided they needed to buy one too. If it could play N64, it would be the BEST emulator device of all time imo.
Still very happy with the 351v. Bought for 80 bucks, still going strong and I don't really care for games past Ps1. With the mounting interest towards these kind of emulation platforms we'll see many more models and rising prices... Too bad.
Great video! You are providing an excellent service to us handheld addicted gamers!
Thanks Russ for the review.
I've been slamming this device but now, watching this again on my laptop screen I think this might be worth it simply for that screen. If you were considering a PowKiddy RGB10 Max 2 you might be better off with this.
if you are looking for the best android device for retro gaming, look no further than for the Galaxy Fold 3. It has the perfect Aspect Ratio, wenn opened up, for any kind of Retrogaming. From NES to PS2 almost everything looks super cool on the unfolded screen. Even PSP looks super cool and big enough.
So…how do you get buttons on that thing? I can’t think of any foldable controllers.
@@DijaVlogsGames i use the gamesir x2 ubs c, works flawless with the fold. no problem at all.
@@Stockarts and the phone still folds with that thing attached to it?
@@DijaVlogsGames exactly. it does.
Wow! It’s like they’re giving up on the first class hardware designs we’re used to. They set themselves apart with the hardware quality that seemed industry leading. Very disappointing. Not premium!
Still love my 552, and seems like the Odin will replace most retro handhelds anyways. Kinda glad my Odin hasn’t shipped yet, looks like I might get a few hardware updates implemented into mine by the time it ships. Though some of these larger handhelds are not super pocketable, or that I put anything but an SP in my pocket ever.
When I ordered my Odin it said that it would ship in Feb, after reaching out and reading updates from them it now seems like it will be May at the earliest.
"If you want a device that can play vertical arcade games"
Great vert-shmups with me on the go? YES!!! YES YES YES! Do you have a noob-friendly instruction on how to get that to work btw? Likely not shelling for this one but if they come out with a new, more powerful handheld in the future that can do that too (and still manages to be ergonomic while played vertically; I think they should do something like the mini-egret solution if it's not too difficult) I'd instabuy. It's weird to me that nobody has thought of that as a feature yet (the Switch flip grip is awesome). Imagine the Cave, Raizing and Psikyo libraries + all the rest contained in your pocket (salivating).
wow another handheld my lucky stars.
i waited for this to come out, and now i'm browsing for a psp3000 refurb because of disappointment. i already have a good vita setup, but i'm one those who hit the 500 bubble limit easily with just vita and psp games on a 500gb. i archive stuff and am in search for a psp-ish unit to house more of my roms. so, the hell with it. i'll just buy a psp straight up.
For me, there are 2 Retro Game Handheld Console, capable of emulating PS1 and bellow, and above. I will have no problem in PS1 and bellow (as this one, because of it RAM), but in this case, do a 4:3 screen size, make it more portable, and if I want a premium experience, include better resolution and screen (and CPU power to scale up the resolution, and put a resolution to scale perfect a few consoles). I fill this device is in the middle of both classifications, but not making happy to anyone.
I like the design. It's reminiscent of the Game Gear.
Smartphone company would properly make a better gaming handheld, meanwhile, if you are playing mostly retro game, best option is RG351p (best for GBA), or the RG351V (best 4:3 screen ratio), if you can pay a little more, go for RG351mp or the best retro pocket 2+
Hey Russ, great video as always but I have to ask. Do you ever play any PS1 RPG games off camera? Perhaps you've been playing through Xenogears or Chrono Cross on a handheld device in secret? It'd be cool to know if reviewers like yourself play quite a bit of their retrogames on these devices when not recording and doing it as a leisure activity, lol.
1 week waiting :D thanks boss
"We all" He must mean those who bought Anbernic Nintend-a-clone handhelds.
I have no expectation of quality having never bought one or owned one and never will
unless they do something different from their Nintend-a-clone style devices. That said,
I will have to take the word of people who own them they have this apparent agreed quality.
I usually get excited about each anbernic release and go straight for a preorder. This is their first device I just don’t care about.
Hey Russ. Thanks for the insight on the 503. I think I’m going to give it a try to replace my Vita 1000 for retro handheld gaming. The Vita will still handle Vita and PSP content. Do you think you will do a video for the 503 running a newer custom firmware like JelOS, AmberELEC or Batocera? I’d be interested on your insights of JelOS running on this device. Thank you
I don’t understand. The 552 was a flop and barely came out, now there is a new device that makes no sense. RP2+ costs 50 bucks less and outperforms this in N64 and PSP.
For all the criticisms that one can lay against this new device, they at least put the D-pad in the right spot! A minor thing maybe to some, but to me, that's a world of difference!
Just bought 127 shipped
I consider bying either Anbernic RG503 or Powkiddy X55. Which one is a better choice?
Great screen and I like the look overall. Coming straight from the past when Anbernic was just sort of a nameless company and made stuff like the RS97 and the Pap k2 and pap k3. Always liked the look of the pap k3 over the rs97 because it had the bigger screen.
The 503 would have been great with the soc from the rp2+ 😢
In just bought it, but mainly to play psp and psvita games. probably gonna return it now.
Nice review as always Russ
I think Russ just killed a lot of potential sales 😁
..and saved a lot of people money though ☺️.
Great video as usual 👍
I've seen comments saying some have already ordered it!
I feel like in 6-12 months time there's a possibility that I might be fairly keen to pick this one up, if the community "fixes" it (I'm optimistically assuming that the fixes will mean that it can genuinely outperform the RGB10 Max 2, and the like). Are there many other devices likely to use this chipset, though? Because if not, and this doesn't sell well, it may never happen.
How will it outperform the max2 if it's basically the same internals.
@@tking2199 Because it isn't the same internals, not even "basically". The newer chipset runs at 1.8ghz, not 1.3ghz, it's a cortex A55 not A35, meaning somewhat better performance with improved power consumption (so it can run cooler), and then it has a faster clock speed on the gpu - benchmarking suggests that while it may not be leaps and bounds ahead of the rk3326, even with the same ram, the rk3566 should have the potential to give a solid (albeit unspectacular) improvement in performance over the rk3326. Had it had 2gb ram this would have had so much more potential but, even so, it should be able to outperform similar rk3326 devices, such as the Max 2, without problems - that's why it's so disappointing that it doesn't right now.
Unless it can reliably emulate Dreamcast, PSP, and N64, it's a hard pass.
Clearly you can the Amber Nick 351p is a weaker processor and acaplay all of those almost at full speed this one with a little bit more powerful processor to play all of those smooth it's just a matter of getting custom firmware and using the Right emulator to play the game most of the time and burn it ships their product out with really doggcrapp emulators so just update them when you get the product and you should be able to play all those systems
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude I disagree tho. I have a 351m and those platforms when u go try to play higher end games does not perform. Games lag, crash or run at 15 FPS. My psp 1004 does a better job and it's a 15 yo device! Not really worth it.
@@FedericoMatarazzo Yeah, i grabbed an 351M after hearing people singing its praises, especially with ArkOS, but honestly in a lot of ways its disappointed me in regards to reliable higher end emulation of those systems among other things. It even struggles on certain PS1 games and i'd hoped we'd be past that by now. Got an RP2+ on the way as well so i can't see myself using my 351M that much longer.
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude no it cannot. N64 is always a hit or miss even for simple things like Paper Mario. Dreamcast can't hit 60 fps consistently on almost any game. Max is between 50-56 fps. PSP is also a hit or miss that even with custom settings there's not consistently good performance. I love my anbernic devices but don't lie about them. That's kinda sad.
@@Foostini
Yeah. After the RG350 devices, your best bet is jumping to a Retroid 2+ or an AYA Odin (my choice). Anything between will only deliver disappointment.
Great video! I must have missed the part where you talk about that (either from this or your first impression video) but does the RG503 have a metal or plastic shell?
It’s a plastic device with metallic looking paint. It’s a very lightweight handheld for its size!
seems like a way better use of your money to just buy a vita. you can even buy them with custom firmware pre installed pretty easily if you dont want to mess with it. disappointing, been waiting for a good retro device with an oled screen.