UPDATE: Anbernic has now added Google Play Store functionality to the device, it is available via an online updater app that is bundled on the device. All future shipments will come with Play Store as standard. UPDATE 2: Anbernic has also improved the analog joystick controls. ruclips.net/video/M-Y1MewLk_w/видео.html
I left a comment once asking about fast forward capability, and now you regularly mention it in every review. Much appreciated! Most helpful reviews on the RUclips!
I would not have thought that Anbernic would again design a handheld in such a way that you cannot get to the shoulder buttons properly and cannot grasp the handheld perfectly so that you can reach all the buttons nicely. Without words... Anbernic makes it easy for Goretroid to release the better handheld again. No OLED display helps either.
These companies will never develop A handheld that they know that majority of people would find everything they wanted in. Why? Because they wouldn’t be able to continue to release more models with incremental upgrades while taking away other much loved options. It’s sucks but that’s the way they operate.
What are you talking about?? Didn't you know that Chinese people have index fingers 1 and half times longer than anyone else? This has been clearly designed for their internal market (henceforth why no HDMI out, small houses for small TVs, so no reason for that port)! The export model is the RP3+.
I picked this up today over the rp3+. Two reasons, availability and shipping. 90 day turn around for retroid. 2-3 weeks for ambernic. I can live without the hdmi since my laptop is already docked to my flat screen for at home gaming. I wanted this for road trips and breaks at work.
Thanks for this review Russ, I can deal with all the quirks apart from the HDMI out. I don’t even think that screen would bother me but this is such a perfectly “dockable” device that the hdmi seems like a glaring oversight. I was so excited about a well made Anbernic device that was powerful and looked like a switch lite. Ah well…
As expected, my confirmation bias is glad this turned out to be a 40min affirmation that I made the right choice with the RP3+. I had some buyers remorse when I saw this revealed, but this definitely put that to bed. After loving my RP2, the RP3+ is a no brainer (for me) for all its features over the 505. Can't wait for my Retroid in the mail. Thanks for the great review, Russ!
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude RP2+, good point. I actually sold it after getting my Miyoo Mini, and anticipating the RP3, but glad I waited for the 3+. A pocket handheld and the RP3+ is the perfect duo.
I had high hopes for this but now I'm thinking I'll pass and wait for their next offerings. I already have a modded PlayStation Vita and it plays PSP perfectly.
It would be really cool to see all that power in a smaller and Linux-based device. I hope next gen of 35X series will be able to run PSP games that well.
Its nice to see some more affordable hanshelds that run decently. Might keep my eye on this company and see what else they can do. Some these other handheld devices i seen are ridiculous in price.
I got in my head a couple of weeks ago that I'd like one of these retro handhelds for an upcoming trip and your videos have been indispensable. Portability factored in very highly so I ultimately decided to wait another generation or two and use my old DS Lite with R4 & EZ-Flash for the trip but I'll keep watching your videos to find a handheld that suits my interests. I'm definitely excited to hear your thoughts about the RP3+ soon!
While a Modded GBA is neat and a Modded DS Lite is fun. You'll get a much more superior experience with a Modded PSP Slim/2000. There's also Hacked new3DS which is better, but a hacked PS Vita Slim beats it easily as the best of this lot. Going through the obscure handheld route, there's great options from the cheap end to the affordable end. The PowKiddy V90 is great for something that's dirt cheap and for kids. Stepping up to the Miyoo Mini v1 for a bit more and it's still a tiny funny device. Once you get to the Anbernic RG351p you start to get a good experience, I would say close to a Modded PSP Slim. A small step above would be the PowKiddy RGB 10 max1. Then you move onto the Anbernic 353m device and its definitely a better experience. A another step up is the Retroid Pocket 2+ and it's a great experience, and I would say it surpasses Hacked new3DS overall. A small step above would be the Retroid Pocket 3. Then a blast from the past with the GPD XD+ and the latest Retroid Pocket 3+ which I would say rivals a Hacked PS Vita Slim. There aren't any devices that are better than these, which fit into the pocketable category. You could go the route of x86 handhelds. There's the GPD Win-1 and GPD Win-2 which are barely pocketable options. Most other x86 options aren't really worth looking into either due to hardware or price. And it's more meaningful getting something that is large, comfortable, and big screened for indoor use but can be stowed in a backpack. The biggest standout is the Valve SteamDeck. So my recommendation is get the large, actively cooled, x86 Windows device for indoor use or backpack travelling (Valve SteamDeck)... alongside a small, passive cooled, ARM Android device for outdoor use that's pocketable (Retroid Pocket 3+).
could not agree more, owning a handful of these devices, I find myself more M'eh than excited to use them vs just grabbing my modded 3ds, vita, or switch most of the time. Easy to get sucked into the hype train on these devices, but unless you are into tinkering more than gaming most of these vids besides Russes are folks justifying their purchases or schlepping for these chinese companies to ensure they get the next model for free to "review" aka schlepp. LOL. I think the one exception for me is the miyoo mini. Once set up, it's a neat device for playing quick and putting away to move on while on the go. RG552 for me is still bee's knees for couch retro gaming where shoulder buttons really don't come in to play much. At the end of the day, regardless of feedback, these handhelds all end up with drawbacks with no one checking the really obvious YES boxes of screen size, quality, ergonomics, button quality, joystick quality, battery, firmware that makes shit easy, pretty, and just works. If Anbernic could have just stopped, and taken the best parts of each of their 2022 devices and made one (albeit with stacked shoulder buttons) they would have had a winner. As it stands if you buy any of their models (and same goes for retroid as well) you'll be settling in some way or another.
@@LeSanglierQuiRit How is it "settling" when you get the Retroid Pocket 3+ though? I get the arguments against Anbernic which always compromises somewhere or the other manufacturers. I even get the arguments against the RP2+ and RP3. However I feel like the RP3+ is in a league of its own. A Hacked PS Vita Slim is the most powerful compact console you can get, but it is very clunky and showing its age. The RP3+ does everything it does but it does it much more seamless, better, and it does a lot more. You can pick it up, play, put it to sleep, then pick it up again later. What it lacks (PS Vita games) it makes up with Android Apps and Cloud Gaming. It also adds a bit of PS2, 3DS, GameCube, and Wii emulation. Anything larger like the PowKiddy RGB 10 max2 and up are just too cumbersome to take along with you anywhere. That's my gripe with the Nintendo Switch variants, as well as the likes of the AYN, GPD, and AYA devices. You'll need to stow them away in your purse or your backpack. If you want something for indoor use, then you may as well skip all those compromised devices and get the Valve SteamDeck instead (or maybe the GPD Win-Max-2).
@@ekinteko yeah, it certainly boils down to use case, for couch gaming I would agree, steam deck is a great option although there are gripes there as well when it comes to battery and screen quality but all in all I think it’s one of the best options. For on the go though and pocketability, that’s why I mentioned the miyoo. The RP3+ looks good, but most of emulation wont be playing full screen without looking wonky, GC is still so-so, same for N64, so for even less $ you can pick up other devices that’ll play the rest of the emulation catalogue. Even the RP3+ is just an incrimental update vs a HEY! It can full on play a whole new console or 2 full catalogue no problems. Never mind joystick location yet again. There’s a billion controllers out there folks love that could clue these manufacturers in on button and joystick layout. Instead they keep crapping out the same kinda crappy ergonomic layouts. At this point with the sheer amount of handhelds available for ps1 and under that all run them just fine, can they crank out one or two aimed less at designing for those and instead for gamecube, wii, N64? I don’t mind not having one that does all. I mind having 100 that all do different stuff sort of well. Ya know? I’d rather have 1 portable pocket for on the go classic stuff. 1 for couch classics aka the 552, 1 for couch semi classics GC, N64, etc. if they do it really well and knock off the compromises. Then it’s hard earned money well spent. As is, I just don’t think the RP3+ is the be all end all despite the hype train and it being the latest, greatest. Give it 6mo tops and retroid will have yet another incremental update. Same as anbernic. At the end of the day, you can only physically play one ata time and they aren’t pokemon. I don’t want/need, nor can I afford to catch em all lol.
@@ekinteko as far as the psp/vita/ds goes though, they may be showing their age but you mod them, add their respective catalogues to each and you have still fantastic systems with the same if not better battery life that play their catalogues perfectly no muss no fuss. In the mood for nintendo? Toss a ds in your pocket. Ps? Psp? Psv? Toss a vita in your pocket. No different than grabbing one of the dozen handhelds sold this year except you only have a few hundred games with you vs thousands. So you get to select quicker and jump right into a game vs hemming, hawing, tinkering, then finally playing. Like I said, my takeaway after buying a few of these things is that they are neat. If you are a tinkerer. If you just wanna play, hack your oem systems. For the most part it’s just a better and easier experience for most people.
Remember saturn running quite abit better on your original x18s video (the first one). As you review these higher powered devices, can switch to using more accurate emulators (such as bsnes for SNES, beetle hw core for RetroArch or duckstation with PGXP enabled etc) for the older systems?
I ordered the gray RG505, but cancelled my order. After seeing a number or reviews I have determined that the RP3 Plus is the better option. And I hate to say that the RP3 Plus looks to be a better option than the RG505 because I really like Anbernic. Though, since I have the 5 inch display Powkiddy Max 2 with stacked triggers. I don't really need either the RG505 or RP3. I'm going to wait it out to see what else Anbernic has to offer in the future. If Anbernic was to give us a 7 inch handheld with dual boot, stacked triggers, a slim shell and better color options, I'd be more intrigued to purchase one. I have the gray RG353P and it has all the features I prefer in a handheld, except I wish the display was at least a 5 inches. With the 3.5 inch display I still play my RG353P more often and I do like it, but I'd gladly buy a 5 inch version to have on the side. If I were to decide to get an RP3 Plus and I just may, it would be the same color scheme as the one displayed in this review. the USA SNES color scheme. Well, for now I'll pull out my Powkiddy X15, it has a 5.5 inch display with stacked triggers. I haven't really explored my Powkiddy X15 since I purchased it.
This is why I like your channel. You look at the tiny things - especially about ergonomics - that could potentially bother someone. Many other channels just review the tech sheet of the devices... as if I can't read those myself! But ergonomics are equally important if not even more for a handheld device. That is why I continue to stick with my RGB10 Max 2. I still have not found a device more comfortable to hold and the RG505 surely is not even a remote challenger. Anbernic indeed has a poor record on ergonomics. In fact the only Anbernic device I consider above average in that regard is the RG353p.
Wulffden did a video last year where he talked about how these devices just always seem to fall a little short and how they all end up missing the mark in some capacity. It seems like Anbernic still hasn't learned from its past issues. Are they not listening to product reviewers?
I feel like once you get a Steam Deck it's game over for all these other handheld I mean I'm running wii u switch Ps2 ps3 xbox gamecube and everything under that almost flawlessly so in my humble opinion the Steam Deck is definitively THE HANDHELD Steam Deck is the Switch killer
Worth mentioning that the AYN ODIN is now out of pre-orders and is live. For $50 more you can get the Odin Lite, which absolutely smashes this and the RP3+
It's a bit more. The Odin Lite is $228 vs $145 for the RP3 (with $5 coupon on their homepage), and there's a cheaper $15 shipping option too. So with shipping, $160 for the RP3+, and $260 for the Odin Lite - so all-in, it's $100 more.
@@elemkay5104 well worth the extra $100. Much better performance. Better off either getting a proper budget device instead of this middleground that misses the mark both on price and features..
@@Juicetyn That's exactly my take on these widescreen devices that are only incrementally superior. If you're gonna go wide, then get something that can do GC/PS2.
Hey Retro game Corps could you maybe think about bringing back the pocket-ability test in the retroid pocket 3+ review it will be really nice to know so we out to see the size of the console (I know you do the size comparisons to other models but the pocket ability would just be one step further)
I just pre-orded mine. Been waiting on this one for awhile. Hall sensor, OLED, and some decent NGC performance are all wins for this price. Thanks for the awesome review man!
Looking forward to the RP3+ review and comparison. With the better ergonomics and layout (apart from the weird positioning of start and select), I’m thinking the RP3+ is probably the one to go for. I’m probably going to pull the trigger on that one as an upgrade to my RP2+.
Hey Russ, while I'm sure you would have heard by now, just in case, I have confirmed with Anbernic that all RG505 consoles are shipping with the Google Play Store pre-installed. Seems all review units were either rushed out the door or they quickly added it once seeing the pushback...
Honestly I wish they'd make more interesting colors for this, it's kind of sad seeing them ape the Switch Lite colors (I do like the DMG one at least) when the RP3+ has the translucent and SNES color options
I feel that if they had held back the RG535M, and simply release it with the internals of the RG505, it would have been a home run. Those inline shoulder buttons make more sense on a smaller device, and people seem to love the design and feel of the RG353M's form factor.
If i was a betting man i'd say Anbernic is going to announce a pre-order for the RG506 next month lol I see they are starting to go the powkiddy route - just flood the market, throw everything against the wall and hope something sticks. I understand there is now a lot of competition in the market and their market share is getting smaller by the day. But if they took their time i'm sure they could come out with a better quality product than most - shame they seem to have abandon that strategy.
I was expecting like crazy your review.. thank you again! I think it is not for me...RP3+ and the LCD is better for me. *Well, again The RP3+ final price for Spain is around 200€ with taxes plus sending.. not a bargain.. I will play only in my 600 grams Steam Deck.
Never understood why all these handhelds are moving to the wide-screen formats. Especially when they usually top out with console emulation before wide-screen was implemented. The only consoles its usually capable of emulating at that ratio is psp and gba, otherwise you're much better off having a larger screen at 4:3 aspect ratio like the rg353p. I'd like a handheld with the 353p form factor with a better processor to get us up to gamecube or at least upscale dreamcast.
Your comment is pretty spot on and probably anbenic listened to you (or comments like yours) with the rg405. I'm not sure about having the offset sticks or the metal body but it seems to solve the other aspects of the 505
If Anbernic put just like 10-15% more effort into their devices they could own the market. It's wild how awfully calibrated those joysticks are, looks like they perform worse than even the 8 way digital sticks in a lot of phone grips, since with those you can at least hit diagonals. Idk what the point of having hall sticks is here. The shoulder buttons are baffling as usual. Seems like so many things are so close to perfect here, but just off enough to ruin its value. Definitely leaning toward that RP3+ now
I think I want an RG555?... Weird that the 552 is smaller than the 505 even with it's bigger screen. I never realized the issue with the missing play store, thanks for that clarification.
If this had the triggers and slimness of its competitor 3+, it would be awesome. And the high brightness in low light, no google play really kill it for me... great coverage!
I don’t always watch 40 minute videos on RUclips, but when I do, it’s Retro Game Corps. The opening “slide” summarizing prior Anbernic handhelds was pure genius, great work outta you as usual, Russ!
I liked ;) To subscribe I am awaiting for some Evercade reviews. Your experience with retro consoles would give a very detailed view of how this piece of tech is doing compared to what you've already reviewed ;)
I bought this ine just to buy it, i have the odin pro, rp3+ and ayaneo 2, but i really like how this unit look, I like the slim style as you mentioned, some times works a little slow in ps2 demanding games than the rp3+ but i really like the screen, show really good colors and I'm using gamma OS
On the frame not lining up perfectly with the screen, Kris Occhipinti, here on RUclips, has a video describing how you can modify the screen alignment over an ADB interface. Granted, it shouldn't be something you HAVE to do, but it's fixable by the end user. Well, it's not aimed at the RG505, it's more general Android device, but I figure that will still apply
I find it sad really. I found your channel thanks to the RG351P and bought one because of it. It was an amazing device for its size, ergonomics and capabilities. Upon looking for something more powerful for larger handheld gaming, I went with the Odin Pro because Anbernic didn't have anything even remotely capable. And now I find myself in the market for a Windows capable handheld. And Anbernic is so far removed they don't even come up as a consideration for me. Every device since the 351P I've looked down on in some way and questioned their design and build decisions.
How did you get the rear panel off? I took my screws out (as I'm wanting to swap some buttons) but the panel is snug in it and I was worried about damaging the rear panel. Not as simple as taking apart the RG353M haha. Are there clips or something holding the rear panel on the RG505?
Russ...love this...I got my 505 a week ago...love everything about it... I actually got the 256GB card with all the games on it... but because I didn't like the way playstation 2 emulates I erased all those games and added approximately 50 of my favorite PSP games which works awesome on this. The next thing I'd like to get into is android based games on here but I do not understand how to make key mapping work 4 games that the native controls do not work for... I think a great series of videos would be on how to do that and android games that work well on this device.. That would be a great video for some noobs like me
I like the look of the D-pad, though the face buttons - like on most of these devices - seem a little too small for my taste. I'm currently on an old Odroid Go Advance which serves me decently, but if anything were to be released with a decent screen and a SNES-sized D-pad and face buttons I'd definitely be interested… This seems like the closest one yet but I'll be holding out for a bit longer.
I will wait for the Ayn Loki Mini... I have a steam deck and I love it, but I want something smaller and more portable/powerful for ps2/gc/wii emulation mainly and some light/less demanding steam games. :) for retro stuff (from psp to everything else below that) I'm pretty covered with my devices (psvita, new 3ds, rg351v, switch, gameboy color).
Have you tried DS emulation with the screen vertical? It should be quite playable with the control scheme and would support 2x integer scaling. It might make a good mini video doing all the configuration too.
Hello RGC and all the viewers, I have a specific question. I’m looking for a handheld but the only system I care about is PS2 especially. I would like to play some sports games(NFL 2K5
UPDATE: Anbernic has now added Google Play Store functionality to the device, it is available via an online updater app that is bundled on the device. All future shipments will come with Play Store as standard.
UPDATE 2: Anbernic has also improved the analog joystick controls. ruclips.net/video/M-Y1MewLk_w/видео.html
Nice
Definitely needed it for roblox,CoD mobile and genshin gameplay
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With all the new updates, how do you compare RG505 with Retroid pocket 3+? Is the setup now similar to Retroid pocket 3/3+? Thank you.
@@lalionei would like to see this too. Since one of the major flaws of this device, if not the major, was related to the absense of google store
I left a comment once asking about fast forward capability, and now you regularly mention it in every review.
Much appreciated! Most helpful reviews on the RUclips!
Wow I thought this would be a lot better. Can’t wait for the RP3+ comparison. Excellent review Russ!
Just got mine today, and apparently Anbernic has listened, the language is in English and the Play Store is included now
I would not have thought that Anbernic would again design a handheld in such a way that you cannot get to the shoulder buttons properly and cannot grasp the handheld perfectly so that you can reach all the buttons nicely. Without words... Anbernic makes it easy for Goretroid to release the better handheld again. No OLED display helps either.
Retroid pocket 3 plus is best
These companies will never develop
A handheld that they know that majority of people would find everything they wanted in. Why? Because they wouldn’t be able to continue to release more models with incremental upgrades while taking away other much loved options. It’s sucks but that’s the way they operate.
@@elisons except that company is wack.
@@reagandow850 I am pretty much convinced you're right.
What are you talking about?? Didn't you know that Chinese people have index fingers 1 and half times longer than anyone else? This has been clearly designed for their internal market (henceforth why no HDMI out, small houses for small TVs, so no reason for that port)! The export model is the RP3+.
Finally PSP Gaming 🙌
The hell it is... I can't wait to buy it
Yes I've been waiting for your review after all the teaser
I picked this up today over the rp3+. Two reasons, availability and shipping. 90 day turn around for retroid. 2-3 weeks for ambernic. I can live without the hdmi since my laptop is already docked to my flat screen for at home gaming. I wanted this for road trips and breaks at work.
Thanks for this review Russ, I can deal with all the quirks apart from the HDMI out. I don’t even think that screen would bother me but this is such a perfectly “dockable” device that the hdmi seems like a glaring oversight. I was so excited about a well made Anbernic device that was powerful and looked like a switch lite. Ah well…
As expected, my confirmation bias is glad this turned out to be a 40min affirmation that I made the right choice with the RP3+. I had some buyers remorse when I saw this revealed, but this definitely put that to bed. After loving my RP2, the RP3+ is a no brainer (for me) for all its features over the 505. Can't wait for my Retroid in the mail. Thanks for the great review, Russ!
Rp2 or rp2+
@@CHICKENmcNUGGIESMydude RP2+, good point. I actually sold it after getting my Miyoo Mini, and anticipating the RP3, but glad I waited for the 3+. A pocket handheld and the RP3+ is the perfect duo.
I had high hopes for this but now I'm thinking I'll pass and wait for their next offerings. I already have a modded PlayStation Vita and it plays PSP perfectly.
It would be really cool to see all that power in a smaller and Linux-based device. I hope next gen of 35X series will be able to run PSP games that well.
Agreed. Smaller devices - with HDMI out and better DPI screens FTW.
Sadly, there aren’t much SoCs with more power which are compatible with Linux in a small device. So all these SoCs won’t be seen in a Linux device.
Its nice to see some more affordable hanshelds that run decently. Might keep my eye on this company and see what else they can do. Some these other handheld devices i seen are ridiculous in price.
Adding google play store and services to any android device is very easy. I’ve done it with my rg353v.
The R353m with this chip would probably make the best anbernic device ever
I hear THAT!
Rg405m
I got in my head a couple of weeks ago that I'd like one of these retro handhelds for an upcoming trip and your videos have been indispensable. Portability factored in very highly so I ultimately decided to wait another generation or two and use my old DS Lite with R4 & EZ-Flash for the trip but I'll keep watching your videos to find a handheld that suits my interests. I'm definitely excited to hear your thoughts about the RP3+ soon!
While a Modded GBA is neat and a Modded DS Lite is fun. You'll get a much more superior experience with a Modded PSP Slim/2000. There's also Hacked new3DS which is better, but a hacked PS Vita Slim beats it easily as the best of this lot.
Going through the obscure handheld route, there's great options from the cheap end to the affordable end.
The PowKiddy V90 is great for something that's dirt cheap and for kids. Stepping up to the Miyoo Mini v1 for a bit more and it's still a tiny funny device. Once you get to the Anbernic RG351p you start to get a good experience, I would say close to a Modded PSP Slim. A small step above would be the PowKiddy RGB 10 max1. Then you move onto the Anbernic 353m device and its definitely a better experience. A another step up is the Retroid Pocket 2+ and it's a great experience, and I would say it surpasses Hacked new3DS overall. A small step above would be the Retroid Pocket 3. Then a blast from the past with the GPD XD+ and the latest Retroid Pocket 3+ which I would say rivals a Hacked PS Vita Slim. There aren't any devices that are better than these, which fit into the pocketable category.
You could go the route of x86 handhelds. There's the GPD Win-1 and GPD Win-2 which are barely pocketable options. Most other x86 options aren't really worth looking into either due to hardware or price. And it's more meaningful getting something that is large, comfortable, and big screened for indoor use but can be stowed in a backpack. The biggest standout is the Valve SteamDeck.
So my recommendation is get the large, actively cooled, x86 Windows device for indoor use or backpack travelling (Valve SteamDeck)... alongside a small, passive cooled, ARM Android device for outdoor use that's pocketable (Retroid Pocket 3+).
could not agree more, owning a handful of these devices, I find myself more M'eh than excited to use them vs just grabbing my modded 3ds, vita, or switch most of the time. Easy to get sucked into the hype train on these devices, but unless you are into tinkering more than gaming most of these vids besides Russes are folks justifying their purchases or schlepping for these chinese companies to ensure they get the next model for free to "review" aka schlepp. LOL. I think the one exception for me is the miyoo mini. Once set up, it's a neat device for playing quick and putting away to move on while on the go. RG552 for me is still bee's knees for couch retro gaming where shoulder buttons really don't come in to play much. At the end of the day, regardless of feedback, these handhelds all end up with drawbacks with no one checking the really obvious YES boxes of screen size, quality, ergonomics, button quality, joystick quality, battery, firmware that makes shit easy, pretty, and just works. If Anbernic could have just stopped, and taken the best parts of each of their 2022 devices and made one (albeit with stacked shoulder buttons) they would have had a winner. As it stands if you buy any of their models (and same goes for retroid as well) you'll be settling in some way or another.
@@LeSanglierQuiRit
How is it "settling" when you get the Retroid Pocket 3+ though?
I get the arguments against Anbernic which always compromises somewhere or the other manufacturers. I even get the arguments against the RP2+ and RP3. However I feel like the RP3+ is in a league of its own. A Hacked PS Vita Slim is the most powerful compact console you can get, but it is very clunky and showing its age. The RP3+ does everything it does but it does it much more seamless, better, and it does a lot more. You can pick it up, play, put it to sleep, then pick it up again later. What it lacks (PS Vita games) it makes up with Android Apps and Cloud Gaming. It also adds a bit of PS2, 3DS, GameCube, and Wii emulation.
Anything larger like the PowKiddy RGB 10 max2 and up are just too cumbersome to take along with you anywhere. That's my gripe with the Nintendo Switch variants, as well as the likes of the AYN, GPD, and AYA devices. You'll need to stow them away in your purse or your backpack.
If you want something for indoor use, then you may as well skip all those compromised devices and get the Valve SteamDeck instead (or maybe the GPD Win-Max-2).
@@ekinteko yeah, it certainly boils down to use case, for couch gaming I would agree, steam deck is a great option although there are gripes there as well when it comes to battery and screen quality but all in all I think it’s one of the best options. For on the go though and pocketability, that’s why I mentioned the miyoo. The RP3+ looks good, but most of emulation wont be playing full screen without looking wonky, GC is still so-so, same for N64, so for even less $ you can pick up other devices that’ll play the rest of the emulation catalogue. Even the RP3+ is just an incrimental update vs a HEY! It can full on play a whole new console or 2 full catalogue no problems. Never mind joystick location yet again. There’s a billion controllers out there folks love that could clue these manufacturers in on button and joystick layout. Instead they keep crapping out the same kinda crappy ergonomic layouts. At this point with the sheer amount of handhelds available for ps1 and under that all run them just fine, can they crank out one or two aimed less at designing for those and instead for gamecube, wii, N64? I don’t mind not having one that does all. I mind having 100 that all do different stuff sort of well. Ya know? I’d rather have 1 portable pocket for on the go classic stuff. 1 for couch classics aka the 552, 1 for couch semi classics GC, N64, etc. if they do it really well and knock off the compromises. Then it’s hard earned money well spent. As is, I just don’t think the RP3+ is the be all end all despite the hype train and it being the latest, greatest. Give it 6mo tops and retroid will have yet another incremental update. Same as anbernic. At the end of the day, you can only physically play one ata time and they aren’t pokemon. I don’t want/need, nor can I afford to catch em all lol.
@@ekinteko as far as the psp/vita/ds goes though, they may be showing their age but you mod them, add their respective catalogues to each and you have still fantastic systems with the same if not better battery life that play their catalogues perfectly no muss no fuss. In the mood for nintendo? Toss a ds in your pocket. Ps? Psp? Psv? Toss a vita in your pocket. No different than grabbing one of the dozen handhelds sold this year except you only have a few hundred games with you vs thousands. So you get to select quicker and jump right into a game vs hemming, hawing, tinkering, then finally playing. Like I said, my takeaway after buying a few of these things is that they are neat. If you are a tinkerer. If you just wanna play, hack your oem systems. For the most part it’s just a better and easier experience for most people.
25:10 love it how you start the audio test with Streets of Rage 2 from the Genesis 🤗
cant wait for the rp3+ review!
Did you take it apart? We can see a screw is missing at 4:25.
It came with a missing screw! I noticed it when I tore down the device for this review.
Amazing review as usual. I already bought the RP3+ and it will be interesting to see what you say about it and how to extract the best of it.
Remember the good old days when there was more than weeks between new hardware?
Remember saturn running quite abit better on your original x18s video (the first one).
As you review these higher powered devices, can switch to using more accurate emulators (such as bsnes for SNES, beetle hw core for RetroArch or duckstation with PGXP enabled etc) for the older systems?
Is there a screw missing from the case at 4:21?
Looks like it. Maybe russ forgot to put it back after opening the device or perhaps it wasn't screwed on the first place...
With the Retroid Pocket 3+ releasing, there's no way I'd consider this one. Great review Russ!
Exactly. You’d be crazy to pick this over the 3+ unless you really want the OLED screen
@@KoalaSnuggles brain see oled, neurons activate
I'm even more excited to get my rg353m now. Another great review, thanks!
The only thing this had going for it over the RP3+ was the hall joysticks, but we find out they are not even the good hall sensors but poor ones.
I ordered the gray RG505, but cancelled my order. After seeing a number or reviews I have determined that the RP3 Plus is the better option. And I hate to say that the RP3 Plus looks to be a better option than the RG505 because I really like Anbernic. Though, since I have the 5 inch display Powkiddy Max 2 with stacked triggers. I don't really need either the RG505 or RP3. I'm going to wait it out to see what else Anbernic has to offer in the future. If Anbernic was to give us a 7 inch handheld with dual boot, stacked triggers, a slim shell and better color options, I'd be more intrigued to purchase one. I have the gray RG353P and it has all the features I prefer in a handheld, except I wish the display was at least a 5 inches. With the 3.5 inch display I still play my RG353P more often and I do like it, but I'd gladly buy a 5 inch version to have on the side. If I were to decide to get an RP3 Plus and I just may, it would be the same color scheme as the one displayed in this review. the USA SNES color scheme. Well, for now I'll pull out my Powkiddy X15, it has a 5.5 inch display with stacked triggers. I haven't really explored my Powkiddy X15 since I purchased it.
This is why I like your channel. You look at the tiny things - especially about ergonomics - that could potentially bother someone. Many other channels just review the tech sheet of the devices... as if I can't read those myself! But ergonomics are equally important if not even more for a handheld device. That is why I continue to stick with my RGB10 Max 2. I still have not found a device more comfortable to hold and the RG505 surely is not even a remote challenger. Anbernic indeed has a poor record on ergonomics. In fact the only Anbernic device I consider above average in that regard is the RG353p.
Have you tried the RP3+ ? Now I can't decide between RP3+ and the RGB10 Max 2 you have
Wulffden did a video last year where he talked about how these devices just always seem to fall a little short and how they all end up missing the mark in some capacity. It seems like Anbernic still hasn't learned from its past issues. Are they not listening to product reviewers?
Good news! The latest update from Anbernic has Google Play pre-installed on RG505. One major flaw eliminated.
Great review... Just added to wishlist on AliExpress
I feel like once you get a Steam Deck it's game over for all these other handheld
I mean I'm running wii u switch Ps2 ps3 xbox gamecube and everything under that almost flawlessly so in my humble opinion the Steam Deck is definitively THE HANDHELD
Steam Deck is the Switch killer
RP3+ beats this if only for its better shoulder buttons and smaller bezels (the RP3’s screen is fantastic too)
Worth mentioning that the AYN ODIN is now out of pre-orders and is live. For $50 more you can get the Odin Lite, which absolutely smashes this and the RP3+
It's a bit more. The Odin Lite is $228 vs $145 for the RP3 (with $5 coupon on their homepage), and there's a cheaper $15 shipping option too.
So with shipping, $160 for the RP3+, and $260 for the Odin Lite - so all-in, it's $100 more.
@@elemkay5104 well worth the extra $100. Much better performance. Better off either getting a proper budget device instead of this middleground that misses the mark both on price and features..
@@Juicetyn That's exactly my take on these widescreen devices that are only incrementally superior. If you're gonna go wide, then get something that can do GC/PS2.
one question are all emulated games already on the console
Thank you sooooo much you helped me bro 🌼🌼🌼😍
Hey Retro game Corps could you maybe think about bringing back the pocket-ability test in the retroid pocket 3+ review it will be really nice to know so we out to see the size of the console (I know you do the size comparisons to other models but the pocket ability would just be one step further)
I just pre-orded mine. Been waiting on this one for awhile. Hall sensor, OLED, and some decent NGC performance are all wins for this price. Thanks for the awesome review man!
The Vita OLED does get burn in pretty easy remember
Plus, the analog sticks are basically D-pads
Just sat waiting for the RP3+ review to drop 👍
Great video! How/where do you get the background?
What app Charging check u use,Russ? Bought a Brick to use with the Odin but i feel that's pretty slow,wanted to check it out
Looking forward to the RP3+ review and comparison. With the better ergonomics and layout (apart from the weird positioning of start and select), I’m thinking the RP3+ is probably the one to go for. I’m probably going to pull the trigger on that one as an upgrade to my RP2+.
Hey Russ, while I'm sure you would have heard by now, just in case, I have confirmed with Anbernic that all RG505 consoles are shipping with the Google Play Store pre-installed. Seems all review units were either rushed out the door or they quickly added it once seeing the pushback...
Yes, I've heard that the update is coming this weekend. Glad to hear!
I love your videos brother 😍
Thanks for the video.
Honestly I wish they'd make more interesting colors for this, it's kind of sad seeing them ape the Switch Lite colors (I do like the DMG one at least) when the RP3+ has the translucent and SNES color options
I feel that if they had held back the RG535M, and simply release it with the internals of the RG505, it would have been a home run. Those inline shoulder buttons make more sense on a smaller device, and people seem to love the design and feel of the RG353M's form factor.
My opinion (not having tried either of those devices)... Why not just make the buttons smaller and stack them anyway? Reaching over is awkward.
If i was a betting man i'd say Anbernic is going to announce a pre-order for the RG506 next month lol I see they are starting to go the powkiddy route - just flood the market, throw everything against the wall and hope something sticks. I understand there is now a lot of competition in the market and their market share is getting smaller by the day. But if they took their time i'm sure they could come out with a better quality product than most - shame they seem to have abandon that strategy.
I was expecting like crazy your review.. thank you again! I think it is not for me...RP3+ and the LCD is better for me.
*Well, again The RP3+ final price for Spain is around 200€ with taxes plus sending.. not a bargain.. I will play only in my 600 grams Steam Deck.
Never understood why all these handhelds are moving to the wide-screen formats. Especially when they usually top out with console emulation before wide-screen was implemented.
The only consoles its usually capable of emulating at that ratio is psp and gba, otherwise you're much better off having a larger screen at 4:3 aspect ratio like the rg353p.
I'd like a handheld with the 353p form factor with a better processor to get us up to gamecube or at least upscale dreamcast.
Cheaper displays
Your comment is pretty spot on and probably anbenic listened to you (or comments like yours) with the rg405. I'm not sure about having the offset sticks or the metal body but it seems to solve the other aspects of the 505
3:51 "Oh sweet, he got the grey one!" ~ dogs
I hope they put that chip into the 354M.
13:50 you mean the 503
If Anbernic put just like 10-15% more effort into their devices they could own the market. It's wild how awfully calibrated those joysticks are, looks like they perform worse than even the 8 way digital sticks in a lot of phone grips, since with those you can at least hit diagonals. Idk what the point of having hall sticks is here. The shoulder buttons are baffling as usual. Seems like so many things are so close to perfect here, but just off enough to ruin its value. Definitely leaning toward that RP3+ now
YES YES YES!
So true.
This is true for a lot of Chinese companies. A lot of products from China feel almost not garbage.
Thanks for the helpful review .Will skip this one. tempted to get the rp3. Hope there will be a review of the Razer edge 5g!
11:07 was it possible to run the same game/same scene to compare? That would have been better to see the difference.
38:10 "...it does prevent a tangibly better experience when it comes to audio." That doesn't sound like a good thing though?
I think I want an RG555?... Weird that the 552 is smaller than the 505 even with it's bigger screen. I never realized the issue with the missing play store, thanks for that clarification.
Great video! Glad you've found a space for the track 💜
If this had the triggers and slimness of its competitor 3+, it would be awesome. And the high brightness in low light, no google play really kill it for me... great coverage!
The RP3+ seems like the go to for value at the moment. I still love my 552, having that great res for scaling is just fantastic.
ANOTHER GREAT VIDEO, I haven't watched it yet but I assume it's great like always.
Great video!!
Hi Russ.
So what's the best device for ps2 in your opinion? ( Non PC or steamdeck)
Thanks man !
i suggest the ayn odin pro
I don’t always watch 40 minute videos on RUclips, but when I do, it’s Retro Game Corps. The opening “slide” summarizing prior Anbernic handhelds was pure genius, great work outta you as usual, Russ!
Would you redo the review with the GammaOS as well?
27:20 Is that a Magic Knight Rayearth game?
If only the RG552 had this chip.
What is the device in the beginning that is directly above the rg505? The big silver one
Let's see what Retroid's Pocket 3+ will be able to do...
Hey Russ, say is it possible to swap the 505s face Buttons in favour of those of other anbernic devices? Cheers from Germany
I liked ;)
To subscribe I am awaiting for some Evercade reviews. Your experience with retro consoles would give a very detailed view of how this piece of tech is doing compared to what you've already reviewed ;)
Just pre ordered mine, but I'll wait for the RP3+ comparison and decide between the two. Great video as always
You don't need to wait, Captain Obvious already rang the door bell. RP3+ is the winner this time.
4:13 bro why is there a screw missing?
Yoo! Starting my morning with a Retro Game Corp video! Gonna be a good day
cant wait for android tv boxes with this chipset.... 5th gen consoles will be a norm and also psp
It looks like the RP3+ might be the better option. No HDMI out and Google play store is kinda hard to swallow.
agreed
you can sideload google services in this device.
Agreed!
@@aynrandom3004 That's some fix that's down the road again..
They keep relying on people to fix their sh*t.
Better shoulder buttons too.
I bought this ine just to buy it, i have the odin pro, rp3+ and ayaneo 2, but i really like how this unit look, I like the slim style as you mentioned, some times works a little slow in ps2 demanding games than the rp3+ but i really like the screen, show really good colors and I'm using gamma OS
What handhelds do you use besides the steam deck? Ever since I got my steam deck I just havent found much use for my RG351MP.
On the frame not lining up perfectly with the screen, Kris Occhipinti, here on RUclips, has a video describing how you can modify the screen alignment over an ADB interface. Granted, it shouldn't be something you HAVE to do, but it's fixable by the end user. Well, it's not aimed at the RG505, it's more general Android device, but I figure that will still apply
Thanks for giving honest reviews and not selling out. Your doing great kid.
Can't wait for rp3+ video
Can you get doom on it?
Hell yeah you can get doom
I've noticed that the analog sticks being biased on the axis points also happens on my RG351v. Interesting that it doesn't happen with the RG353m.
Hall sensor. Different tech.
Odin Lite or RP3+ or RG505?
How did NBA street play on Game cube? I really want a emulation hand held that plays those games.
I find it sad really. I found your channel thanks to the RG351P and bought one because of it. It was an amazing device for its size, ergonomics and capabilities. Upon looking for something more powerful for larger handheld gaming, I went with the Odin Pro because Anbernic didn't have anything even remotely capable.
And now I find myself in the market for a Windows capable handheld. And Anbernic is so far removed they don't even come up as a consideration for me.
Every device since the 351P I've looked down on in some way and questioned their design and build decisions.
Checking timestamps before watching... Oooo N64 and GC..
How did you get the rear panel off? I took my screws out (as I'm wanting to swap some buttons) but the panel is snug in it and I was worried about damaging the rear panel. Not as simple as taking apart the RG353M haha. Are there clips or something holding the rear panel on the RG505?
Russ...love this...I got my 505 a week ago...love everything about it... I actually got the 256GB card with all the games on it... but because I didn't like the way playstation 2 emulates I erased all those games and added approximately 50 of my favorite PSP games which works awesome on this. The next thing I'd like to get into is android based games on here but I do not understand how to make key mapping work 4 games that the native controls do not work for... I think a great series of videos would be on how to do that and android games that work well on this device.. That would be a great video for some noobs like me
With all these mid handhelds, it makes me wonder if we'll exceed the ayn odin any time soon. Other than the Pocket 3+ it seems impossible
Ayn Odin comes with zero games on it though. I'd rather have this handheld.
Let's see a head-to-head of the RG505 vs the Retroid Pocket 3+.
RG505 vs RP3+.... not RG503.
I like the look of the D-pad, though the face buttons - like on most of these devices - seem a little too small for my taste. I'm currently on an old Odroid Go Advance which serves me decently, but if anything were to be released with a decent screen and a SNES-sized D-pad and face buttons I'd definitely be interested… This seems like the closest one yet but I'll be holding out for a bit longer.
I will wait for the Ayn Loki Mini... I have a steam deck and I love it, but I want something smaller and more portable/powerful for ps2/gc/wii emulation mainly and some light/less demanding steam games. :) for retro stuff (from psp to everything else below that) I'm pretty covered with my devices (psvita, new 3ds, rg351v, switch, gameboy color).
I love the way you make video
I think they got the screen confused. It's the same screen used in the PS Vita not the PSP.
this or rg353m ? i recently ordered rg353m
Have you tried DS emulation with the screen vertical? It should be quite playable with the control scheme and would support 2x integer scaling. It might make a good mini video doing all the configuration too.
Hello, is this a good choice for a 1st device of the genre? I'm on the fence about which one tk buy. My hands are quite large too.
Hello RGC and all the viewers, I have a specific question. I’m looking for a handheld but the only system I care about is PS2 especially. I would like to play some sports games(NFL 2K5
Probably Steam Deck or Ayn Odin Pro.