The Anbernic RG34XX SP arrives in 2025 as a bold proposal, merging nostalgia and innovation in a classic clamshell format, directly inspired by the legendary Game Boy Advance SP. With a competitive price and updated specifications, it promises a faithful retro experience enhanced by modern features such as analog sticks, a high-quality IPS display, Wi-Fi, and the ability to run dozens of consoles smoothly. This handheld aims to win over both fans who grew up with the Game Boy Advance and newcomers seeking a complete retro experience—and that’s exactly what we’ll analyze in this detailed review.
Design: Foldable and Nostalgic
The Anbernic RG34XX SP’s design is its biggest highlight, featuring a foldable body that not only protects the screen but also reinforces portability, echoing the classic GBA SP. This choice blends nostalgia with practicality, making the console easy to carry and durable for daily use.
With a solid build and compact dimensions of 82 x 83 x 25 mm, the handheld is made of sturdy plastic and weighs just 178 grams, ensuring lightness without sacrificing durability. It comes in several colors, including black, yellow, Super Nintendo-inspired gray, and indigo reminiscent of the GameCube, appealing both aesthetically and emotionally.
Controls: Comfortable and Versatile
The controls are designed for comfort and precision, featuring a cross-shaped D-pad curved inward, similar to the Nintendo Switch, allowing for natural movements in classic games. The ABXY action buttons are well-sized, while the top triggers provide solid feedback.
The standout feature is the inclusion of analog sticks, significantly expanding compatibility with more demanding titles like PS1 and N64, adding versatility to the console’s use.
Connectivity: Modern and Complete
The Anbernic RG34XX SP comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enhancing versatility and connectivity. These features allow for firmware updates, online multiplayer via netplay, RetroAchievements integration, and FTP data transfer, making the experience more complete and practical.
Physically, it includes a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and two microSD slots—one for the system and one for games. Additionally, it features a mini HDMI output, enabling connection to a TV or monitor, expanding gameplay to larger screens and reinforcing its role as a versatile retro device.
Display: IPS with Authentic Retro Fidelity
The 3.4-inch IPS display with 720x480p resolution is one of the console’s strongest elements. It delivers sharp, well-defined images with a 3:2 aspect ratio, maintaining the authentic format of the Game Boy Advance without distortions.
Thanks to IPS technology, the screen offers vivid colors, excellent viewing angles, and consistent image quality from different positions.
Battery: Reliable Autonomy
The Anbernic RG34XX SP is equipped with a 3300mAh battery, providing an average of 4 to 6 hours of continuous use.
Charging is handled via USB-C, ensuring compatibility with modern chargers. A full charge takes about 2 hours.
Performance and Storage: Efficient Setup
Powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset and 2GB of LPDDR4 RAM, the configuration is modest but efficient, ensuring smooth emulation up to PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64.
For storage, it includes a 64GB microSD card, preloaded with thousands of games, allowing immediate play. It also supports expansion up to 256GB, enabling a large retro library without compromising performance.
Operating System + Emulation Support
The Linux-based OS is customized and intuitive, designed to simplify navigation. Games are organized by console, making it easy to locate titles and ensuring a clear, functional interface for quick access to the retro library.
Platforms That Run Perfectly:
- Arcades: CPS, FBA, MAME
- 8 & 16-bit consoles: NES, Master System, SNES, Mega Drive
- 32-bit consoles: PlayStation 1
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo Pocket, Nintendo DS
- And more
Platforms That Run Some Titles:
- Nintendo GameCube (NGC)
- PlayStation Portable (PSP)
- Dreamcast (DC)
- Nintendo 64 (N64)
Price: Competitive Value
The Anbernic RG34XX SP is available on AliExpress for around US$55 to US$70, standing out as a great value option.
Is the Anbernic RG34XX SP Worth It in 2025? Final Thoughts and Alternatives
The Anbernic RG34XX SP shines as one of the best options for those who want to relive the Game Boy Advance SP experience or explore this clamshell style for the first time. With a high-quality IPS display, efficient processor, reliable battery, and Wi-Fi integration, it delivers a blend of nostalgia and modernity in a compact format. It honors the legacy of retro handhelds while offering an accessible, updated experience for different types of players.
Notable Alternatives to the Anbernic RG34XX SP:
- Anbernic RG35XX SP: Clamshell handheld with a 3.5-inch screen, H700 chipset, and no analog sticks, focused on simplicity and portability.
- Anbernic RG34XX: Ideal for those seeking a 1:1 Game Boy Advance clone, but with IPS display and modern features.
- Powkiddy V90: Known as the cheapest clamshell handheld, runs smoothly up to SNES and GBA.
- Powkiddy V90S: An improved version of the V90, with better performance and ergonomics for added comfort.
