The Anbernic RG34XX arrives with a bold proposition: blending the classic look of the Game Boy Advance with modern features that genuinely make a difference in practice. More than just an aesthetic tribute, it delivers solid performance, great ergonomics, and up-to-date connectivity, creating a bridge between nostalgia and functionality. For those who grew up with the GBA and want to relive that experience with added comfort and versatility, this review will explore whether it lives up to its promises.
Design of the Anbernic RG34XX: Nostalgia with Modern Refinement
Drawing direct inspiration from the Game Boy Advance, the RG34XX is an almost identical replica in terms of ergonomics and proportions. Measuring 144.6 x 81.8 x 24.8 mm and weighing just 188 grams, it offers a familiar and comfortable grip. Its curved shape and well-placed buttons make the experience intuitive and enjoyable from the first use.
The ABS plastic construction is sturdy and well-finished, conveying durability without compromising its visual appeal. Vibrant color options like translucent red, translucent green, classic gray, and purple enhance its nostalgic charm while adding a touch of personality. Light and compact, the RG34XX easily fits in a pocket or backpack, making it a practical choice for gaming on the go with style and comfort.
Controls of the Anbernic RG34XX: Embracing the Past with a Modern Touch
The controls of the Anbernic RG34XX faithfully follow the classic Game Boy Advance layout, ensuring familiarity for those acquainted with the original. The D-pad stands out for its firmness and precision, ideal for retro games requiring quick responses. The A and B buttons have a smooth texture and comfortable feel, while the new X and Y buttons, absent in the original, are discreetly placed above, matching the casing color for a cohesive aesthetic.
On the top, the L1 and R1 shoulder buttons are well-positioned, and the L2 and R2 buttons smartly occupy the corners where the cartridge slot once was, making clever use of space. The overall layout is intuitive and easy to adapt to, even for those unfamiliar with the GBA. This blend of nostalgia and functionality makes the RG34XX a practical and enjoyable option for all ages.
Connectivity of the Anbernic RG34XX: Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2
The Anbernic RG34XX excels in connectivity. With Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2, it ensures quick access to firmware updates, easy file transfers, and online multiplayer via netplay, plus support for RetroAchievements. Bluetooth also enables the use of external controllers, perfect for those who prefer playing on a big screen or want to enjoy multiplayer gaming on the same console screen.
Physically, the console features a USB-C port for both fast charging and data transfer. It also includes a microSD card slot, essential for building an extensive game library. Additionally, a mini HDMI output allows the RG34XX to connect to a TV, transforming the portable device into a true retro gaming hub.
Display of the Anbernic RG34XX: The Past Has Never Looked So Clear
The 3.4-inch IPS display with a 720x480 resolution is one of the RG34XX’s greatest strengths. With excellent viewing angles and vibrant colors, it delivers a visual experience far superior to the original GBA, which struggled with low brightness and limited visibility. Games come to life with the sharpness and brightness of this screen, performing well in both indoor and outdoor settings.
The screen’s aspect ratio is designed to maintain fidelity to the Game Boy Advance, avoiding distortions or cropping. It’s a display that respects the past while delivering modern quality, offering a visual experience that enhances both the retro design and contemporary performance.
Battery of the Anbernic RG34XX: 3500mAh with Up to 7 Hours of Playtime
With a 3,500mAh battery, the RG34XX offers impressive longevity, ranging from 5 to 7 hours of continuous use, depending on the game type and screen brightness. This endurance supports extended gaming sessions without the need for constant recharging, making it ideal for travel, commutes, or leisure moments away from a power outlet.
Charging is handled via USB-C with support for fast chargers, fully recharging the battery in about 2 to 3 hours.
Processor and Storage of the Anbernic RG34XX: H700 with 1GB LPDDR4
The RG34XX is powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset and 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM, a modest but efficient setup for smoothly running emulators up to the PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64 generations. In some cases, it can even handle light Nintendo GameCube titles. Performance is stable, with fast load times and responsive menus and gameplay, delivering a smooth experience without noticeable lag or stuttering, even with its simple hardware.
Storage is provided by a 64GB microSD card, preloaded with thousands of games. It also supports cards up to 256GB, allowing users to build a customized and extensive library. This flexibility is perfect for those who enjoy exploring multiple systems and keeping everything organized on a single device.
Operating System + Emulated Platforms of the Anbernic RG34XX: Retro Versatility
The RG34XX runs a customized Linux OS with a proprietary frontend, designed for smooth emulation and intuitive navigation. The system is lightweight and responsive, supporting customizations like themes and emulator organization in a simple and accessible way. The user-friendly interface makes it easy for those unfamiliar with Linux, and the fast boot time ensures the console is ready to play in seconds.
Platforms that run perfectly:
- Arcades: CPS, FBA, MAME
- 8- and 16-bit consoles: NES, Master System, Super Nintendo, Mega Drive
- 32- and 64-bit consoles: PlayStation 1
- Handhelds: Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo Pocket, Nintendo DS
- And many more
Platforms with partial compatibility:
- PlayStation Portable (PSP)
- Dreamcast (DC)
- Nintendo 64 (N64)
- Nintendo GameCube (NGC)
Price of the Anbernic RG34XX: Affordable and Unique
Priced between $50 and $80 on AliExpress, depending on the seller and version, the RG34XX is an excellent value for those seeking a handheld with great cost-benefit.
Is the Anbernic RG34XX Worth It in 2025? Final Analysis and Alternatives
Yes, the Anbernic RG34XX stands out as one of the most affordable and versatile options for those seeking a portable retro console with a faithful Game Boy Advance design in 2025. It combines a 3.4-inch IPS display, great ergonomics, and solid performance for emulators beyond the GBA, such as PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64. The experience is nostalgic yet packed with modern features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, mini HDMI, and microSD card support, making the RG34XX ideal for gaming anywhere with practicality and style.
For those seeking alternatives to the RG34XX with a focus on the Game Boy Advance experience, the Anbernic RG35XX SP and Powkiddy V90S are compelling options. The RG35XX SP mimics the foldable GBA SP design, offering sturdy construction, great ergonomics, and similar performance, blending retro charm with practicality. Meanwhile, the Powkiddy V90S features a compact flip design and affordable price, making it ideal for those new to portable emulation on a budget. Both support emulators up to the PlayStation 1 generation and are great choices for those prioritizing nostalgia, portability, and cost-effectiveness.
