The Anbernic RG35XX SP isn't just another handheld console, it's a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Game Boy Advance SP, reinvented with modern technology and impressive performance. With its signature foldable design and sturdy build, it combines nostalgia and power in a single device. Capable of smoothly emulating dozens of classic platforms, the RG35XX SP offers a complete retro experience, perfect for those looking to relive beloved classics in style, comfort, and simplicity. In this review, you'll discover why it has become one of the most popular choices for emulation in 2025.
Design of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Compact, Lightweight, and Foldable
At first glance, the Anbernic RG35XX SP captures your attention with its clamshell design, a direct homage to the legendary Game Boy Advance SP. Weighing only 192g and measuring 8.9 x 8.5 x 2.7 cm, it seamlessly blends nostalgia with practicality. When closed, it protects the screen and buttons, making it easy to carry in a pocket or backpack while maintaining its retro aesthetic.
Its robust construction, made from durable plastic, conveys quality and resilience, while the color options — including silver, gray, and translucent versions in black, green, red, blue, and gray — evoke the classics of the 90s. A modern highlight is the magnetic Hall effect sensor that activates sleep mode when the console is closed and wakes it when opened, providing a smart and efficient daily usage experience.
Controls of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Precision and Comfort
The controls of the Anbernic RG35XX SP are designed to faithfully replicate the classic Game Boy Advance SP experience, offering precision and comfort in a simple, functional layout. With a high-quality D-Pad, A, B, X, Y buttons, and traditional Start and Select buttons, the console ensures a, rubberized tactile response that is ideal for long gaming sessions without tiring your hands.
On the back, the L1, L2, R1, and R2 shoulder buttons expand compatibility with more demanding systems like the PlayStation 1, without sacrificing ergonomics. The conscious decision to exclude analog sticks emphasizes the RG35XX SP's fidelity to retro gaming.
Connectivity of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Mini HDMI
One of the standout features of the Anbernic RG35XX SP is its advanced connectivity, elevating the retro gaming experience to a new level. With dual-band Wi-Fi support and Bluetooth 4.2, the console allows for online multiplayer gaming, FTP file transfers, and integration with RetroAchievements. Furthermore, the option to connect controllers offers total freedom to play how and where you want, whether at home or on the go.
The console also includes a Mini HDMI port, transforming it into a true retro gaming hub when connected to a TV or monitor, functioning much like a mini Nintendo Switch. For storage, it features two microSD card slots — one dedicated to the system and the other for your game library — making it easy to organize and expand your collection. The RG35XX SP also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for private, immersive audio.
Display of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: IPS, 4:3, and 3.5 Inches
The 3.5-inch IPS display of the Anbernic RG35XX SP is one of its standout features, offering a resolution of 640x480 pixels — perfect for emulating classic consoles. Games are displayed with excellent clarity, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles, maintaining contrast and visual fidelity even when viewed off-axis.
The 4:3 aspect ratio reinforces the commitment to retro authenticity, ensuring compatibility with most older systems without distortion or black bars. This choice guarantees a visual experience true to the original consoles, making every gaming session nostalgic and immersive, even in this portable format.
Battery of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Long-Lasting 3300mAh
The 3300mAh battery of the Anbernic RG35XX SP provides solid longevity, offering between 6 to 8 hours of continuous gameplay, depending on the emulator, screen brightness, and Wi-Fi usage. This duration is excellent for extended sessions, whether at home or while on the move, making the console a dependable option for those seeking portability without sacrificing playtime.
Charging is done via USB-C, supporting 5V/1.5, and takes about 2 hours for a full charge. The efficient power management of the operating system helps preserve battery life, even during intensive use. This combination of longevity and convenience solidifies it as an ideal companion for travel, daily breaks, or retro marathons.
Performance and Memory of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: H700 Chipset and Dual MicroSD Slots
The Anbernic RG35XX SP delivers solid performance thanks to its H700 quad-core processor, which operatesup to 1.5GHz, paired with 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM. This combination ensures smooth emulation on more demanding platforms such as PlayStation 1, Dreamcast, and Nintendo 64, as well as some PSP titles.
In terms of storage, the console comes equipped with 64GB of internal memory, which is preloaded with the operating system and thousands of games. For those looking to expand their game library, there is an additional microSD card slot that can support up to 512GB, allowing ample space for all your favorite titles.
Operating System of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Intuitive and Customizable
The Anbernic RG35XX SP runs on a Linux-based operating system developed by Anbernic to ensure smooth performance across a wide range of classic consoles. The user interface is simple, intuitive, and responsive, allowing users to navigate menus, select platforms, and launch games with just a few taps.
In terms of compatibility, the RG35XX SP is capable of efficiently emulating a myriad of retro systems, including NES, SNES, Mega Drive, Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance, Neo Geo, PlayStation 1, PC Engine, MAME, Atari, among others, and even runs various PSP titles seamlessly.
Price of the Anbernic RG35XX SP: Excellent Value
The Anbernic RG35XX SP stands out for its excellent value, with prices ranging from US $45 to US $60 on AliExpress. For this price, it offers a well-built foldable console that delivers great performance and wide compatibility for those in search of retro emulation with style and practicality.
Is the Anbernic RG35XX SP Worth It in 2025? Final Analysis and Alternatives
The Anbernic RG35XX SP remains an excellent choice in 2025 for anyone looking for a foldable handheld console with strong retro appeal and solid performance. Its Game Boy Advance SP-inspired design, combined with its ability to emulate systems such as the GBA, PlayStation 1, Nintendo 64, and PSP, offers a nostalgic experience complemented by modern features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI output, a high-quality IPS screen, and long-lasting battery — all packaged in a compact and well-constructed form.
For those on a tighter budget, the Powkiddy V90 presents an affordable alternative, as it costs nearly half the price, though its support is more limited to 8-bit and 16-bit platforms. On the other hand, if you're seeking a more premium option, the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 offers superior performance capable of running PlayStation 2 and some Nintendo Switch titles, making it ideal for those wishing to go beyond classic emulation while still maintaining a foldable design.
