RetroGame RS-97 Plus (Anbernic) Review: A Budget Retro Handheld
Anbernic · 2018-01-01
The RetroGame RS-97 Plus by Anbernic is a budget-friendly retro gaming handheld released in 2018. Powered by an Ingenic JZ4760B processor and featuring a 3.0-inch 4:3 TFT screen, it emulates systems up to some PlayStation 1 games. With a replaceable 1800 mAh battery and plastic build, it's a lightweight option for retro enthusiasts on a tight budget.
Overview
The RetroGame RS-97 Plus, also known as the Anbernic RS-97 Plus, is a compact retro gaming handheld released in 2018. It features a 3.0-inch TFT display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a resolution of 320x480 pixels. Powered by the Ingenic JZ4760B processor clocked between 528 MHz and 740 MHz, paired with 128 MB of DDR2 RAM and a Vivante GC200 GPU, this device can emulate classic consoles up to some PlayStation 1 games. The handheld runs on an open-source operating system and offers storage via internal and external MicroSD cards. Its 1800 mAh battery is replaceable (model BP-5L), and it weighs just 142 grams, making it highly portable. The plastic shell comes in a translucent black color, and connectivity is limited to AV Out and a 3.5mm headphone jack, with no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Key Specs Highlights
- CPU: Ingenic JZ4760B (XBurst, 1 core 1 thread, 528-740 MHz)
- GPU: Vivante GC200 (250-375 MHz)
- RAM: 128 MB DDR2
- Display: 3.0-inch TFT, 320x480, 4:3, 60Hz, 133.33 PPI
- Storage: Internal + external MicroSD
- Battery: 1800 mAh (BP-5L, replaceable)
- Weight: 142 g
- Dimensions: 144 x 64 x 19 mm
- Emulation: Up to some PS1 and earlier
- Price: ~$50 (budget range $0-$50)
Who It Is For
The RetroGame RS-97 Plus is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts on a tight budget who want a simple, no-frills device for playing classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and similar eras. It's also suitable for tinkerers who enjoy open-source handhelds and don't mind limited connectivity. However, it is not for those seeking high-end performance, modern connectivity (Wi-Fi/BT), or a premium build.
Buying Notes
As a 2018 model, the RS-97 Plus is an older budget handheld. Its performance is modest, handling most 8-bit and 16-bit systems well but struggling with more demanding PS1 titles. The screen resolution (320x480) is non-standard and may cause scaling issues. The lack of Wi-Fi means no online multiplayer or easy ROM transfers. The replaceable battery is a plus, but the plastic build feels cheap. If you can find it for around $50 or less, it's a decent entry-level device, but consider newer alternatives like the Anbernic RG35XX or Miyoo Mini for a better experience.
| CPU | XBurst |
|---|---|
| GPU | Vivante GC200 |
| RAM | 128 MB DDR2 |
| Name | RetroGame RS-97 Plus |
| Brand | Anbernic |
| Weight | 142 g |
| Battery | 1800 mAh (BP-5L, replaceable) |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | Internal & External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | Ingenic JZ4760B |
| Body Color | Translucent Black |
| Dimensions | 144 mm x 64 mm x 19 mm |
| Screen PPI | 133.33 |
| Price Range | $0 - $50 |
| Screen Size | 3.0 inches |
| Screen Type | TFT |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm Headphone Jack |
| Connectivity | ❌ |
| Launch Price | $50 |
| Release Date | 2018 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | AV Out |
| CPU Frequency | 528 MHz - 740 MHz |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open Source |
| Screen Resolution | 320 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 250 - 375 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 1 core 1 thread |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to some PS1 and earlier |