Anbernic RG-300 Review: A Retro Handheld for Classic Gaming
Anbernic · 2019-06-01
The Anbernic RG-300 is a vertical handheld gaming device released in June 2019, featuring a 3.0-inch IPS display, Ingenic JZ4760B processor, and support for up to PS1 emulation. It offers a nostalgic design with replaceable battery and dual MicroSD storage.
Overview
The Anbernic RG-300 is a compact vertical handheld designed for retro gaming enthusiasts. Released in June 2019, it features a 3.0-inch IPS display with 320x240 resolution and 4:3 aspect ratio, powered by an Ingenic JZ4760B processor clocked at 528-740 MHz. With 128 MB DDR2 RAM and a Vivante GC200 GPU, it handles most SNES games at 60 FPS and many 2D PS1 titles smoothly, though complex 3D PS1 games may experience slowdown. The device runs an open-source operating system and offers dual storage via internal and external MicroSD cards. Its 1800 mAh BP-5L battery is user-replaceable, and audio is output through a 3.5mm headphone jack. The RG-300 is available in translucent black and gray plastic shells, weighing 220 grams.
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 IPS, 320x240, 60Hz, 133.33 PPI
- Storage: Internal + external MicroSD
- Battery: 1800 mAh BP-5L (replaceable)
- Weight: 220 g
- Dimensions: 119 x 82 x 25 mm
- Connectivity: None (no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)
- Audio: Mono speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Price: $60 at launch (estimated range $50-$75)
Who It Is For
The RG-300 is ideal for retro gaming fans who want a dedicated handheld for 8-bit and 16-bit consoles (NES, SNES, Game Boy, etc.) and light PS1 gaming. Its vertical form factor appeals to those nostalgic for classic Game Boy designs. It is not suitable for demanding 3D PS1 titles or N64/Dreamcast emulation. The lack of connectivity means no multiplayer or online features, making it a purely offline device.
Buying Notes
When purchasing, consider that the RG-300 is an older model (2019) and may be outperformed by newer budget handhelds like the RG35XX or Miyoo Mini. However, its replaceable battery and dual storage are advantages. Ensure you buy from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeit units. The device does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so game transfers require a computer. Check for firmware updates to improve emulation performance. The price typically ranges from $50 to $75, but availability may vary.
| CPU | XBurst |
|---|---|
| GPU | Vivante GC200 |
| RAM | 128 MB DDR2 |
| Name | RG-300 |
| Alias | Zhou Ge RG300 |
| Brand | Anbernic |
| Weight | 220 g |
| Battery | 1800 mAh BP-5L (Replaceable) |
| Cooling | None |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | Internal & External MicroSD |
| Grip Type | Vertical |
| Processor | Ingenic JZ4760B |
| Vibration | No |
| Body Color | Translucent Black Gray |
| Dimensions | 119 mm x 82 mm x 25 mm |
| Screen PPI | 133.33 |
| Price Range | $50 - $75 |
| Screen Size | 3.0 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm Headphone Jack |
| Connectivity | None |
| Launch Price | $60 |
| Release Date | 2019 / 06 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | None |
| CPU Frequency | 528 MHz - 740 MHz |
| Other Sensors | None |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open Source System |
| Screen Resolution | 320 x 240 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 250 - 375 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 1 core 1 thread |
| Emulator Game Support | Most SNES runs at 60 FPS, most 2D PS1 runs well (not all at 60 FPS); a few complex 3D games have emulation issues with stuttering and frame drops |