Anbernic RG-35 Review: A Vertical Handheld with RK3326 Power

Overview

The Anbernic RG-35 is a vertical handheld gaming device that draws inspiration from classic portable consoles. It features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio, powered by a RockChip RK3326 quad-core processor and Mali-G31 MP2 GPU. With 1GB of LPDDR3 RAM and dual TF card slots, it runs an open-source operating system and is designed for retro emulation up to some PSP titles.

Key Specs Highlights

• Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio, 228.6 PPI, 60Hz refresh rate.
• Performance: RockChip RK3326 (4 cores, 4 threads) at 1.3-1.5 GHz, Mali-G31 MP2 GPU at 650 MHz, 1GB LPDDR3 RAM.
• Storage: Dual TF card slots for expandable storage.
• Battery: 3200 mAh, providing decent playtime.
• Build: Plastic shell, available in grey, transparent black, and transparent red. Dimensions: 81mm x 128mm x 22mm, weight: 191g.
• Other features: Vibration motor, single speaker, 3.5mm headphone jack. No wireless connectivity or video output.

Who Is It For?

The RG-35 is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who prefer a vertical form factor reminiscent of the Game Boy. It handles classic 8-bit, 16-bit, and some 32-bit systems well, and can even run some PSP games. It's a great choice for those who want a portable, pocketable emulation device without breaking the bank.

Buying Notes

When purchasing the RG-35, consider the following: it does not include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so you'll need to transfer files via TF cards. The open-source OS allows for custom firmware, but setup may require some technical know-how. The price range is approximately ¥200-¥300 (about $30-$45 USD), making it an affordable entry-level option. Note that the release date is listed as September 2026, which may be a placeholder or future launch. Always check with retailers for actual availability and pricing.