Anbernic RG-353M Review: Metal Retro Handheld with RK3566
Anbernic · 2022-11-01
The Anbernic RG-353M is a premium metal handheld gaming device featuring a RockChip RK3566 processor, 2GB LPDDR4 RAM, and a 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen. It supports dual boot (Linux and Android) and emulates up to PSP and Dreamcast.
Overview
The Anbernic RG-353M is a compact, metal-bodied handheld gaming device designed for retro enthusiasts. Powered by the RockChip RK3566 processor (4-core Cortex-A55 at 1.8GHz) and Mali-G52 2EE GPU, it delivers smooth emulation for systems up to PSP and Dreamcast. The 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen with 640x480 resolution and 4:3 aspect ratio provides crisp visuals, while the dual boot option (open-source Linux and Android) offers flexibility. With 2GB LPDDR4 RAM, 32GB eMMC storage, and dual microSD slots, it has ample space for games. Connectivity includes WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, Mini HDMI output, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The 3500mAh battery ensures extended play sessions, and Hall effect joysticks provide precise control.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: RockChip RK3566 (4x Cortex-A55 @ 1.8GHz)
- GPU: Mali-G52 2EE @ 850MHz
- RAM: 2GB LPDDR4
- Storage: 32GB eMMC 5.1 + dual MicroSD slots
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, 640x480, 60Hz
- Battery: 3500mAh
- Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, Mini HDMI
- Audio: Dual stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Controls: Hall effect joysticks, vibration motor
- OS: Dual boot (Linux & Android)
- Material: Metal shell
- Weight: 232g
- Dimensions: 145 x 70.5 x 15.9 mm
Who It Is For
The RG-353M is perfect for retro gaming fans who want a premium, durable metal handheld. It suits players looking for a device that can handle classic consoles (NES, SNES, Genesis, PS1, etc.) and some PSP and Dreamcast titles. The dual OS option appeals to tinkerers who enjoy both Linux and Android ecosystems. Its compact size and Hall effect joysticks make it great for on-the-go gaming.
Buying Notes
Priced around $100-$150 (launched at ~$146), the RG-353M offers excellent build quality for its metal construction. It was released in November 2022. The device comes in a dark purple-blue color. Note that the screen brightness specification is not provided. Ensure you purchase from reputable sellers to avoid counterfeits. The dual microSD slots allow easy expansion, and the 32GB internal storage is sufficient for many ROMs. Consider whether you prefer the metal build over plastic alternatives like the RG-353V or RG-353P.
| CPU | Cortex-A55 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Mali-G52 2EE |
| RAM | 2 GB LPDDR4 |
| Name | RG-353M |
| Alias | Zhouge 353M |
| Brand | Anbernic |
| Weight | 232 g |
| Battery | 3500 mAh |
| Storage | Internal 32 GB eMMC 5.1, dual external MicroSD |
| Speakers | Dual stereo |
| Grip Type | Horizontal |
| Processor | RockChip RK3566 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Body Color | Dark purple blue |
| Dimensions | 145 mm x 70.5 mm x 15.9 mm |
| Screen PPI | 228.57 |
| Price Range | $100 - $150 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS touchscreen |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Launch Price | $146 |
| Release Date | 2022 / 11 |
| Video Output | Mini HDMI |
| CPU Frequency | 1.8 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Hall effect joysticks |
| Shell Material | Metal |
| Operating System | Open source system, Android |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 850 MHz |
| Screen Aspect Ratio | 4:3 |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Up to PSP and DC |