Anbernic RG-35XX SP Review: A Clamshell Retro Handheld with Modern Upgrades
Anbernic · 2024-05-01
The RG-35XX SP is Anbernic's clamshell-style retro gaming handheld, powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset with 1GB RAM, a 3.5-inch IPS display, and support for over 30 emulators up to N64, PSP, and Dreamcast. It features WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, a 3300mAh battery, and a compact foldable design.
Overview
The Anbernic RG-35XX SP is a clamshell (foldable) retro gaming handheld that combines nostalgic design with modern hardware. It is powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core Cortex-A53 processor clocked at 1.5 GHz, paired with a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU and 1 GB of LPDDR4 RAM. The device runs on an open-source operating system and offers extensive emulation capabilities, supporting over 30 emulators for systems up to N64, PlayStation Portable (PSP), and Sega Dreamcast (DC), though not all games run at full speed.
Key Specs Highlights
- Processor: Allwinner H700 (4x Cortex-A53 @ 1.5 GHz)
- GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz
- Memory: 1 GB LPDDR4
- Display: 3.5-inch IPS, 640x480 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio, 60 Hz refresh rate, 228.6 PPI
- Storage: Dual external TF card slots
- Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
- Battery: 3300 mAh
- Weight: 197 g
- Dimensions (closed): 89 mm x 85 mm x 27.3 mm
- Video Output: Mini HDMI
- Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack, mono speaker
- Features: Vibration motor, Hall-effect magnetic lid switch
Who It Is For
The RG-35XX SP is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate a clamshell form factor reminiscent of classic handhelds like the Game Boy Advance SP. It suits players who want to emulate a wide range of retro consoles up to the 5th/6th generation (N64, PSP, Dreamcast) with decent performance, and who value portability, WiFi for multiplayer or updates, and Bluetooth for wireless audio or controllers.
Buying Notes
Pricing for the RG-35XX SP typically falls in the $40–$70 USD range (approx. ¥300–¥500). The launch price was ¥348 (around $48). It is available in translucent blue and white color options. The device uses plastic construction and lacks active cooling. Performance on higher-end emulators (N64, PSP, DC) varies by game; not all titles run at full speed. The open-source OS allows for customization and community firmware support.
| CPU | Cortex-A53 |
|---|---|
| GPU | Mali-G31 MP2 |
| Name | RG-35XX SP |
| Alias | Zhou Ge Clamshell, 35XXSP |
| Brand | Anbernic |
| Memory | 1 GB LPDDR4 |
| Weight | 197 g |
| Battery | 3300 mAh |
| Cooling | None |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Storage | Dual external TF card slots |
| Grip Type | Clamshell / Foldable |
| Processor | Allwinner H700 |
| Vibration | Yes |
| Dimensions | 89 mm x 85 mm x 27.3 mm (closed) |
| Screen PPI | 228.6 |
| Body Colors | Translucent blue, white |
| Price Range | 300 - 500 |
| Screen Size | 3.5 inches |
| Screen Type | IPS |
| Audio Output | 3.5mm headphone jack |
| Connectivity | WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Launch Price | ¥348 |
| Release Date | 2024 / 05 |
| Screen Ratio | 4:3 |
| Video Output | Mini HDMI port |
| CPU Frequency | 1.5 GHz |
| Other Sensors | Hall-effect magnetic lid switch |
| Shell Material | Plastic |
| Operating System | Open-source system |
| Screen Resolution | 640 x 480 |
| GPU Core Frequency | 650 MHz |
| Screen Refresh Rate | 60Hz |
| CPU Cores and Threads | 4 cores 4 threads |
| Emulator Game Support | Supports 30+ emulators, up to N64, PSP and DC, most games playable but not all at full speed |