Anbernic RG-552 Review: A High-End Retro Handheld for Enthusiasts

Overview

The Anbernic RG-552 is a premium retro gaming handheld released in December 2021. It features a 5.36-inch IPS touchscreen with a unique 5:3 aspect ratio and 1920x1152 resolution, offering crisp visuals. Powered by the RockChip RK3399 processor (dual-core Cortex-A72 and quad-core Cortex-A53) with a Mali-T860 MP4 GPU, it delivers solid performance for emulating systems up to Saturn and GameCube. The device includes 4GB LPDDR4 RAM, 64GB eMMC storage, and dual microSD slots for expansion.

Key Specs Highlights

• Display: 5.36-inch IPS touchscreen, 1920x1152 resolution, 417 PPI, 60Hz
• Processor: RockChip RK3399 (6 cores, 6 threads) @ 1.4-1.8 GHz
• GPU: Mali-T860 MP4 @ 600 MHz
• RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4
• Storage: 64 GB eMMC + dual MicroSD slots
• Battery: 6400 mAh (24Wh)
• Connectivity: WiFi 4, USB-C OTG, Mini HDMI, 3.5mm headphone jack
• OS: Android & open-source systems
• Weight: 362 grams
• Dimensions: 198.1 x 85.6 x 20 mm

Who It Is For

The RG-552 is designed for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a high-resolution screen and the ability to emulate a wide range of classic consoles, including PlayStation, Saturn, and even some GameCube titles. It suits users comfortable with Android or open-source OS tweaking, and those who value build quality and expandable storage.

Buying Notes

Pricing typically ranges from $200 to $300, with an initial launch price around $200. The device is available from Anbernic's official store and third-party retailers. Consider the plastic build and active cooling fan for extended sessions. The 5:3 screen ratio is excellent for 4:3 retro games but may have black bars for widescreen content. Battery life varies by usage, but the 6400 mAh cell offers decent longevity.