Anbernic RG Cube XX Review: A Compact 1:1 Screen Retro Handheld

Anbernic · 2024-10-01

Anbernic RG Cube XX Review: A Compact 1:1 Screen Retro Handheld

The Anbernic RG Cube XX is a compact retro gaming handheld featuring a unique 3.95-inch 1:1 square IPS display, powered by the Allwinner H700 chipset with 1GB RAM. It offers extensive emulation support and dual microSD storage, making it a versatile choice for retro enthusiasts.

Overview

The Anbernic RG Cube XX is a horizontally-oriented retro gaming handheld released in October 2024. It features a distinctive 3.95-inch IPS display with a 1:1 aspect ratio and 720x720 resolution, offering a unique square viewing experience ideal for classic games and PICO-8. Powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core Cortex-A53 processor clocked at 1.5 GHz and a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, it provides smooth emulation for a wide range of systems up to PSP and N64. The device comes with 1GB LPDDR4 RAM and relies on dual external microSD card slots for storage. Connectivity includes WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2, and it offers Mini HDMI output for TV play. The 3800 mAh battery ensures decent playtime, and dual stereo speakers provide immersive audio.

Key Specs Highlights

  • Display: 3.95-inch IPS, 720x720, 1:1 aspect ratio, ~257.78 PPI
  • Processor: Allwinner H700, Cortex-A53 quad-core @ 1.5 GHz
  • GPU: Mali-G31 MP2 @ 650 MHz
  • RAM: 1 GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: Dual microSD card slots (no internal storage)
  • Battery: 3800 mAh
  • Weight: 246 grams
  • Dimensions: 157.2 x 89.6 x 17.9 mm
  • Connectivity: WiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Video Output: Mini HDMI
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack, dual stereo speakers
  • OS: Open-source Linux-based system
  • Emulation: Supports PORTS, PSP, DOS, NDS, N64, PS1, Dreamcast, Arcade, GBA, GBC, GB, SNES, FC, MAME, MD, GG, PCE, NGPC, SMS, WSC, and more

Who Is It For

The RG Cube XX is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate a unique square screen for classic titles, PICO-8, and vertical arcade games. It suits users looking for a lightweight, portable handheld with solid emulation performance up to PSP and N64, and those who prefer open-source flexibility and dual storage options. It may not be suitable for those needing high-end Android gaming or internal storage.

Buying Notes

The RG Cube XX was released in October 2024 with a launch price starting at ¥369 (approximately $50-55 USD). It is available in white, black, and gray plastic shells. Given its price range of ¥300-500, it offers good value for its feature set. Check current pricing and availability from Anbernic's official store or authorized retailers. Note that it does not include internal storage, so budget for microSD cards.

Specifications
CPUCortex-A53
GPUMali-G31 MP2
RAM1 GB LPDDR4
NameRG Cube XX
AliasRG Cube XX
BrandAnbernic
Weight246 grams
Battery3800 mAh
CoolingNone
StorageDual external SD card slots
SpeakersDual stereo
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorAllwinner H700
VibrationYes
Dimensions157.2 mm x 89.6 mm x 17.9 mm
Screen PPI257.78
Body ColorsWhite, Black, Gray
Price Range¥300 - ¥500
Screen Size3.95 inches
Screen TypeIPS
Audio Output3.5mm headphone jack
ConnectivityWiFi 5, Bluetooth 4.2
Launch PriceFirst release minimum ¥369
Release Date2024 / 10
Video OutputMini HDMI
CPU Frequency1.5 GHz
Other SensorsNone
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemOpen-source system
Screen Resolution720 x 720
GPU Core Frequency650 MHz
Screen Aspect Ratio1:1
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads4 cores 4 threads
Emulator Game SupportSupports game formats: PORTS ported games, PSP, DOS, NDS, N64, PS1, DC, Arcade, GBA, GBC, GB, SFC, FC, MAME, MD, GG, PCE, NGPC, SMS, WSC, and many more