The Anbernic RG SP is a clamshell handheld emulator with a Game Boy Advance-style design

The Anbernic RG SP is a dedicated retro gaming handheld that mimics the form factor and aesthetic of the original Game Boy Advance SP. It features a 3.4-inch 720x480 (3:2) LCD screen, which provides a 3x integer scale for GBA games, and is powered by the Allwinner H700 CPU with 1GB of RAM. The device includes two microSD card slots for the operating system and game storage, a 3300mAh battery offering approximately six hours of playtime, and magnetic hall switches in the lid for sleep functionality. While it lacks internal storage, it supports 5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2. The handheld is designed to be a focused GBA experience, removing analog sticks to better align with the original console's layout. It is compatible with various custom firmware options, including a release client for NextUI, which allows for a simplified, text-based interface. The device is priced between $60 and $65, positioning it as a budget-friendly alternative to restoring or modifying original hardware.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

The Anbernic RG SP is a dedicated retro gaming handheld that mimics the form factor and aesthetic of the original Game Boy Advance SP. It features a 3.4-inch 720x480 (3:2) LCD screen, which provides a 3x integer scale for GBA games, and is powered by the Allwinner H700 CPU with 1GB of RAM. The device includes two microSD card slots for the operating system and game storage, a 3300mAh battery offering approximately six hours of playtime, and magnetic hall switches in the lid for sleep functionality. While it lacks internal storage, it supports 5GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2. The handheld is designed to be a focused GBA experience, removing analog sticks to better align with the original console's layout. It is compatible with various custom firmware options, including a release client for NextUI, which allows for a simplified, text-based interface. The device is priced between $60 and $65, positioning it as a budget-friendly alternative to restoring or modifying original hardware.

The RG SP features a 3.4-inch 3:2 aspect ratio display that provides a perfect 3x integer scale for Game Boy Advance titles. The device is powered by an Allwinner H700 processor and 1GB of RAM, enabling emulation up to PlayStation 1 and some Nintendo 64 and Dreamcast titles.

The handheld includes magnetic hall switches in the lid, allowing the device to enter sleep mode or power off when closed, depending on user settings. The RG SP removes analog sticks to maintain a form factor and button layout that is highly faithful to the original Game Boy Advance SP.

The device supports multiple operating systems and custom firmware, including a client for NextUI that runs on top of the existing software. The unit includes a 3300mAh battery that provides an average of six hours of total gameplay on a single charge.

Chapter guide

Specifications and performanceOverview of the internal hardware, including the Allwinner H700 CPU, RAM, and storage capabilities.Charging and cable compatibilityDiscussion regarding USB-C charging requirements and the impact of E-Mark chips on device power.Unboxing and designExamination of the packaging, color options, and physical build quality compared to the original GBA SP.Button feel and actuationAnalysis of the button tactile feedback and comparison to previous Anbernic models and the original console.Screen quality and display settingsEvaluation of the LCD screen, including brightness, color correction, and shader options.Software and user interfaceDemonstration of the stock operating system and the upcoming support for custom firmware like NextUI.

Worth noting

  • The reviewer received a review unit from Anbernic, though they maintain that their opinions are independent and no money was exchanged.
  • The device can get warm during extended sessions of higher-end emulation, particularly when Wi-Fi is enabled for retro achievements.
  • The device is brand new, so custom firmware support is currently in early development and may require time to reach full stability.

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