Anbernic RG556 handheld gaming device underperforms in display quality and control ergonomics

The Anbernic RG556 handheld gaming device fails to justify its $150 price point due to significant display ghosting and poor control ergonomics. While the device features the Qualcomm Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 processor, similar to the Retroid Pocket Classic, it lacks the premium display quality found in competing models. The 5.5-inch IPS display suffers from noticeable ghosting, which the reviewer finds distracting during gameplay. Furthermore, the device's control layout is problematic; the analog sticks are small, slippery, and poorly placed, while the triggers require excessive force to actuate, leading to potential hand fatigue. Although the device includes a new, AI-generated settings menu that allows for granular control over audio, vibration, and performance, these software additions do not compensate for the hardware's shortcomings. The reviewer concludes that the device is not a competitive option in the current market, suggesting that consumers would be better served by alternatives like the Anbernic RG476H, which offers a superior 120Hz display and better overall ergonomics for a lower price.

Tech4K StaffVideo report

The Anbernic RG556 handheld gaming device fails to justify its $150 price point due to significant display ghosting and poor control ergonomics. While the device features the Qualcomm Snapdragon G1 Gen 2 processor, similar to the Retroid Pocket Classic, it lacks the premium display quality found in competing models. The 5.5-inch IPS display suffers from noticeable ghosting, which the reviewer finds distracting during gameplay. Furthermore, the device's control layout is problematic; the analog sticks are small, slippery, and poorly placed, while the triggers require excessive force to actuate, leading to potential hand fatigue. Although the device includes a new, AI-generated settings menu that allows for granular control over audio, vibration, and performance, these software additions do not compensate for the hardware's shortcomings. The reviewer concludes that the device is not a competitive option in the current market, suggesting that consumers would be better served by alternatives like the Anbernic RG476H, which offers a superior 120Hz display and better overall ergonomics for a lower price.

The Anbernic RG556 display exhibits significant ghosting that negatively impacts the visual experience during gameplay. The device's analog sticks are small and slippery, and their placement causes discomfort during extended use.

The trigger buttons require an unusually high amount of pressure to actuate, which can lead to hand fatigue. The device includes a new, comprehensive settings menu that provides users with advanced control over audio, vibration, and performance.

The RG556 is priced at $150, which the reviewer considers too high given its mediocre performance and hardware design. The reviewer recommends the Anbernic RG476H as a superior alternative for a lower price point.

Chapter guide

Device specificationsOverview of the RG556 hardware, including the Snapdragon processor, display resolution, and battery capacity.Display ghosting testVisual demonstration of the screen's response time issues using system menus and gameplay.Ergonomics and control analysisEvaluation of the device's physical comfort, stick grip, and trigger button resistance.Speaker audio testTesting the front-facing speakers to determine sound quality and potential obstruction by the user's hands.Performance and emulation testingTesting GameCube and PS2 emulation performance with various titles.Settings menu walkthroughReview of the new handheld settings menu, including performance, audio, and system configuration options.

Worth noting

  • The reviewer's assessment of the display ghosting and control ergonomics is subjective and based on personal preference.
  • The performance testing is limited to specific emulated titles and may not represent the device's capabilities across all software.

Watch the original video ↗