If you are a retro enthusiast, you would have almost certainly heard of Anbernic and its retro game handhelds.
Their most popular product has been the recent series of RG350 handhelds, here we take a look at some of the more popular Anbernic retro handheld consoles and where to buy them.
So whether you are looking to play Mega Drive, NES, SNES, Arcade, PlayStation and many more systems, these handheld game consoles will not disappoint (They also make the perfect retro gaming gift!)
Retro Game 351P (RG351P)
The Anbernic RG351P takes things forward in the system department, with the introduction of an upgraded Quad Core CPU and 1GB of RAM.
A natural evolution of the RG350 variations, the RG351P see’s it’s biggest physical change in the 3:2 aspect ratio screen. This may be a contentious choice, especially with some purists who prefer their retro games in 4:3, but the systems easy to configure settings, courtesy of RetroArch, allow for easy screen scaling adjustment.
One thing the 3:2 aspect screen brings, are perfect recreations of GameBoy Advance games, which also utilise this screen ratio. Combine this with the wonderful purple colour that is available, and this is, without doubt, the perfect handheld for GBA fans.
The RG351P also makes a positive step away from Anbernic’s usual choice of the OpenDingux OS, rather than opting for EmuElec and RetroArch to deliver the emulation frontend. This is a great decision since far more users are familiar with the RetroArch environment, making configuration and tweaks more comfortable.
All of this combined with the not modest increase in power, the Anbernic RG351P is yet another successful variant on the ever-popular Anbernic series of handhelds.
RG351P System Specifications
- Processor – RK3326 Quad Core @ 1.50Ghz
- RAM – DDR3L 1GB
- Screen Size – 3.5” @ 480×320 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 1 x Micro SD slots
- Battery – Li-Ion 3500mAh Built-In
Retro Game 351V (RG351V)
The Anbernic RG351V is another variant of Anbernics most recent line of handheld consoles using the RK3326 CPU. The biggest difference with the RG351V is its vertical form factor.
Resembling the classic original GameBoy, the RG351V will appeal to those who are seeking a classic retro style, along with enough power to easily give you an excellent experience with anything up to the PS1 era.
The RG351V comes in several colours, the very fetching ‘woodgrain’ effect, transparent black and grey plastic casing.
Although slightly bulkier than many of Anbernics handhelds, the RG351V does pack an increased capacity 3900mAh battery which will provide up to around 8 hours of gaming, depending on your usage.
RG351V System Specifications
- Processor – RK3326 Quad Core @ 1.50Ghz
- RAM – DDR3L 1GB
- Screen Size – 3.5” @ 640×480 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 2 x Micro SD slots
- Battery – Li-Ion 3900mAh Built-In
Retro Game 350M (RG350M)
The Anbernic RG350M follows in the footsteps of the already hugely popular RG350, but this time with some welcome upgrades.
This edition comes in an aluminium case, an upgraded higher resolution display and reconfigured controls for additional comfort. The analogue sticks in particular are more refined and have a lower profile, benefitting playing comfort and being easier to transport.
The screen on the original RG350 is bright and vibrant, but the improved 640×480 resolution with the RG350M rounds off any of those slight niggles to what could be described as the perfect resolution for retro games at this screen size.
Additional features such as dual MicroSD slots allow for further flexibility in separating the RG350M operating system from game files.
The Anbernic RG350M can definitely be considered one of the best and most stylish retro handheld consoles on the market today.
RG350M System Specifications
- Processor – JZ4770 Dual Core @ 1.00Ghz
- RAM – DDR2 512MB
- Screen Size – 3.5” @ 640×480 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 2 x Micro SD slots
- Battery – Li-Ion 2500mAh Built-In
Retro Game 350P (RG350P)
The Anbernic RG350P follows the evolution of the RG350M in terms of its improved controller layout, and twin Micro SD card slots, but it offers the reduced resolution screen of the RG350 to help keep costs down.
A nice addition to the RG350P is some rubber grips added to the back panel to help stop the console from slipping from your grip. You also benefit from the lower profile analogue controls making it easier to use and transport.
Do not be put off by the fact the Anbernic RG350P has a lower resolution screen, it is still excellent quality, nice and bright and is more than enough to play your old favourites with great visual fidelity.
RG350P System Specifications
- Processor – JZ4770 Dual Core @ 1.00Ghz
- RAM – DDR2 512MB
- Screen Size – 3.5” @ 320×240 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 2 x Micro SD slots
- Battery – Li-Ion 2500mAh Built-In
Retro Game 350 (RG350)
The original Anbernic RG350 handheld was a bit of a revelation among retro gamers upon its release. For under £100, you can get excellent emulation for systems from the NES right through to the PS1, and all performing brilliantly.
The key differences between this base model and the RG350M for example are mainly just the screen resolution and controller layout. But for me, the screen resolution is absolutely great even on the base RG350.
Some may prefer the controller layout of the RG350 with its left analogue stick appearing above the d-pad, especially if you plan on playing a lot of PS1 games which utilise analogue controls.
With the redesigned RG350M and RG350P now available, the original Anbernic RG350 can be found at very competitive prices, still definitely a recommended retro gaming handheld.
RG350 System Specifications
- Processor – JZ4770 Dual Core @ 1.00Ghz
- RAM – DDR2 512MB
- Screen Size – 3.5” @ 320×240 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 1 x Micro SD slots
- Battery – Li-Ion 2500mAh Built-In
Retro Game 300 (RG300)
The design of the Anbernic RG300 is something that stands out immediately with its Game Boy-influenced form factor, albeit a hugely upgraded one!
The RG300 delivers an incredibly great value for money retro handheld experience, with a 3” IPS display and all digital controls, you can experience everything from original Game Boy games to Mega Drive to Arcade game emulation.
Now available for much cheaper than its Anbernic RG350 big brother, the RG300 is the perfect gift choice for young kids and big kids alike, looking to relive their gaming memories, or experience them for the first time.
RG300 System Specifications
- Processor – JZ4760B Dual Core @ 528Mhz
- RAM – DDR2 128MB
- Screen Size – 3” @ 320×240 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 1 x Micro SD slot
- Battery – Li-Ion 1800mAh Built-In
Retro Game 280M (RG280M)
The Anbernic 280M offers the same processing power and RAM as its bigger brother, the RG350, but in a more compact form factor. Obviously, compromises are made with its reduced size, but the trade-off is that it is even more portable and genuinely fits in your pocket.
It has just a single analogue stick, but it is a lower profile than the original RG350, making it easier to use and transport.
The Anbernic RG280M as mentioned does have the same processing power as its larger counterparts, the JZ4770, which means you will benefit by being able to play the more demanding PS1 games effortlessly.
RG280M System Specifications
- Processor – J4770 Dual Core @ 1.0Ghz
- RAM – DDR2 512MB
- Screen Size – 2.8” @ 320×240 IPS
- Expandable Storage – 2 x Micro SD slot
- Battery – Li-Ion 2500mAh Built-In
Anbernic Handheld FAQs
What are Anbernic Handheld Consoles?
Anbernic Handheld Consoles are a range of handheld gaming consoles that have been designed with the needs of gamers in mind. they are portable devices that can be taken anywhere at your convenience.
The range of Anbernic Handheld Consoles is small and lightweight but still packs a punch. They tend to offer full-sized D-pads and buttons, so gamers can play any type of game they want to play. The screen is large enough to enjoy your favourite games while you are on the go, but not too big where it feels like you are playing on a tablet or large phone.
These handheld consoles are perfect for those who have always wanted to be able to play their favourite games wherever they go. The Anbernic Handheld Console caused quite a stir in the retro handheld scene because of its competitive pricing and quality.
What are the Features of Anbernic Handheld Consoles?
Anbernic Handheld Consoles are designed for gaming. They provide a great solution for gamers who are always on the go. These handheld consoles have a wide range of features that make them stand out from the competition.
Some of these features include:
– The ability to connect to Wi-Fi so you can download new games onto your console
– The ability to connect to any TV with an HDMI cable so you can enjoy your favourite games on a big screen
– A built-in speaker and headphone jack so you can enjoy your favourite games in private
– Rechargeable batteries that are long-lasting
As a retro gaming & retro computing enthusiast, I enjoy sharing help guides and about retro gaming in general, when I have the spare time to do so!