Tag: Anbernic

  • Anbernic RG34XX SP Specs Leaked: Game Boy Advance SP Lookalike

    Anbernic RG34XX SP Specs Leaked: Game Boy Advance SP Lookalike

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has launched the RG557, its first gaming handheld for 2025, with plans for up to 10 new models by the end of the year.
    2. Rumors suggest the RG34XX SP will feature a new chipset, possibly the Allwinner H700, aligning its performance with the RG35XX SP.
    3. The RG34XX SP will have design similarities to the Game Boy Advance SP and will be smaller than the RG35XX SP.
    4. The RG34XX SP is expected to have a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels and will emulate GBA games at 2x integer scaling.
    5. Initial teasers for the RG34XX SP are expected to be released in the coming weeks, with the launch projected for next month.


    Anbernic has recently launched the RG557 globally, marking its first gaming handheld for 2025. After a four-month pause between the RG34XX and RG557, the company does not plan to repeat this timeline in the future. In fact, Anbernic has hinted that the RG557 could be just the beginning, with up to 10 new models expected by the end of this year.

    New Rumors About RG34XX SP

    Recently, rumors have surfaced regarding the anticipated RG34XX SP. To recap, earlier reports from January indicated that this model would be more than just an RG34XX housed in a Game Boy Advance SP (GBA SP) style shell. At that time, there were claims that Anbernic was exploring the use of the RG34XX SP to highlight a new chipset. This chipset was rumored to sit between the Rockchip RK3566 and Unisoc Tiger T618 in terms of performance, with the MediaTek Helio P65 being considered as a potential option.

    Updates on Performance Expectations

    However, the latest information suggests a change in direction. Specifically, the Allwinner H700 is likely to be featured in the RG34XX SP, a chipset Anbernic has utilized in numerous budget retro gaming handhelds over the past year. Consequently, the performance of the RG34XX SP will align more closely with the RG35XX SP (currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon), even as Powkiddy is rumored to be rejoining the clamshell market with the V90 V2.

    Size and Display Differences

    From what we understand, the key differences between the RG34XX SP and the RG35XX SP will be the size and display of the former. It appears that the RG34XX SP will be more akin to the original GBA SP in dimensions compared to the RG35XX SP. Furthermore, the RG34XX SP is expected to emulate GBA games at precise 2x integer scaling, thanks to its 3.4-inch display running at a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels. At present, the RG34XX SP is projected to launch next month, with initial teasers anticipated to drop in the next couple of weeks.

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  • Anbernic RG557: New AMOLED Gaming Handheld Faces Mixed Reviews

    Anbernic RG557: New AMOLED Gaming Handheld Faces Mixed Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG557 features improved performance with a Dimensity 8300 chipset, which is 76% faster than the previous RG556’s Unisoc T820.
    2. The launch price of the RG557 is $234.99, reflecting a 33.5% increase from the RG556.
    3. The RG557 may outperform the Retroid Pocket 5 in CPU and GPU-heavy applications, but GPU driver optimization is still uncertain.
    4. A price increase to $249.99 is expected on April 28, 2023, making it more expensive than the Retroid Pocket 5.
    5. Mixed reviews for the RG557 raise concerns for potential buyers, emphasizing the need for the device to prove itself in a competitive market.


    The Anbernic RG557 has been well-known for some time now, following almost a month of teasers. For some reason, the company decided to wait until today to officially launch the device. To sum up, the RG557 comes with the following hardware:

    Improved Performance

    To put it simply, the RG557 is expected to be significantly more powerful than last year’s RG556 (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon), which uses a Unisoc T820 chipset. Benchmarks indicate that the Dimensity 8300 is around 76% faster than the Unisoc T820 when it comes to CPU-intensive tasks. The difference between their GPUs is even greater. Nevertheless, this performance boost comes with a downside, as Anbernic has raised the price by 33.5%, making the RG557 available for $234.99 on its launch day.

    Competitive Edge

    Our tests imply that the RG557 might have an advantage over the Retroid Pocket 5 in both CPU and GPU-heavy applications, although the GPU difference is minor. The performance of the Dimensity 8300 remains a bit uncertain in the gaming handheld market for the moment. Consequently, its GPU drivers may not be as thoroughly optimized as those found in the Snapdragon 865 used in the Retroid Pocket 5. On April 28, the price of the Anbernic RG557 will increase to $249.99, which will put it more than 13% higher than the Pocket 5. So far, the reviews for Anbernic’s newest gaming handheld have not been very positive, and many of these reviews we’ve included below.

    Conclusion

    Anbernic’s new offering, the RG557, seems to be a step up in terms of hardware, but the price hike and mixed reviews are things potential buyers should consider. The upcoming price change also adds an element of urgency for those considering a purchase. As it stands, the RG557 aims to compete in a crowded market, but it will need to prove itself against established competitors.

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  • Anbernic RG557 Price Surprise and Upcoming Release Date Revealed

    Anbernic RG557 Price Surprise and Upcoming Release Date Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has halted shipping its retro gaming handhelds to the US due to ongoing tariffs.
    2. The RG557 is in development, with its price confirmed to start at $235, increasing to $249 before shipping.
    3. An early Amazon listing mistakenly showed the RG557 priced at $359.99, which was higher than expected.
    4. Pre-orders for the RG557 will begin on April 25, with early bird pricing available until April 28.
    5. Anbernic plans to release additional handhelds in 2025, including the RG34XX SP and up to nine other models.


    Anbernic has announced that it has stopped shipping its retro gaming handhelds to the US due to the ongoing tariffs. However, they are still working on the RG557, which they’ve been teasing for a few weeks now. Recently, Anbernic shared the main specifications for the RG556’s successor (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon), and we have covered those details in a separate article.

    New Pricing Revealed

    The company has now confirmed the release date and pricing for the RG557. Unfortunately, it will cost more than what many expected. There were rumors suggesting that the RG557 might be priced at $205, which would have been a $30 increase from the RG556. But an early listing on Amazon showed the price at a shocking $359.99. Anbernic has stated that the RG557 will actually start at $235, eventually going up to $249 before it ships.

    Pre-Order Dates

    You can start ordering the Anbernic RG557 from April 25. The company has mentioned that the early bird pricing will be available until April 28. For more insights, check out the videos below for first impressions of Anbernic’s initial gaming handheld release this year. Additionally, the company has also shared its plans for 2025, which may include the RG34XX SP and up to nine other handhelds for gamers.

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  • Anbernic Stops US Retro Console Shipments Due to Rising Tariffs

    Anbernic Stops US Retro Console Shipments Due to Rising Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Tariffs on Imports: US tariffs on Chinese goods can reach up to 245%, significantly impacting companies like Anbernic.

    2. Shipping Halt: Anbernic has stopped shipments from China to the US, advising customers to purchase from local warehouses before stocks run out.

    3. Increased Costs: Small electronics face hefty fees; starting May 2nd, $100 per item will be charged for imports from China, complicating pricing for budget-friendly products.

    4. Effect on Pricing: Many brands, including Anbernic, are halting shipments instead of raising prices due to new tariffs, making retro gaming consoles less accessible.

    5. Limited Alternatives: Other companies producing retro gaming consoles may also face shipment issues, limiting options for consumers looking for alternatives to Anbernic’s products.


    Steep US tariffs on Chinese goods are having a huge effect on the retro gaming console market. Anbernic is known for its budget-friendly handhelds that replicate systems like the Game Boy and PS1. Sadly, the company has revealed that it’s putting a stop to shipments from China to the US. Customers are advised to buy products from local warehouses before they run out of stock.

    Tariffs on Imports

    President Trump has enacted tariffs on Chinese imports that can reach up to 145%, with the possibility of increasing to 245%. While other nations enjoy a 90-day grace period for tariffs exceeding 10%, China is not one of those countries. Without a resolution between these superpowers, the costs of laptops and smartphones may also rise steeply. Nintendo has managed to sidestep some of the tariff impact by relocating part of its manufacturing to Vietnam, but that transition began several years ago. In contrast, Chinese companies like Anbernic are not as ready for the economic challenges ahead.

    Impact on Pricing

    Consumer electronics that are affordable and compact are the most affected by the US tariffs. Small packages sent from China will incur a fee of $100 per item starting May 2nd, which will increase to $200 after June 1st. Many of Anbernic’s retro gaming console models, such as the well-liked RG35XX, are priced well below $100. This situation makes it hard for the company to absorb the new fees. To avoid significantly raising prices, most brands are choosing to stop shipments to the US in hopes of tariff relief.

    Emulation Software and Alternatives

    Anbernic’s gaming handhelds come with emulation software already installed. They usually include SD cards loaded with ROMs, but many players prefer to find less glitchy options themselves. The company steers clear of major intellectual properties like Mario and Zelda, which has helped them avoid copyright issues.

    Gamers in search of alternatives to Anbernic’s retro consoles may soon find their choices limited, as other companies like Ayaneo and Retroid also have operations in China.

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  • Anbernic Announces 2025 Handheld Gaming Release Plans After RG34XX SP Rumors

    Anbernic Announces 2025 Handheld Gaming Release Plans After RG34XX SP Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has had a quiet start to 2024, with no new product launches so far, unlike the previous year’s monthly releases.
    2. The only release this year is the Glacier color update for the RG34XX, priced at $89.99.
    3. A successor to the RG556, named RG557, is expected to be unveiled soon.
    4. Anbernic plans to launch “at least seven or eight” new devices this year, possibly up to ten, excluding the RG557.
    5. The RG557 is likely to be released later this month, featuring the MediaTek Dimensity 8300, with additional models expected to follow.


    Anbernic has had a rather quiet beginning this year. To put it in perspective, last year, the company was on a roll, launching a new gaming handheld each month throughout 2024. In stark contrast, there have been no new product launches this year so far.

    Refresh of the RG34XX

    The only notable release from Anbernic in 2024 is the Glacier color update for the RG34XX, which arrived less than a month after the original device’s debut (currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon). On another note, it’s becoming clear that a successor to the RG556, called the RG557, is close to being unveiled.

    Upcoming Devices on the Horizon

    Although one might anticipate that Anbernic has slowed its pace since they waited till April to hint at new hardware, it seems that a flood of new gaming handhelds from Anbernic is imminent.

    Reportedly, Anbernic is looking to launch “at least seven or eight” new devices this year, not counting the RG557. This figure might even be a low estimate, as the company is suggesting that “around ten” could be a more accurate total.

    Launch Expectations

    As of now, it seems very likely that the RG557 will be released later this month. This will be Anbernic’s first gaming handheld powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300, and it is expected to be quickly followed by two additional models. Recent rumors hint that one of these could be the RG34XX SP, which is said to be more than just an RG34XX dressed up like an RG35XX SP. Additionally, Anbernic has yet to launch its translucent pink or fuschia versions that were leaked back in February. It’s still unclear if these will count as new releases for the company at this time.

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  • Anbernic RG557 Specs Revealed for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Gaming

    Anbernic RG557 Specs Revealed for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has confirmed the existence of the RG557 gaming handheld, following a gradual information release strategy.
    2. The RG557 will feature a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chip and 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, along with a 5.48-inch 1080p AMOLED display.
    3. An active cooling system will be included to minimize thermal throttling, enhancing overall performance.
    4. The device will offer 256 GB of UFS 4.0 flash storage, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and a 5,500 mAh battery with 27 W charging support.
    5. Speculation suggests the RG557 may launch at around $205, representing a $30 increase over the RG556, but exact pricing and release date are still unconfirmed.


    Anbernic has moved closer to launching the RG557, having confirmed its existence just over a week ago. True to their style, Anbernic has chosen to share information about this new gaming handheld gradually instead of all at once. As a result, there have been several leaks regarding the RG557 and how it will stand out from the current RG556 (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon).

    Specifications Revealed

    All previous leaks have proven to be correct. The video below shows that Anbernic has outfitted the RG557 with a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chip and 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM. This setup will drive a 5.48-inch 1080p AMOLED display. While it’s not the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 that people first thought, the Dimensity 8300 is set to give the RG557 a significant performance boost compared to its predecessor.

    Enhanced Features

    To further enhance its capabilities, an active cooling system is expected to reduce thermal throttling. The device will also feature 256 GB of UFS 4.0 flash storage, ensuring smooth system performance. Additionally, the RG557 will come equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, a robust 5,500 mAh battery that supports 27 W charging, and capacitive joysticks.

    Anbernic has yet to announce the exact release date or pricing for the RG557. Recent speculation suggests that it may launch at around $205, which would be a $30 and 17% increase over the RG556. It’s likely that Anbernic will provide the final details regarding the RG557 in the days ahead.

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  • Anbernic RG557 Pricing Revealed with New Specs and Gameplay Footage

    Anbernic RG557 Pricing Revealed with New Specs and Gameplay Footage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has not announced a release date for the RG557, which will replace the RG556 priced at $229.99.
    2. The RG557 will feature MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 chipset, 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 256 Gb of expandable storage.
    3. The handheld is expected to have a 5,500 mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of gaming, and support 27 W wired charging.
    4. Design specifications include dimensions of 223 x 89 x 15 mm and a weight of approximately 347 g.
    5. The estimated price for the RG557 is around $205, which is a $30 increase from the RG556.


    Anbernic has yet to announce the release date for its first gaming handheld this year. At the moment, the company has only verified that it will be launching the RG557, which is meant to replace the RG556 (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon) featuring a 1080p, 16:9 aspect ratio with a 5.48-inch AMOLED screen.

    New Chipset Information

    However, Retro Handhelds reported last week that Anbernic has opted for MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 for the RG557, instead of the previously speculated Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 2. According to the website, the upcoming device is expected to come equipped with 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256 Gb of storage that can be expanded.

    Battery Life and Features

    In addition, the RG557 is rumored to have a 5,500 mAh battery that could provide up to 8 hours of gaming on a single charge. Furthermore, this handheld is anticipated to support 27 W wired charging, feature Hall effect triggers, ‘anti-magnetic capacitive’ joysticks, and a six-axis gyroscope for an enhanced gaming experience.

    Size and Pricing Estimates

    All of these components are likely to be housed in a design measuring 223 x 89 x 15 mm and weighing around 347 g. As of now, Retro Handhelds suggests that Anbernic might price the RG557 at about $205, representing a $30 increase and 17% more than the RG556. Meanwhile, Anbernic has shared more gameplay footage of the RG557 in three different colors, which we have included below.

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  • Anbernic RG557 Chipset for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Unveiled Early

    Anbernic RG557 Chipset for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Unveiled Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG557 features a 5.48-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio.
    2. The device is capable of emulating PS2 and PSP games at 4x and 8x original resolutions, respectively.
    3. There is speculation about the chipset, with hints towards either the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 or the MediaTek Dimensity 8300.
    4. The Dimensity 8300 may provide a significant performance boost over the RG556 and a 30% advantage over the Retroid Pocket 5 in CPU tasks.
    5. The RG557 will be the first handheld gaming device to feature capacitive joysticks for improved accuracy.


    Anbernic has recently introduced the RG557, and it has been about twenty four hours since this announcement. True to its style, Anbernic has shown off the device’s design, gaming capabilities, and some specifications. A notable feature is its 5.48-inch AMOLED screen, which has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels and follows a 16:9 aspect ratio.

    Gaming Performance Insights

    Furthermore, the company hinted that the RG557 is capable of emulating specific PS2 and PSP titles at 4x and 8x their original resolutions, respectively. However, the company has not disclosed which chipset powers this new gaming device. Leaked information hints that Anbernic might be using the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, which Qualcomm unveiled last month.

    Speculation on Chipsets

    Retro Handhelds, however, disagrees with this assumption. According to their source, described as an ‘Anbernic rep’, the RG557 will be equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8300, which we reviewed last year, along with its ‘Ultra’ version found in the Poco X6 Pro and Xiaomi 14T (currently priced at $509 on Amazon). Our benchmarks showed that the Dimensity 8300 would significantly enhance the RG557’s performance compared to the RG556, which is powered by the older and less efficient Unisoc T820.

    Competitive Edge and Features

    As noted by Retro Handhelds, the Dimensity 8300 would provide the RG557 an edge over the Retroid Pocket 5 as well. Specifically, Anbernic’s upcoming device could outshine the Pocket 5 by around 30% in CPU-intensive tasks. However, the difference in their GPUs might be almost negligible. Interestingly, the RG557 is set to be the first gaming handheld to use capacitive joysticks, which should improve accuracy. It is likely that Anbernic will share more information about the RG557 in the near future.

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  • Anbernic RG557 Rumors and New Gaming Products Spotted

    Anbernic RG557 Rumors and New Gaming Products Spotted

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has been quiet after a busy 2024, releasing a new handheld each month and recently adding a fifth color option to the RG34XX.
    2. There are hints of a successor to the RG556, with a prototype reportedly shown at CES 2025.
    3. The new device may be named ‘RG557’ and is expected to feature a 5.5-inch 1080p display with a 60 Hz refresh rate.
    4. Anbernic might upgrade the processor from the Unisoc Tiger T820 to the Snapdragon G2 Gen 1, paired with 8 GB of LPDDR4 RAM.
    5. The RG557 could support 33 W fast charging and will maintain a similar size to the RG556, but other specifications remain unknown.


    Anbernic has been a bit quiet recently after a very busy 2024. Just to summarize, the company released a new gaming handheld every month last year, ending with the RG34XX launch in December (curr. $84.99 on Amazon). Although there have been whispers about an RG34XX SP, Anbernic has only added a fifth color option to the RG34XX.

    New Developments on the Horizon

    There’s growing evidence that Anbernic is working on a successor to the RG556, which came out in February 2024. A company linked to Anbernic reportedly showed off an early prototype at CES 2025 in January, and we’ve included proof of this from Silicon Den below.

    Naming and Specifications

    It’s not clear yet what name Anbernic will give to this new device. Going by their usual naming pattern, it seems likely that it will be called ‘RG557’ because of its 5.5-inch display. This screen is said to operate at 1080p with a 60 Hz refresh rate and a 16:9 aspect ratio, similar to the RG556. We’re still waiting to find out if OLED technology will be used again in the RG557.

    Possible Upgrades

    Anbernic might replace the Unisoc Tiger T820 in the RG556 with the Snapdragon G2 Gen 1, which Qualcomm introduced in 2023 along with the Snapdragon G1 Gen 1 and Snapdragon G3x Gen 2. If the image shown is correct, then the Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 will be paired with 8 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and support for 33 W fast charging, all within a 255 x 114 x 32 mm body. Sadly, other specifications are still not known at this time.

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  • Anbernic RG40XX V Clone Features Odd Joystick Placement

    Anbernic RG40XX V Clone Features Odd Joystick Placement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has reduced the frequency of new gaming handheld releases compared to last year, launching fewer models with similar hardware.
    2. The latest handheld device from Anbernic is the RG34XX, priced at $84.99, and is set to receive a second update soon.
    3. Speculation surrounds Game Console’s upcoming device, hinting it may be inspired by Anbernic’s RG40XX V and referred to as the ‘soccer ball machine.’
    4. The design of Game Console’s new handheld includes a unique button arrangement similar to the RG40XX V, with a centrally positioned joystick.
    5. Details about the chipset and display specifications of Game Console’s future device are currently unknown.


    Anbernic has slowed down its aggressive release schedule for new gaming handhelds compared to last year. To sum up, the company was able to launch new models each month, but many of these devices shared the same core hardware.

    Latest Handheld Release

    Currently, the newest Anbernic device is the RG34XX (curr. $84.99 on Amazon), which is expected to receive a second update soon, even though it’s less than three months old. While Anbernic hasn’t made any new announcements, it appears that Game Console is planning to modify one of its recent handhelds.

    Speculations About Game Console

    Although not directly naming the company, Nittrx has referred to the one behind the ‘soccer ball machine’. This seems to hint at the R36 Max, which launched at the end of January. In this instance, Game Console appears to have taken inspiration from the RG40XX V’s unique design.

    Unnamed Future Device

    The name of Game Console’s upcoming gaming handheld remains a mystery for now. However, the arrangement of its ABXY, Start/Select, and d-pad buttons aligns with the RG40XX V, alongside its front-facing speaker grille. Interestingly, Game Console has repositioned the single joystick to the center, making it equidistant from the d-pad and ABXY buttons. Currently, there are no further details available regarding the chipset and display specifications of this new device.

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