Anbernic RG SP Review: A Clamshell Retro Handheld Built for Portable Play
The Anbernic RG SP is a foldable retro gaming handheld with a 3.4-inch IPS screen at 720 x 480 and a 3:2 aspect ratio. Its clamshell body protects the display and controls, and a magnetic lid sensor is meant to trigger sleep mode when closed. The device uses a stickless control layout, which suits classic games but may be less ideal for titles that depend on analog input.
The RG SP folds shut to shield its 3.4-inch IPS panel and buttons, a shape meant for carrying in a bag or pocket. Its 720 × 480, 3:2 display aligns with older handheld proportions, while the Hall magnetic switch is intended to put the system to sleep when the lid closes.
Inside, an Allwinner H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 chip runs up to 1.5GHz alongside a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU and 1GB RAM, using a 64-bit Linux OS. Banggood offers multiple storage versions; wireless and expandable storage are included. The lack of analog sticks suits many classics but may limit analog-dependent games.
Devices like the RG SP may make retro gaming more accessible to commuters, travelers, and casual players who value portability. It could support preservation and nostalgia by letting older titles remain playable in small breaks. However, its stickless controls and modest hardware may limit appeal for players expecting modern analog or 3D experiences. Its impact likely remains niche, affecting hobbyists and budget-conscious buyers more than mainstream gaming audiences.