Anbernic RG35XX Pro: the portable retro console that reinvents the Game Boy

rubrique-guide-achatRĂ©daction Fun-Esports
Console portable rétro compacte noire au format vertical, petit écran carré éteint
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Anbernic RG35XX Pro: the retro handheld console that reinvents the Game Boy

🔎 Want to get straight to the point? See the live price and the full product page: Anbernic RG35XX Pro.

1) In 30 seconds

  • Iconic vertical form factor and an ultra-compact grip.
  • 3.5'' IPS screen (640×480) with full OCA lamination: sharp colours, excellent readability.
  • H700 quad-core Cortex-A53 + dual-core G31 MP2 GPU: smooth emulation across 30+ systems.
  • 1 GB LPDDR4, 64 GB included (expandable up to 512 GB via dual TF slots).
  • 2.4/5G Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, HDMI output, 3200 mAh battery for about 7 h of play.
  • Supplied without any games: the device is ready (firmware checked, microSD card formatted, folder structure in place), and the games are yours to provide. We explain this choice in why our consoles ship without any games, and the legal ways to build your game library on our where to play legally page.

2) Why is the RG35XX Pro getting so much attention?

The RG35XX Pro combines the nostalgia of a vertical “pocket” design with a modern platform. The result: surprisingly comfortable gaming in a pocket-sized format, ideal for commutes, the sofa or a quick break.

3) Design & ergonomics: small size, big feel

  • Compact shell, precise D-pad and responsive ABXY buttons.
  • Two sticks for better compatibility with 3D systems.
  • Vertical layout that favours long sessions without fatigue.

4) A laminated IPS screen that changes everything

The 3.5'' 640×480 IPS panel with full OCA lamination delivers vibrant colours, better contrast and reduced reflections. The aspect ratio is perfect for 8/16-bit systems and the PS1, without aggressive upscaling.

5) Performance & emulation

Under the hood: H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, dual-core G31 MP2 GPU and 1 GB LPDDR4. In practice: excellent smoothness on SNES, Mega Drive, GBA, Neo-Geo, and very comfortable PS1, with more than 30 emulators supported.

6) System, storage & connectivity

  • 64-bit Linux optimised for emulation, with a clean interface.
  • 64 GB included + dual TF slots up to 512 GB.
  • 2.4/5G Wi-Fi (updates, media scraping, local network), Bluetooth 4.2 (headsets, controllers).
  • HDMI output to play on a TV or monitor.

The stock system is not set in stone: the RG35XX Pro is one of the models supported by the alternative firmware muOS, and the procedure is detailed in our step-by-step muOS installation guide.

Boost it with a suitable microSD card

To avoid corruption and speed up loading times, choose a fast and reliable card.

👉 Recommendation: SanDisk Ultra 256 GB .

Then there is the question of the file system before you copy anything onto it: we compare the two formats in our article on formatting a microSD card in FAT32 or exFAT.

7) Comparison: RG35XX Pro vs Game Boy (iconic design, modern uses)

The RG35XX Pro visually recalls the Game Boy with its vertical form factor, but they belong to different eras. Here are the key differences:

Criterion Anbernic RG35XX Pro Game Boy (original)
Form factor Compact vertical, 2 sticks, D-pad + ABXY Vertical, D-pad + A/B buttons
Screen 3.5'' IPS 640×480, laminated, colour, backlit 2.6'' LCD 160×144, monochrome, no backlight
Games Multi-system via emulation (30+) Dedicated Game Boy cartridges
Sound Stereo, Bluetooth 4.2 (headsets) Mono speaker, headphone jack
Connectivity Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI No native network/video connectivity
Power 3200 mAh battery (≈7 h), rechargeable 4 AA batteries, not rechargeable
Storage 64 GB included, up to 512 GB (dual TF) —
Typical use Versatile retro, TV out, on the go + living room Pure vintage handheld gaming, collecting

In short: the Game Boy remains a handheld gaming legend. The RG35XX Pro modernises that philosophy: better screen, large capacity, full connectivity and multi-system compatibility.

8) Usage tips

  1. Full charge before the first session.
  2. microSD card: go for a branded card (e.g. SanDisk Ultra 256 GB).
  3. Care: use a microfibre cloth for the laminated screen.
  4. Save states: enable them for play sessions that fit your schedule.

If your console has just arrived, the steps to follow on the day you receive it are detailed in our article on the first things to do with a retro handheld console.

9) Quick FAQ

Can you play on a TV?

Yes, via the HDMI output for a sharp picture on the big screen.

Does Bluetooth work with a headset?

Yes, the console supports Bluetooth 4.2 for headsets/earphones and compatible controllers.

Does the console come with games?

No, and it is not an oversight: it ships without any games, like all our consoles, and our microSD cards are sold empty. The device itself is ready: firmware checked, microSD card formatted and tested, folder structure in place, buttons and sticks tested. All that is missing are your own files, to be copied onto the card. We explain this choice in why our consoles ship without any games, and the four legal ways to build your game library on our where to play legally page.

Which microSD card should I choose?

👉 SanDisk Ultra 256 GB: reliability, capacity and speeds suited to retro gaming.

10) Explore our other models

Browse all our retro handheld consoles and find the one that suits you.

In short — practical verdict

The Anbernic RG35XX Pro is a benchmark in retro handhelds: premium screen, modern connectivity, solid battery life and an iconic form factor. It keeps the “pick-up & play” spirit of the Game Boy while opening the door to dozens of systems.

‱ See the RG35XX Pro
‱ Add the 256 GB microSD
‱ All retro consoles

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