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Comparing Anbernic H700 Gaming Handhelds- The new benchmark
Anbernic has established itself as a leading manufacturer of retro gaming handhelds, with a track record of releasing increasingly capable devices at competitive price points. The introduction of the Allwinner H700 chipset marked a significant milestone for the company, enabling them to create a new benchmark for affordable retro gaming.
The H700 series represents a sweet spot in price-to-performance ratio, offering reliable PlayStation 1 emulation and respectable performance for select Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, and PSP titles hovering around the AUD$120 mark. This is particularly impressive considering that similar performance previously required devices costing substantially more.
Over the past year, Anbernic has leveraged this chipset to create eight different retro gaming handhelds, each tailored to different user preferences and use cases. While they all share the same core performance capabilities, each console varies in form factor, screen size, and features, allowing users to choose the device that best fits their needs without compromising on emulation quality.
Vertical Handhelds – Game Boy Style
The vertical form factor has been a popular choice among retro gaming enthusiasts, offering a comfortable grip reminiscent of the original Game Boy while maintaining excellent portability. Anbernic has released three vertical H700 devices, each targeting different user preferences and price points. These models showcase the evolution of their vertical design philosophy, from basic functionality to premium features.
RG35XX – RG35XXPLUS
The 35XX was re-released in 2024 with the upgraded H700 processor and a better D-Pad but maintained its 2600mAh battery. While the 35XX Plus shares the same form factor and a 3.5″ 640 x 480 IPS display, the 35XX Plus adds 2.4 & 5Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2 and steps up battery size to 3300mAh. Both 35XX consoles come in at 11.5cm tall x 8cm wide. The mini HDMI out allows you to push the image to your TV while Bluetooth allows you to add a wireless gamepad controller.
RG35XX SP
Looking for some Game Boy Advance nostalgia? Anbernic has put the RG35XX Plus into a clamshell and called it the RG35XX SP. So you get the same spec but in a flip case. Great for protecting the screen and for smaller hands or those of us who grew up with a Game Boy Advance, the RG35XX SP may be for you.
RG40XXV
The RG40XX V on the other hand moves up to a 4″ 640 x 480 screen, with a bigger body roughly 2cm taller and 1cm wider coming in at 9cm wide and 14cm tall. Wireless connectivity is included via 2.4 & 5Ghz WiFi and Bluetooth 4.2 powered with a 3200mAh battery. The RG 40XX V also supports wired USB type C and wireless controllers along with mini HDMI output.
Horizontal Handhelds – Landscape style
The horizontal form factor represents Anbernic’s most diverse range within the H700 lineup, offering everything from ultra-portable to premium gaming experiences. These handhelds follow the familiar horizontal layout popularized by the Game Boy Advance, providing comfortable widescreen gaming with various screen sizes and ergonomic features. From the compact RG28XX to the ergonomically designed RGCubeXX, each model targets different user preferences while maintaining the core H700 performance capabilities.
RG28XX
Lets start with the 28XX being Anbernic’s new entry-level console. With a 2.8″ screen, dimmer screen, and small controls, we’ve chosen to not stock it and instead promote the 35XX Plus and 35XX H as they are more rounded consoles suited for both adults and kids.
RG35XXH
So onto the RG35XX H, in essence, is a revamped 351P. The 351P was a super popular console and we also love the 35XX H. It’s a great size with good controls and with the 700 chipset plays up to PS1 with ease. You really can’t knock it as it makes a great retro gaming console along with an awesome gift. With its 3.5″ 640 x 480 IPS screen, dual Joypads, stereo speakers, 2.4 & 5Ghz WiFi, BT 4.2, and mini HDMI you have all the connectivity you need. Size-wise, the 35XX H comes in at 14.5 cm wide x 7cm tall and gameplay is up to 8 hours with its 3300mAh Li-polymer battery.
For those looking for a little bit more, the 35XX H supports the Batocera Lite OS which takes this little console to a whole new retro gaming level. With an awesome interface and more supported consoles than you could ever want to play – this bundle comes highly recommended.
RG40XXH
The RG40XX H is in essence a 35XX H but with a 4″ 640 x 480 screen as opposed to a 3.5″ and a 3200mAh battery as opposed to the 3300mAh found on the 35XX H. We have heard there are battery heating issues so have decided to not stock this console.
RGCUBEXX
Let’s move onto the RG Cube XX, the RG Cube has been a popular console with a good comfy form factor. So Anbernic decided to create a lower-price variant with of course the H700. With a 4″ 720 x 720 square screen, dual joypads, and all the same bells and whistles, drum roll… welcome the RG Cube XX. A nice console, but as we stock the RG Cube, decided we didn’t need another H700 in this already big lineup.
Size Vs Form
Anbernic’s catalog spans multiple form factors and the H700 range is no different. Prior the the RG 40XXV our preference was for horizontal handhelds – and yes some of us grew up with the original Game Boy.
That said, each console is different in look, feel, and form, and while the 35XX H is a favourite. The 40XX V has surprised many with its overall look, feel, and usability. It just has a wow factor about it while being easy to hold and play.
So when deciding which retro gaming console is right for you, we suggest you go by screen size and dimensions along with features before locking down the device shape and orientation.
Considering a Faster Console?
The H700 range is a great starting point, but for those looking for that little bit more oomph, Anbernics T820 range will play up to PS2 titles and deliver a bit more wow factor. Check out our summary of these faster Anbernic consoles
Classic Games… Finding New Life
The magic of retro gaming lives on in your pocket, thanks to Anbernic’s innovative approach to portable gaming devices. From first-time explorers to seasoned veterans hunting down their childhood favorites, these carefully crafted handhelds bridge the gap between gaming’s rich past and its digital future.
But this isn’t just about packing old games into modern shells. Through rigorous in-house development and cutting-edge emulation tech, Anbernic transforms gaming preservation into an art form. Each device in their expanding collection does more than just play games—it opens a window that inspires and excites us continuing the history of retro gaming in our modern lives.
