Anbernic unveiled the RG DS Plus as a Linux dual-screen clamshell with two 4.3-inch 1024x768 panels (4x integer scale for native DS), a redesigned 15–180° dual-alloy hinge, and a stylus that stores in the shell (Anbernic first look, Notebookcheck). Chip and price did not land in the trailer. Anbernic representative Wild Lee later confirmed RK3568, 1GB RAM, no eMMC, and a price below $100 (likely under $90 for the first 72 hours) to Retro Handhelds (RH spec update).
The shipping RG DS stays at $94.99 until Plus actually lists. Compare dual-screen options in the picker or compare tool.
What is confirmed
| Spec | RG DS (shipping) | RG DS Plus (announced) |
|---|---|---|
| Screens | Dual 4.0" 640x480 | Dual 4.3" 1024x768 |
| DS scale | 2.5x | 4x integer |
| OS | Android 14 / Linux | Linux-first (NNDSS) |
| Chip | RK3568 | RK3568 (same) |
| RAM | 3GB | 1GB |
| Storage | 32GB eMMC + TF | No eMMC; dual microSD |
| Stylus | In the box | Stored in the shell |
| Hinge | Standard clamshell | Dual-alloy, 15–180° |
| Colors | Existing RG DS finishes | Matte Black, Coral Pink, Metallic Blue |
| Price | $94.99 | Under $100 (unlisted) |
| Ship date | Now | Unannounced |
Anbernic's own post is screen-and-software first: 76 shaders, instant saves, RTC, microphone, cheat codes, screen swap, and lower-screen touch. It does not list RAM, battery, or a buy button. The RK3568 / 1GB / no-eMMC details come from Wild Lee via Retro Handhelds, not the storefront.
Why "Plus" is not more power
The original RG DS already uses RK3568. Plus spends the name on panel math and Linux, not a faster SoC. 1024x768 is exact 4x of 256x192 DS, which is the entire reason to wait. RAM dropping to 1GB is a cost cut: Anbernic is aiming GammaOS at a Linux dual-screen, not Android multitasking or 3DS.
Do not buy this for 3DS. Retro Handhelds quoted the brief as cornering the budget DS market. For dual-screen power, the AYN Thor and AYANEO Pocket DS still live in a different price class. Our older RG DS write-up is here: RG DS official specs.
Should you wait?
Wait if integer-scaled DS on Linux under $100 is the only feature you care about and you can tolerate no ship date. Buy the shipping RG DS now if you want Android dual-screen this week. Skip both if your library is 3DS/PS2 — that is Thor / Pocket DS / Odin money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will the Anbernic RG DS Plus cost?
Anbernic has not listed a store price. Wild Lee told Retro Handhelds it will be under $100, and possibly under $90 for the first 72 hours. Treat that as directional until a product page exists.
What chip is in the RG DS Plus?
Rockchip RK3568, the same SoC as the original RG DS, with 1GB of RAM and no eMMC. The upgrade is the 4.3-inch 1024x768 panels and Linux software, not CPU horsepower.
Does the RG DS Plus play 3DS?
No. Anbernic is targeting budget DS emulation. 1GB RAM and RK3568 are the wrong class for 3DS. Buy an AYN Thor or a flagship Android clamshell if 3DS is the point.
Is the RG DS Plus shipping yet?
No. Anbernic published a first-look post on September 4, 2026, with no store SKU and no date. The original RG DS remains the dual-screen Anbernic you can actually order.
RG DS or RG DS Plus?
Buy the RG DS for Android, 3GB RAM, and a $94.99 listing today. Wait for Plus if 4x DS integer scaling and a built-in stylus slot matter more than availability.
Sources
- Anbernic - RG DS Plus first look
- Retro Handhelds - RG DS Plus reveal and Wild Lee spec update
- Notebookcheck - RG DS Plus unveiled
Featured image: Anbernic RG DS Plus first look / press imagery. Product images used under fair use for editorial purposes.
