Anbernic RG SP vs Anbernic RG35XX SP
The Anbernic RG SP ($65) and Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) are closely matched Linux handhelds. The right pick comes down to display, battery, and form factor — not raw performance.
- Anbernic RG SP costs $30 less (~$95 vs $65) — roughly 32% cheaper than the Anbernic RG35XX SP.
- Processor: Anbernic RG SP runs a Allwinner H700 (quad Cortex-A53 @ 1.5GHz, Mali-G31 MP2) vs H700 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 in the Anbernic RG35XX SP.
- Battery: 3,300mAh (~6 hrs) vs 2,600mAh — Anbernic RG SP lasts longer between charges.
- Display: 3.4" IPS 720x480 (3:2, OCA laminated) vs 3.5" IPS 640x480.
- Weight: 168g vs ~~186g — Anbernic RG SP is more pocketable.
Specs comparison
Side-by-side technical details. The glowing value wins its row.
| Spec | Anbernic RG SP | Anbernic RG35XX SP |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $65(best) | ~$95 |
| Display | 3.4" IPS 720x480 (3:2, OCA laminated) | 3.5" IPS 640x480 |
| Processor | Allwinner H700 (quad Cortex-A53 @ 1.5GHz, Mali-G31 MP2) | H700 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 |
| RAM | 1GB | 1GB DDR4 |
| Storage | Dual microSD (up to 512GB each); ships with 16GB card(best) | 64GB + microSD |
| Battery | 3,300mAh (~6 hrs)(best) | 2,600mAh |
| Weight | 168g(best) | ~~186g |
| OS | Linux 64-bit | Linux / GarlicOS / MUOS |
Portability
Anbernic RG SP winsValue
Anbernic RG SP winsAnbernic RG SP is best for
- Pure GBA/GBC/SNES pocket play
- Buyers who hated sticks on prior SP clones
- First handheld under $70
Anbernic RG35XX SP is best for
- Screen protection when closed
- Nostalgia for GBA SP form factor
- Same performance as RG35XX Plus in clamshell
Anbernic RG SP watch outs
- H700 ceiling: Dreamcast/PSP are soft, no PS2
- No analog sticks by design
- Stock Linux OS needs a CFW refresh for best UX
Anbernic RG35XX SP watch outs
- Smaller battery than Plus (2,600mAh)
- No Wi-Fi in base model
- Slightly thicker when closed
Pick Anbernic RG35XX SP if you want peak performance; pick Anbernic RG SP if price matters more. Both are solid Linux handhelds.
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Anbernic RG SP vs Anbernic RG35XX SP FAQ
Which is better, the Anbernic RG SP or the Anbernic RG35XX SP?
Pick Anbernic RG35XX SP if you want peak performance; pick Anbernic RG SP if price matters more. Both are solid Linux handhelds.
What is the price difference between the Anbernic RG SP and the Anbernic RG35XX SP?
The Anbernic RG SP costs $65 while the Anbernic RG35XX SP is $95 — a $30 difference. Anbernic RG SP is the value pick; Anbernic RG35XX SP justifies the premium with clamshell design.
Which has better performance, the Anbernic RG SP or Anbernic RG35XX SP?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP scores higher across aggregated performance metrics, powered by a H700 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 chip with 1GB DDR4 RAM. The Anbernic RG SP uses a Allwinner H700 (quad Cortex-A53 @ 1.5GHz, Mali-G31 MP2) and still handles most emulation workloads competently.
How does battery life compare between the Anbernic RG SP and Anbernic RG35XX SP?
The Anbernic RG SP ships with a 3,300mAh (~6 hrs) battery. The Anbernic RG35XX SP has a 2,600mAh. Real-world runtime depends on workload: retro emulation typically gets double the runtime of native Android or PS2 emulation.
Which is more portable, the Anbernic RG SP or Anbernic RG35XX SP?
The Anbernic RG SP weighs 168g, while the Anbernic RG35XX SP weighs ~~186g. Lighter devices are easier for pocket carry and long sessions but often tradeoff battery capacity or grip comfort.
Should I buy the Anbernic RG SP or wait for the Anbernic RG35XX SP?
Both are currently in market. If your use case fits pure gba/gbc/snes pocket play, the Anbernic RG SP delivers today. If you prioritize screen protection when closed, the Anbernic RG35XX SP is the stronger long-term pick. Neither is about to be replaced — both vendors have 12+ month refresh cycles.