Anbernic RG35XX SP vs Powkiddy RGB20SX
The Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) and Powkiddy RGB20SX (~$70-90) are closely matched Linux handhelds. The right pick comes down to display, battery, and form factor — not raw performance.
Key Differences
What sets these handhelds apart
- •Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) and Powkiddy RGB20SX (~$70-90) sit at nearly the same price.
- •Processor: Anbernic RG35XX SP runs a H700 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 vs RK3566 Quad-core Cortex-A55 in the Powkiddy RGB20SX.
- •Battery: 2,600mAh vs 5,000mAh — Powkiddy RGB20SX lasts longer between charges.
- •Display: 3.5" IPS 640x480 vs 4.0" IPS 720x720 (1:1).
- •Weight: ~~186g vs ~260g — Anbernic RG35XX SP is more pocketable.
Specs Comparison
Side-by-side technical details
Performance Comparison
How they stack up in real-world use
Anbernic RG35XX SP is best for
- Screen protection when closed
- Nostalgia for GBA SP form factor
- Same performance as RG35XX Plus in clamshell
Powkiddy RGB20SX is best for
- Arcade games (perfect 1:1 aspect)
- Vertical shooters (tate mode)
- Extended play sessions with large battery
Anbernic RG35XX SP watch outs
- Smaller battery than Plus (2,600mAh)
- No Wi-Fi in base model
- Slightly thicker when closed
Powkiddy RGB20SX watch outs
- Letterboxing for widescreen content
- RK3566 less powerful than modern chips
- Build quality is budget-grade
The Verdict
Pick Anbernic RG35XX SP if you want peak performance; pick Powkiddy RGB20SX if price matters more. Both are solid Linux handhelds.
Anbernic RG35XX SP vs Powkiddy RGB20SX FAQ
Which is better, the Anbernic RG35XX SP or the Powkiddy RGB20SX?
Pick Anbernic RG35XX SP if you want peak performance; pick Powkiddy RGB20SX if price matters more. Both are solid Linux handhelds.
What is the price difference between the Anbernic RG35XX SP and the Powkiddy RGB20SX?
The Powkiddy RGB20SX costs $80 while the Anbernic RG35XX SP is $95 — a $15 difference. Powkiddy RGB20SX is the value pick; Anbernic RG35XX SP justifies the premium with clamshell design.
Which has better performance, the Anbernic RG35XX SP or Powkiddy RGB20SX?
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 Powkiddy RGB20SX uses a RK3566 Quad-core Cortex-A55 and still handles most emulation workloads competently.
How does battery life compare between the Anbernic RG35XX SP and Powkiddy RGB20SX?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP ships with a 2,600mAh battery. The Powkiddy RGB20SX has a 5,000mAh. 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 RG35XX SP or Powkiddy RGB20SX?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP weighs ~~186g, while the Powkiddy RGB20SX weighs ~260g. Lighter devices are easier for pocket carry and long sessions but often tradeoff battery capacity or grip comfort.
Should I buy the Anbernic RG35XX SP or wait for the Powkiddy RGB20SX?
Both are currently in market. If your use case fits screen protection when closed, the Anbernic RG35XX SP delivers today. If you prioritize arcade games (perfect 1:1 aspect), the Powkiddy RGB20SX is the stronger long-term pick. Neither is about to be replaced — both vendors have 12+ month refresh cycles.
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