Anbernic RG35XX SP vs Powkiddy X55
The Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) and Powkiddy X55 (~$80-140) go head-to-head in this Linux handheld comparison. Anbernic RG35XX SP averages higher across our benchmarks, while Anbernic RG35XX SP wins on price.
Key Differences
What sets these handhelds apart
- •Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) and Powkiddy X55 (~$80-140) sit at nearly the same price.
- •Processor: Anbernic RG35XX SP runs a H700 Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 vs Rockchip RK3566 in the Powkiddy X55.
- •RAM: 1GB DDR4 vs 2GB LPDDR4X — Powkiddy X55 has the memory advantage for multitasking and heavier emulators.
- •Battery: 2,600mAh vs 4,000mAh — Powkiddy X55 lasts longer between charges.
- •Display: 3.5" IPS 640x480 vs 5.5" IPS 1280x720 16:9.
- •Weight: ~~186g vs ~293g — 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 X55 is best for
- Larger screen for PSP/Dreamcast
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Linux open-source ecosystem
Anbernic RG35XX SP watch outs
- Smaller battery than Plus (2,600mAh)
- No Wi-Fi in base model
- Slightly thicker when closed
Powkiddy X55 watch outs
- D-pad accuracy could be better
- Noisy trigger buttons
- Slow 8W charging speed
The Verdict
Anbernic RG35XX SP is the stronger buy here — it outperforms the Powkiddy X55 without a meaningful price premium.
Anbernic RG35XX SP vs Powkiddy X55 FAQ
Which is better, the Anbernic RG35XX SP or the Powkiddy X55?
Anbernic RG35XX SP is the stronger buy here — it outperforms the Powkiddy X55 without a meaningful price premium.
What is the price difference between the Anbernic RG35XX SP and the Powkiddy X55?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP costs $95 while the Powkiddy X55 is $99 — a $4 difference. Anbernic RG35XX SP is the value pick; Powkiddy X55 justifies the premium with 5.5" 720p display.
Which has better performance, the Anbernic RG35XX SP or Powkiddy X55?
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 X55 uses a Rockchip RK3566 and still handles most emulation workloads competently.
How does battery life compare between the Anbernic RG35XX SP and Powkiddy X55?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP ships with a 2,600mAh battery. The Powkiddy X55 has a 4,000mAh. 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 X55?
The Anbernic RG35XX SP weighs ~~186g, while the Powkiddy X55 weighs ~293g. 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 X55?
Both are currently in market. If your use case fits screen protection when closed, the Anbernic RG35XX SP delivers today. If you prioritize larger screen for psp/dreamcast, the Powkiddy X55 is the stronger long-term pick. Neither is about to be replaced — both vendors have 12+ month refresh cycles.
More comparisons
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus (~$85) and Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) are closely matched Linux handhelds. T...
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus (~$85) and Powkiddy X55 (~$80-140) go head-to-head in this Linux handheld c...
The Anbernic RG35XX SP (~$95) and Miyoo Mini Plus (~$65) are closely matched Linux handhelds. The ri...