Anbernic, a well-known player in the handheld gaming market, has recently introduced an updated version of its popular gaming handheld, the RG35XX. This new iteration comes with an exciting dual-boot option, providing users with expanded customization possibilities. Let's delve into the technical details of the Anbernic RG35XX and explore what sets it apart from its predecessor.
RG35XX Refresh and Dual-Boot Option
The Anbernic RG35XX has received a minor refresh six months after its initial debut. Despite earlier rumors, Anbernic has not made significant changes to the device's battery, casing, or chipset. Instead, the company has opted to introduce the gaming handheld with an appealing dual-boot option.
Until now, Anbernic exclusively sold the RG35XX with its proprietary Linux distribution. However, with the new version, the company has extended support for GarlicOS, a distribution developed by Black Seraph. GarlicOS offers users more customization options and usability improvements compared to the regular Linux distribution. It is a noteworthy addition that elevates the gaming experience on the RG35XX.
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the new Anbernic RG35XX retains the same hardware as its predecessor. This handheld gaming device features a 3.5-inch display with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. While not the most cutting-edge resolution by modern standards, it provides a decent gaming experience suitable for retro and indie titles.
The RG35XX is powered by a capable chipset, housing four ARM Cortex-A9 CPU cores and a quad-core PowerVR SG544MP GPU. This hardware configuration ensures smooth gameplay and efficient performance across a variety of games.
To support the gaming experience further, the device is equipped with 256 MB of DDR3 RAM. While not the most memory-intensive, it is sufficient for running older games and many indie titles smoothly.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The RG35XX is armed with a 2,600 mAh battery, which offers a respectable 6 hours of gameplay between charges. Though not groundbreaking, it is a suitable capacity for a portable gaming device of this size. The 6-hour battery life ensures that users can enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about constantly recharging the device.
In terms of connectivity, the Anbernic RG35XX comes with standard features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This allows users to connect to the internet for online gaming or update their game libraries with ease. The device also includes a USB port for data transfer and charging purposes, making it convenient for users to manage their gaming content.
Pricing and Storage Options
As of writing, the new RG35XX is priced at US$57.99, a competitive price point for a dual-boot handheld gaming device. This makes it an attractive option for gamers looking for an affordable yet versatile gaming device.
Additionally, Anbernic offers an option to purchase the RG35XX for US$72.99, which includes a 128 GB MicroSD card for storing games. This additional storage capacity is beneficial for users who prefer to have an extensive library of games readily available.
Color Options
Anbernic provides consumers with multiple color choices to suit their preferences. The new RG35XX is available in three attractive finishes: grey, purple, and white. The variety of colors allows users to select a device that reflects their personal style.
Conclusion
The Anbernic RG35XX with the dual-boot option is a commendable addition to the handheld gaming market. While it does not bring significant changes to the hardware specifications, the inclusion of GarlicOS provides enhanced customization and usability options, giving gamers more control over their gaming experience.
The 3.5-inch display, supported by the capable CPU and GPU configuration, ensures smooth and enjoyable gameplay. The 2,600 mAh battery offers a reasonable 6-hour gameplay duration, making it suitable for on-the-go gaming sessions.
With a competitive price starting at US$57.99 and the option to expand storage with a 128 GB MicroSD card, the RG35XX is an appealing choice for budget-conscious gamers who still seek a feature-rich gaming handheld.
Overall, the Anbernic RG35XX retains the strengths of its predecessor while introducing the versatility of dual-boot functionality. If you are a retro gaming enthusiast or someone who enjoys indie titles, the RG35XX could be an excellent addition to your gaming collection.
