Introduction: My Retro Gaming Journey
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a passionate console gamer. Over the years, I’ve explored countless systems and built a real appreciation for gaming history—you can follow my full console journey here. One thing I’ve always loved is retro gaming—though back when I first started playing, these consoles weren’t even considered “retro.” Among all my favourites, the Sega Mega Drive has always held a special place in my heart.
Recently, I wanted a way to enjoy all my classic games on the go, without having to dig out each old console from the attic. That’s when I began researching portable retro gaming devices and came across the Anbernic RG35XX Plus, which immediately captured my attention.
Where To Buy The RG35XX Plus (Updated 2026)
The RG35XX Plus has become extremely popular and is currently harder to find outside of select sellers.
At the time of writing, AliExpress has the most consistent stock availability.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
⭐ Quick Verdict: Is the Anbernic RG35XX Plus Worth It?
Best for: Retro gamers who want Sega + Nintendo on the go
Not ideal for: Players wanting PS2 or large-screen comfort
Battery: ~6 hours
Value rating: 9/10
Quick Features & Benefits of the Anbernic RG35XX Plus
- Portable Retro Gaming: Compact and lightweight, perfect for gaming on the go.
- Preloaded Classics: Hundreds of retro games ready to play out of the box.
- Supports Multiple Consoles: NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Sega Mega Drive, PlayStation 1, and more.
- Bright 3.5” IPS Display: Crisp, colourful, and easy on the eyes.
- Long Battery Life: 3300mAh battery provides multiple hours of gameplay.
- Save & Load Anywhere: Save states ensure progress is never lost.
- TV Output & Multiplayer: Connect to a TV or link two devices for co-op fun.
- Durable Build: Solid buttons, responsive controls, and secure ports.
- Expandable Storage: Dual TF card support makes it easy to add your own games.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple to set up, and menus are easy to navigate.
Why I Needed a Portable Retro Gaming Device
The idea of carrying dozens of classic games in a single, portable device was incredibly appealing. I wanted something lightweight and easy to use, whether for quick gaming sessions on lunch breaks, commuting, or just relaxing at home without setting up multiple consoles.
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus promised all of this and more, allowing me to relive my favourite retro titles with the convenience of modern technology. The ability to save progress, organise games, and access hundreds of classic titles instantly made it feel like a complete solution for retro gaming enthusiasts like me.
First Impressions of the Anbernic RG35XX Plus
When I first held the Anbernic RG35XX Plus, I was struck by how nostalgic yet modern it felt. Its retro-inspired design reminded me of the Game Boy Color I loved as a child, while its compact size and lightweight build made it perfect for gaming on the move.
The moment I powered it on, I was blown away by the crisp, bright screen that brought all my favourite classics to life. Playing games like Sonic and Street Fighter felt fresh and vibrant, making it easy to lose track of time. While there was a slight learning curve with understanding different emulator names and abbreviations, the handy favourites feature made navigation quick and intuitive, ensuring I could jump straight into the fun without frustration.
Official product image from Anbernic — for reference only.
Display and Battery: Bright, Long-Lasting Gameplay
One of the standout features of the Anbernic RG35XX Plus is its bright 3.5-inch display, which makes retro games look better than ever. Classic titles feel vibrant and sharp, giving a fresh life to old favourites.
The 3300mAh battery provides hours of uninterrupted gaming. On average, I can get around six hours of gameplay from a full charge. Battery life varies depending on the emulator or game—earlier systems tend to be easier on the battery, while PlayStation 1 games may drain it slightly faster. Still, there’s plenty of time for extended gaming sessions, whether commuting, relaxing at home, or during a work break.
Versatility: From Handheld Hero to Living Room Legend
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus doesn’t just shine as a portable device—it can also connect to a TV, making it a versatile addition to any gaming setup. This means you can enjoy classic titles on the go or bring retro couch co-op games back to life in the living room.
For those looking to expand their library, I highly recommend the version with the dual TF card reader, which makes adding games legally simple and convenient. Pairing it with a high-quality SD card of around 128GB ensures you’ll have plenty of storage for hundreds of classics, all ready to play whenever you want.
Pros and Cons of the Anbernic RG35XX Plus
Pros:
- Comes preloaded with plenty of games at a great value.
- Compact, lightweight, and highly portable.
- Long-lasting battery, ideal for on-the-go gaming.
Cons:
- The screen may feel a little small for some players.
- Device size may be uncomfortable for extended gaming sessions.
- Some popular games are missing initially, though they can be added later.
You can grab your Anbernic RG35XX Plus here and start playing instantly.
Performance: Seamless Retro Gaming Experience
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus delivers exceptional performance, especially for retro gaming on the go. One of its best features is the quick sleep-and-resume function, which lets you pause at any moment and jump right back in without missing a beat. Combined with the universal save feature, it ensures your progress is always safe.
The build quality is surprisingly premium for its price. The device feels solid in the hands without being heavy, striking the perfect balance between comfort and durability. The buttons are clearly marked, well laid out, and within easy reach, with the rear shoulder buttons resting naturally under your index fingers. Each button has a crisp, responsive click that feels both satisfying and reliable.
Ports and connections are equally robust. Everything plugs in firmly, from charging cables to external connections, with no sign of looseness or disconnections. Compared to similar handheld emulation devices, the Anbernic RG35XX Plus feels sturdy and dependable, more like a true console than just another emulator.
Playing Sonic or Street Fighter on this handheld feels just as responsive as it did decades ago, with the bonus of modern conveniences like save states and portability. It’s a seamless blend of nostalgia and convenience.
Who Is the Anbernic RG35XX Plus For?
The Anbernic RG35XX Plus truly has something to offer everyone. Seasoned gamers who grew up with classics like the Sega Mega Drive, PlayStation 1, or Game Boy Color will feel transported back to the golden age of gaming, but with modern improvements.
It’s also perfect for parents or older gamers looking to share the roots of gaming with a younger generation. Kids can explore hundreds of classics without the need for multiple consoles or rare cartridges.
Commuters and casual players will appreciate the lightweight design, strong build quality, and long battery life. Whether for a quick session during a work break or a longer journey, the Anbernic RG35XX Plus makes portable gaming easy and enjoyable.
Pricing and Value
At just $49.99 USD (around £37 GBP), the Anbernic RG35XX Plus is one of the best bargains in retro gaming. With preloaded games and a solid build, it offers incredible value.
Initially, I was sceptical that something at this price could perform so well, but it exceeded all expectations. For less than the cost of a single modern console game, I now have a portable retro device packed with classics, and it quickly became one of my favourite gaming devices.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Anbernic RG35XX Plus
Q: How long does the Anbernic RG35XX Plus battery last?
A: The Anbernic RG35XX Plus has a 3300mAh battery that usually gives around 6 hours of playtime on a full charge. Older emulators like NES or Mega Drive last even longer, while PlayStation 1 games use slightly more power. Either way, it’s perfect for daily gaming sessions or commutes.
Q: Can the Anbernic RG35XX Plus connect to a TV?
A: Yes, it can. The Anbernic RG35XX Plus easily connects to a TV, turning it into a living room console. This is great for classic couch co-op games or just enjoying retro titles on a bigger screen.
A: Yes, it can. The Anbernic RG35XX Plus easily connects to a TV, turning it into a living room console. This is great for classic couch co-op games or just enjoying retro titles on a bigger screen.
Q: Is it easy to add more games to the Anbernic RG35XX Plus?
A: Absolutely. I recommend the dual TF card version, which makes expanding your library simple. With a good-quality SD card (128GB works well), you can legally add your own games and keep everything organised.
A: Absolutely. I recommend the dual TF card version, which makes expanding your library simple. With a good-quality SD card (128GB works well), you can legally add your own games and keep everything organised.
Q: How well does the Anbernic RG35XX Plus run PlayStation 1 games?
A: It runs PS1 titles smoothly with no major lag. Battery drain is a little higher for these games, but gameplay remains smooth and enjoyable, making the RG35XX Plus a great choice for PlayStation classics.
A: It runs PS1 titles smoothly with no major lag. Battery drain is a little higher for these games, but gameplay remains smooth and enjoyable, making the RG35XX Plus a great choice for PlayStation classics.
Q: Is the Anbernic RG35XX Plus comfortable to hold?
A: Yes, it’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for gaming on the go. The buttons feel solid and responsive, though some players may find the smaller size less comfortable during very long sessions.
A: Yes, it’s lightweight and compact, making it perfect for gaming on the go. The buttons feel solid and responsive, though some players may find the smaller size less comfortable during very long sessions.
Q: What consoles can the Anbernic RG35XX Plus emulate?
A: It supports a wide range of systems, including NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Sega Mega Drive, and PlayStation 1. That means hundreds of retro classics are ready to play right out of the box.
A: It supports a wide range of systems, including NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Sega Mega Drive, and PlayStation 1. That means hundreds of retro classics are ready to play right out of the box.
Q: How good is the screen on the Anbernic RG35XX Plus?
A: The 3.5-inch IPS display is bright, clear, and colourful. Retro games feel vibrant and alive, making the experience far better than on the original hardware.
A: The 3.5-inch IPS display is bright, clear, and colourful. Retro games feel vibrant and alive, making the experience far better than on the original hardware.
Q: Does the Anbernic RG35XX Plus feel durable?
A: Yes. The build quality is very solid for the price. Buttons click responsively, the ports connect firmly without issues, and overall, it feels premium in your hands.
A: Yes. The build quality is very solid for the price. Buttons click responsively, the ports connect firmly without issues, and overall, it feels premium in your hands.
Q: Can you save progress on the Anbernic RG35XX Plus?
A: Yes, the save and load feature is excellent. You can pause or save your game at any moment, so you never lose progress like on the original consoles.
A: Yes, the save and load feature is excellent. You can pause or save your game at any moment, so you never lose progress like on the original consoles.
Q: Is the Anbernic RG35XX Plus worth buying?
A: In my opinion, absolutely. At around $49.99 (roughly £37), with all the preloaded games and high-quality build, it’s a fantastic value for retro gaming fans.
A: In my opinion, absolutely. At around $49.99 (roughly £37), with all the preloaded games and high-quality build, it’s a fantastic value for retro gaming fans.
Q: What is the difference between the Anbernic RG35XX and RG35XX Plus?
A: The Plus version has a stronger chipset and more RAM, which means better performance, smoother PlayStation 1 gameplay, and a larger 3300mAh battery. For most players, the RG35XX Plus is the better choice.
A: The Plus version has a stronger chipset and more RAM, which means better performance, smoother PlayStation 1 gameplay, and a larger 3300mAh battery. For most players, the RG35XX Plus is the better choice.
Q: Can the Anbernic RG35XX Plus play multiplayer games?
A: Yes. It supports link cable connections for multiplayer with another device, and when connected to a TV, you can use external controllers for local co-op gaming.
A: Yes. It supports link cable connections for multiplayer with another device, and when connected to a TV, you can use external controllers for local co-op gaming.
Q: Can I use an external controller with the Anbernic RG35XX Plus?
A: Yes. When connected to a TV, it supports external controllers, which makes it feel more like a home console experience for multiplayer or larger-screen gaming.
A: Yes. When connected to a TV, it supports external controllers, which makes it feel more like a home console experience for multiplayer or larger-screen gaming.
Q: What operating system does the Anbernic RG35XX Plus use?
A: Out of the box, it runs a custom Linux-based OS. It’s simple to navigate, but you can also install community firmware like GarlicOS for additional features and customisation.
A: Out of the box, it runs a custom Linux-based OS. It’s simple to navigate, but you can also install community firmware like GarlicOS for additional features and customisation.
Q: How do I add ROMs legally to the Anbernic RG35XX Plus?
A: Only add ROMs for games you already own physically. You can back up cartridges or discs and load them onto the SD card. Using the dual TF card version makes this very easy.
A: Only add ROMs for games you already own physically. You can back up cartridges or discs and load them onto the SD card. Using the dual TF card version makes this very easy.
Q: Is the Anbernic RG35XX Plus good for beginners?
A: Definitely. Even if you’ve never used a retro handheld before, it’s straightforward. Menus are easy to navigate, games are ready to play out of the box, and save/load features make it stress-free.
A: Definitely. Even if you’ve never used a retro handheld before, it’s straightforward. Menus are easy to navigate, games are ready to play out of the box, and save/load features make it stress-free.
Additional Accessories for Your Anbernic RG35XX Plus
To get the most out of your Anbernic RG35XX Plus, a few simple accessories can make your retro gaming experience even better. A high-quality SD card (128GB is ideal) lets you expand your library easily, giving you room for hundreds of classic games. Pair that with a protective carry case, and you can take your handheld anywhere safely, keeping it free from scratches or accidental drops. Both are small, affordable additions that make your gaming experience more convenient and enjoyable.
Conclusion: Why the Anbernic RG35XX Plus is a Must-Have for Retro Gamers
The RG35XX Plus from Anbernic is more than just a handheld emulator — it’s a complete retro gaming experience that blends nostalgia with modern convenience.
From save states and portability to its bright, vibrant display and impressive battery life, it delivers everything you’d want from a compact retro device. Whether you’re commuting, travelling, or relaxing at home, it makes jumping back into classic titles effortless.
Even in 2026, it remains one of the best-value retro handhelds available. At around $49.99 (roughly £37), it’s difficult to find another device offering this level of performance, build quality, and sheer volume of ready-to-play classics.
If you can find it at a good price, it’s still an absolute bargain.
With stock becoming more limited on some platforms, AliExpress currently offers the most consistent availability.
My Full Gaming Journey
If you’d like to read about my full console journey — from my first system through to modern gaming and how retro handhelds like this brought everything full circle — you can read it here:
Alternative Buying Options
If you prefer checking other platforms for restocks:
Disclaimer:
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and trust.