The retro gaming scene is booming, and with it comes a wave of powerful handheld consoles designed to bring your favorite classics back to life. Two contenders that have been making significant waves are the Anbernic RG35XX Plus and the R36S. Both promise a nostalgic journey with modern capabilities, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
Choosing between these two can be a delightful dilemma for any retro enthusiast. Are you looking for a polished experience with a familiar brand name, or are you drawn to the raw power and customizability often associated with newer, perhaps more enthusiast-driven devices? This comparison aims to shed light on what each handheld brings to the table.
We’ll dive deep into their performance, build quality, screen, battery life, and the overall user experience to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of retro handhelds, understanding the nuances of the r36s vs rg35xx plus will be key to finding your perfect gaming companion.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | r36s | rg35xx plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 3.5-inch IPS | 3.5-inch IPS |
| Display Resolution | 640×480 | 640×480 |
| Processor | RK3326 Quad-core 1.5GHz | RK3566 Quad-core 1.8GHz |
| RAM | 1GB DDR3L | 1GB LPDDR4 |
| Operating System | Linux | Linux, Android |
| Storage | MicroSD (expandable) | MicroSD (expandable) |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Battery | 2500mAh | 2600mAh |
| Ports | USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm headphone | USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm headphone |
| Build Material | Plastic | Plastic |
| Dimensions | Approx. 12.5 x 9.2 x 2.8 cm | Approx. 13.3 x 9.1 x 2.7 cm |
| Weight | Approx. 180g | Approx. 200g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Screen Size and Resolution
- R36s: Features a 3.5-inch IPS display with a 640×480 resolution. This provides a sharp and clear image for retro gaming. The smaller screen size contributes to its compact form factor.
- Rg35xx Plus: Also sports a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a 640×480 resolution, offering a comparable visual experience to the r36s. Its size is also pocket-friendly.
- Winner: Tie
Processor and Performance
- R36s: Utilizes the RK3326 quad-core processor. This is a capable chip for many retro consoles, offering good performance for systems up to PS1 and some N64 titles.
- Rg35xx Plus: Employs the newer H700 quad-core processor. This offers a significant performance boost over the RK3326, allowing for smoother emulation of more demanding systems like Dreamcast and PSP.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
RAM
- R36s: Comes with 1GB of DDR3 RAM. This is generally sufficient for its target emulation capabilities, but can be a bottleneck for more demanding systems.
- Rg35xx Plus: Equipped with 2GB of LPDDR4 RAM. This doubled RAM capacity, combined with the faster speed, greatly enhances multitasking and the ability to run more complex emulators and games.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
Battery Life
- R36s: Powered by a 2000mAh battery. This typically provides around 4-6 hours of gameplay, depending on the intensity of the emulated system.
- Rg35xx Plus: Features a larger 2500mAh battery. This translates to a longer playtime, often around 6-8 hours, making it more suitable for extended gaming sessions.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
Connectivity (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth)
- R36s: Lacks built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This means no online multiplayer, wireless controller support, or easy firmware updates without physical connection.
- Rg35xx Plus: Integrates both 2.4G and 5G Wi-Fi, as well as Bluetooth 4.2. This opens up possibilities for online features, wireless audio, and controller connectivity, significantly enhancing its versatility.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
Build Quality and Ergonomics
- R36s: Known for its sturdy plastic construction and comfortable button layout. The D-pad is generally well-regarded for retro titles.
- Rg35xx Plus: Offers a similar solid build with improved button feel and analog sticks that are more recessed, which some users prefer for stability.
- Winner: Tie
Storage and Expandability
- R36s: Typically comes with a microSD card for the operating system and games, and supports up to 256GB.
- Rg35xx Plus: Also uses microSD cards for storage and supports up to 512GB. It often includes two card slots, one for the OS and one for games, offering better organization.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
Software and Operating System
- R36s: Often runs on custom firmware like EmuELEC or RetroArch. While functional, it can be less polished and require more user configuration.
- Rg35xx Plus: Benefits from a more refined and user-friendly operating system, often with better integration of features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It generally offers a smoother out-of-the-box experience.
- Winner: rg35xx plus
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Price | r36s |
| Performance | rg35xx plus |
| Features | rg35xx plus |
| Portability | r36s |
| User Interface | r36s (for simplicity) |
| Versatility | rg35xx plus |
| Battery Life | rg35xx plus (slight edge) |
What They Have in Common
- Display: Both devices feature a crisp 3.5-inch IPS display with a 640×480 resolution, providing a familiar and comfortable viewing experience for retro gaming.
- Core Functionality: At their heart, both the r36s and rg35xx plus are designed to emulate a wide range of classic video game consoles, offering access to a vast library of retro titles.
- Portability: Their compact size and robust build quality make both handhelds highly portable, ideal for gaming on the go or during commutes.
- Storage Expansion: Both devices support MicroSD card expansion, allowing users to store a massive collection of ROMs and save files without being limited by internal storage.
- Video Output: The inclusion of HDMI output on both devices means you can connect them to a larger screen for a more immersive retro gaming experience on your TV.
- Audio Jack: A standard 3.5mm headphone jack is present on both, enabling private listening or the use of external speakers.
R36S Vs Rg35Xx Plus Buying Guide
Performance & Emulation Capabilities
The R36S boasts a capable processor that handles a wide range of retro consoles with impressive accuracy, including many PlayStation 1 titles and some Dreamcast games. Its performance is generally smooth for its class, offering a solid emulation experience for popular 16-bit and 32-bit eras.
The RG35XX Plus, with its upgraded chipset, often edges out the R36S in raw power. This translates to better performance in more demanding systems like PSP and some N64 titles, where the R36S might struggle with frame rate drops. For those prioritizing the widest compatibility with more intensive emulation, the RG35XX Plus has an advantage. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Display & Ergonomics
Both devices feature a 3.5-inch IPS display, offering vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The R36S generally has a slightly brighter screen, which can be beneficial in varied lighting conditions. Its button layout is comfortable for extended play sessions, with a good tactile feel.
The RG35XX Plus also offers a great display, and its ergonomics are often praised for being slightly more refined, fitting well in hand for different grip styles. The button placement and responsiveness are comparable, making both excellent choices for comfort. The choice here often comes down to personal preference in grip and button feel.
Build Quality & Portability
The R36S is known for its robust build quality, often featuring a sturdy plastic or metal casing that feels durable. Its compact size makes it incredibly portable, easily slipping into a pocket or small bag. The overall construction inspires confidence for regular use.
Similarly, the RG35XX Plus is well-built and designed with portability in mind. Its form factor is very pocketable, making it an ideal on-the-go companion. While both are highly portable, some users might find the RG35XX Plus’s finish or weight distribution slightly more appealing for long-term carrying. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Value & Features
The R36S typically offers exceptional value for its performance and features. It’s often priced competitively, making it a fantastic entry point into the world of retro handheld emulation. Its straightforward operating system and reliable emulation make it a no-fuss option.
The RG35XX Plus, while often a bit more expensive, justifies its price with enhanced performance and sometimes additional features like better Wi-Fi connectivity or more robust operating system options. It appeals to users who want that extra bit of power and features for a more premium retro gaming experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy r36s If…
- You’re looking for an incredibly budget-friendly entry into retro handheld gaming.
- You prioritize a no-frills, reliable emulation experience without the added complexity of Android.
- You appreciate a slightly more compact design for maximum pocketability.
- Your primary focus is on classic 2D emulation and less demanding 3D titles.
Buy rg35xx plus If…
- You want the flexibility of a dual-boot system with both Linux and Android capabilities.
- You desire a more powerful processor for better performance on more demanding emulators and some PSP/DC titles.
- You value slightly better wireless connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0.
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for enhanced features and future-proofing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in emulation performance?
The RG35XX Plus generally offers superior emulation performance, particularly for more demanding systems like PSP and N64. Its upgraded chipset can handle higher-resolution textures and more complex game logic, leading to smoother frame rates and better compatibility compared to the R36S, which excels at 16-bit and 32-bit era consoles.
Which device has a better screen?
Both devices feature excellent 3.5-inch IPS displays with vibrant colors and good viewing angles. The R36S sometimes has a slight edge in brightness, which can be beneficial in well-lit environments. However, the visual quality on both is very comparable, and the difference is often minimal and subjective to individual preference. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Is one more comfortable to hold for long gaming sessions?
Ergonomics are subjective, but both devices are designed for comfortable handheld play. The R36S is praised for its straightforward button layout and solid grip. The RG35XX Plus is often noted for its refined feel and slightly more contoured design, which some users find more comfortable for extended periods.
Which device is better for beginners?
For absolute beginners looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable entry into retro gaming, the R36S is an excellent choice. Its user-friendly interface and strong performance for common retro systems make it easy to jump into playing games immediately without much fuss or complex setup.
Does either device have Wi-Fi capabilities?
The RG35XX Plus typically includes Wi-Fi capabilities, which can be useful for features like wireless file transfers, online multiplayer for supported games, or firmware updates. The R36S usually does not come with built-in Wi-Fi, focusing more on its core emulation performance as a standalone device.
Final Verdict
Both the R36S and RG35XX Plus are fantastic retro handhelds, offering excellent value and portability. The R36S shines with its affordability and strong performance for classic systems, making it an ideal entry point. The RG35XX Plus, however, pulls ahead with its superior processing power, better handling of more demanding emulators, and often includes Wi-Fi, offering a more premium and versatile retro gaming experience for those willing to invest a little more.
Winner: RG35XX Plus