If you’re here, you’re probably deciding which handheld Android console will best suit your retro gaming needs. The market is filled with solid options, with consoles like the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and various models from Anbernic, including the RG406V, RG556, and the RG Cube. Each of these devices brings unique strengths and a few drawbacks to the table, making the choice tougher than it might seem. In this review, I’ll dive into the performance, design, and gaming experience each console offers to help you determine which one is the best investment.
1. Performance Showdown: Retroid Pocket 4 Pro Leads the Pack
One of the most important factors when choosing a handheld console is its performance, especially if you’re looking to emulate more demanding platforms like Nintendo Switch or PlayStation 2. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro stands out here, thanks to its powerful Mediatek Dimensity 1100 processor, with a CPU setup of 4xA78 at 2.6GHz and 4xA55 at 2.0GHz. Coupled with a Mali-G77 GPU and 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM, this setup delivers impressive emulation power.
The Anbernic consoles, on the other hand, use the Unisoc T820 chip. While it’s capable, it doesn’t match the raw power of the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. In Antutu benchmark tests, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro scored about 761,000 points, nearly double the 490,000-point range for Anbernic’s models. This means that if high-end emulation is your priority, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is the better choice for handling heavier games.
Bottom Line on Performance
For a powerhouse console, go with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. However, Anbernic’s consoles, particularly the RG406V and RG556, still handle most retro platforms well. You’ll get solid performance for most titles, though you might hit some limits with newer platforms like the Nintendo Switch.
2. Display and Design: Finding the Best Screen and Ergonomics
Each of these consoles varies in design and display quality, which can make a big difference in your gaming experience. Here’s a closer look at what each console offers:
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro
- Screen: 4.7 inches, 16:9 aspect ratio
- Resolution: 1080p, IPS display
- Pros: Good for widescreen games, sharp resolution
- Cons: The display isn’t as vibrant as other options
The 4.7-inch screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio makes it versatile for different games, especially modern titles and streaming. However, the display doesn’t pop quite as much as some other consoles due to its lower brightness levels.
Anbernic RG406V
- Screen: 4 inches, 4:3 aspect ratio
- Resolution: 960 x 720
- Pros: Perfect for retro platforms, highly durable
- Cons: Smaller screen, which can feel limiting for modern games
The 4:3 aspect ratio on the RG406V is ideal for retro titles like PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64. This console is durable and portable, and I found it surprisingly comfortable despite its vertical orientation.
Anbernic RG556
- Screen: 5.5 inches, 16:9 aspect ratio
- Resolution: 1080p, AMOLED display
- Pros: Stunning display, great for Android apps and video
- Cons: Slightly less ergonomic
With a larger 5.5-inch AMOLED display, the RG556 offers vibrant colors and sharp resolution. This model excels for Android games and media consumption but requires some compromises for emulation; you might need to apply patches for older games that aren’t optimized for a widescreen aspect ratio.
Anbernic RG Cube
- Screen: 3.95 inches, square aspect ratio
- Resolution: 480 x 480
- Pros: Ideal for vertical arcade games, very compact
- Cons: Limited usability for widescreen games, smaller screen
The RG Cube’s design is a unique offering in the Anbernic lineup. It’s compact and perfectly suited for vertical arcade games, though it’s not as versatile due to its square display.
Best Choice for Display and Design
The RG556 is the most impressive visually, thanks to its AMOLED screen, but if you prefer portability and retro game accuracy, the RG406V might be your top pick.
3. Control Experience: Analog Sticks, D-Pads, and Comfort
Controls can make or break a handheld console, especially for games requiring precise input. Here’s how each console performs in this area:
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro
- Control Quality: Excellent, with precise analog sticks and a responsive D-pad
- Pros: Sticks have a great feel and response, triggers are analog
- Cons: Some users might not prefer the Vita-style D-pad
Anbernic RG406V
- Control Quality: Smooth, great D-pad and good sticks
- Pros: Responsive D-pad and solid build quality
- Cons: Vertical orientation might not appeal to all users
Anbernic RG556
- Control Quality: Solid but less refined, especially with the D-pad
- Pros: Great for horizontal grip, ergonomic design
- Cons: D-pad could be more responsive
Anbernic RG Cube
- Control Quality: Basic, with non-Hall-effect sticks
- Pros: Simple and reliable for arcade-style play
- Cons: Not the best for modern games requiring precision controls
4. Battery Life and Portability: Which Console Lasts Longer?
Battery life plays a key role in how portable a console truly is. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro has the smallest battery at 5000mAh, while the Anbernic consoles generally offer slightly larger battery capacities.
The RG556 is the longest-lasting model, which is surprising given its AMOLED display. It can last a solid 6-8 hours, depending on the game, making it a good choice for longer trips or commutes. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, in contrast, has a bit shorter battery life at around 4-6 hours, which should be enough for most play sessions but might not last a whole day without a charge.
5. Which Console is Right for You?
Retroid Pocket 4 Pro
- Best For: Power users who need top-tier performance and versatility for newer games.
- Pros: Leading performance, great controls, good display for modern games.
- Cons: Shorter battery life, slightly less vibrant display.
Anbernic RG406V
- Best For: Retro gaming fans looking for an accurate 4:3 display in a durable, portable form.
- Pros: Accurate retro display, great controls.
- Cons: Limited to retro games due to smaller screen size.
Anbernic RG556
- Best For: Those wanting a visually impressive console with ergonomic design, ideal for multimedia.
- Pros: Stunning AMOLED screen, ergonomic layout.
- Cons: Some platforms may require screen patches for compatibility.
Anbernic RG Cube
- Best For: Fans of classic arcade games or those looking for a compact gaming device.
- Pros: Unique design for arcade games, compact and simple.
- Cons: Small screen and limited controls for modern games.
Final Thoughts: Picking the Best Console for You
Choosing between these consoles depends on your gaming needs. For power and performance, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro takes the lead, with its high-end processing capabilities and efficient controls. But if you’re a retro gamer who values screen accuracy and compact design, Anbernic’s RG406V and RG Cube have a lot to offer. The RG556 stands out with its impressive display, especially if you’re looking for an all-purpose Android device that handles retro games well but shines with Android apps and streaming content.
