The RG406V handheld by Anbernic recently landed in my hands, and I couldn’t wait to put it to the test. Known for making reliable retro consoles, Anbernic has designed the RG406V to offer top-tier emulation performance in a vertical format. This compact device aims to deliver the same gaming power as its popular horizontal sibling, the RG556. From the screen quality to the controls, I’ll share my experience with this console across different platforms and break down the key pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right choice for you.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the RG406V feels well-built and high-quality, a consistent trait in Anbernic’s product lineup. The console is available in various colors, and I opted for the black-transparent model, which adds a unique retro vibe.
The RG406V’s design is compact and feels comfortable in hand, especially with its vertical orientation. It’s smaller than the RG556, yet maintains a four-inch IPS screen with a 960×720 resolution, which works great for retro gaming. The display is clear, sharp, and has a responsive touch feature, allowing easy navigation in menus and even in certain games. For a retro console, this is a definite bonus.
The console is equipped with dual analog sticks reminiscent of the Nintendo Switch. These sticks are responsive and smooth, allowing for precise control in games where accuracy matters. Anbernic also includes a solid D-pad and four front-facing buttons. My only minor gripe is with the shoulder buttons; they feel a bit cramped. If you have larger hands, you might find them tricky to press comfortably during fast-paced gameplay.
Performance and Processing Power
The RG406V runs on Android 13, a step up from the Android 11 on the RG556. This newer OS improves compatibility with apps and games, and it brings added support for various peripherals. Beneath the hood, the console packs a Unisoc T820 processor and an ARM Mali-G57 GPU, providing enough horsepower to emulate even demanding retro games.
I’ve tested a variety of titles on the RG406V, and it handles emulation across multiple platforms smoothly. From PlayStation 1 and 2 to Dreamcast and even some Wii games, the performance is more than adequate. While more demanding games can push the console to its limits, the active cooling system here does a solid job of managing heat. The constant fan keeps the console from overheating and ensures stable frame rates, a big advantage over the RG556’s passive cooling design.
Game Compatibility and Emulation
Anbernic has pre-installed emulators covering 22 gaming platforms, allowing access to an impressive catalog of retro games. You’ll find emulators for Nintendo 64, Game Boy Advance, PSP, and many more. Installing additional games is easy, thanks to the built-in file explorer. You can also use the microSD slot to expand storage up to 2TB if needed, meaning your collection can keep growing.
I particularly appreciated how well the RG406V runs PlayStation 2 titles. Games like “God of War” and “Silent Hill” play smoothly without noticeable lag, which isn’t something you’ll find on every retro console. Nintendo 64 games like “Super Smash Bros.” also run flawlessly. Adding new games is relatively straightforward; downloading ROMs and adding them to the appropriate folder through the file manager took me only a few minutes.
Android Gaming and Streaming Capabilities
Beyond retro gaming, the RG406V offers impressive Android gaming capabilities. Popular Android games, such as “Call of Duty Mobile” and “Asphalt 9,” run well, although high-end titles might require adjusting settings for optimal performance. The device also features customizable button mapping, which comes pre-configured for certain Android games.
For those interested in streaming games, the RG406V supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, enabling connections to services like Steam Link and Moonlight. This means you can stream your PC games to the handheld console and use it as a controller, a great feature for gamers who want to play on the go without being tied to a PC setup.
Display, Audio, and Battery Life
The RG406V’s 4-inch display offers vibrant colors and a clear resolution. Its 4:3 aspect ratio is a major plus for retro games, fitting well with the original formats of older titles. The display is slightly smaller than the RG556’s, but I found it very comfortable for both short and extended gaming sessions.
Audio quality is solid with dual stereo speakers, offering clear sound for in-game music and effects. There’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack, along with Bluetooth for wireless audio, which is a thoughtful addition.
As for battery life, the RG406V includes a 5500mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of playtime under light to moderate usage. However, more graphically intense games may bring that down to around 5 to 6 hours. While not groundbreaking, this battery life is suitable for portable gaming without constant recharging.
Key Advantages of the RG406V
- Performance and Versatility: With Android 13, 128GB of internal storage, and broad emulator support, the RG406V delivers versatile gaming across multiple platforms.
- User-Friendly Design: The vertical design is ergonomic, with a well-sized, high-quality screen that’s easy on the eyes.
- Connectivity Options: Equipped with USB-C, Bluetooth, and HDMI-out compatibility, the RG406V can connect to TVs, stream from PCs, and pair with Bluetooth controllers.
- Ease of Game Installation: Adding games is simple and can be done directly on the console, making it accessible even for users new to emulation.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Shoulder Button Design: The placement of the shoulder buttons can be awkward for users with larger hands, which may cause discomfort during long sessions.
- No OLED Screen: Unlike the RG556, which features an OLED screen, the RG406V sticks to an IPS display. It’s a noticeable trade-off, especially if you’re used to OLED’s deeper blacks and contrast.
Who Should Consider the RG406V?
If you’re a fan of vertical consoles, the RG406V is one of the best options on the market. It’s a great choice for retro gaming enthusiasts who want a dedicated handheld that can handle both emulation and Android games. The compact design and impressive emulator performance make it a versatile option for anyone looking to play classic games and even more recent Android titles. While the lack of an OLED screen and the shoulder button placement are minor setbacks, the RG406V’s affordability, powerful internals, and extensive compatibility with retro and Android games make it a worthy investment.
Questions and Answers
- What makes the RG406V different from Anbernic’s other consoles?
The RG406V offers a vertical design while maintaining strong emulation capabilities and ergonomic controls. It’s equipped with Android 13, making it a bit more compatible with newer apps and accessories. The active cooling system is another improvement, allowing it to handle intense games with stable performance. - Does the RG406V have a good build quality?
Yes, the RG406V maintains the high-quality build that Anbernic is known for. The console is well-constructed, and the materials feel sturdy. The buttons, joystick, and screen all feel reliable and built to last. - How does the display compare to other retro consoles?
The RG406V has a 4-inch IPS screen with a 960×720 resolution, which looks great for retro games. It’s sharp, has vibrant colors, and works well in the 4:3 aspect ratio for retro titles. The touch screen feature also adds some convenience, especially for Android games and navigation. - Can the RG406V run PlayStation 2 games?
Yes, the RG406V can handle a fair number of PlayStation 2 games. Titles like “God of War” and “Silent Hill” play smoothly, though some games may need tweaks to run at full speed. The device’s active cooling system helps keep temperatures down during PS2 gameplay. - Does it come with pre-installed emulators?
Yes, the RG406V comes with 22 pre-installed emulators, covering various retro platforms. You can add more emulators if needed, but the included ones cover most popular consoles, from NES and SNES to PS2 and PSP. - Is it possible to add games easily?
Adding games is simple on the RG406V. You can transfer files directly onto the console, or insert a microSD card with additional game ROMs. The included file manager makes it easy to organize and access your games. - What is the battery life like on the RG406V?
The RG406V’s 5500mAh battery can last up to 8 hours with lighter games, though more intensive gaming might bring it closer to 5 or 6 hours. This gives you plenty of playtime, whether you’re using emulators or Android apps. - How does the active cooling system work?
The active cooling system on the RG406V keeps the device from overheating, especially during heavy gameplay sessions. This fan can be adjusted based on need, so games that demand more from the console can run without major slowdowns due to heat. - Is the touchscreen responsive?
Yes, the RG406V’s touchscreen is responsive, making it easy to navigate menus and play touch-compatible games. This feature adds extra versatility, allowing users to operate it almost like a tablet when needed. - Can you connect it to a TV or external display?
The RG406V can be connected to a TV or external monitor using a USB-C to HDMI cable. This feature makes it easy to enjoy your games on a larger screen, which is great for both retro games and Android titles. - What are the storage options on this console?
The console comes with 128GB of internal storage and supports microSD cards up to 2TB. This storage expansion allows users to keep a large game library and add more titles without needing to delete existing ones. - How are the controls on the RG406V?
The controls are responsive, with comfortable analog sticks and a solid D-pad. However, the shoulder buttons can feel a bit cramped, especially if you have larger hands. It may take a bit of adjustment for comfort, but overall, the controls are good. - Does the console support wireless connectivity?
Yes, it does. The RG406V includes both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can connect to wireless controllers, headphones, and streaming services. This makes it easy to stream PC games or use Bluetooth audio. - Is there a way to map buttons for Android games?
Yes, button mapping is possible on the RG406V. Some Android games come pre-configured, and the console includes an option for customizing button controls to suit each game’s needs. This feature adds flexibility for various games. - How well does it handle 3D games on Android?
For 3D Android games, the RG406V performs well on moderate settings. Popular titles like “Call of Duty Mobile” and “Asphalt 9” run smoothly, though adjusting the graphics settings can help maintain a stable frame rate for high-performance games.
Final Verdict
Anbernic has once again delivered a quality handheld console that stays true to its promise of high performance and versatility. The RG406V is my top pick for a vertical retro handheld, especially if you’re looking for portability without sacrificing power. With Android 13, extensive emulation options, and compatibility with modern games, it’s a device that’s sure to please anyone interested in handheld gaming. If you’ve been on the fence, I’d say go for it—this console proves itself capable and brings hours of enjoyable gameplay to the palm of your hand.
