If you’re into retro gaming or simply love handheld consoles, you’ve likely come across Anbernic’s line of devices. The RG406V, RG556, and RG40XX are three standout models, each with unique attributes. I recently had the chance to explore these handhelds in depth, so here’s my personal take on how they stack up in terms of performance, screen quality, and overall gaming experience.
Introduction to Each Model
The RG406V is one of Anbernic’s newest handhelds, offering a compact, Game Boy-like design with a 4-inch screen and powerful hardware under the hood. It’s Android-based, allowing for extensive emulation capabilities that rival full-sized consoles.
The RG556, while slightly older, brings a more substantial design with a larger 5.5-inch AMOLED display. This model is also Android-powered, so it’s packed with possibilities for emulation, even supporting PlayStation 2 titles on occasion.
The RG40XX rounds out the trio, a simplified device with a smaller 4-inch screen aimed more directly at classic systems like NES, SNES, and Genesis. Unlike the RG406V and RG556, it’s not Android-based, which limits its emulation range but makes it highly efficient for lower-end games.
Design and Build Quality
Anbernic is known for solid, durable hardware, and these models are no exception.
- RG406V: The RG406V captures the nostalgia of a Game Boy with its vertical design, yet it feels modern with its ergonomic buttons and textured grip. The 4-inch screen fits snugly into the compact frame, making it the most portable of the three. The build quality is impressive, and the layout of buttons and joysticks feels great in hand, though the joysticks are quite pronounced.
- RG556: With its larger size, the RG556 feels more robust and provides a comfortable grip, thanks to its bulkier design. The 5.5-inch AMOLED screen is a showstopper, and the resolution is perfect for retro titles. This one’s ideal if you prefer larger displays and don’t mind a slightly heftier console.
- RG40XX: The RG40XX’s design is the simplest and is geared toward pure retro enthusiasts. While it’s lightweight and easy to hold, the lack of analog sticks and limited buttons signal its primary focus: lower-end emulation. Still, for a classic gaming fix, this model is ideal, as it feels highly nostalgic and is exceptionally compact.
Comparison Table
| Feature | RG406V | RG556 | RG40XX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Size & Type | 4″ HD (960 x 720) | 5.5″ AMOLED (720p) | 4″ (640 x 480) |
| Operating System | Android | Android | Custom (no Android) |
| Emulation Range | Up to PS2, Dreamcast, Switch | Up to PS2, Dreamcast | NES, SNES, Sega Genesis |
| Battery Life | 5-6 hours | 5-6 hours | 8 hours |
| Portability | Highly portable, Game Boy style | Larger, more robust | Lightweight, very compact |
| Audio Quality | Clear, stereo sound | Excellent, immersive | Basic, suitable for classics |
| Ideal For | High-end emulation, portability | Large-screen retro gaming | Classic retro games |
Screen Quality and Resolution
Screen quality is essential for any handheld, especially when jumping across different gaming generations. Here’s how they compare:
- RG406V: This model features a 4-inch screen with a resolution of 960 x 720, offering an HD experience with vibrant colors and excellent clarity. The screen size and resolution are fantastic for retro games and give it a clear advantage over the RG40XX, especially in terms of image sharpness.
- RG556: Its 5.5-inch AMOLED screen is a step up, providing richer colors and deeper contrasts. The 720p resolution matches the RG406V but, on this larger screen, everything looks more immersive. It’s arguably the best display Anbernic has put out, perfect for titles that rely on graphical detail.
- RG40XX: The RG40XX comes with a 4-inch screen at a resolution of 640 x 480, which is good enough for 8-bit and 16-bit games but lacks the sharpness of the other two models. However, due to the lower resolution, it runs older games smoothly and efficiently, which suits its purpose well.
Performance and Emulation Capabilities
Here’s where the RG406V, RG556, and RG40XX truly diverge in terms of what they can offer.
RG406V
The RG406V is highly versatile due to its Android OS and powerful internals. Emulation capabilities here extend to PS2, Wii, Dreamcast, and even some Switch titles. While it’s impressive to see such high-end emulation on a device this compact, it can sometimes require extra setup, especially for PS2 games. However, once configured, the RG406V delivers smooth gameplay with minimal frame drops. Games like Devil May Cry 3 and Crazy Taxi 2 on Dreamcast run exceptionally well, which speaks volumes about the console’s potential.
RG556
The RG556 is just as capable, with the added benefit of a larger screen, which makes it ideal for games that need more screen space. PS2 and Wii emulation work smoothly here, and the RG556 tends to handle demanding games better than the RG406V, likely due to its larger design, which helps dissipate heat more efficiently. Its Android interface also makes it easy to add and manage emulators, and the dual-analog setup is fantastic for complex games.
RG40XX
The RG40XX lacks Android OS, making it somewhat less powerful than the other two models. This console is optimized for lower-end systems like NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, and Game Boy. For these, it performs excellently without any noticeable lag, and games load up quickly. While it’s limited in terms of high-end emulation, it’s perfect for straightforward, classic gaming sessions. Its simplicity makes it accessible, and for those who don’t need Android’s flexibility, this is a fantastic pick.
User Interface and Ease of Setup
Setting up these consoles can range from simple to complex, depending on the model.
- RG406V and RG556: Both being Android-based, these models require some initial setup. However, once configured, the flexibility is worth the effort, allowing for deep customization, game streaming, and emulation. Both consoles also support Bluetooth, allowing for external controllers, which can be handy when streaming to a TV. I’d recommend getting a pre-configured SD card to save time.
- RG40XX: The RG40XX has a simplified interface. Out of the box, it’s ready to go with minimal setup, and adding games is easy as long as they’re in compatible formats. This console is perfect for those who want a straightforward plug-and-play experience.
Battery Life and Power Management
Battery performance is another critical factor in choosing a handheld.
- RG406V: It offers decent battery life, lasting up to 5-6 hours with moderate usage. However, more demanding emulations like PS2 or Dreamcast can drain it faster. The USB-C port is a plus, as it allows for quicker charging and is widely compatible with modern chargers.
- RG556: The RG556 also provides around 5-6 hours of gameplay, which is impressive given its larger screen and power requirements. It’s a solid choice for longer sessions but, like the RG406V, high-end emulation can reduce battery life.
- RG40XX: With its lower power requirements, the RG40XX can run for up to 8 hours on a single charge. This model is the winner for long play sessions without a recharge, which makes it ideal for extended gaming marathons.
Sound Quality and Audio Output
Sound quality isn’t typically the first thing people consider with handhelds, but it can make a difference.
- RG406V: The audio is loud and clear, and stereo speakers produce immersive sound, especially when playing retro titles. There’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is great for late-night gaming.
- RG556: The RG556 offers the best audio quality, with rich sound and excellent volume, making it fantastic for games with intense audio. The speaker setup seems optimized for a more immersive experience, and it delivers.
- RG40XX: The RG40XX is more basic, with acceptable sound quality for casual gaming. It’s not as impressive as the other two but does the job well for classic titles.
Final Thoughts: Which One to Pick?
Each model serves a specific type of gamer, so choosing one depends on your priorities:
- RG406V: If you want the most portable, Game Boy-style handheld that can handle everything from PS2 to Dreamcast, the RG406V is your best bet. The smaller screen and HD resolution bring fantastic clarity, and the compact design makes it easy to carry.
- RG556: For those who don’t mind a bigger device and want top-notch screen quality, the RG556 is a solid choice. It handles emulation with ease and shines for those who love more screen real estate.
- RG40XX: This model is perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts who don’t need Android or high-end emulation. If you want a straightforward, cost-effective console for NES, SNES, and similar classics, the RG40XX fits the bill.
