Are you a retro gaming enthusiast searching for the perfect handheld console? The Anbernic RG40XX series offers two models that share similar hardware but come in different form factors, providing users with distinct experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the main differences between the Anbernic RG40XX V (vertical) and RG40XX H (horizontal) models, helping you decide which one suits your needs.
Anbernic RG40XXV vs RG40XXH – Console Comparison
The Anbernic RG40XX series has become a favorite among retro gamers, and with the release of these two models, the brand continues to deliver on its reputation. Both consoles run on identical hardware, featuring the Allwinner H700 processor, a 4-inch screen with a resolution of 640×480, and a similar 3,200 mAh battery, but the differences lie in their design and user experience.
Horizontal Model (RG40XX H)
The RG40XXH, or horizontal version, is designed with two analog sticks and a more comfortable grip, particularly for those with larger hands. The triggers and bumpers are positioned at different heights, making gameplay smoother. Additionally, the console offers dual speakers for stereo sound, which adds to the immersive experience. A unique design feature includes customizable stick backlighting, which can be turned off if it isn’t to your liking.
Vertical Model (RG40XX V)
The vertical model, RG40XXV, comes with a sleeker, more compact design. It features a single speaker located at the front, which ensures audio is directed straight at the player during gaming sessions. Though it only has one stick, the D-pad on this model is highly praised for its responsiveness and comfort, making it ideal for classic platformers and games where precision is key.
Screen and Display
Both consoles boast a 4-inch display, an upgrade from previous 3.5-inch models. The extra screen real estate improves the visual experience, especially for retro games like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, giving them a more polished look. The screen also creates an illusion of being edge-to-edge thanks to its black bezel design.
Performance
Under the hood, the RG40XX V and RG40XX H are powered by the same hardware. This includes the Allwinner H700 processor, which offers solid performance for retro gaming up to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) level. While some graphically intense PSP games, such as God of War, might experience slowdowns, most retro titles run smoothly, delivering between 15-20 FPS depending on the game’s complexity.
Buttons and Controls
One of the most noticeable differences is the layout and feel of the buttons. The RG40XX H’s shoulder buttons offer a more ergonomic design, while the RG40XX V impresses with its superb D-pad, particularly suited for classic games requiring precise directional inputs. Both models feature similar A/B/X/Y buttons, but the spacing and ease of use vary depending on the form factor.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance is identical for both models, offering around 4.5 hours of continuous gaming. While some users have experimented with fast charging, it’s strongly recommended to use a standard 5V, 1.5A charger to ensure longevity and prevent any potential damage to the charging controller.
Key Takeaways:
- Identical Hardware: Both the RG40XX V and H models run on the Allwinner H700 processor with a 4-inch 640×480 screen and 3,200 mAh battery.
- Form Factor: The RG40XX V is vertically designed and compact, while the RG40XX H offers a wider, horizontal design, ideal for users with larger hands.
- Control Layout: The RG40XX H features dual analog sticks and more comfortable shoulder buttons, while the RG40XX V stands out with its excellent D-pad for precision control.
- Screen Experience: Both models share a 4-inch display, but the RG40XX H includes customizable stick lighting, which may impact battery life.
- Sound System: The RG40XX V has a single front-facing speaker, while the RG40XX H boasts stereo speakers for a richer audio experience.
- Gameplay Performance: While both consoles handle retro games well, some demanding PSP games may struggle with frame rates.
- Charging and Battery: Both models recommend using a standard 5V charger to avoid issues with the battery or charging controller.
- Customization Options: The RG40XX H offers the ability to adjust stick lighting, which can be turned off to conserve power.
- Button Placement: The RG40XX H’s staggered bumper and trigger buttons offer better ergonomics for extended gameplay.
- D-pad Superiority: The D-pad on the RG40XX V is exceptional, making it the top choice for fans of retro platformers and games requiring directional precision.
Choosing the Best Handheld: My Thoughts
While both the Anbernic RG40XX V and RG40XX H offer solid retro gaming experiences, I find myself leaning towards the Anbernic RG35XX SP. This model brings back the nostalgic design of the Game Boy Advance SP, with a compact, square body that folds out into a full portable gaming console. The screen is on the top half, and the controls are on the bottom, creating a familiar and practical layout for retro gaming fans.
Unlike the RG40XX models, the RG35XX SP doesn’t come with analog sticks, but that’s part of its charm. The console is super compact, easily fitting in one hand or slipping into a bag, making it a great option for those who want a portable device that can be taken anywhere—whether to work, school, or during a commute. Despite its smaller 3.5-inch screen, the IPS display offers a full viewing angle, and the device retains the same specs as the RG40XX models, ensuring great performance for retro games.
With over 5,000 built-in games spanning classics from the ’80s and ’90s to the early 2000s, the RG35XX SP provides access to a huge range of gaming consoles, including PSP mini, Sega Genesis, Sega Dreamcast, Sony PlayStation, NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Game Boy Color, and more. It’s a fantastic choice for gamers who love the classics, and its nostalgic form factor is a great bonus for long-time fans of handheld gaming.
On top of that, the RG35XX SP comes in a variety of cool colors like Silver, Gray, Black Transparent, Blue Transparent, Red Transparent, Green Transparent, and White Transparent, making it easy to choose a style that fits your personality. While the screen may be slightly smaller than the RG40XX models, the compact and lightweight design of the RG35XX SP makes it my preferred option, especially for on-the-go gaming.
I recently got my hands on the ANBERNIC RG40XX H retro handheld console, and I’m pretty impressed with what it offers, especially for retro gaming fans like me. One of the first things that struck me was its design – it feels compact and ergonomic, making it comfortable to play for extended periods. The button layout is simple and intuitive, which makes it easy to jump right into classic games without any hassle.
What I love most about the RG40XX H is its fantastic build quality, especially for a device focused on older games. The vibrant display delivers retro games in a sharp and colorful way, bringing old-school graphics to life. This is perfect for fans of systems like the PlayStation 1, NES, or Game Boy Advance. The added bonus of RGB lighting adds a nice modern touch, and while some might find it gimmicky, I actually like the customizable options it provides. You can turn it off if you’re not a fan, but I personally enjoy how it enhances the overall aesthetic.
Another key feature that stands out is its variety of ports, including the USB Type-C and headphone jack, which is super convenient. The dual slots for SD cards make it easier to store a large library of games. Plus, the console supports Wi-Fi for streaming from a PC, so I can access my game library without transferring files manually. I’ve even tested some PSP games, and while performance can vary depending on the title, most retro games run smoothly, with only minor frame rate drops on more demanding ones.
As for sound quality, the built-in speakers are decent, and you can always use headphones for a better audio experience if needed. Although some games show slight frame skips, especially on heavier emulation, it’s not a deal-breaker for me since the majority of the games I play run well. The overall experience is enjoyable, especially when it comes to classic games from systems like PS1 or GBA, which perform nearly flawlessly.