The Miyoo Mini Plus and Anbernic RG35XX Plus are arguably the two most recommended budget handhelds on the market today. Both hover around the $55–$80 price range, look great, and emulate classic systems flawlessly. So which one should you buy?
Quick Verdict
| | Miyoo Mini Plus | RG35XX Plus | |-|----------------|-------------| | Form Factor | Landscape (GBA-style) | Landscape (GBA-style) | | Screen | 3.5" IPS 640×480 | 3.5" IPS 640×480 | | Battery | 3,000mAh | 3,500mAh | | Best For | Software ecosystem | Battery life | | Price | ~$65 | ~$75 |
Design & Ergonomics
Both devices feature a landscape GBA-inspired form factor — but they feel meaningfully different in hand.
The Miyoo Mini Plus has a rounded, almost toy-like shell with grippy texture on the back. It feels premium for the price and fits naturally in most hand sizes.
The RG35XX Plus is slightly larger with a more angular design. The extra grip area makes it more comfortable for longer sessions, and the L2/R2 buttons are better positioned.
Winner: RG35XX Plus — slightly more ergonomic for adult hands.
Display
Both panels are virtually identical on paper. In practice, the RG35XX Plus has marginally better peak brightness, which helps in outdoor use.
Winner: Tie — both are excellent.
Software & Custom Firmware
This is where the Miyoo Mini Plus creates significant separation.
Onion OS for the Miyoo Mini has years of community development behind it. It's polished, well-documented, and highly customizable. The theme system is exceptional.
The RG35XX Plus runs Garlic OS or the official Anbernic firmware. Both are solid but feel less mature than Onion OS.
Winner: Miyoo Mini Plus — Onion OS is in a league of its own.
Battery Life
The RG35XX Plus wins here with a 3,500mAh battery vs. the Miyoo's 3,000mAh. Expect roughly 1–2 extra hours of playtime.
Winner: RG35XX Plus
The Final Call
Choose the Miyoo Mini Plus if: Software experience and community matter to you. Onion OS is best-in-class.
Choose the RG35XX Plus if: Battery life and a slightly more premium build are priorities.
Both are genuine slam-dunks at their respective price points. You cannot make a wrong choice here.