The RG35XX Plus is Anbernic's answer to the Miyoo Mini Plus — a refined version of their popular vertical form factor, now with dual analog sticks and an upgraded processor. The result is a more capable machine that still stays under $75.
✓ Pros
- • Dual analog sticks open up N64, PSP, and Dreamcast
- • Improved H700 processor handles more demanding titles
- • Larger 4,000mAh battery — up to 10 hours playtime
- • Garlic OS and GarlicOS 2 support
- • Slim profile despite added hardware
✗ Cons
- • Analog sticks are small and feel cheap
- • Screen is the same 3.5" panel as the base RG35XX
- • $70 puts it in direct competition with better options
- • Stock OS is still barebones — Garlic OS required
- • Button layout feels slightly cramped with sticks added
What's New Over the Base RG35XX
The Plus adds three meaningful upgrades over the standard RG35XX:
- Dual analog sticks — Small but functional. Unlocks PSP, N64, and Dreamcast.
- Bigger battery — 4,000mAh vs 2,600mAh. Real-world testing yields 8-10 hours.
- Faster CPU — The H700 clocks at 1.5GHz but with better thermal management than the original.
The form factor is nearly identical — same satisfying vertical shell, same matte finish, same satisfying D-pad. Anbernic didn't fix what wasn't broken.
Design and Build Quality
Build quality is consistent with Anbernic's track record — solid, slightly plasticky, but built to last. The shell is the same general design as the RG35XX, which means the face buttons, D-pad, and shoulder buttons are identically good.
The analog sticks are the weakest point. They're small nubs rather than full-size sticks, and the throw distance is shorter than ideal. They work, but they feel like an afterthought compared to the rest of the hardware. For games that genuinely require precise analog input — racing games, 3D platformers — they're adequate but not comfortable.
Technical Specifications
| Screen | 3.5" IPS, 640×480 resolution |
| Processor | Allwinner H700 (quad-core, 1.5GHz) |
| RAM | 256MB DDR3 |
| Storage | MicroSD (user-supplied) |
| Battery | 4,000mAh — ~8-10 hours |
| OS | Linux (Garlic OS recommended) |
| Connectivity | USB-C, 3.5mm audio, HDMI out |
| Dimensions | 82 × 148 × 18mm |
| Weight | 165g |
Emulation Performance
The H700 chip is a proven performer and handles everything up to PS1 flawlessly. The main question is whether those analog sticks unlock higher-end systems:
- NES / SNES / GBA / PS1 — Perfect, same as the base model.
- N64 — Surprisingly playable. Mario 64, OoT, and most 3D platformers run well. Demanding titles still struggle.
- PSP — Mixed results. 2D PSP games and simpler 3D titles work well. Demanding titles like God of War: CoO are inconsistent.
- Dreamcast — Basic titles work, but performance is hit-or-miss.
- DS — Works well for most titles using the analog stick for the second screen.
Should You Buy the Plus Over the Base RG35XX?
The $15 premium buys you analog sticks and 50% more battery. If you care about N64 or PSP, the Plus is worth it. If you're purely a 2D gamer focused on NES through PS1, save your money and grab the base RG35XX.
Final Verdict
The RG35XX Plus is a capable, well-built device that earns its place as a step above the standard model. The analog sticks are small but functional, the battery life is excellent, and with Garlic OS installed it's a pleasure to use. Just know that the Retroid Pocket Mini and Anbernic RG40XXH offer more bang for the money at a similar price point.