The Anbernic RG351P is an enticing option in the realm of retro gaming handhelds, offering both solid build quality and reliable performance. Measuring 2.8 by 6 by 0.7 inches, the device features a sturdy matte-plastic body with comfortable rubberized grips. Its 3.5-inch 480-by-320 IPS LCD screen delivers good brightness and color, making it well-suited for emulating classic games. The control layout is reminiscent of popular gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation, complete with analog sticks, triggers, face buttons, and a direction pad.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the RG351P is powered by an RK3326 quad-core, 1.5GHz CPU, and 1GB of RAM. It runs on a Linux-based EmuElec/RetroArch frontend, facilitating smooth emulation of games from up to the fifth console generation, including NES, SNES, PS1, and GBA. Despite its preloaded games (a legally grey area), users must source their own game files for a fully legal experience. The device, however, lacks Wi-Fi and HDMI output, relying solely on a Micro SD card (64GB included) for storage.
Emulation Performance
The performance of the RG351P stands out, particularly in its ability to handle 2D games across various classic consoles without any issues. Games from the NES, SNES, GBA, and PS1 run seamlessly, with GBA games scaling naturally to the device’s screen resolution to offer an immersive experience. PlayStation games also perform fluidly, while Nintendo 64 emulation remains inconsistent, often presenting performance hiccups.
User Interface and Customization
The EmuElec Linux frontend offers a functional, if sometimes sluggish, interface for game emulation. For those looking for improved performance and reliability, alternative operating systems like 351ELEC or ArkOS can be installed. Customizing and setting up different OS options is notably easier on this Linux-based system compared to Android-based handhelds like the Retroid Pocket 2.
Overall Verdict
The Anbernic RG351P delivers a well-built and accessible retro gaming experience, excelling in the emulation of classic 2D and PlayStation games. Despite its limitations—such as inconsistent N64 emulation and the absence of Wi-Fi and HDMI output—it stands out for its ease of setup and configuration, thanks to the Linux-based OS. This makes it an ideal choice for retro gaming enthusiasts seeking a hassle-free handheld for their classic game library.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Build & Design | Sturdy matte-plastic body with comfortable rubberized grips, 2.8 by 6 by 0.7 inches. |
| Screen | 3.5-inch 480-by-320 IPS LCD, provides good brightness and color for classic games. |
| Control Layout | Analog sticks, triggers, face buttons, and direction pad mirroring popular gaming consoles like Nintendo Switch and PlayStation. |
| CPU & RAM | RK3326 quad-core, 1.5GHz CPU, and 1GB RAM ensures smooth emulation up to the fifth console generation. |
| Operating System | Linux-based EmuElec/RetroArch frontend; supports easy customization with alternatives like 351ELEC or ArkOS. |
| Storage | Uses a Micro SD card, 64GB included (users must source their own game files). |
| Connectivity | No Wi-Fi or HDMI output. |
| Emulation Performance | Excellent for NES, SNES, GBA, and PS1 games; N64 emulation is inconsistent. |
In summary, while the RG351P may not match the technical prowess of some competitors like the Retroid Pocket 2, its user-friendly interface, quality build, and reliable performance for most classic games make it a compelling option. Retro gaming enthusiasts looking for a straightforward, solid device will find a lot to love about the Anbernic RG351P.
