Anbernic RG Cube XX Review: A Retro Handheld with Modern Appeal

In the ever-evolving world of retro gaming handhelds, the Anbernic RG Cube XX has made its entrance, promising to blend nostalgia with contemporary functionality. As someone who has grown somewhat skeptical of the smaller screen devices, I approached this review with a hint of bias but was pleasantly surprised by what the RG Cube XX had to offer.

Unboxing and First Impressions

Right off the bat, the packaging contains the expected essentials: the device itself and a USB-C cable (not braided, but functional). Depending on the vendor, you might also receive a microSD card pre-loaded with games and possibly a screen protector. This review unit was kindly provided by AliExpress, but rest assured, all opinions shared are my own.

Design and Ergonomics

The RG Cube XX sports a 4-inch display with a 1:1 or 4:3 aspect ratio, which was a delightful surprise. The design includes RGB lighting around the sticks, which, while not groundbreaking, adds a nice visual touch. The floating D-pad, despite my initial reservations, proved to be both comfortable and functional, with no noticeable wobble. Ergonomically, this device felt good in hand, avoiding the usual cramping associated with vertical handhelds. However, there’s a slight edge at the back that can dig into your fingers, which is my only real gripe with the design.

Performance

Powered by the Allwinner H700 CPU, the RG Cube XX performs admirably for its class. It can handle games up to the PlayStation 1 and Dreamcast era with ease. For more demanding systems like PSP or Sega Saturn, it manages many titles though not universally all.

Display Quality

The 720p IPS display is where the RG Cube XX truly shines. It offers crisp visuals, which are particularly appreciated when playing retro games originally designed for lower resolutions. The aspect ratio adjustments are a thoughtful inclusion for gamers looking to experience games in their intended format.

The Elephant in the Room: Market Saturation

Anbernic’s frequent releases of similar ‘XX’ devices could be seen as both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it provides a variety of choices for consumers; on the other, it might dilute the uniqueness of each model. If you already own an XX device, the Cube XX might not offer enough new to justify another purchase unless the screen size or specific ergonomic features appeal to you significantly.

Should You Buy It?

• For New Buyers: The RG Cube XX is a solid entry into the retro handheld market, especially if you’re after a device with a good screen-to-performance balance without breaking the bank.
• For Existing Owners: Unless you’re particularly drawn to the screen aspect ratio or have a specific need not met by your current device, you might want to pass.

Conclusion

The Anbernic RG Cube XX isn’t here to revolutionize the market but rather to offer a well-rounded experience for retro gaming enthusiasts. It’s a testament to Anbernic’s commitment to offering choice, even if it means you’ll need to sift through several similar products. If you’re in the market for a new retro handheld, the RG Cube XX could be a worthwhile contender, especially if the display characteristics align with your gaming preferences.

Anbernic RG Cube XX Specifications

For those looking into the specifics of what the RG Cube XX brings to the table, here’s a detailed look at its specifications:

• Display:
  • Type: 3.95-inch IPS screen
  • Resolution: 720 x 720 pixels
• Processor:
  • Chipset: Allwinner H700 (Quad-core ARM Cortex-A53)
  • GPU: Dual-core Mali-G31 MP2
• Memory:
  • RAM: 1GB LPDDR4
  • Storage: 32GB internal (expandable via microSD)
• Battery:
  • Capacity: 3800mAh
  • Life: Up to 6.5 hours of gameplay
• Connectivity:
  • Wireless: 2.4/5G WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.2
  • Ports: USB-C, mini HDMI, 3.5mm audio jack
• Software:
  • Operating System: Linux-based custom OS
• Controls:
  • Analog Sticks: Standard analog sticks
  • Buttons: Floating D-pad, linear triggers
• Dimensions and Weight:
  • Size: Not specified in the transcript but generally compact for its screen size
  • Weight: Lightweight, typical for retro handhelds
• Additional Features:
  • Supports a range of retro game emulations, from Game Boy to PlayStation 1, with partial support for PSP and Sega Saturn. No active cooling, but designed for low power consumption.

The RG Cube XX is tailored for those who want to dive into retro gaming with a device that balances cost, performance, and portability, making it an attractive option for both new and seasoned retro gamers.