Anbernic RG34XX SP Review: Compact Clamshell Handheld Revives the GBA SP on Modern Hardware

Anbernic RG34XX SP Review: Compact Clamshell Handheld Revives the GBA SP on Modern Hardware For fans of retro gaming, the form factor of the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP remains iconic—a compact clamshell design that set a benchmark for handheld consoles.

In its wake, companies such as Anbernic have produced modern emulation handhelds inspired by Nintendo’s classic, tailored for a new generation of gamers.

The latest entry in this category is the Anbernic RG34XX SP, a sleek, smaller successor to the RG35XX SP, designed to capture the GBA SP’s spirit while offering modern features, including dual analogue sticks and a revised widescreen display.

Priced at $70 and available now through retailers like MechDIY, the RG34XX SP caters to enthusiasts who appreciate both nostalgia and contemporary convenience. Design & Display: A Faithful Homage With Modern Flair Building on feedback from previous models, Anbernic has refined the RG34XX SP’s design to closely match the classic GBA SP.

The new device features nearly identical dimensions and thickness, creating a familiar handheld feel—an improvement over the slightly bulkier RG35XX SP.

The RG34XX SP comes in a variety of colors, echoing classic Nintendo palettes such as Indigo, Black, Gray, and Pikachu Yellow, the latter of which is expected to be especially popular among collectors.

Notably, unlike the original GBA SP, the RG34XX SP lacks a cartridge slot, relying instead on MicroSD-based storage for emulation purposes. Opening the clamshell reveals a well-constructed, user-friendly control layout.

The RG34XX SP introduces four face buttons and a pair of analogue sticks.

While the inclusion of dual sticks aims to broaden compatibility, their lower placement can be unwieldy for extended use, particularly in titles requiring both sticks.

However, Anbernic addresses a long-standing criticism of the original GBA SP by implementing a significantly improved D-pad, delivering greater precision and comfort. Central to the experience is a vibrant 3.4-inch IPS display with a 720x480 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio.

This screen is optimized for Game Boy Advance emulation, scaling visuals perfectly and offering sharp, colorful image quality.

However, titles designed for 4:3 displays, such as those for the SNES or PlayStation, will encounter letterboxing, a common constraint among emulation handhelds. Performance & Specifications: Emulation Strengths and Limitations Under the hood, the RG34XX SP is equipped with the reliable AllWinner H700 quad-core processor, running at 1.5GHz, coupled with 2GB of LPDDR4 RAM and dual MicroSD card slots that support up to 512GB of storage.

Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2 are included for wireless connectivity, while a mini HDMI port enables TV output—broadening its versatility as a portable retro console. Performance is robust for 8- and 16-bit platforms, handling systems like the NES, SNES, Game Boy, Sega Genesis, and PC Engine with ease.

The majority of PlayStation (PS1) games also run without issue.

More demanding platforms, such as the PSP, Nintendo 64, and Dreamcast, yield mixed results, reflecting hardware limitations typical of the category.

Power is provided by a 3300mAh lithium polymer battery, offering around six hours of gameplay per charge—standard for devices in this class. Specifications overview: - Dimensions: 8.3cm x 8.2cm x 2.5cm; 178g - Display: 3.4-inch IPS, 720x480, OCA full lamination - CPU: AllWinner H700, quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, 1.5GHz - GPU: Dual-core G31 MP2 - RAM: 2GB LPDDR4 - Storage: Dual MicroSD slots, up to 512GB supported - Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 4.2, mini HDMI - Battery: 3300mAh, approx.

6 hours Conclusion: Refined Nostalgia for Dedicated Retro Gamers The Anbernic RG34XX SP is a commendable evolution of the GBA SP-inspired emulation handheld, marrying a near-perfect form factor with significant usability enhancements.

The improved D-pad and authentic clamshell design distinguish it from earlier iterations, while its compact size makes it a more faithful homage to Nintendo’s original.

Notwithstanding the less-than-ideal positioning of the analogue sticks and the screen’s aspect ratio limitations for non-GBA content, the RG34XX SP delivers on its promise to retro enthusiasts seeking a portable, authentic, and versatile gaming experience.

For those looking to relive Game Boy Advance classics or expand their emulation library, Anbernic’s latest clamshell console stands out as a strong contender in the crowded handheld market. (Review unit provided by MechDIY.)

Game Boy Game Boy Advance Anbernic GBA RG34XX Game Boy Advance SP RG34XX SP RG35XX SP Nintendo AllWinner H700 Miyoo Flip MechDIY