More of the same, except for the PC ports… [Anbernic RG40XX H Review]

Summary

The AmberNick RG40XXH is marketed as the latest in their handheld line, but it's nearly identical to the RG35XX Plus in terms of hardware, offering only a larger 4-inch horizontal screen as a visual change. While it supports retro systems up to N64 and PSP, performance is inconsistent. The device includes flashy RGB thumbsticks, but the minimal travel and lack of significant upgrades leave much to be desired. Additionally, controversial pre-installed games raise ethical concerns. At $70, it's a decent option for retro enthusiasts, but the marginal improvements and questionable marketing may leave some disappointed.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ambernic regularly releases new handhelds, but many of them feature only slight improvements or changes, such as the RG 40XX being almost identical to the RG 35XX Plus in terms of performance and internals.
• 😀 The RG 35XX series, particularly the RG 35XX Plus and RG 35XX SP, remains a popular and reliable choice for emulation, offering solid performance for retro gaming, despite some limitations with more demanding systems like PSP and N64.
• 😀 The RG 40XX is marketed as a new generation, but it largely replicates the same specs, offering only a bigger 4-inch screen and a horizontal design, leading to confusion about the true advancements in the device.
• 😀 The RG 40XX has the same 640x480 resolution as previous models, meaning the larger screen doesn’t improve visual quality, despite its increased size.
• 😀 Despite the new horizontal design and larger screen, the RG 40XX has not shown significant performance improvements, and the device essentially offers the same experience as the RG 35XX Plus, with the only real difference being the form factor.
• 😀 The inclusion of RGB thumbsticks and stacked shoulder buttons on the RG 40XX is aimed at providing extra functionality, but for many users, this may not be necessary, as most systems run comfortably without them.
• 😀 Ambernic's customer service and quality assurance have been criticized, with reports of slow responses and unresolved issues, including faulty devices and misleading claims about product features.
• 😀 Ambernic’s inclusion of modern games like *Shovel Knight* and *Celeste* on their handhelds, especially with pre-installed ROMs, raises concerns about copyright and the legitimacy of these devices as they could be seen as a form of piracy.
• 😀 Firmware updates have become more robust, with new features like Port Master, enabling limited compatibility with Linux-based PC games, although the functionality is still quite restricted on these low-powered devices.
• 😀 While the RG 35XX series remains a great budget option for retro gaming, the RG 40XX doesn’t add enough new features to warrant an upgrade, especially given the same internals and only minor design changes.
• 😀 The RG 40XX’s HDMI output and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi support for controllers are poorly implemented, making them unreliable and a non-essential feature for most users, further questioning the value of the device.

Q & A

What is the main criticism of the RG 40XXH in the review?

The main criticism of the RG 40XXH is that despite being marketed as a new generation of handheld, it essentially offers no significant improvements over its predecessor, the RG 35XX Plus. The device features the same CPU, GPU, RAM, and firmware, with the only notable change being a larger screen and a horizontal form factor.

Why does the reviewer question Ambernic's naming convention for the RG 40XXH?

The reviewer questions Ambernic's decision to name the device the RG 40XXH because, despite the new number suggesting a more powerful generation, the internal components are identical to the RG 35XX Plus. This creates confusion and makes the device seem like a marginal update rather than a major new release.

What are the key differences between the RG 35XX and its variants?

The RG 35XX series includes various models such as the baseline 35XX, the 35XX Plus (which offers improved performance), the 35XX H (with a horizontal form factor), and the RG 35XX SP (which is a clamshell version resembling the GBA SP). The main differences between these models are screen size, form factor, and performance improvements through firmware updates.

What is the importance of custom firmware for the RG 35XX devices?

Custom firmware is essential for the RG 35XX devices as it allows users to improve the performance of emulation, add new features, and personalize their handheld experience. The reviewer mentions that while the stock firmware has improved over time, custom firmware options are a major reason for the device’s appeal.

What games are included in the Ambernic review samples, and why is this controversial?

Ambernic provided the reviewer with samples that included games like 'Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge,' 'Shovel Knight,' and 'Celeste.' The controversy arises because these games are modern titles that developers are still profiting from. Ambernic later clarified that these games would not be included in consumer units, raising concerns about legitimacy and ethics in bundling games with the devices.

What is the reviewer's opinion on the inclusion of RGB thumbsticks on the RG 35XX devices?

The reviewer finds the RGB thumbsticks unnecessary and overly flashy. They express a preference for turning them off or setting them to a static color, as the lights can be distracting. The reviewer questions whether RGB thumbsticks are a gimmick or if they serve any real function in retro gaming handhelds.

How does the RG 35XXH perform in terms of emulation, particularly for N64 and DS games?

The RG 35XXH performs decently for emulation, particularly for systems up to the N64 and DS. However, N64 emulation has some graphical glitches and performance issues, with certain games requiring settings adjustments. DS emulation benefits from a thumbstick, although the experience is not as polished as the RG Cube, which has a square screen.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the RG 35XXH’s horizontal form factor?

The horizontal form factor of the RG 35XXH offers more comfort for some users, especially those who prefer analog thumbsticks and stacked shoulder buttons. However, the reviewer notes that for many systems, a d-pad and basic controls are sufficient, and the clamshell design of the RG 35XX SP may offer a more convenient form factor for portability.

What concerns does the reviewer have about Ambernic's customer service and quality assurance?

The reviewer expresses dissatisfaction with Ambernic's customer service and quality assurance. They recount an instance where Ambernic ignored their initial inquiry about screen issues on the RG Cube and only responded after a follow-up. The reviewer suggests that this points to poor customer service and unreliable product quality.

Why does the reviewer suggest avoiding purchasing these handhelds if you're excited about their HDMI or Bluetooth capabilities?

The reviewer advises against buying these handhelds for their HDMI or Bluetooth capabilities because these features are often unreliable. The HDMI out typically performs poorly with buggy output, and Bluetooth connectivity for controllers is described as finicky and inconsistent.