Anbernic RGDS First Look – Affordable Dual‑Screen Handheld Redefines Retro Gaming
Anbernic RGDS First Look – Affordable Dual‑Screen Handheld Redefines Retro Gaming
Introduction
The retro‑gaming market has seen a surge of dual‑screen handhelds, but most of them carry premium price tags. Anbernic aims to change that narrative with the RGDS, a device that mimics the classic Nintendo DS XL form factor while keeping the cost remarkably low. After a brief hands‑on session, this first look explores the RGDS’s design choices, hardware capabilities, software experience, and how it performs with popular emulators.
Design and Build Quality
A Faithful Homage to the DS XL
Anbernic has clearly taken inspiration from the DS XL. The RGDS features two identical 4‑inch IPS touchscreens (640 × 480 resolution) that sit on a chassis resembling the original device’s sleek, rounded silhouette. The consistent screen size eliminates the visual disparity often found in other dual‑screen handhelds, ensuring uniform brightness and color reproduction across both displays.
Color Variants and Materials
The handheld ships in four color schemes:
- Crimson Red – deep metallic finish
- Turquoise – a nod to classic DS palettes
- White – clean, minimalist look
- Black – understated elegance
Each variant uses a hard‑shell construction with a subtle bezelled edge, providing a premium feel without inflating the price.
Controls and Ergonomics
- Dual analog sticks positioned near the lower screen, similar in size to the Nintendo Switch’s sticks.
- Chiclet‑style shoulder buttons and triggers for responsive input.
- Front‑firing stereo speakers located on the top bezel, delivering louder sound than the original DS XL.
- Volume rocker, power button, and dual LED indicators on the right side for easy access.
The new industrial‑grade hinge feels solid and sturdy, allowing the device to stay open at any angle without wobble. While it requires a modest amount of force to open and close, the mechanism is durable and reliable.
Hardware Specifications
- Processor: Quad‑core Rockchip RK3568 (Cortex‑A55) up to 2 GHz
- GPU: Mali‑G52
- Memory: 3 GB LPDDR4 RAM
- Storage: 32 GB internal + microSD slot (supports up to 2 TB)
- Displays: Two 4‑inch IPS panels, 640 × 480, 60 Hz, capacitive touch
- Battery: 4,000 mAh, claimed up to 6 hours of mixed use
- Connectivity: Dual USB‑C ports, micro‑SD slot, Wi‑Fi 802.11ac
- Operating System: Android 14 out of the box
These specs place the RGDS in the low‑to‑mid‑range segment, prioritizing affordability over raw performance.
Software Experience
Stock Android Launcher vs. RG Launcher
Out of the box the RGDS runs the standard Android launcher, offering familiar navigation for any Android user. A long‑press on the dedicated RG button swaps the interface to Anbernic’s custom RG Launcher, which automatically scans the SD card, organizes game files, and presents them in a console‑style library. Users can switch back to the stock launcher at any time, or install a third‑party launcher of their choice.
Dual‑App Functionality
The RG button also serves as a quick toggle between the two screens. Press once to assign the built‑in controller to the top screen, press again for the bottom screen. This enables dual‑app operation—for example, playing an N64 title on the bottom screen while watching a video or running a GBA emulator on the top.
Emulation Performance
The RGDS shines with lower‑end emulation:
- Nintendo DS – runs smoothly via the Drastic emulator, with full touch and stylus support.
- Game Boy Advance – excellent performance, no noticeable lag.
- Nintendo 64 – playable on titles that are not graphically intensive.
- PlayStation Portable – runs many titles at acceptable frame rates.
Because the RK3568 is not a high‑end chipset, 3DS and GameCube emulation are limited to select low‑spec games and may suffer from frame drops. The device is best suited for indie 3DS titles or 2D games that demand less processing power.
Audio, Battery, and Connectivity
The front‑firing stereo speakers produce a louder output than the original DS XL, though they are still best enjoyed with headphones for full immersion. Volume levels around 40‑50 % provide clear sound without distortion.
A 4,000 mAh battery delivers roughly 6 hours of mixed usage (gaming plus occasional video playback). Real‑world testing shows that lighter titles, such as GBA or DS games, can extend battery life beyond the advertised figure.
Dual USB‑C ports allow simultaneous charging and peripheral connection, while Wi‑Fi enables easy game library management and streaming.
Packaging and Included Accessories
Inside the box you’ll find:
- The Anbernic RGDS handheld
- Two screen protectors (one for each display)
- A USB‑C charging cable
- A lanyard for attaching the device to a bag or belt
- A capacitive stylus compatible with both screens (optional for stylus‑based games)
All accessories are functional, though the stylus feels a bit thick for precise DS‑style drawing.
Verdict
The Anbernic RGDS proves that a dual‑screen handheld doesn’t have to break the bank. Its design faithfully captures the nostalgia of the DS XL while offering modern conveniences such as Android 14, dual USB‑C ports, and a robust hinge. The hardware is sufficient for classic DS, GBA, N64, and PSP titles, making it an excellent choice for retro enthusiasts focused on 2D and low‑intensity 3D games.
While it won’t replace high‑end handhelds for demanding 3DS or GameCube emulation, its price point and solid build quality position it as the most affordable entry into dual‑screen handheld gaming currently available.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a budget‑friendly device that delivers authentic dual‑screen gameplay for classic titles, the Anbernic RGDS is a compelling option.