The RG40XXH is the newest member of Anbernics expanding XX line-up, but does it bring anything new to the table, or are we finally hitting the point of diminishing returns? After using the RG40XXH exclusively for a week, I’m ready to dive into its strengths, weaknesses, and where it fits into the broader landscape of retro handheld consoles.
Unboxing the RG40XXH: First Impressions
The timing of the RG40XXH’s arrival couldn’t have been better. My Retroid Pocket 4 Pro was temporarily out of commission, and my other devices, like the RG556, were packed away. After a month of heavy use with the RG28XX, I was ready for a change, and the prospect of a larger handheld to enjoy on the couch was appealing.
As soon as I unboxed the RG40XXH, the first thing that struck me was its screen size. The 4-inch display immediately felt substantial compared to the 2.8-inch screen on the RG28XX, a console I adore for its compact size and portability. The RG40XXH’s screen is the largest in the XX line-up, and it instantly makes an impact. It’s a reminder that the XX series is all about offering variety within a consistent framework—powerful internals like the H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53, dual-core G31 MP2 GPU, and 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM, with each model tailored slightly differently to appeal to various preferences.
Design and Build Quality: Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The RG40XXH is more than just a larger screen; it’s a thoughtfully designed handheld with a focus on user comfort. The curved edges, reminiscent of the RG Cube, give it a sleek look and a comfortable grip. The device feels premium, and the inclusion of analogue sticks—borrowed from the RG35XX—adds to its functionality, especially for those who enjoy games that require more precise control.
However, there was one surprising omission in the box: a screen protector. Every other Anbernic device I’ve used came with one, so its absence here is puzzling, especially given the size of the screen, which is more susceptible to scratches. Whether this was a one-off issue with my unit or a broader trend, it’s something to consider if you’re planning to buy the RG40XXH.
Performance: Putting the RG40XXH to the Test
With the console in hand, I was eager to see how it performed with some of my favourite games. I started with GTA: Vice City Stories on the PSP, but here’s where I hit my first disappointment. The RG40XXH struggled to maintain a steady frame rate, which significantly detracted from the experience. Given its size and specs, I expected it to handle PSP games more smoothly, so this was a let down.
Next, I switched to Ridge Racer, another PSP classic. Fortunately, this game ran much better, and the larger screen enhanced the experience. However, despite the impressive display, I didn’t find the gameplay experience dramatically different from the RG28XX, which left me wondering if the larger size of the RG40XXH was worth the trade-off in portability.
The RG40XXH on the Go: Portability Concerns
The next day, I found myself on an impromptu trip to London. Naturally, I brought the RG40XXH along, but this is where its size became a more significant issue. The carry case provided by Go Game Geek made it easy to transport, but I hesitated to carry the console in my pocket for the journey. It’s not that the RG40XXH is excessively large—it’s comparable to other average-sized retro handhelds—but it’s not pocket-friendly in the same way the RG28XX is.
During the trip, I played Gran Turismo on the PS1 and Wave Race on the N64. Both games looked fantastic on the 4-inch screen, especially Gran Turismo, which truly benefited from the larger display. Wave Race also performed well, though I did notice some minor slowdown during emulation, but nothing that detracted from the overall experience. Chilling in the apartment with the RG40XXH was a pleasure; the ergonomics are arguably the best of any XX console, and the immersive screen size enhances gameplay. The brightness and clarity of the display are on par with other XX models, and the analogue sticks contribute to a more premium feel.
Despite these positives, I opted not to take the RG40XXH out with me while exploring London. It’s simply too big to carry around comfortably in a pocket without creating a noticeable bulge, making it less than ideal for a quick gaming sessions on the go. For me, anything larger than the RG35XXH pushes the limits of pocketability, and even that model is on the edge.
The RG40XXH at Home: A Mixed Bag
Once I returned home, I found myself grappling with mixed feelings about the RG40XXH. On one hand, its larger size made it ideal for couch gaming, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I should be using a more powerful console like my Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, which had just come back to life after a quick repair. The RG40XXH’s size suggests it should be capable of running more demanding games, but it falls short in this area. It’s too large to be truly portable, yet not powerful enough to handle GameCube emulation, leaving it in an awkward middle ground between the RG28XX and the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
That said, the RG40XXH is well-balanced in terms of price and performance. If I didn’t have access to other consoles, I’d be more than satisfied with its build quality, design, and overall performance. But as someone with a growing collection of retro handhelds, it’s hard not to compare, and in this context, the RG40XXH struggles to carve out its own niche.
Gaming on the RG40XXH: The Pros and Cons
Determined to make the most of the RG40XXH, I jumped into Wario Land on the Game Boy Advance. Unsurprisingly, the console handled GBA games with ease. The large screen made the game look fantastic, though it did feel a bit overkill for such a simple title. The experience was less authentic than playing on a smaller screen, but it was undeniably impressive.
Another standout feature of the RG40XXH is its battery life, supported by a reliable sleep mode. Over a week of use, I found that the sleep mode did an excellent job of conserving battery power, allowing me to pick up where I left off without any significant drain. This feature alone makes the RG40XXH a convenient choice for extended gaming sessions without constantly worrying about recharging.
A Kid-Friendly Handheld
It was during a gaming session with my kids that I discovered the RG40XXH’s true potential. Unlike Android-based consoles like the RG Cube or RG556, the RG40XXH runs on a Linux system, which limits its compatibility with modern games like Minecraft, Fortnite, or Roblox. However, this limitation turned into an advantage when I handed the RG40XXH to my kids.
The console’s build quality and size make it perfect for younger gamers. My kids found it comfortable to hold, and the controls were easy for them to use. I also appreciated how durable the device felt—sturdy enough to withstand the rough handling typical of kids. The ambient lighting around the analogue sticks was a big hit too, adding a cool factor that kept them engaged.
Watching my kids enjoy classic retro games on the RG40XXH was a highlight. The console’s design and features seem tailor-made for this purpose, making it an ideal option for parents looking to introduce their children to retro gaming. In fact, I’d go as far as to say that the RG40XXH is my top choice for a kid-friendly handheld.
Is the RG40XXH Worth Your Time and Money?
The RG40XXH is a technically sound and well-built console that offers excellent value for its price, especially if you’re looking for a durable, kid-friendly option. Its large screen, comfortable design, and reliable performance make it a strong contender in the retro handheld market. However, if you already own other similar devices, you may find it challenging to justify adding the RG40XXH to your collection.
For those who prioritize portability, the RG35XXH might be a better fit, offering a more compact experience without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. On the other hand, if you’re new to retro gaming or seeking a solid handheld for your kids, the RG40XXH could be the perfect choice.
Ultimately, the RG40XXH is a welcome addition to the XX lineup, but it’s not without its limitations. It excels as a home console for casual gaming and as a durable option for younger players, but it may struggle to stand out in a crowded field of retro handhelds. If you’re looking for a versatile, well-priced handheld with a big screen and solid performance, the RG40XXH is definitely worth considering. But if you’re after something more portable or more powerful, there are other options out there that might better suit your needs.
Whether you’re a seasoned retro gamer or just starting out, there’s something in the XX series for everyone, and the RG40XXH might just be the console you’ve been waiting for. For more insights into the XX lineup and to discover my favourite handheld of 2024, be sure to check out the video linked below.
