Anbernic RGSP Review: A Focused Game Boy Advance Handheld for 2026

Introduction

The Anbernic RGSP is the third clamshell handheld in the company’s SP line, and it feels like a mid-cycle refresh that addresses some of the shortcomings of its predecessors. The main changes include a new color option, a front sticker reminiscent of the Game Boy Advance SP, a centered screen for better balance, and the removal of the analog sticks for a more focused Game Boy Advance experience.

If you already own one of Anbernic’s other SP devices, especially the RG34XXSP, you might be able to skip this one. But if you are just getting into retro handhelds and want something that stays true to the Game Boy Advance SP experience while being elevated for 2026, this is a compelling option.

When everything is considered, the RGSP packs a ton of features and quality-of-life improvements that make it a much better experience today compared to the original Game Boy Advance SP, and at a fraction of the price.

Specifications and Performance

The RGSP runs on the Allwinner H700 processor, the same chip found in the other two SP models and several other Anbernic XX devices. In terms of performance, this means it will play up to PS1 without any issues, along with a selection of Nintendo 64 and Dreamcast titles. It comes with 1 GB of RAM and no internal storage, relying instead on two microSD card slots for the operating system and games.

The display is a 3.4-inch panel with a 3:2 aspect ratio and a resolution of 720 by 480. That makes it a perfect 3x integer scale of the original Game Boy Advance, which means pixels are perfectly balanced and the image stays sharp without any fiddling with shaders or scaling.

The battery is rated at 3300 mAh, which typically provides around 6 hours of total game time. The device weighs 166 grams, about 10 grams lighter than the previous model. Connectivity includes 5 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2, and it runs Linux with several operating system options available.

One thing worth noting is the charging behavior. While the spec sheet says USB-C charging is supported, some cables may not work. High-end cables with e-mark chips, often those rated for 100 watts or high data transfer rates, can fail to charge the device. Standard USB-C cables, including those that ship with budget handhelds, tend to work fine. If you run into charging issues, trying a different cable is the simplest fix.

Design and Build Quality

The RGSP looks and feels like a Game Boy Advance SP, which is not surprising given the design lineage. The hinge mechanism is a double-hinge design that feels solid, and it opens to a default viewing angle very similar to the original console. You can hold it at different angles if you prefer, and it can be pushed back to 180 degrees, though it tends to pop back to the default position.

The device is about 24 mm thick, nearly identical to the original Game Boy Advance SP. Compared to earlier Anbernic clamshells, the RGSP is noticeably smaller and thinner. The plastic has a matte texture that feels better in hand than the slicker finish on older models.

There are four color options: pearl blue, platinum, black, and a metallic pink or rose color. The pearl blue variant with gray buttons is particularly appealing, offering a nice contrast that the all-silver platinum model lacks.

The screen is centered with more balanced bezels compared to the RG34XXSP, and the removal of the analog sticks makes sense for a device focused on Game Boy Advance. Overall, the design successfully captures the nostalgic feel of the original while adding modern touches.

Buttons and Controls

The face buttons have been improved compared to earlier models, with a lighter actuation force that measures around 70 to 80 grams. That is very close to the original Game Boy Advance SP, which typically measures around 60 to 70 grams. The buttons feel responsive and are relatively quiet, a notable improvement over the louder buttons on the original RG35XXSP.

The D-pad has been slightly enlarged along the edges, making it a bit more comfortable while retaining a shape very similar to the original. It performs well in precise gaming scenarios, passing tests like Contra without unintended movement. The dome switches underneath provide a satisfying click with clear directional feedback.

The shoulder and trigger buttons use micro switches with rubber dampening, making them feel good without being too loud. They are slightly elevated, which makes them easy to identify during gameplay. The menu, select, and start buttons are clicky micro switches, a bit louder than the face buttons but not objectionable.

Screen and Display

The 3.4-inch screen is a highlight of the RGSP. Its 3x integer scaling of the Game Boy Advance resolution means games look sharp and clean without any scaling artifacts. The screen performs well outdoors, though it is a bit darker than ideal when the default LCD shader is applied. At max brightness, it remains visible in direct sunlight, and you can turn off the shader for even more brightness if needed.

Colors are acceptable for an LCD panel, though they lean slightly green with Game Boy Advance games by default. Enabling color correction in the stock firmware settings produces a more muted, authentic palette that matches the original hardware better.

The screen also scales reasonably well with 480p content, so PS1 games look relatively crisp. However, 4:3 content appears quite small at about 3.1 inches, which can feel cramped. This is really a Game Boy Advance handheld first, and other systems are best played on devices with larger screens.

Software and Custom Firmware

The RGSP ships with a 16 GB microSD card containing the stock operating system. The interface is straightforward, with a game room for selecting systems and games, plus a RetroArch section for more advanced users. You can set up favorites, view recently played games, and search for titles.

There are a couple of settings worth adjusting. The button sound is on by default and quite loud, so turning it off is recommended. You can also configure the device to quick shutdown when closed, which saves your progress and powers off instead of draining the battery in standby. Enabling auto load state makes the device more pick-up-and-play by saving and restoring your progress automatically.

One of the biggest strengths of the RGSP is the ecosystem of custom firmware options. While most are not yet compatible at launch, it usually takes only about a week for developers to add support for new XX devices. One custom firmware called Next UI already works out of the gate, offering a simple text-based interface with a game switcher that lets you jump directly into recently played games.

The stock operating system defaults to D-pad input, but tapping the power button quickly toggles to left analog stick mode. This is useful for games that require analog input, such as many Nintendo 64 titles.

Who This Device Is For

The RGSP is for anyone who wants a dedicated Game Boy Advance machine with modern conveniences. It is ideal for those who value the clamshell form factor, appreciate the nostalgic design, and want a device that plays GBA games exceptionally well with features like save states, rewind, and fast forward.

It is also a great option for newcomers to retro handhelds who want an authentic Game Boy Advance SP experience without hunting down original hardware. The price point makes it an accessible entry into the hobby.

Things to Consider Before Buying

If you already own an RG35XXSP or RG34XXSP, the RGSP offers only minor changes. The centered screen and removal of the analog sticks are the most noticeable differences, but they may not justify the additional cost for existing owners.

The device can get a little warm during extended sessions with higher-end systems like Dreamcast, especially with Wi-Fi enabled for retro achievements. This is not severe, but it is noticeable.

The small screen size for 4:3 content is another consideration. If you plan to play a lot of Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, or other 4:3 systems, there are better devices at this price point with larger displays.

Buying Advice

At an expected price of around $60 to $65, the RGSP represents strong value for a focused Game Boy Advance handheld. Compared to the cost of buying and modding an original Game Boy Advance SP with an IPS screen, which can easily exceed $200, the RGSP is a bargain when you factor in the modern screen, USB-C charging, and all the emulation features.

The decision ultimately comes down to how much you prioritize Game Boy Advance games and whether you already own a similar device. For those without an SP-style handheld, the RGSP is an excellent choice. For existing owners of the RG35XXSP or RG34XXSP, the upgrades may feel incremental.

Conclusion

The Anbernic RGSP feels like the clamshell the company should have made all along. It is essentially a Game Boy Advance SP upgraded for 2026, with a sharp 3x integer scale screen, improved buttons, and a design that closely mirrors the original. The upcoming custom firmware support adds even more value.

While it is not a device for everyone, it excels at its intended purpose. If you want a dedicated Game Boy Advance machine that captures the nostalgia of the original while adding modern quality-of-life features, the RGSP is a compelling and affordable option.