@@ced214 It's so awesome. It makes me so happy kids today are getting to experience these too. I'll never forget my OG green Gameboy Color. And I know not every girl is a pink and fem girl but it's so nice that ModRetro thought about the pink-loving fans too. They made flavors for everybody.
Just got a chromatic too. What a wonderful device and company. The future of mod retro is something I will be closely watching. I'm sure any future devices from mod retro will be equally awesome
I'm so glad that some of the reviewers are now saying it for what it is, that being said I recently purchased a odin lite as my final handheld and the only reason I went with it is because of the phone capabilities, been a great experience so far
Sorry had to re read it all, and well what's the point of having all these hi powered devices when most if not all of the top handhelds cap out at PS2 n GameCube, form factor is really the only thing that changes, now I know retroid 5 has been showing potential to do Xbox with rocknix but that's still a work I progress
We've reached the point of being collectors rather than gamers, buying handhelds we never have time to use. For example, my mini-device collection includes the RG280V, the TrimUI Brick, the 35XX SP, and the 35XX-and I sadly don’t have time for any of them.
'People are going to realize they don't need to buy....' Don't see this happening, but it's a nice thought. Also, did you just ctrl+c/ctrl+v the chapters from an older vid??
Seriously. on subreddits for this, people will be like "I need this new device that plays gameboy. I already have 10 of them, including a gameboy.". For a lot of people. I think it's about collecting, not necceserly about actually playing on the devices lol.
I've always appreciated your videos and perspectives. I gave a couple of my buddies each their own Miyoo Mini + with Onion for gifts this holiday. It is an older piece of kit, but still is such a great example of a solid firmware/hardware match and a nice gateway into the hobby. I just ordered your book and am so excited to read it! Cheers mate!! 👏👏👏
Really amazing how far those handhelds have come...they're all beautiful and tempting..planning on buying 2.. One horizontal, one vertical. Then ill be happy...hopefully..lol😊
I bought the Miyoo Mini Plus for $24 (excl. VAT) on Black Friday on Ali. Wasn't this handheld for its price the best choice? It's only 1/12 of the price of a Retroid Pocket 5, but can play everything up to PS1.
i have the exact opposite opinion i want more power in a handheld not less and more resolution! i tried to run retro crisis 1080p psx rgb 100 shader with swanstation on my RP5 and it was unplayable. the cheaper low power handhelds barely have good enough screen resolution for decent shaders, let alone the power to run them i ordered the portal and dmg, hopefully the faster chip in those can give me access to some better shaders, but who knows
I recently bought the Nintendo 64 controller for the Switch and it’s made me realise how much I love emulating the actual experience, i.e. controller, as much as the game. So I’ve bought the RG34XX to play GBA games! I’m hoping we are close to bringing back the Duke Xbox controller with decent Xbox emulation… that would be amazing.
I'm probably going to be getting the RG34XX myself at the end of the month. It's going to be my first retro handheld, and I can't wait to give it a go. I had been eyeing the cubexx before that new one came out, and I still really like the cubexx, but GBA has always been my number 1 handheld, so I feel like I have to jump on this.
First of all, I love your content delivery style-clear, concise, and honest (perceived). I don't care more about consoles; I just want to transport myself to old-school (and newer) Arcade (MAME roms) experiences. (I'm talking Galaga, Donkey Kong, Asteroids, Pac Mac, etc.) Please advise: What would be the perfect handheld for me?
I have some handhelds and for me the premium and the one I use the most is the Anbernic RG405m. I love the metal shield it has and the 4 inches screen. I spent some more money on it buying better trigger buttons in Etsy Better buttons and also bought ps buttons so it looks like a PS product. For me it worth the money I have spent on it. I love this channel, greetings and Happy 2025!!
Good review video there :) Personally for handhelds I've been using an Analogue Pocket since the day 1 batch came out and have been more than satisifed with it for my carts, plus loaded up a *lot* of console cores. Otherwise I sometimes use my PS Vita which is modded so works fine for my non AP needs (PS1 / PSP / PSV).
I know what I want for a niche console... I want another Saturn shaped device, 8-way D-pad AND 6 face buttons (for fighting games) with a TATE function, like on the Egret 2 mini, for shmups (the screen would have to stick out a bit then). TATE function would be EXTREMELY niche I figure but having it be a 6 button ergonomic handheld for fighting games would sort of mitigate that as well. Make local VS play on two separate devices without much lag doable (imagine 3S or Alpha 3 like that) and for anyone who loves arcade games I figure it'd sell EZ!
I like the artwork on tiger lcd handhelds more then game and watch they could make something for just a specific single game like new wave toys but in handheld form.
First off build quality. Game boys wish they were this durable, button feel is next. Game boys were cheesey this chromatic buttons are second to none. Screen quality is next the sapphire glass is something game boy wishes it had. Next the colors. Omg the colors are so vivid. Next USB and other outputs. Game boy never had.... There's more too. So not sure how one could argue it's not modern lol
Collecting old mini horizontal handhelds, I like them in spite of their limitations. And some more new mini horizontal handhelds as well. I love the portability of them.
The moment Anbernic started getting involved with android devices,I knew retro handhelds would find the wall at some point. In any case I still love them. I have felt that the Lower price devices do feel more fun,I mean between the 34xx and the 35xxsp, Anbernic hit the nail on the head and they look and feel fantastic At the moment my every day is the 35xx so and my new high power is the Pocket DMG, I got the base variant as I don't see the need for more ram with what they can do. Awesome video my bro,keeping it real as always 🔥🔥🔥
Ahh The Pocket Go that takes me back been watching this channel since way back then I started my retro handheld emulator journey with that little dude I like it but wanted to play Snes without tinkering with the settings to make it play. So I upgraded to my first Anbernic device the RG350 and was blown away being able to play PS1 on the go but I got bit by the collecting bug I got more of these then I really need haha I slowed down these last 2 years I only bought 2 this year the 28XX & 35XXSP I plan on getting that 34XX at some point I don't need it but I want it looks like my childhood GBA I no longer have just when I thought I was out they pulled me back in anyways merry Xmas Brandon.
Dear Brandon. For Christmas my wife gifted me your book "A Handheld History" and I have severly enjoyed, picking it up here and there between the holiday rush and reading the intelligent and personal essays while my own children were flicking through their mangas or drawing. Your book is soul food. Thank you. I wish you a great year 2025. Michael
I love my Anbernic RG406V. Love it so much I bought it and finally got my first retro handheld. But at the same time, I hear you on the niche category. I would love a handheld that is Android-based, and comes with 2 screens. I longed for a DS/3DS handheld with phone-capability
5:07 this is me - but I must admit, imo I'm not a fan of the SP design on that handheld. I would like to play PlayStation 2 games such as Simpsons Road Rage, Simpsons Hit and Run and the classic Tiger Woods Games for the PS2 too! Is there a handheld you would reccomend? Happy new year to you!
Unfortunately the RG35XXSP cannot and will not be able to play PS2 or GameCube. Noticed at the end of the video you stated it’ll play PS2 and a couple GameCube titles. It won’t do neither I’m afraid. PSP absolute max.
I really agree on the saturation and how we will all slow down soon. I would like a good SP form factor for low level gaming in the pocket (waiting to see how that Miyoo SP is) to replace my v90 and a Retroid Pocket form and price with a joystick up top for high level emulation and Android gaming to replace my telescopic controller for my phone. Chromatic GBA and a really good dual screen handheld (Ayaneo's had too many downsides) for WiiU and the DSs would be the more niche ones I would like to see too!
I gone with the analogue pocket because I think it's cool that it plays games straight off the cartridge and not emulate them, And you can play so many different physical cartridge games on it that's a winner for me,
I think next year will be the year of retro+ handhelds, meaning fully capable handhelds which can also run some modern games. With Steam likely opening up SteamOS and alternatives like Bazzite I'm hoping to see a bevy of devices in various form factors using one or the other. If I can get a lower power Steam Deck the size of the RP5 you better believe I'm insta-ordering.
I'm surprised we didn't go into some 4"ers I have tried 3.5" and it's just too small of a screen for the menus for me. I'm hoping Anbernic makes a 4" clammer soon but man do I love my rg40xxv what a beast for $75
Quickly reaching diminishing return with these handhelds. I want one but it seems like a new and better one comes out every week. I'm really leaning towards the RG35XX SP
The Analogue Pocket and the ModRetro Chromatic screens are way better than the IPS ones you can use to mod your GBA. Even the latest V5 laminated screen doesn’t compare.
I have 2 questions. 1. Do you think the switch 2 release will lead to a mini renaissance of the retro copy-consoles? I am thinking that the switch 2, while seemingly similiar to a switch 1, will lead them to update the consoles too copy the switch 2 better. This update will also make them update some of the other things too, hopefully making the cheap fake consoles at least somewhat better lol. 2. Have you ever seen a fake DS/3DS, i.e a dual screen device, other than the Ayaneo flip DS? I'm suprised it seems to be unexplored territory for the chinese manufacturers.
Great points, I do think the Switch did really lead the way on how these devices and handheld PCs were designed and functioned, and it would make sense that the Switch 2 would have some new or better refined features and ideas. A better DS is what I would love to see too! I really liked what Ayaneo was going for with WiiU and DS emulation but it had so many downsides to it...
I have sold a SteamDeck LCD 512 and an RG556 Bought an Odin 2, Odin 2 Portal, Pocket Evo and RG34XX The Odin 2/Portal and Pocket Evo I’ll reduce to just one, probably the portal but waiting to see. The RG34XX, will be the commuter device, while the Portal will be the couch device.
@@reecethomas3369 "How's your wife?" "Compared to what?". Steam Deck is way better - at what? Steam games? Ok, but not as an emulation machine, its more complex to setup and maintain, so I wasn't using it, so I sold it, if you like yours, good for you.
Which is funny when you think about it cause emulation handhelds date all the way back to stuff like the dingoo, the open Pandora, JXD 7800B. The open Pandora and dingoo probably being some of the oldest. Retro handhelds definitely have come along way in 14/15 years
What they could do is release a handheld specifically for a console like snes then genesis etc with the exact similarity of the consoles look and pixel perfect resolution which isnt 320 x 240, it would be 256 x224 and with the same minuscule cpu and ram
I bought a mod retro chromatic for Xmas. It took about 6 weeks to get but it did arrive before Xmas. I love love love love it. I am hooked on dragonhym a game mod retro puts out for it. I am decimating AA batteries. Just bought a bunch of ennelop rechargeable batteries with charger. I can't get enough of it. But beware. If you have given away all your old game boy games like me. Buying new ones is not cheap. Nor is it really easy to find them. But mod retro is making they're own games which is awesome. I totally recommend the chromatic. I'm 40. I feel like I'm 10 again. Wonderful device. Build quality. The colors are second to none.
For 220 bucks, the retroid is actually expensive, but if it can play ps2 titles with relative quality, its actually one of the best offers in the market.
I think you must be right about the idea of cheaper all-rounders and niche premium devices. I mean how many similar ones of these can they keep on pumping out? Gameboy obviously always is/was the handheld king, but I want a premium Atari Lynx the handheld GOD, and a premium Game Gear, the handheld prince! (lol sorry) ; D Speaking of niche, the panic playdate is super fun and interesting too, with its crank and "homebrew" scene. It would be interesting to see more videos of modded real classic handheld hardware too. Those are beautiful, but obviously get extremely expensive if you don't have soldering skills.
Nice list, bit odd though to call things like the RG35XXSP a "Beginner Handheld" as in the end you can tinker with those as much, if not more, than more expensive Handhelds, and ideally you want to end up with a very similar Setup on Android in terms of using Retroarch for as many Systems as viable
I'm in this weird area where I'd like something that can play up to N64 and maybe Dreamcast for around $100. I've seen Retroid Pocket 3+'s for about $100. Not sure if anyone else has any other recommendations or opinions on the Retroid Pocket 3+. I've been very interested in these handhelds for a couple years but just haven't pulled the trigger on any of them. Any and all feedback is appreciated.
I Currently have 12 myself 1.Bittboy Pocket Go Grey 2.Anbrernic Original RG350 Grey 3. RG351P Indigo 4.RG351V Smokeblack 5.RG280V Black & Silver 6.Retroid Pocket 2 Grey 7.RG300XX Red & Gold 8.Miyoo Mini V1 Grey 9.RG351 MP Blue 10.RG353M Purple 11.RG28XX Grey 12.RG35XXSP Silver That's it for now I might get that RG34XX Indigo I miss my old GBA these things are addictive 5 years ago I didn't have any of these emulators the next year I got the Pocket Go and it all got started from there.
All I want is a duel screen clamshell for ds and 3ds games. That's the dream. I know there's one out there but it's $1k. I'd just buy a new 3ds xl but I want a better screen and upscaling!
Pocket Micro has somehow become the EDC for me in 2024. I bought the official magnetic leather case from AliXpress and use it as my daily wallet. Jus throw my ID and a card or two behind the Pocket Micro in the case and I'm off. Fits great in the pocket.
Yeah it basically feel like we have reached the endgame, I wouldn't want to play anything more demanding than PS2 games on these devices and for high spec games you should just get a Steam deck
I want an Anbernic RG556 but with an 865 or 8 Gen 2 or something in it. RP5 just isn't comfortable to hold for long sessions. Maybe we'll get something like this in 2025.
I realized I didn't need anything else since the Retroid Pocket Flip, ngl, I sold all my consoles but the switch and all my gaming is happening on that and the rg35xx SP
rw...we wish...save states are practically all different from one device file extension to another...unless they use exactly the same Firmware...then the saves will be transferable...the .srm are often compatible formats...but I find them pretty useless really...others may feel differently...only a few times have I had success transferring save states to another handheld...95% of the time they're tied to one handheld...
I use an RG405M as a daily driver, since it can play up to PSP. I would probably buy an All-rounder next year, but that's it. I've been too spoilt by Android to consider anything else. Actual sleep mode, Standalone emulators for games that need it (like games that need turbo fire), ability to transfer my games and saves via cloud and so on.
The market for these is very strange in Canada. I can get the rg35xx for $60 Cad, but anything newer is a better deal in USD despite the 30% conversion rate, which makes the only viable options here a 35xx or a steam deck, maybe the Retroid 4 Lite is cheap enough to be a reasonable steam deck alternative, but everything else is too expensive.
I got a blue SP and beat Mega Man 2 waiting on line at the grocery store. Nobody even looks twice at it, they just assume it's my phone. Peak of stealth gaming (as long as you medical tape mod the buttons)!
Not too much power, but yes a lot of money being asked from us. The retroid pocket mini is maybe not for you, but there are people like me that love that stuff! GameCube and ps2 in my pocket is a dream, and the screen isn’t too small, the screen to body ratio is too small though.
Best would be the Analogue Pocket for the 2d gaming pre PS1, it can play SNES, NES, MasterSystem, CPS2, Megadrive, Neo Geo with pure accuracy and no lag. Something like the Chromatic is more of a 1to1 collectors item to sit alongside the original Gameboys, since it only plays Gameboy carts, would love to see replacement screens sold for broken Chromatics and for the original Gameboy, where it is sold as a mod. Then i would go for a smaller Aya Neo, or the Ayn Odin for PS1 and beyond, many devices struggle with PS2 era and those devices handle it well. And then for high end emulation, Xbox 360 and beyond, a handheld PC like the Steam Deck, Asus Rog Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, MSI Claw. Nothing beats this in terms of performance and build quality, not only is there everything to emulate, but there is Steam and Epic games to play on these, and Steam has a lot 6th and 7th gen games aswell almost eliminating the need to emulate 6th and 7th gen consoles. But when it comes to price and something to take with you on the go. Even to the point where you don't mind if it drops and breaks or gets stolen or to give to kids. The Miyo Mini and the Anbernic devices are perfect options for those, very pocketable too. And some of there devices are more on unique side, making it stand out from the higher end options, like their GBA SP, Sega Saturn and their Gameboy Homages.
Same I haven't turned it on in ages but it's here when I get nostalgic for it the I kinda only picked up the RG28XX cause it look and felt like an evolved Pocket Go haha.
@@gamerdude612 It's like a modern day GB Micro. I've always liked it's overall design. The new ANBERINIC RG28XX same vibe but it's better, able to hold two 1TB micro sd cards and play video files (complete series TV shows in digital format). Then ANBERNIC has that beautiful RG300X, that's never leaving my collection!
We must play our pocket go off white 2.4inch screen emulation handhelds more often..I tend to carry mine around in a protective hard phone case..fine for me up to Advance games..
@@gamerdude612..the RG-28XX looks like a no name unbranded cheap Chinese handheld to me..plasticky..toylike..I have a few like that..DataFrog quality..not up to Anbernics high standards..the older discontinued RG-280M was beautiful..I'm sorry I never bought one of those..
I like the OLED screen but with my Odin 2 and I don't really go anywhere, I have no need for any of these. My Steam Deck took care of all my PC mobile gaming.
Finally somebody said it. You don't need to buy every single new device it comes out. 2025 it's gonna be a very dry selling year for this companies. Even retroid, who are my favourite, over did it releasing both the rp4 and the rp5 on 2024. I've got an RP4P for most stuff up to ps2 and gc, and a Miyoo A30 for very specific ps1 and below gaming. The pocketability is amazing. You might have 3 devices, an all rounder, a small and pocketable, and a very niche thing, and that's all you need. There might even be some overlap there too. Don't buy more stuff. You don't need it.
Just getting into this and I think at this point the next big thing for these devices are Xbox emulation and maybe some earlier pc games. Halo and command and conquer both have a decent following so far
I just got the Odin 2 and it is magnificent. Can do everything I want on it. I have a retroid Pocket 3+ my kids will use. I have a MiyooA30 for my EDC that I throw in my pocket though that may be replaced by a clamshell in the future. Great time to be a retro gamer!
My brother got me a pink Chromatic for Christmas and I am so in love with this thing. Haven’t put it down except to sleep and eat lol
I got my daughter the same one same color she’s 5 and I have to wait until she’s sleep to get a turn🤣
Great choice!
@@ced214 It's so awesome. It makes me so happy kids today are getting to experience these too. I'll never forget my OG green Gameboy Color. And I know not every girl is a pink and fem girl but it's so nice that ModRetro thought about the pink-loving fans too. They made flavors for everybody.
Just got a chromatic too. What a wonderful device and company. The future of mod retro is something I will be closely watching. I'm sure any future devices from mod retro will be equally awesome
I'm so glad that some of the reviewers are now saying it for what it is, that being said I recently purchased a odin lite as my final handheld and the only reason I went with it is because of the phone capabilities, been a great experience so far
What?
@arthurdurham what exactly are you questioning?
@@JQZ66 What is he saying is it for what it is? Also, the Odin 2 mini can be used as a phone?
@@arthurdurham sorry still don't really understand what you are trying toask or say?
Sorry had to re read it all, and well what's the point of having all these hi powered devices when most if not all of the top handhelds cap out at PS2 n GameCube, form factor is really the only thing that changes, now I know retroid 5 has been showing potential to do Xbox with rocknix but that's still a work I progress
We've reached the point of being collectors rather than gamers, buying handhelds we never have time to use. For example, my mini-device collection includes the RG280V, the TrimUI Brick, the 35XX SP, and the 35XX-and I sadly don’t have time for any of them.
The second recommend is the RG35XX SP, that can play up to PS2 and GameCube??? Are you kidding??? Max is PS1 and some N64!!! 😂😂😂
Yeah, you right.
I was also shocked when I heard it, lol.
He went from a device that could play PS2/GC (RP5) to a RG35xxsp that can play PS1, DC, N64. He didn't say the RG35xxsp can play PS2.
@@DerekGonsoulin watch the video again, he absolutely does say that (even if accidentally)
@@DerekGonsoulin 11:26
bought a retroid pocket 5 for myself, a rg35xxsp for my spouse, and have a chromatic on the way. glad to see these devices being highly rated!
Great choices!
The Anbernic rg406h is my favorite 2024 handheld 🎉
the casual vibes of this vid 👍
'People are going to realize they don't need to buy....' Don't see this happening, but it's a nice thought.
Also, did you just ctrl+c/ctrl+v the chapters from an older vid??
Seriously. on subreddits for this, people will be like "I need this new device that plays gameboy. I already have 10 of them, including a gameboy.". For a lot of people. I think it's about collecting, not necceserly about actually playing on the devices lol.
Happy Holidays Brandon to you and your family !!!
Happy holidays, same to you!
I've always appreciated your videos and perspectives. I gave a couple of my buddies each their own Miyoo Mini + with Onion for gifts this holiday. It is an older piece of kit, but still is such a great example of a solid firmware/hardware match and a nice gateway into the hobby. I just ordered your book and am so excited to read it! Cheers mate!! 👏👏👏
That’s so kind of you! Thanks so much! 🙏
Really amazing how far those handhelds have come...they're all beautiful and tempting..planning on buying 2..
One horizontal, one vertical. Then ill be happy...hopefully..lol😊
Merry Christmas Brandon.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday to you and your family.
Happy holidays!
I own a bunch of these handhelds, and my all time favorite is the Anbernic RG280V. Happy Holidays from Brazil!
I bought the Miyoo Mini Plus for $24 (excl. VAT) on Black Friday on Ali. Wasn't this handheld for its price the best choice?
It's only 1/12 of the price of a Retroid Pocket 5, but can play everything up to PS1.
11:26 no way its playing PS2 and GC. I think youre mixing things up
Yes, I got mixed up there. Meant to say DC and a couple lower end GC games.
What’s game are you playing on the chromatic at 2:40? It looks interesting
The Mayor of Sanctuary, created by Anthony Wallace, one of Retro Dodo's past writers! We highly recommend it.
i have the exact opposite opinion
i want more power in a handheld not less
and more resolution!
i tried to run retro crisis 1080p psx rgb 100 shader with swanstation on my RP5 and it was unplayable.
the cheaper low power handhelds barely have good enough screen resolution for decent shaders, let alone the power to run them
i ordered the portal and dmg, hopefully the faster chip in those can give me access to some better shaders, but who knows
I recently bought the Nintendo 64 controller for the Switch and it’s made me realise how much I love emulating the actual experience, i.e. controller, as much as the game. So I’ve bought the RG34XX to play GBA games! I’m hoping we are close to bringing back the Duke Xbox controller with decent Xbox emulation… that would be amazing.
Only way to play zelda ports and perfect dark port imo
My wish for 2025 is a handheld with n64 controls
I'm probably going to be getting the RG34XX myself at the end of the month. It's going to be my first retro handheld, and I can't wait to give it a go. I had been eyeing the cubexx before that new one came out, and I still really like the cubexx, but GBA has always been my number 1 handheld, so I feel like I have to jump on this.
I really want a gkd pixel! I found out about it too late 😭
I sold mine for cheap, now i really want it again 😭
First of all, I love your content delivery style-clear, concise, and honest (perceived). I don't care more about consoles; I just want to transport myself to old-school (and newer) Arcade (MAME roms) experiences. (I'm talking Galaga, Donkey Kong, Asteroids, Pac Mac, etc.) Please advise: What would be the perfect handheld for me?
Great review, even tech dweeb and russ recommended RG35xx SP. Very on point!
I have some handhelds and for me the premium and the one I use the most is the Anbernic RG405m. I love the metal shield it has and the 4 inches screen. I spent some more money on it buying better trigger buttons in Etsy Better buttons and also bought ps buttons so it looks like a PS product. For me it worth the money I have spent on it. I love this channel, greetings and Happy 2025!!
Good review video there :)
Personally for handhelds I've been using an Analogue Pocket since the day 1 batch came out and have been more than satisifed with it for my carts, plus loaded up a *lot* of console cores.
Otherwise I sometimes use my PS Vita which is modded so works fine for my non AP needs (PS1 / PSP / PSV).
I know what I want for a niche console... I want another Saturn shaped device, 8-way D-pad AND 6 face buttons (for fighting games) with a TATE function, like on the Egret 2 mini, for shmups (the screen would have to stick out a bit then). TATE function would be EXTREMELY niche I figure but having it be a 6 button ergonomic handheld for fighting games would sort of mitigate that as well. Make local VS play on two separate devices without much lag doable (imagine 3S or Alpha 3 like that) and for anyone who loves arcade games I figure it'd sell EZ!
I think you’re right about where the industry is going. I reckon there’s going to be a demand for larger screen all round devices.
I like the artwork on tiger lcd handhelds more then game and watch they could make something for just a specific single game like new wave toys but in handheld form.
3:06 What's so modern about the form factor for you? It's exactly the the same as over 36 years ago, with a way too tiny screen.
My only guess is that it looks more modern due to the colouring? Maybe better plastics or little larger? Otherwise, it's a very old design indeed.
First off build quality. Game boys wish they were this durable, button feel is next. Game boys were cheesey this chromatic buttons are second to none. Screen quality is next the sapphire glass is something game boy wishes it had. Next the colors. Omg the colors are so vivid. Next USB and other outputs. Game boy never had.... There's more too. So not sure how one could argue it's not modern lol
@@jeffdetore3835 All those things have nothing to do with a form factor lol.
Collecting old mini horizontal handhelds, I like them in spite of their limitations. And some more new mini horizontal handhelds as well. I love the portability of them.
Great content! I enjoy your videos!
I appreciate that!
The moment Anbernic started getting involved with android devices,I knew retro handhelds would find the wall at some point. In any case I still love them.
I have felt that the Lower price devices do feel more fun,I mean between the 34xx and the 35xxsp, Anbernic hit the nail on the head and they look and feel fantastic
At the moment my every day is the 35xx so and my new high power is the Pocket DMG, I got the base variant as I don't see the need for more ram with what they can do.
Awesome video my bro,keeping it real as always 🔥🔥🔥
I googled and found this and boy do I appreciate it. Many thanks
Ahh The Pocket Go that takes me back been watching this channel since way back then I started my retro handheld emulator journey with that little dude I like it but wanted to play Snes without tinkering with the settings to make it play. So I upgraded to my first Anbernic device the RG350 and was blown away being able to play PS1 on the go but I got bit by the collecting bug I got more of these then I really need haha I slowed down these last 2 years I only bought 2 this year the 28XX & 35XXSP I plan on getting that 34XX at some point I don't need it but I want it looks like my childhood GBA I no longer have just when I thought I was out they pulled me back in anyways merry Xmas Brandon.
Dear Brandon. For Christmas my wife gifted me your book "A Handheld History" and I have severly enjoyed, picking it up here and there between the holiday rush and reading the intelligent and personal essays while my own children were flicking through their mangas or drawing. Your book is soul food. Thank you. I wish you a great year 2025. Michael
Wow, thank you so much Michael, that really means a lot.
I love my Anbernic RG406V. Love it so much I bought it and finally got my first retro handheld. But at the same time, I hear you on the niche category. I would love a handheld that is Android-based, and comes with 2 screens. I longed for a DS/3DS handheld with phone-capability
They will come eventually!
I am very impressed by the Modretro Chromatic. I think it is pricey but also a home run.
5:07 this is me - but I must admit, imo I'm not a fan of the SP design on that handheld. I would like to play PlayStation 2 games such as Simpsons Road Rage, Simpsons Hit and Run and the classic Tiger Woods Games for the PS2 too! Is there a handheld you would reccomend? Happy new year to you!
Unfortunately the RG35XXSP cannot and will not be able to play PS2 or GameCube.
Noticed at the end of the video you stated it’ll play PS2 and a couple GameCube titles. It won’t do neither I’m afraid. PSP absolute max.
I still use my lower end Anbernic device from 2 years ago, don't feel like buying anything else
I really agree on the saturation and how we will all slow down soon.
I would like a good SP form factor for low level gaming in the pocket (waiting to see how that Miyoo SP is) to replace my v90 and a Retroid Pocket form and price with a joystick up top for high level emulation and Android gaming to replace my telescopic controller for my phone.
Chromatic GBA and a really good dual screen handheld (Ayaneo's had too many downsides) for WiiU and the DSs would be the more niche ones I would like to see too!
I gone with the analogue pocket because I think it's cool that it plays games straight off the cartridge and not emulate them,
And you can play so many different physical cartridge games on it that's a winner for me,
I think next year will be the year of retro+ handhelds, meaning fully capable handhelds which can also run some modern games. With Steam likely opening up SteamOS and alternatives like Bazzite I'm hoping to see a bevy of devices in various form factors using one or the other. If I can get a lower power Steam Deck the size of the RP5 you better believe I'm insta-ordering.
I'm surprised we didn't go into some 4"ers I have tried 3.5" and it's just too small of a screen for the menus for me. I'm hoping Anbernic makes a 4" clammer soon but man do I love my rg40xxv what a beast for $75
Quickly reaching diminishing return with these handhelds. I want one but it seems like a new and better one comes out every week. I'm really leaning towards the RG35XX SP
Dodo you're literally me, the chromatic and the Pixel are some of my favorites of the year, we must like metal on our handhelds 😂
You my friend, have good taste.
Instead of getting Analog Pocket or a Chromatic. You could just mod a real Gameboy Color and put new screen in it.
or get the fpgbc
The Analogue Pocket and the ModRetro Chromatic screens are way better than the IPS ones you can use to mod your GBA. Even the latest V5 laminated screen doesn’t compare.
I have 2 questions.
1. Do you think the switch 2 release will lead to a mini renaissance of the retro copy-consoles? I am thinking that the switch 2, while seemingly similiar to a switch 1, will lead them to update the consoles too copy the switch 2 better. This update will also make them update some of the other things too, hopefully making the cheap fake consoles at least somewhat better lol.
2. Have you ever seen a fake DS/3DS, i.e a dual screen device, other than the Ayaneo flip DS? I'm suprised it seems to be unexplored territory for the chinese manufacturers.
Great points, I do think the Switch did really lead the way on how these devices and handheld PCs were designed and functioned, and it would make sense that the Switch 2 would have some new or better refined features and ideas.
A better DS is what I would love to see too! I really liked what Ayaneo was going for with WiiU and DS emulation but it had so many downsides to it...
MagicX touch zero 40 is getting hyped for future ds emulation.
I am waiting for anbernic/miyoo/trim to make something akin to the DS. Two screens and all.
Same.
I have sold a SteamDeck LCD 512 and an RG556
Bought an Odin 2, Odin 2 Portal, Pocket Evo and RG34XX
The Odin 2/Portal and Pocket Evo I’ll reduce to just one, probably the portal but waiting to see. The RG34XX, will be the commuter device, while the Portal will be the couch device.
Steam deck is way better
@@reecethomas3369 "How's your wife?" "Compared to what?". Steam Deck is way better - at what? Steam games? Ok, but not as an emulation machine, its more complex to setup and maintain, so I wasn't using it, so I sold it, if you like yours, good for you.
Which is funny when you think about it cause emulation handhelds date all the way back to stuff like the dingoo, the open Pandora, JXD 7800B. The open Pandora and dingoo probably being some of the oldest. Retro handhelds definitely have come along way in 14/15 years
Which one has Killer Instinct and Killer Instinct 2
What they could do is release a handheld specifically for a console like snes then genesis etc with the exact similarity of the consoles look and pixel perfect resolution which isnt 320 x 240, it would be 256 x224 and with the same minuscule cpu and ram
I bought a mod retro chromatic for Xmas. It took about 6 weeks to get but it did arrive before Xmas. I love love love love it. I am hooked on dragonhym a game mod retro puts out for it. I am decimating AA batteries. Just bought a bunch of ennelop rechargeable batteries with charger. I can't get enough of it. But beware. If you have given away all your old game boy games like me. Buying new ones is not cheap. Nor is it really easy to find them. But mod retro is making they're own games which is awesome. I totally recommend the chromatic. I'm 40. I feel like I'm 10 again. Wonderful device. Build quality. The colors are second to none.
What is the lowest spec handheld that you can install steam/chimera/some variant on? Can you do a video along those lines? Cheers
For 220 bucks, the retroid is actually expensive, but if it can play ps2 titles with relative quality, its actually one of the best offers in the market.
Bittboy? Bro, I've been here since the Dingoo and GP2X Wiz days. Just messing, Merry Christmas!
The OG’s!!!
psp
Would love to find the Pixel in this price! Would love to have one of these!
I think you must be right about the idea of cheaper all-rounders and niche premium devices. I mean how many similar ones of these can they keep on pumping out? Gameboy obviously always is/was the handheld king, but I want a premium Atari Lynx the handheld GOD, and a premium Game Gear, the handheld prince! (lol sorry) ; D Speaking of niche, the panic playdate is super fun and interesting too, with its crank and "homebrew" scene. It would be interesting to see more videos of modded real classic handheld hardware too. Those are beautiful, but obviously get extremely expensive if you don't have soldering skills.
Nice list, bit odd though to call things like the RG35XXSP a "Beginner Handheld" as in the end you can tinker with those as much, if not more, than more expensive Handhelds, and ideally you want to end up with a very similar Setup on Android in terms of using Retroarch for as many Systems as viable
We need more TH-camrs who companies want to black list😂 means your honest, something TH-cam is exhaustingly bad at these days
Got my sub 🙌
Good video ! Timestamps are wrong tho!
I'm in this weird area where I'd like something that can play up to N64 and maybe Dreamcast for around $100. I've seen Retroid Pocket 3+'s for about $100. Not sure if anyone else has any other recommendations or opinions on the Retroid Pocket 3+. I've been very interested in these handhelds for a couple years but just haven't pulled the trigger on any of them. Any and all feedback is appreciated.
I have around 25 retro handheld consoles within my colection, not purchasing any more. My favorites:
PowKiddy X55 (Pure Black)
PowKiddy RGB20SX (Pearl White)
PowKiddy V90 (Black)
PowKiddy MAX2 (Pure Black)
PowKiddy V10 (USA SNES)
PowKiddy X17
PowKiddy X16
ANBERNIC RG406V (Grey)
ANBERNIC RG405V (Woodgrain)
ANBERNIC RG351V (Woodgrain)
ANBERNIC RG300X (Silver)(Gold)
ANBERNIC RG280V (Silver)
ANBERNIC RGARC-D (Beige)
ANBERNIC RG505 (Grey)
ANBERNIC RG353P (USA SNES)
ANBERNIC RG28XX (USA SNES)
TrimUI Brick (White)(Red)
VALVE Steam Deck (LCD Mid Tier)
LG G-Pad 5 (Android Tablet)
LENOVO Tab Plus (Android Tablet)
Fusion 5 (Windows Tablet)
GPD XD-Plus (Android Clamshell)
CoolBaby RS-18
Original Bittboy PocketGo
25?!?! Why?
@@LuisPerez-5 It used to be 35!
@@jonathonearl482 damn
As someone who's gathered 8 of these things already, I totally understand 25 consoles lol
I Currently have 12 myself
1.Bittboy Pocket Go Grey
2.Anbrernic Original RG350 Grey
3. RG351P Indigo
4.RG351V Smokeblack
5.RG280V Black & Silver
6.Retroid Pocket 2 Grey
7.RG300XX Red & Gold
8.Miyoo Mini V1 Grey
9.RG351 MP Blue
10.RG353M Purple
11.RG28XX Grey
12.RG35XXSP Silver
That's it for now I might get that RG34XX Indigo I miss my old GBA these things are addictive 5 years ago I didn't have any of these emulators the next year I got the Pocket Go and it all got started from there.
I'm waiting on the Miyoo Flip. I know we've been waiting a while but good thing come to those who wait.
The pocketgo was perfect too me
All I want is a duel screen clamshell for ds and 3ds games. That's the dream. I know there's one out there but it's $1k. I'd just buy a new 3ds xl but I want a better screen and upscaling!
Pocket Micro has somehow become the EDC for me in 2024. I bought the official magnetic leather case from AliXpress and use it as my daily wallet. Jus throw my ID and a card or two behind the Pocket Micro in the case and I'm off. Fits great in the pocket.
Yeah it basically feel like we have reached the endgame, I wouldn't want to play anything more demanding than PS2 games on these devices and for high spec games you should just get a Steam deck
Did they ever fix the batteries for the SP?
I want an Anbernic RG556 but with an 865 or 8 Gen 2 or something in it. RP5 just isn't comfortable to hold for long sessions.
Maybe we'll get something like this in 2025.
The Ayaneo Pocket DMG is what I have been waiting for, and probably retired me.
Great to hear, it’s a beast.
I realized I didn't need anything else since the Retroid Pocket Flip, ngl, I sold all my consoles but the switch and all my gaming is happening on that and the rg35xx SP
I am looking at getting a handheld that can play PS1 and PS2 games, what it my best option for that?
odin 2 / retroid pocket 5
Is there something like cloud saves if you have many of these devices?
rw...we wish...save states are practically all different from one device file extension to another...unless they use exactly the same Firmware...then the saves will be transferable...the .srm are often compatible formats...but I find them pretty useless really...others may feel differently...only a few times have I had success transferring save states to another handheld...95% of the time they're tied to one handheld...
I'd probably recommend Trimui Brick and Retroid Pocket 5.
Does the Retroid Pocket 2 come with games?
No
I use an RG405M as a daily driver, since it can play up to PSP. I would probably buy an All-rounder next year, but that's it. I've been too spoilt by Android to consider anything else. Actual sleep mode, Standalone emulators for games that need it (like games that need turbo fire), ability to transfer my games and saves via cloud and so on.
The market for these is very strange in Canada. I can get the rg35xx for $60 Cad, but anything newer is a better deal in USD despite the 30% conversion rate, which makes the only viable options here a 35xx or a steam deck, maybe the Retroid 4 Lite is cheap enough to be a reasonable steam deck alternative, but everything else is too expensive.
Good to know chromatic work on a gba device
Where’s the video review for the rp5
The Cube beats them all for a true retro system.
I got a blue SP and beat Mega Man 2 waiting on line at the grocery store. Nobody even looks twice at it, they just assume it's my phone. Peak of stealth gaming (as long as you medical tape mod the buttons)!
I'm still waiting for a 4:3 device with a GameCube button layout.
I agree with a lot of what you said but personally - prefer the FPGBC to the Modretro but yeah it's hard not to look at that one.
the Napoleon Dynamite hand butterfly had me dead right off the bat... 😂
People can only get the Gamestop Chromatic now. All of the other colors are sold out and they won't be making more of them sadly
Not too much power, but yes a lot of money being asked from us. The retroid pocket mini is maybe not for you, but there are people like me that love that stuff! GameCube and ps2 in my pocket is a dream, and the screen isn’t too small, the screen to body ratio is too small though.
Best would be the Analogue Pocket for the 2d gaming pre PS1, it can play SNES, NES, MasterSystem, CPS2, Megadrive, Neo Geo with pure accuracy and no lag. Something like the Chromatic is more of a 1to1 collectors item to sit alongside the original Gameboys, since it only plays Gameboy carts, would love to see replacement screens sold for broken Chromatics and for the original Gameboy, where it is sold as a mod. Then i would go for a smaller Aya Neo, or the Ayn Odin for PS1 and beyond, many devices struggle with PS2 era and those devices handle it well. And then for high end emulation, Xbox 360 and beyond, a handheld PC like the Steam Deck, Asus Rog Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, MSI Claw.
Nothing beats this in terms of performance and build quality, not only is there everything to emulate, but there is Steam and Epic games to play on these, and Steam has a lot 6th and 7th gen games aswell almost eliminating the need to emulate 6th and 7th gen consoles. But when it comes to price and something to take with you on the go. Even to the point where you don't mind if it drops and breaks or gets stolen or to give to kids. The Miyo Mini and the Anbernic devices are perfect options for those, very pocketable too. And some of there devices are more on unique side, making it stand out from the higher end options, like their GBA SP, Sega Saturn and their Gameboy Homages.
Skip to 11:00 to bypass all the boring yapping and actually get to the point of the video. Your welcome
tiktok killed your brain
I still have my Original PocketGo!
Awesome!
Same I haven't turned it on in ages but it's here when I get nostalgic for it the I kinda only picked up the RG28XX cause it look and felt like an evolved Pocket Go haha.
@@gamerdude612 It's like a modern day GB Micro. I've always liked it's overall design. The new ANBERINIC RG28XX same vibe but it's better, able to hold two 1TB micro sd cards and play video files (complete series TV shows in digital format). Then ANBERNIC has that beautiful RG300X, that's never leaving my collection!
We must play our pocket go off white 2.4inch screen emulation handhelds more often..I tend to carry mine around in a protective hard phone case..fine for me up to Advance games..
@@gamerdude612..the RG-28XX looks like a no name unbranded cheap Chinese handheld to me..plasticky..toylike..I have a few like that..DataFrog quality..not up to Anbernics high standards..the older discontinued RG-280M was beautiful..I'm sorry I never bought one of those..
I thought I had dead pixels on my screen but was just dust on your camera.
I like the OLED screen but with my Odin 2 and I don't really go anywhere, I have no need for any of these. My Steam Deck took care of all my PC mobile gaming.
Finally somebody said it. You don't need to buy every single new device it comes out. 2025 it's gonna be a very dry selling year for this companies. Even retroid, who are my favourite, over did it releasing both the rp4 and the rp5 on 2024.
I've got an RP4P for most stuff up to ps2 and gc, and a Miyoo A30 for very specific ps1 and below gaming. The pocketability is amazing. You might have 3 devices, an all rounder, a small and pocketable, and a very niche thing, and that's all you need. There might even be some overlap there too. Don't buy more stuff. You don't need it.
I'm glad you're openly saying how Anbernic blacklisted you. I still haven't forgiven them and I never will haha.
I need a 4 inch 4:3 “SP” device with 720p AMOLED screen and a 8 hour battery life minimum. Analog sticks optional.
How come nobody mentions that you cant get a RP5?
Just getting into this and I think at this point the next big thing for these devices are Xbox emulation and maybe some earlier pc games.
Halo and command and conquer both have a decent following so far
Yeah, that would be warmly welcomed.
You forgot the Limited Edition white steam deck :D
I'm torn between an Odin 2 or Odin Portal.
I just got the Odin 2 and it is magnificent. Can do everything I want on it. I have a retroid Pocket 3+ my kids will use. I have a MiyooA30 for my EDC that I throw in my pocket though that may be replaced by a clamshell in the future. Great time to be a retro gamer!
Odin 2 pro and 35xxsp...I'm really set
Hi uncle
Hey Rory!
Hi
Hi