50 MINUTES!!!! Forget a drink and a snack; prepare a 13 course meal and put the kids to bed. We're in for the long haul here "fellas"!!!!! Can't wait!!!! ;p
....ok, much luv. But you mention Mario 64 (8:23) in regards to the analog stick capabilities, but part of me has to wonder how much more or less these sticks compare to the original N64 sticks. And sure, you'd have to compare this hardware/software combo to the each platform (PS1, PS2, GC, etc.)... but that original N64 stick was so "first gen" that I can't see this iteration being anything but slightly better. Just saying. ;D
16:58 --- Sorry Russ, but I'm putting a quick cheat here, as this is something I want to find later as well! Quick settings tip for 4:3 content at the point listed earlier. Cheers!!!
Your measurements of the screens in game is something I’ve been looking for from reviewers for such a long time. Thank you very much for being so detailed
Glad I could help! Another really handy resource is this website, where you can choose the device/screen and then see how each console will look. So in this example you could choose the RGB30 since it has the same screen as the RG Cube, and get an idea how large each console will be. shauninman.com/utils/screens/?
I really love my RG Cube. I got it in black and it looks so slick! My use case is primarily NDS and 3DS games, because I don't like having the screens in a horizontal orientation or having to switch between them. The RG Cube is perfect for it. I almost bought the RGB30 for NDS games, but I'm thankful, that I've waited. Anbernic is only missing a PSP Go or Xperia Play style handheld console. If they manage to create one with a functioning slide mechanism, I'd be in heaven😊
@@caboose6411 My unit did not have lightbleed, but a few weeks after I received my RGCube, I had a worse error than light bleed. The Touch function didn't work and then it was just stuck in a boot loop. I contacted Anbernic and sent them video proof, so they just sent me a new screen and I had to replace it myself. After replacing the screen my RGCube's touch function worked fine again, BUT the new screen does have some light bleed, but that's fine with me
I am glad I grabbed a snack and a drink because this was a long video :D I got a pretzel and a jalapeño cheese sauce. Made homemade pretzels over the weekend when my sister and her family visited me 🥹 thank goodness I kept a bunch!
My RG Cube arrived this week, and I'm mostly happy with it! I don't have light bleed on mine, but I do have three issues: 1.) (like you mentioned), the sticks snapping to the 8 directions, biased toward cardinal directions. 2.) the dedicated button to bring up Anbernic's "Game Mode" front-end, which isn't great (especially because it doesn't allow platforms that aren't on its list, and also because it doesn't recognize some game file types that the associated emulators *do* recognize, making it pointless for certain systems). This button would much better as function button similar to the menu button on the 35xx+. 3.) the video output through usb-c isn't great. Your options are mirroring and desktop. Mirroring resulting in a 1:1 ratio output on your external screen regardless of its actual resolution and ratio. Desktop results in what feels like a second instance of android on the external screen. The handheld screen brings up a touchscreen, but you can navigate away, and the external screen acts as you would hope, but you can't move apps between screens, or shut off the handheld screen in this mode. It also doesn't properly output to wearable displays such as Xreal or Rokid glasses without a hub, which shouldn't be needed for this. On the bright side, thanks to other commenters I've got my eye on GammaOS, which aught to at least fix my issues with the sticks, but also hopefully the launcher button and display out can be fixed through that too before long, if they don't already have it figured out!
Hey there, just a tip! You can actually change the button with some workaround things which takes maybe 3-5 min with a couple things in some apps if you follow a guide. Look at RGC's RG556 setup guide and at the bottom theres steps to do it. I've changed my Cube's "r" button to open ES-DE (but you can make it anything you want)! Hopefully they let people do it themselves with an update, but I highly doubt it so I suggest doing this workaround!
@@hexwavemusic I was excited to hear this, but unfortunately it doesn't work very well. Disabling the RG App also disables some of the RGB lighting modes. You can make the RG button open a different launcher with the button mapper app, without even disabling the RG App, so I did do that! I wasn't, however, able to have it work as a function hotkey for Retroarch instead, as I had hoped, because apparently by default it functions as a home button, meaning that even with RG App disabled, it closes whatever app you have up when you press it.
Mine was $136 shipped from their ebay store when they had the 20% off coupon and free shipping. For that price even though I have an Odin 2 and the RP4P I couldn't resist.
@@fairyboy444it’s a tool for developing custom firmware. sometimes you “brick” a unit, making it unable to boot. turning it into a brick or paperweight. the unbricker essentially reinstalls the stock OS and let’s you try installing new software, since the T820 chip this comes with isn’t exactly unlocked or open source, nobody knows exactly how it functions. so to develop a custom firmware, it takes a LOT of trial and error. hundreds, maybe thousands of iterations before you get something functional that is also *good*
Actually he specifically said in Discord that he does not have everything he needs and isn’t sure he ever will. He’s exploring options to modify the stock Anbernic OS because he isn’t sure he can ever make Gamma OS on this device.
I purchased all four colors! And I would have to say the beige white with the rainbow buttons is the coolest looking one of all of them. The battery life is crazy good!
@@노윤성-e8k No not at all. After watching a couple of TH-camrs reviews, I was a little scared, but I got lucky. I love this device. It is so fun to use. if fits in the hand like a glove, it’s hard to explain. It’s just fun. I thought I would like the Ambernic RG 35XXSP more but I don’t. I’ve been using this thing for a few days nonstop. The battery is crazy good and the screen looks great.
The RG40XX has been revealed early in the Anbernic reddit, which is exactly like this model but as a 4:3 screen, so wait a little bit and It'll be out soon.
The size of the a 4:3 is the same on the cube, 35XX, and RP3/4. The only difference is the black bars. That combined with the GB/C and the-actually-8:7 consoles, the square screen gives the biggest image for the most consoles, and at 720. Imho square is best.
Excellent review and one I've been waiting for! I grabbed the SP and love it, but wanted something that could play GCN/PS2/SS, and chose the Cube. Between the others that it sits with like your comparison, what sold me on it vs the others was a combination of its compact size, analog placement, and ergonomics.
I love this thing. Its surprisingly light, like almost as light as my retroid pocket 2+. It pretty much feels like a Super RP2S to me except DS emulation is amazing thanks to screen. 2 bangers in a row, SP and Cube, and I love them both.
The plastic they use is really good abs plastics. If it was cheap the grates over the fan would break easily and it doesn’t. When this device first came out they had very poor quality control issues. All have been solved. I just got my device yesterday and love it. Only thing are the sticks. Need a fix for them badly
Ahhh! Thank you for pointing out the long press on the ambient light for the additional options! Had no idea that existed and without it there's actually no way to set one specific solid color, only white or a rainbow! Been LOVING the cube (besides the light bleed, I fixed it mostly myself but still a bit, but doesn't bother me really, and HDMI out issues), have the same grey and red color which looks fantastic. The HDMI out though, I hope they update it so it isn't so finnicky, I don't want all these hoops to get fullscreen instead of a cube. For instance with me, desktop mode will work for the display but then the Cube's controls do not work to control ES-DE.
Hey Russ - I appreciate you starting this review with the negatives. Feels like a simple format change but it's potentially a really helpful time-saver for me as a viewer.
@@RetroGameCorpsI certainly hope not. I'm not going to click off on yours anyways. For me ending with the positives, focuses on them for me, though I'm thankful for your pros and cons either way. I can speed up a video if I'm time pressed.
Not going to buy the Cube, I was… I’m here for 50 minutes of Russ. Js I love this channel!! My wife and I watched your London trip video (chefs kiss). Thanks for everything Russ!
Great review as always! Just picked up one of these as a gift. The advantage this has w its form factor is that it goes all the way up to PS2 which really opens up the retro game library 🎮😁
I love the concept and almost everything about the device. If the screen were 4:3 or 3:2, it'd be an instant purchase for me. But with this screen, you only get a 3.5" screen for GameCube, and in my experience thay is just too small to enjoy this system. So Anbernic, if you're listening! 720p 4:3/3:2 version of this, please!
If you have hands-on ability, I have already solved the problem of light leakage on my own. You can learn from it by replacing the back cover of the screen with 8 flat headed m1.4 screws, which can perfectly solve the problem of light leakage!
You should read out loud for an audio book or something I bet you would be very good at it! 👍I love listening to you talking about cool tech. These new wave of handhelds are both overwhelming and cool at the same time!
I bought mine within the first minute of it going on sale. But it took them close to 2 weeks before they actually shipped it. At first I was annoyed that I wasn't getting mine but now I'm glad it took a little bit of extra time. I should hopefully have mine within the next week and I'm really hoping mine is one of the good ones without the light bleed now. Hopefully Anbernic fixes this soon and anyone that's impacted gets taken care of and their unit replaced.
RG Cube is exciting to me because I have other handhelds. Nearly every weakness it has is just "meh, I can play that some other way." But its strengths have me excited to try genres (vertical shmup) and systems (DS/3DS) that I don't normally play.
I've been in the market for smaller device for my older retro games, NES to GBA primarily and this one is at the top of my list. I laughed at the design of it at first but I was quickly sold on it. The screen is perfect for what I need it for and I wouldn't really be using the analog sticks anyway.
@@Tal_Adler I don't like where this is going *and you're gonna go blind if you keep it up!* At least that's what my grandma said before she grabbed the belt.
Thank you so much for actually figuring out native pico-8. Any time I tried to look for info on whether something like this was possible on android, the only info I could find was about fake-8, or about getting the development kit up and running, and while they've said they do intend to make a native android app, they've also said it's pretty far down on the list of priorities. I have been wanting something with a bit beefier processor than my miyoo mini and I think this will be the one I pick up.
I’ve been waiting for this review before purchasing. Thank you so much for being so detailed and including measurements for the different screen sizes with DS and 3DS. Really helped me feel confident purchasing!
White shell + colorful facebuttons is by far the most beautiful design, combining retro SNES visuals with a clean modern look. I would love this style on more devices, but I think its an EU/JP thing.
This device is so tempting, but I am going to stick with my RGB30 for now since I mostly want it for GB/GBA and SNES/Genesis. So the cost savings makes sense for me. I've also been able ti mitigate the battery problems by installing ArkOS, which seems to drain battery slower, but I take advantage of the "Quick Mode" with R3 + Power (the boot up time is quick enough to use this regularly). Now I hardly need to charge it at all compared to before. I'll be keeping my eyes on the next "generation" of these handhelds though. A 4:3 smaller handheld that can handle PS2/GCN is what I am keeping an eye out for (with the power of the RP4 or better, since my SMT games run poorly on most handhelds).
I love the form factor. I've always wanted to see a smaller device with some ergonomic bumps (and love the Sega style dpad). If they release a 4" 4:3 version I'll definitely be a buyer.
It's ALMOST perfect! I would have preferred if the d-pad was located above the analogue stick as I prefer 2D games on handhelds (or RPGs, which play fine with a d-pad). I love the 1:1 screen, the rounded design, grips and the SEGA-style d-pad... Question is, will we ever get such a device? 😭
Its a great device for dual screens like 3ds or nds!! I used to hate swapping screens and left right screen orientation… now i can align them up-down orientation.
First time I’ve actually bought an anbernic device when I heard about it. It would be the one time there’s a bad light bleed issue. Fingers crossed mine is good when I get it. Purchased mine through anbernic on eBay. Overall looks like such a fun device though!
I really hope there’ll be another version of this with a 3:2 screen. I feel that’s the best balance for a device that might be playing anything from 4:3 to 16:9.
I am enjoying my "purple" Cube. I think a 1:1 version of the RG35XX would have made more sense because the 1:1 screen mostly benefits old handheld and vertical arcade games. My unit has some light bleed at the top, but I can live with it. Though if they want to ship me a new front plate, I'll take it.
I'm going to wait a few weeks or months before I buy an RG Cube. I gotta say that this Handheld is going to be my definitive Retro Achievement Handheld.
I think it goes without saying now that when a new device comes out, hall effect sticks and triggers are a must have and it's good that most of the companies producing them see it as a given.
Thank you so much for doing this review. If I didn't have the RGB30 already, I would have seriously considered this but I love the RGB30 for what I use it for and really don't need the extra stuff the "Cube" can do. I play Pico 8, GB, GBC and some GBA on my RGB30 and it works great for that. Right now I'm mostly playing DS and 3DS games for which I use a modded DSi XL and 3DS XL. The rest of my play time goes mostly to the Switch and PS5 with a bit on XB series X and modded Vita.
I'm in the super cool camp but it would be super cool if it came early to me. July 1st is so far away but it's worth the wait. I got it for $158 with a bag and free shipping
I wish Anbernic had better customer service, I told them about light bleed for my Cube and they just said it's normal for IPS screens to have light bleed and they will not replace it as a manufacturing issue....
to give ya'll context I'm in Asia and speaking with them through Taobao and using Chinese and they keep giving me excuses that this is common on IPS screens...saying this is not a manufacturing issue.
they just have pretty loose QA I think. like they do check if these things work in the factory but they apparantly find this level of light bleed acceptable. pretty much all companies work like this though most usually have a higher standard for what is acceptable (is also often the difference between premium and cheap brands, cheap brands just use some of the bad panels other companies won't use)
Great review as always! This device is closest to my ideal device, however the analog stick motion range and snapping issues (which I've dealt with on other Anbernic devices) is unfortunately a deal breaker at this price point. If it ever goes on sale for $120 or less then it's a consideration for sure, but I hope to see more competition since more 1:1 720p devices are coming out, maybe...Retroid? Cheers!
I ordered within one hour of release and the one I got have severe light bleed. Once I contacted Anbernic to get replacement, they insisted they'd ship me a front shell with screen and if its still not fixed I can get refund or replacement later. They also referred me to Taki's video which was funny because I told them I had seen the video; that he didn't disassemble it enough to replace the screen and he couldn't fix the problem. And his diagnosis might not have been entirely correct considering some of the unit being shipped do not have light bleed . I'd recommend just returning the faulty unit if you can, instead to trying to fix it yourself. When I contacted them I didn't realize the battery is glued that means I might have to buy isopropyl alcohol, double sided tape and such to fix the unit. I am waiting to see what "tools" they include with the front shell for fixing.
Hey Russ, when you show the comparison chart, it would be awesome if you could include the weight of the devices. At least for me, the weight is something that I value when I choose a new device 😊
It’s hard to buy any of these Anbernic devices knowing there’ll be a new one on the market before the one I ordered even turns up on my doorstep. This one looks close to my perfect device, but perhaps I’ll wait until a future revision. I do already have an RG35XX that I love, but N64 and GameCube support would be awesome.
Im really kicking myself for purchasing this day 1. I have been very meticulous when deciding to purchase these retro handheld releases. I wait a few months after reviews to not only see if the hardware is good but if CFW will improve them. Then ill buy on Amazon for the comfort of fast shipping and return policy. Ive purchased two other Anbernic devices so far but Ive been dying for a compact style handheld that can reliably play up through GC/PS2. When I saw the cube I got excited and decided to purchase it on release on ebay in hopes it would arrive for my birthday later this month. So far it hasnt arrived and now im worried itll have the light bleed issue souring the wait. Maybe ill get lucky and get a fixed model but regardless this experience has proven to me that it's always best to exercise patience. Thanks Russ for all the hard work you do with these videos!
Hey man, I've had the same feeling. Normally, I wait patiently, but the RG Cube is so unique that I ordered one from the Anbernic website the day it was released (also because of that 10 dollar discount release sale). Mine arrived last week and I can happily announce, that it does NOT have light bleed and the shoulder buttons don't creek as Taki Udon's unit. I was also really nervous, but luckily my unit does not have those issues.
@@manoorestagon good to hear I'm not the only one! Your story gives me hope for my unit! I should have just ordered directly from anbernics site rather than their eBay page. Im in Texas and tracking says it arrived to the US several days ago so I'm not sure how much longer till it arrives
Unfortunately, as much as I love this device as a theory, the light bleed issue is a no go. I have very bad luck with these devices. I had 3 rog ally that came with faulty sticks (fortunately bought from best buy so easy return) , and steam deck issues as well (who did make it right after a 3 week rma process) . I just don't have the mental fortitude to deal with getting one of these and having to deal with their process. Especially, with a smaller company who has every reason to try to not give you an easy experience because their capital is significantly lower than the aforementioned companies. But glad to live vicariously through you for 50 minutes.
What really makes me upset is how the sent reviewers units and told them they were fixed and then a lot of reviewers reported the information back and said the screens were fine. Honestly, it’s a really scammy business tactic and I feel like at some point when you have a company that’s being blatantly dishonest like that at some point they should be cut off from the review community. The fact that people bought these systems on their word that the screens were going to be good and they are only offering replacement shells is just beyond acceptable in my opinion and I will never ever buy an Anbernic device based on this.
I hope someone makes a 3D-printed back for these that omits those ergonomic hand bumps. The real win of this would be if it were more pocketable and portable. I prefer the grips on cases to play at home or more extended travel where I could throw it in a bag. I like the core device to be easily concealable in my pockets for daily carry.
Whilst i will watch the video end to end no time stamps sucks. I always come back to the videos month to month whilst i contemplate if i want one or not and skip around
At this point i feel you should have two separate retro devices. 1 for (4:3, 1:1, 8:7) & another for all the widescreen games. If that was the case what two device combination would you suggest that would cover all emulations well? Maybe you should do a video for it, like 2 devices < 200/250$?
I got mine, so far it isn't bad, but I can't seem to figure out how to get the gyroscope to work right. Kind of softlocks me in Kirby Triple Deluxe too since level 2 requires gyro controls, and so far no one has said anything on it. I just need to figure that out, otherwise, I love this device.
Russ!! Your vids have been my intro to the world of retro handhelds. Love your work. I’m totally new, looking for my first one, I love to travel and discovered the RG35XX-H online thinking it could be the perfect long haul flight companion…then I discovered your channel! Realising there are devices that can play up to PS2 era is a gamechanger. Your review of the pocket 4 pro nearly sold me, but here in Aus it’s about $400 before shipping, and the 4 is $300. Looks like the RG Cube is around $230. Would you say this is a good alternative? Is there any other handheld that’s more compact and lightweight with similar power? The upside of this chunky boi is the stacked shoulder buttons haha. Thanks for all the content you make! It’s been my new comfort watch!
You know, for the light bleed, I am sure that with another identical RG Cube you will have less/ more and not necessarily at the same location. Usually it's about pressure on the screen, all around the bezel.
Hi! thanks for all the great connect! i mostly play shoot em ups as of late and i wonder if there is a divece you can recomend for that purpose? I have a miyoo mini and are thinking that maybe its time to uppgrade. Greatfull för replay
I do like the off-white w/ rainbow buttons colorway, but feel that all the other buttons and joysticks should've been grey because it's giving Dreamcast or Super Famicom vibes.
Im actually surprised to hear about the sticks being stuck to 8 directions. I just got super mario sunshine to run at full speed with no issues, and I didnt even notice it when beating the first level.
You've gotta start mentioning whether or not the d-pad has a rocker on it. It makes for far easier inputs (especially on fighters) and is just overall more comfortable being there
Been dreaming of a more powerful RGB30 since I got my hands on one. This looks like it might fill that hole. Probably gonna wait for an Amazon release for easy returns though.
It goes without saying, but because this is a 50-minute video, you'll probably need a snack and drink.
Thank you for the reminder!
Water time!
No
This is dope, Let me buy the retro 😊be from you 😂 I’ve been messing with the TrimUi smart pro. But I’ll easily swap this this
Like this for seltzer 😉
Thank you for focusing on the thumsticks and the light bleed, most reviewers on TH-cam didn't even mention it.
Weird, too, because they're the most important aspects for me. If it controls poorly and looks bad, why would I want that? Especially for _$160._
50 MINUTES!!!! Forget a drink and a snack; prepare a 13 course meal and put the kids to bed. We're in for the long haul here "fellas"!!!!! Can't wait!!!! ;p
....ok, much luv. But you mention Mario 64 (8:23) in regards to the analog stick capabilities, but part of me has to wonder how much more or less these sticks compare to the original N64 sticks. And sure, you'd have to compare this hardware/software combo to the each platform (PS1, PS2, GC, etc.)... but that original N64 stick was so "first gen" that I can't see this iteration being anything but slightly better. Just saying. ;D
16:58 --- Sorry Russ, but I'm putting a quick cheat here, as this is something I want to find later as well! Quick settings tip for 4:3 content at the point listed earlier. Cheers!!!
So.... Powkiddy RGB30 killer??? There's a price difference, and some bumps in the pocket... but overall, come on... which one are you picking???
"put the kids to bed" you remind all of us that most of the viewers are in their 40s 😅
@@AdityoFirmansyah ... I mean who else truly appreciates a good Sega Genesis handheld! ;D
Your measurements of the screens in game is something I’ve been looking for from reviewers for such a long time. Thank you very much for being so detailed
Glad I could help! Another really handy resource is this website, where you can choose the device/screen and then see how each console will look. So in this example you could choose the RGB30 since it has the same screen as the RG Cube, and get an idea how large each console will be. shauninman.com/utils/screens/?
Definitely bookmarking this and sharing it with others who would also value such information. Thank you again! This is amazing
I really love my RG Cube. I got it in black and it looks so slick! My use case is primarily NDS and 3DS games, because I don't like having the screens in a horizontal orientation or having to switch between them. The RG Cube is perfect for it. I almost bought the RGB30 for NDS games, but I'm thankful, that I've waited. Anbernic is only missing a PSP Go or Xperia Play style handheld console. If they manage to create one with a functioning slide mechanism, I'd be in heaven😊
Have you had any light bleed issues or have those been fixed?
@@caboose6411 My unit did not have lightbleed, but a few weeks after I received my RGCube, I had a worse error than light bleed. The Touch function didn't work and then it was just stuck in a boot loop. I contacted Anbernic and sent them video proof, so they just sent me a new screen and I had to replace it myself. After replacing the screen my RGCube's touch function worked fine again, BUT the new screen does have some light bleed, but that's fine with me
I am glad I grabbed a snack and a drink because this was a long video :D I got a pretzel and a jalapeño cheese sauce. Made homemade pretzels over the weekend when my sister and her family visited me 🥹 thank goodness I kept a bunch!
Wow that sounds delicious!! I am inspired to make some pretzels soon...
What was the drink?
@@allanaguirre8134 Cherry coke :)
My RG Cube arrived this week, and I'm mostly happy with it!
I don't have light bleed on mine, but I do have three issues:
1.) (like you mentioned), the sticks snapping to the 8 directions, biased toward cardinal directions.
2.) the dedicated button to bring up Anbernic's "Game Mode" front-end, which isn't great (especially because it doesn't allow platforms that aren't on its list, and also because it doesn't recognize some game file types that the associated emulators *do* recognize, making it pointless for certain systems). This button would much better as function button similar to the menu button on the 35xx+.
3.) the video output through usb-c isn't great. Your options are mirroring and desktop. Mirroring resulting in a 1:1 ratio output on your external screen regardless of its actual resolution and ratio. Desktop results in what feels like a second instance of android on the external screen. The handheld screen brings up a touchscreen, but you can navigate away, and the external screen acts as you would hope, but you can't move apps between screens, or shut off the handheld screen in this mode. It also doesn't properly output to wearable displays such as Xreal or Rokid glasses without a hub, which shouldn't be needed for this.
On the bright side, thanks to other commenters I've got my eye on GammaOS, which aught to at least fix my issues with the sticks, but also hopefully the launcher button and display out can be fixed through that too before long, if they don't already have it figured out!
Hey there, just a tip! You can actually change the button with some workaround things which takes maybe 3-5 min with a couple things in some apps if you follow a guide. Look at RGC's RG556 setup guide and at the bottom theres steps to do it. I've changed my Cube's "r" button to open ES-DE (but you can make it anything you want)!
Hopefully they let people do it themselves with an update, but I highly doubt it so I suggest doing this workaround!
@@hexwavemusic I was excited to hear this, but unfortunately it doesn't work very well. Disabling the RG App also disables some of the RGB lighting modes. You can make the RG button open a different launcher with the button mapper app, without even disabling the RG App, so I did do that! I wasn't, however, able to have it work as a function hotkey for Retroarch instead, as I had hoped, because apparently by default it functions as a home button, meaning that even with RG App disabled, it closes whatever app you have up when you press it.
Mine was $136 shipped from their ebay store when they had the 20% off coupon and free shipping. For that price even though I have an Odin 2 and the RP4P I couldn't resist.
I have been hand so much fun with this device, I really do wish the hand the J original Gamecube purple. Thanks for another awesome video 👍🏾
That purple would have been epic, I'd even take GC orange :D
I would have loved to see an Indigo color too.
@@RetroGameCorps I might take my review unit with the light bleed and Plastidip it purple, Yep I'm doing it 🥰🤩🦾
@@Pridetoons trust me
@@RetroGameCorpsSpice Orange!
News just in Gamma Squeeze finally has a functional unbricker for the RG556 and RG-Cube! GammaOS is coming to the RG556 and RG-Cube!
as a non-super geek, could you explain what this means in laymen terms?
@@fairyboy444it’s a tool for developing custom firmware. sometimes you “brick” a unit, making it unable to boot. turning it into a brick or paperweight. the unbricker essentially reinstalls the stock OS and let’s you try installing new software, since the T820 chip this comes with isn’t exactly unlocked or open source, nobody knows exactly how it functions. so to develop a custom firmware, it takes a LOT of trial and error. hundreds, maybe thousands of iterations before you get something functional that is also *good*
Actually he specifically said in Discord that he does not have everything he needs and isn’t sure he ever will. He’s exploring options to modify the stock Anbernic OS because he isn’t sure he can ever make Gamma OS on this device.
@@maxducoudray He said all he needed was an Unbricker to work on Custom Firmware. Now he has a functioning Unbricker.
@@fairyboy444 Basically better Firmware, and the Analog Sticks will be fixed.
Ahhh, 50 munutes of hearing Russ talk about handhelds? Sign me up!
Your marble merger play style is absolute chaos and I’m here for it
I purchased all four colors! And I would have to say the beige white with the rainbow buttons is the coolest looking one of all of them. The battery life is crazy good!
Did you get any light bleed or are they good?
@@노윤성-e8k No not at all. After watching a couple of TH-camrs reviews, I was a little scared, but I got lucky. I love this device. It is so fun to use. if fits in the hand like a glove, it’s hard to explain. It’s just fun. I thought I would like the Ambernic RG 35XXSP more but I don’t. I’ve been using this thing for a few days nonstop. The battery is crazy good and the screen looks great.
If they had used the 4:3 screen it'd be my dream handheld 😭
I had the RGB30 with a 720 x 720 screen and it was awesome. It was just a shame the device was cheap feeling and the battery and charging had issues.
The RG40XX has been revealed early in the Anbernic reddit, which is exactly like this model but as a 4:3 screen, so wait a little bit and It'll be out soon.
@@sonicdesignz9362 It's not tho, it's an h700 which can't even run n64 well
@@dean_dv I had the rp2s which for 4:3 is functionally the same size and I felt it was waay too small for gamecube, the 405v screen is perfect imo
The size of the a 4:3 is the same on the cube, 35XX, and RP3/4. The only difference is the black bars. That combined with the GB/C and the-actually-8:7 consoles, the square screen gives the biggest image for the most consoles, and at 720. Imho square is best.
Excellent review and one I've been waiting for! I grabbed the SP and love it, but wanted something that could play GCN/PS2/SS, and chose the Cube. Between the others that it sits with like your comparison, what sold me on it vs the others was a combination of its compact size, analog placement, and ergonomics.
I love this thing. Its surprisingly light, like almost as light as my retroid pocket 2+. It pretty much feels like a Super RP2S to me except DS emulation is amazing thanks to screen. 2 bangers in a row, SP and Cube, and I love them both.
I own both also, the ultimate duo SP and Cube
What's heavier sp or cube?
@@washuai i don't have a scale but it feels like the SP is heavier
The plastic they use is really good abs plastics. If it was cheap the grates over the fan would break easily and it doesn’t. When this device first came out they had very poor quality control issues. All have been solved. I just got my device yesterday and love it. Only thing are the sticks. Need a fix for them badly
Thank you for uploading, Russ!
I’ve been looking forward to this video!
I already got my snack and boba ready!😊
Ahhh! Thank you for pointing out the long press on the ambient light for the additional options! Had no idea that existed and without it there's actually no way to set one specific solid color, only white or a rainbow!
Been LOVING the cube (besides the light bleed, I fixed it mostly myself but still a bit, but doesn't bother me really, and HDMI out issues), have the same grey and red color which looks fantastic.
The HDMI out though, I hope they update it so it isn't so finnicky, I don't want all these hoops to get fullscreen instead of a cube. For instance with me, desktop mode will work for the display but then the Cube's controls do not work to control ES-DE.
Most intrigued I've been about a handheld since the Odin 2. Hopefully the light bleed issue gets sorted out.
Tbh i will never use max brightness in the dark.. so its a non issue for me.
But i do get that it shouldn't be there in the first place.
Agreed @@Guitario666
@@Guitario666you don't need highest Brightness to see light bleed
@@jesusbarrera6916 oh ok
Hey Russ - I appreciate you starting this review with the negatives. Feels like a simple format change but it's potentially a really helpful time-saver for me as a viewer.
Happy to be of help, it'll be interesting if it tanks my viewership analytics with people turning off the video after the bad stuff :)
@@RetroGameCorpsI certainly hope not. I'm not going to click off on yours anyways. For me ending with the positives, focuses on them for me, though I'm thankful for your pros and cons either way.
I can speed up a video if I'm time pressed.
I have never bought a handheld but I still enjoy watching these videos so much 😅
Not going to buy the Cube, I was… I’m here for 50 minutes of Russ. Js I love this channel!! My wife and I watched your London trip video (chefs kiss). Thanks for everything Russ!
Great review as always! Just picked up one of these as a gift. The advantage this has w its form factor is that it goes all the way up to PS2 which really opens up the retro game library 🎮😁
Here just to mention I was surprised and delighted to see the Rites of Spring shirt. you’re the best, Russ
I love the concept and almost everything about the device. If the screen were 4:3 or 3:2, it'd be an instant purchase for me.
But with this screen, you only get a 3.5" screen for GameCube, and in my experience thay is just too small to enjoy this system.
So Anbernic, if you're listening! 720p 4:3/3:2 version of this, please!
They'll probably do that the day after I cave and order this one.
If you have hands-on ability, I have already solved the problem of light leakage on my own. You can learn from it by replacing the back cover of the screen with 8 flat headed m1.4 screws, which can perfectly solve the problem of light leakage!
O wow my light bleed picture made it into a retro games corps video 👀
Famous!
Did you manage to fix it?
That's a bummer, my unit has no light bleed. But I did order directly from Anbernic and they didn't get to me in the first wave.
@@Impostor39890 i did a few tweaks from Takis video which improved it & they are sending me out a screen after refusing to replace or refund it
You should read out loud for an audio book or something I bet you would be very good at it! 👍I love listening to you talking about cool tech. These new wave of handhelds are both overwhelming and cool at the same time!
I bought mine within the first minute of it going on sale. But it took them close to 2 weeks before they actually shipped it. At first I was annoyed that I wasn't getting mine but now I'm glad it took a little bit of extra time. I should hopefully have mine within the next week and I'm really hoping mine is one of the good ones without the light bleed now.
Hopefully Anbernic fixes this soon and anyone that's impacted gets taken care of and their unit replaced.
RG Cube is exciting to me because I have other handhelds. Nearly every weakness it has is just "meh, I can play that some other way." But its strengths have me excited to try genres (vertical shmup) and systems (DS/3DS) that I don't normally play.
You have the donor right there to make your panda color model. I double dare you to do it for the fun of it.
I'm tempted!
I've been in the market for smaller device for my older retro games, NES to GBA primarily and this one is at the top of my list. I laughed at the design of it at first but I was quickly sold on it. The screen is perfect for what I need it for and I wouldn't really be using the analog sticks anyway.
New RGC video: "Grab a snack and drink."
Me: "Yea man, I wanna do it!"
Hell, if he'd tell me to grab an inflating doll I would as well
@@Tal_Adler I don't like where this is going *and you're gonna go blind if you keep it up!* At least that's what my grandma said before she grabbed the belt.
@@Tal_Adler Don't be threatening us with a good time!
Thank you so much for actually figuring out native pico-8. Any time I tried to look for info on whether something like this was possible on android, the only info I could find was about fake-8, or about getting the development kit up and running, and while they've said they do intend to make a native android app, they've also said it's pretty far down on the list of priorities. I have been wanting something with a bit beefier processor than my miyoo mini and I think this will be the one I pick up.
Happy to be of help!
Received mine today! Zero light bleeding.. its awesome the way it feels like a fisher price toy but so fun to play ps2 games!! I love it!!!
I’ve been waiting for this review before purchasing. Thank you so much for being so detailed and including measurements for the different screen sizes with DS and 3DS. Really helped me feel confident purchasing!
WHO UP RG'ING THEY CUBE
💀💀💀
Wat
I’m so excited to get mine, aaaaah. Great review.
Yay! Thank you!
i can't wait for your review of the RG40XX H!!!
29:30 "a 4 inch, 4:3, 720p" the holy grail of retro handheld displays
Had my eye on these far a portable little PS2 machine, but refused to even consider it properly until your full review came out 🙂
as someone that has an anbernic device (rg405m), i'd call the joystick input snapping a dealbreaker.
White shell + colorful facebuttons is by far the most beautiful design, combining retro SNES visuals with a clean modern look. I would love this style on more devices, but I think its an EU/JP thing.
The sticks have a poor range of motion, but thanks to the RGB lights they have a full range of emotion.
Thanks 🎉 i was waiting for this before messing around my rg cube black 😁
This device is so tempting, but I am going to stick with my RGB30 for now since I mostly want it for GB/GBA and SNES/Genesis. So the cost savings makes sense for me.
I've also been able ti mitigate the battery problems by installing ArkOS, which seems to drain battery slower, but I take advantage of the "Quick Mode" with R3 + Power (the boot up time is quick enough to use this regularly). Now I hardly need to charge it at all compared to before.
I'll be keeping my eyes on the next "generation" of these handhelds though. A 4:3 smaller handheld that can handle PS2/GCN is what I am keeping an eye out for (with the power of the RP4 or better, since my SMT games run poorly on most handhelds).
Finding out there's a 4inch 4:3 version that was leaked. Oye...
Great review!
Really? Where?
Weaker processor, it wont play Gamecube or PS2 titles like the Cube. 🍻
@@tonyrosario1940not only that probably more washed out screen
probably the closest I'll ever get to having one of those lg wing handhelds, can't wait to get my own!
Nice! WHICH ONE ARE YOU GETTING?
i can not keep buying these things, i dont even know where to store them😢
Same..
mine is on the way 😂
Just start buying them as gifts for your family, then ask to borrow them
@@neetpride5919 😆
Купил такую консоль, экран отличный, все удобно, буду прошивать по твоим рекомендациям! Спасибо
I love the form factor. I've always wanted to see a smaller device with some ergonomic bumps (and love the Sega style dpad). If they release a 4" 4:3 version I'll definitely be a buyer.
It's ALMOST perfect! I would have preferred if the d-pad was located above the analogue stick as I prefer 2D games on handhelds (or RPGs, which play fine with a d-pad). I love the 1:1 screen, the rounded design, grips and the SEGA-style d-pad... Question is, will we ever get such a device? 😭
Its a great device for dual screens like 3ds or nds!! I used to hate swapping screens and left right screen orientation… now i can align them up-down orientation.
Got mine in few day ago. I love it for vertical shmups.
First time I’ve actually bought an anbernic device when I heard about it. It would be the one time there’s a bad light bleed issue. Fingers crossed mine is good when I get it. Purchased mine through anbernic on eBay. Overall looks like such a fun device though!
I have my 4 inch 1:1 aspect ratio display handheld that runs very nice and I'm glad I purchased it. My Solid White Edition PowKiddy RGB20SX!
I'm watching this on my Cube! I ordered mine before I knew we got matching colors! 💚
I hope I look cool on that screen :D
@@RetroGameCorps You do! 💚 Speaking of, it seems that everyone I know who got one seems to have a good screen! No bleed!
I think this device is awesome and I need it.
I really hope there’ll be another version of this with a 3:2 screen. I feel that’s the best balance for a device that might be playing anything from 4:3 to 16:9.
Awesome video. Compasion at the end was very well done
I am enjoying my "purple" Cube. I think a 1:1 version of the RG35XX would have made more sense because the 1:1 screen mostly benefits old handheld and vertical arcade games.
My unit has some light bleed at the top, but I can live with it. Though if they want to ship me a new front plate, I'll take it.
Finally!!! I was waiting for this review for nearly a month!!!
Great video, man!😊
I'm going to wait a few weeks or months before I buy an RG Cube. I gotta say that this Handheld is going to be my definitive Retro Achievement Handheld.
I've been fighting my purchase because I'm waiting for my Odin 2 mini 🫠
Got my gray one yesterday so excited ....
I think it goes without saying now that when a new device comes out, hall effect sticks and triggers are a must have and it's good that most of the companies producing them see it as a given.
Thank you so much for doing this review. If I didn't have the RGB30 already, I would have seriously considered this but I love the RGB30 for what I use it for and really don't need the extra stuff the "Cube" can do. I play Pico 8, GB, GBC and some GBA on my RGB30 and it works great for that. Right now I'm mostly playing DS and 3DS games for which I use a modded DSi XL and 3DS XL. The rest of my play time goes mostly to the Switch and PS5 with a bit on XB series X and modded Vita.
Sounds like you have a great setup!
I'm in the super cool camp but it would be super cool if it came early to me. July 1st is so far away but it's worth the wait. I got it for $158 with a bag and free shipping
I wish Anbernic had better customer service, I told them about light bleed for my Cube and they just said it's normal for IPS screens to have light bleed and they will not replace it as a manufacturing issue....
to give ya'll context I'm in Asia and speaking with them through Taobao and using Chinese and they keep giving me excuses that this is common on IPS screens...saying this is not a manufacturing issue.
they just have pretty loose QA I think. like they do check if these things work in the factory but they apparantly find this level of light bleed acceptable.
pretty much all companies work like this though most usually have a higher standard for what is acceptable (is also often the difference between premium and cheap brands, cheap brands just use some of the bad panels other companies won't use)
Very tempting. This or the RG556 may be my dream RPG machine.
Great review as always! This device is closest to my ideal device, however the analog stick motion range and snapping issues (which I've dealt with on other Anbernic devices) is unfortunately a deal breaker at this price point. If it ever goes on sale for $120 or less then it's a consideration for sure, but I hope to see more competition since more 1:1 720p devices are coming out, maybe...Retroid? Cheers!
I ordered within one hour of release and the one I got have severe light bleed. Once I contacted Anbernic to get replacement, they insisted they'd ship me a front shell with screen and if its still not fixed I can get refund or replacement later. They also referred me to Taki's video which was funny because I told them I had seen the video; that he didn't disassemble it enough to replace the screen and he couldn't fix the problem. And his diagnosis might not have been entirely correct considering some of the unit being shipped do not have light bleed .
I'd recommend just returning the faulty unit if you can, instead to trying to fix it yourself. When I contacted them I didn't realize the battery is glued that means I might have to buy isopropyl alcohol, double sided tape and such to fix the unit. I am waiting to see what "tools" they include with the front shell for fixing.
got mine today no light bleed, its peak
Oh man, I have been waiting for this video for over 5 days. I am so glad its q 50 minute video. ❤❤❤
Hey Russ, when you show the comparison chart, it would be awesome if you could include the weight of the devices. At least for me, the weight is something that I value when I choose a new device 😊
It’s hard to buy any of these Anbernic devices knowing there’ll be a new one on the market before the one I ordered even turns up on my doorstep. This one looks close to my perfect device, but perhaps I’ll wait until a future revision. I do already have an RG35XX that I love, but N64 and GameCube support would be awesome.
One of these but with a 4:3 screen and no analog would be my dream device
Commenting for the rites of spring shirt…and the handheld of course.
Love to see it Russ. Thanks always for the informative and entertaining reviews! 🔥
Im really kicking myself for purchasing this day 1. I have been very meticulous when deciding to purchase these retro handheld releases. I wait a few months after reviews to not only see if the hardware is good but if CFW will improve them. Then ill buy on Amazon for the comfort of fast shipping and return policy. Ive purchased two other Anbernic devices so far but Ive been dying for a compact style handheld that can reliably play up through GC/PS2. When I saw the cube I got excited and decided to purchase it on release on ebay in hopes it would arrive for my birthday later this month. So far it hasnt arrived and now im worried itll have the light bleed issue souring the wait. Maybe ill get lucky and get a fixed model but regardless this experience has proven to me that it's always best to exercise patience. Thanks Russ for all the hard work you do with these videos!
Hey man, I've had the same feeling. Normally, I wait patiently, but the RG Cube is so unique that I ordered one from the Anbernic website the day it was released (also because of that 10 dollar discount release sale). Mine arrived last week and I can happily announce, that it does NOT have light bleed and the shoulder buttons don't creek as Taki Udon's unit. I was also really nervous, but luckily my unit does not have those issues.
@@manoorestagon good to hear I'm not the only one! Your story gives me hope for my unit! I should have just ordered directly from anbernics site rather than their eBay page. Im in Texas and tracking says it arrived to the US several days ago so I'm not sure how much longer till it arrives
@@ninjason57 Wish you all the best for your unit!🙏
Unfortunately, as much as I love this device as a theory, the light bleed issue is a no go. I have very bad luck with these devices. I had 3 rog ally that came with faulty sticks (fortunately bought from best buy so easy return) , and steam deck issues as well (who did make it right after a 3 week rma process) . I just don't have the mental fortitude to deal with getting one of these and having to deal with their process. Especially, with a smaller company who has every reason to try to not give you an easy experience because their capital is significantly lower than the aforementioned companies. But glad to live vicariously through you for 50 minutes.
Great video, is there a setup guide for this please..?
What really makes me upset is how the sent reviewers units and told them they were fixed and then a lot of reviewers reported the information back and said the screens were fine.
Honestly, it’s a really scammy business tactic and I feel like at some point when you have a company that’s being blatantly dishonest like that at some point they should be cut off from the review community.
The fact that people bought these systems on their word that the screens were going to be good and they are only offering replacement shells is just beyond acceptable in my opinion and I will never ever buy an Anbernic device based on this.
I hope someone makes a 3D-printed back for these that omits those ergonomic hand bumps. The real win of this would be if it were more pocketable and portable. I prefer the grips on cases to play at home or more extended travel where I could throw it in a bag. I like the core device to be easily concealable in my pockets for daily carry.
Whilst i will watch the video end to end no time stamps sucks.
I always come back to the videos month to month whilst i contemplate if i want one or not and skip around
At this point i feel you should have two separate retro devices. 1 for (4:3, 1:1, 8:7) & another for all the widescreen games. If that was the case what two device combination would you suggest that would cover all emulations well? Maybe you should do a video for it, like 2 devices < 200/250$?
You need a third one just for Genesis. Good thing Anbernic makes that one already.
Thank you for reminding me to get a snack and drink because I couldnt have gotten one
I got mine, so far it isn't bad, but I can't seem to figure out how to get the gyroscope to work right. Kind of softlocks me in Kirby Triple Deluxe too since level 2 requires gyro controls, and so far no one has said anything on it. I just need to figure that out, otherwise, I love this device.
Russ!! Your vids have been my intro to the world of retro handhelds. Love your work. I’m totally new, looking for my first one, I love to travel and discovered the RG35XX-H online thinking it could be the perfect long haul flight companion…then I discovered your channel! Realising there are devices that can play up to PS2 era is a gamechanger. Your review of the pocket 4 pro nearly sold me, but here in Aus it’s about $400 before shipping, and the 4 is $300. Looks like the RG Cube is around $230. Would you say this is a good alternative? Is there any other handheld that’s more compact and lightweight with similar power? The upside of this chunky boi is the stacked shoulder buttons haha. Thanks for all the content you make! It’s been my new comfort watch!
This looks like exactly what i'm looking for, thank you :)
Thanks for the video! Im extremely happy with my rg353m but i think im going with the rp4pro for my next device.
What I want in RP4P is an Odin 2 mini
I love your reviews. You’re my favorite youtube channel
You know, for the light bleed, I am sure that with another identical RG Cube you will have less/ more and not necessarily at the same location.
Usually it's about pressure on the screen, all around the bezel.
Hi! thanks for all the great connect! i mostly play shoot em ups as of late and i wonder if there is a divece you can recomend for that purpose? I have a miyoo mini and are thinking that maybe its time to uppgrade.
Greatfull för replay
I do like the off-white w/ rainbow buttons colorway, but feel that all the other buttons and joysticks should've been grey because it's giving Dreamcast or Super Famicom vibes.
Im actually surprised to hear about the sticks being stuck to 8 directions. I just got super mario sunshine to run at full speed with no issues, and I didnt even notice it when beating the first level.
You've gotta start mentioning whether or not the d-pad has a rocker on it. It makes for far easier inputs (especially on fighters) and is just overall more comfortable being there
Been dreaming of a more powerful RGB30 since I got my hands on one. This looks like it might fill that hole. Probably gonna wait for an Amazon release for easy returns though.
*sees the length of the video*
*puts on apron and prepares a five-course meal and gets comfy on the couch* 😂
Bought one, already have it and love it, yet still watching this 50 minute review...
Same 😂
If you have it, more reason, might learn something about something you actually use
@@washuaithat's true, I'd love to see a dive into specific settings for this device, generic guides don't really work when it's a 1:1 screen