Anbernic RG40XXV Review: PS1/N64 Sweet Spot for £60-£80 UK 2026?

Ben Rawlinson — Founder & Editor, RetroInHand

Last updated: July 2026

Hitting the market around £60–£80 in 2026, the RG40XXV often finds itself positioned as a compelling budget option for enthusiasts seeking PlayStation 1 and Nintendo 64 emulation. Many community members, particularly those looking for a step up from the popular RG35XX series, have pointed to its vertical form factor and inclusion of analog sticks as key differentiators. However, a closer look at the device’s actual utility for precise PS1 platformers or N64 fighters, especially considering community feedback on its controls, paints a more nuanced picture for British retro gamers.

While the RG40XXV certainly brings a capable system-on-a-chip (SoC) for its price point, delivering playable frame rates for many PlayStation 1 titles and some N64 library, raw performance benchmarks do not tell the whole story. A critical oversight in some reviews, such as one from Held Games published in March 2026 that praised its “class-leading controls,” is the practical impact of input accuracy on gameplay. RetroInHand contends that for a device to truly be a “sweet spot” for these platforms, particularly N64, its controls must be beyond reproach. This is where the RG40XXV struggles to justify its position, as user reports from 2025-2026 consistently highlight significant D-pad issues.

Its specifications may appear to tick many boxes on paper, offering a 4-inch display and dual analog sticks, features absent from its smaller, horizontal siblings. However, the consistent community reports of an “inaccurate” D-pad and “too many accidental diagonals” for precise gameplay make it a harder sell for anyone truly invested in the nuances of classic PS1 action games like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night or N64 titles such as Super Smash Bros.. A budget device needs to perform its core function reliably, and if that means struggling with fundamental control inputs, then its value proposition for higher-end retro emulation diminishes considerably.

Anbernic RG40XXV: Performance for PS1 and N64 Emulation UK (2026)

Carrying the Rockchip RK3566 SoC, the Anbernic RG40XXV was released in late 2024, utilising a processor widely adopted in mid-range retro handhelds across 2024 and 2025. This chip includes four ARM Cortex-A55 cores clocked at up to 1.8GHz, paired with 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM. For PlayStation 1 emulation, this hardware configuration generally provides robust performance. Most PS1 titles, including demanding 3D games like Gran Turismo 2 or Crash Bandicoot 3: Warped, achieve a locked 60 frames per second (fps) using standard RetroArch cores such as PCSX-Rearmed. Upscaling to 2x resolution within the emulator is often possible, delivering a cleaner image on the 4-inch display, a factor many users accustomed to original hardware appreciate. This level of PS1 emulation is consistent across the RK3566 platform, making the RG40XXV a reliable choice for that specific library.

Regarding Nintendo 64 emulation, the challenge arises. The N64 architecture, with its unique Reality Display Processor (RDP) and Reality Signal Processor (RSP), historically presents a steeper hurdle for ARM-based SoCs to emulate accurately. Its RK3566 chip can handle many N64 games, particularly those that are not overly reliant on complex microcode or high frame rates. Titles like Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Mario Kart 64 typically achieve playable frame rates, often hovering between 25-30fps, with some minor frame drops in graphically intensive areas. This performance is generally deemed acceptable for casual play by many in the community, especially for games that were not designed for a locked 60fps originally.

However, more demanding N64 titles push the RK3566 to its limits. Games such as Perfect Dark, Conker’s Bad Fur Day, or Star Wars: Rogue Squadron exhibit noticeable slowdowns, audio stutter, and graphical glitches even with optimised emulator settings. Digital Foundry benchmarks for similar RK3566 devices from 2025 indicated that these games rarely maintain above 20-22fps, making them less than ideal experiences. The community consensus on r/SBCGaming reflects this reality, often advising users not to expect flawless N64 emulation on devices within this price bracket. While the RG40XXV provides access to the N64 library, it does so with a recognised “hard ceiling” for more intensive games, a point that Held Games’ review in March 2026 acknowledged only in passing.

Additionally, the specific emulator core used significantly impacts performance. For N64, Mupen64Plus-Next with the GLES2 or Rice video plugin generally offers the best balance of speed and compatibility on the RK3566. Experimentation with different settings, such as adjusting frame skipping or resolution, can yield marginal improvements for certain titles. However, these are often compromises rather than true solutions for underlying hardware limitations. Players interested in a deeper understanding of N64 emulation on various handhelds might consult our Best Handheld for N64 Games Under £150 UK (2026) guide, which explores devices with more robust N64 capabilities.

For PSP emulation, the RG40XXV again faces limitations. While lighter PSP games, like Lumines or Daxter, can run at acceptable frame rates (often around 30fps), most 3D PSP titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus or Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories struggle significantly. Community benchmarks show these games frequently dropping below 20fps, making them largely unplayable for extended periods. The RK3566 simply lacks the raw GPU power for consistent PSP emulation at anything beyond native resolution, a common observation across similar handhelds. Vlad’s Gaming Tech World, in their March 2025 video reviewing the RG40XXV, also noted these PSP limitations, advising realistic expectations.

The D-Pad Dilemma: Controls for Precise Retro Gaming

The controls on any retro handheld are paramount, particularly for platforms like PS1 and N64 which feature many games demanding precise inputs. While the Anbernic RG40XXV includes dual analog sticks, which are a definite upgrade over devices like the Anbernic RG35XX H for N64 titles such as GoldenEye 007, the device’s D-pad has been a consistent source of community complaints since its release. Users across platforms like r/SBCGaming have extensively reported issues, frequently describing the D-pad as “not accurate enough” and prone to “too many accidental diagonals.”

This D-pad inaccuracy poses a significant problem for many classic games. Precise platformers like Mega Man X4 on PS1, where pixel-perfect jumps and dashes are essential, become frustrating. Fighting games such as Tekken 3 or Street Fighter Alpha 3, which rely on accurate quarter-circle inputs and directional blocking, are severely hampered. Even simpler 2D arcade titles, which should theoretically be a perfect fit for a D-pad, suffer when unintentional diagonal inputs register. This undermines the utility of the device for a substantial portion of the retro library, despite the RK3566 SoC providing ample power for these systems.

A likely culprit for the control issues is the mechanical design of the D-pad. Unlike some older, more robust D-pad designs with distinct pivot points and tactile switches, Anbernic’s D-pads on some models can be overly sensitive or feature membrane switches that are too soft, leading to bleed between directional contacts. For a handheld specifically marketed towards platforms with demanding 2D and 2.5D games, this represents a fundamental flaw. The problem is not merely a preference; it’s a functional limitation that impacts gameplay across genres. Had Anbernic prioritised the D-pad design as much as the inclusion of analog sticks, the perception of the RG40XXV could be vastly different.

Community feedback from 2025-2026 on the RG40XXV’s D-pad is remarkably consistent, with terms like “unplayable for precise shooters or platformers” appearing repeatedly. This directly contradicts claims of “class-leading controls” that appeared in some early reviews. While one might initially consider an external controller as a workaround, attaching a separate 8BitDo SN30 Pro controller defeats the purpose of a portable handheld experience. The expectation for a device like the RG40XXV is that its integrated controls are reliable for its target systems. For those seeking superior D-pads, devices like the Retroid Pocket 2S, while slightly more expensive at around £100–£120, consistently receive higher marks for input accuracy, making them a more viable option for serious retro players.

Reports indicate this issue is not isolated to a single batch; it appears to be a persistent design characteristic. Prospective buyers looking at the RG40XXV should carefully consider their primary gaming genres. If 2D platformers, fighting games, or anything requiring meticulous D-pad input are a significant part of your retro diet, this device may lead to frustration. Its analog sticks are perfectly serviceable for N64 titles where precision is less critical or where the analog input is genuinely preferred, but the D-pad’s shortcomings remain a glaring omission for a device otherwise capable of running older systems admirably.

Screen Quality: PPI, Colour, and Common Issues

Measuring 4 inches diagonally, the RG40XXV’s IPS panel boasts a resolution of 640×480 pixels. This resolution is generally considered a good fit for PlayStation 1 and many 16-bit console games, as it provides a native 4:3 aspect ratio and often allows for integer scaling, which avoids noticeable scaling artefacts. For example, a Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) game at its native 256×224 resolution scales cleanly to 512×448, which fits well within the 640×480 display without significant blurring or distortion.

However, community complaints regarding the screen quality have emerged. Users have reported the resolution “not sharp enough” for those accustomed to higher PPI (pixels per inch) displays found on modern smartphones or even some other retro handhelds like the Analogue Pocket, which features a significantly higher resolution screen. While 640×480 is acceptable for many retro titles, some players expect a crisper image, particularly for text-heavy RPGs or games with intricate pixel art.

Colour saturation has also been a point of contention, with some owners claiming it is “not great either.” This means colours may appear muted or washed out compared to more vibrant IPS panels or OLED screens available on higher-end devices. For many retro games, colour accuracy might not be a primary concern, but for titles that rely on rich, expressive palettes—think of anything from the Sega Mega Drive or Neo Geo—subpar colour reproduction can diminish the visual experience. These observations are not universal, suggesting some panel lottery, but they are prevalent enough in 2025-2026 discussions to warrant consideration.

The Red Line Issue: A Persistent Manufacturing Flaw

A more concerning and widely reported screen issue for the RG40XXV is its propensity to develop “red lines.” Community posts describe the screen as “notorious to develop red lines because the bezel is too flimsy and glued with a microscopic amount of glue.” This structural weakness means minor pressure or stress on the display assembly can lead to internal damage, manifesting as persistent red vertical or horizontal lines on the screen. This is not a software issue; it is a hardware manufacturing flaw directly tied to how the screen is secured within the device’s chassis.

Owners commonly report this defect appearing after a few weeks or months of regular use, often after being carried in a bag or experiencing a slight bump. This makes the RG40XXV a less durable option for portable use, especially for commuters or those who might toss their device into a backpack. A handheld designed for portability should be able to withstand the rigours of daily transport, and this screen vulnerability severely undermines that expectation. A “wonky screen” requiring a re-flash has also been observed in some cases, although this is less frequent than the physical red line issue.

For around £60–£80, some compromises are expected, but a hardware flaw that threatens the primary display component is difficult to overlook. The cost of replacing the screen, if a replacement part can even be sourced reliably, would likely approach or exceed the initial purchase price of the device itself. This makes the RG40XXV a financially risky proposition for long-term ownership, especially if it cannot reliably survive casual handling. When considering any device for portability, build quality and screen protection are paramount, and the RG40XXV unfortunately falls short in this regard.

Battery Life: Real-World Expectations vs. Manufacturer Claims

Equipped with a 3300mAh battery, the RG40XXV aims for prolonged play. Anbernic, like many handheld manufacturers, often publishes figures that represent ideal usage scenarios, typically with minimal load or screen brightness. My opinion, based on observing community benchmarks and real-world testing from a range of RK3566 devices, is that Anbernic’s published battery figures are typically 15–20% higher than actual results under typical emulation load. This gap is worth flagging for any prospective buyer, as it impacts daily usability.

For the RG40XXV, community testing generally places real-world battery life between 4 to 5 hours for demanding PlayStation 1 emulation with moderate screen brightness and volume. When running less intensive 8-bit or 16-bit systems like the SNES or Sega Mega Drive, this can extend to around 6 to 7 hours. However, N64 emulation, which taxes the RK3566 SoC more heavily, tends to reduce battery endurance to approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours. These figures are not bad for a budget device but certainly fall short of the ‘all-day’ battery life found in more expensive handhelds or even some lower-powered alternatives.

The impact of custom firmwares on battery life is also worth noting. While custom firmwares like GarlicOS or OnionOS (though the RG40XXV currently uses derivatives or alternatives due to its newer chip) often bring performance optimisations and feature enhancements, they can sometimes introduce inefficiencies if not properly configured. Users commonly report that “sleep mode is non existent on custom firmwares” for many Anbernic devices, including the RG40XXV, at least in their early iterations. This means that instead of entering a low-power state, the device often remains fully awake, draining the battery much faster than intended if put into sleep mode without being powered down.

This “non-existent sleep mode” issue is a significant drawback for a portable device. If you cannot reliably put the device to sleep and resume your game quickly, you are forced to power it off and on, losing your exact gameplay position unless the emulator supports savestates on exit. This behaviour not only consumes more battery but also diminishes the pick-up-and-play convenience that defines a good retro handheld. Until custom firmware developers address this consistently, users must be diligent about fully powering down the RG40XXV when not in active use, or carry a USB-C power bank for longer sessions.

Compared to other devices in its class, the RG40XXV’s battery performance is typical for an RK3566-powered handheld. It is adequate for shorter commutes or bursts of gaming, but it is not a device you would expect to last an entire transatlantic flight or a full day out without a recharge. Knowing these real-world limitations helps set accurate expectations, ensuring buyers are not disappointed by a significant discrepancy between advertised figures and actual usage under emulation load.

Build Quality and Design: Vertical Form Factor and Flaws

Adopting a vertical form factor, the RG40XXV mirrors a design choice popularised by devices like the Miyoo Mini and Anbernic’s own RG35XX series. This orientation is favoured by some for its pocketability and nostalgic resemblance to classic Game Boy designs. The RG40XXV, however, expands on this with a larger 4-inch screen and the notable addition of dual analog sticks, positioned at the bottom, below the D-pad and face buttons. This layout is a direct response to user demand for a vertical device capable of handling N64 and other dual-analog systems, but it introduces its own ergonomic considerations.

Anbernic’s plastic shell construction is generally solid, consistent with its reputation for reasonable build quality in budget devices. These plastics feel robust enough for everyday handling, and minimal creaking or flex is reported in the main chassis. However, the previously discussed screen flaw, where the bezel is “too flimsy and glued with a microscopic amount of glue,” points to a specific structural weakness that undermines overall durability. Its vulnerability around the display is a critical design oversight, particularly for a portable device intended for regular transport.Placing the analog sticks at the very bottom, beneath the main controls, creates an interesting ergonomic compromise. For games that primarily use the D-pad and face buttons, this vertical layout can feel natural and comfortable, especially for those with smaller hands. When N64 or PS1 games require sustained use of the analog sticks, however, users may find their thumbs extending downwards in a less comfortable position, potentially leading to hand fatigue over longer play sessions. This design prioritises maintaining a compact vertical profile whilst including the sticks, rather than optimising for prolonged analog input. Held Games’ March 2026 review described the RG40XXV as a “top budget vertical handheld,” implicitly endorsing this form factor, but failed to critically assess the long-term ergonomic impact of the stick placement for its target systems.

Beyond the primary controls and screen, the RG40XXV features standard I/O ports. These include two USB-C ports (one for charging, one for data/OTG), a mini-HDMI output for connecting to external displays, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The inclusion of two microSD card slots is a practical feature, allowing one card for the operating system and another for game ROMs, which simplifies management and makes it easier to experiment with different firmware setups without affecting your game library. The external speakers are typical for budget handhelds – functional but not high-fidelity, best used with headphones for any serious audio experience.

The overall aesthetic is clean and functional, available in a few colourways including white, grey, and transparent purple. While these are popular choices for retro handhelds, the build quality issues, particularly the fragile screen, indicate that the device’s external appearance belies a significant internal vulnerability. For a similar price, the Anbernic RG28XX offers a smaller footprint and similar core performance, albeit without analog sticks. It proves that budget doesn’t always have to mean compromise on critical physical integrity. RetroInHand advises cautious handling for any owner of the RG40XXV given these reported durability concerns.

Custom Firmware: Beyond the Stock Experience

Like most Anbernic devices, the RG40XXV ships with a basic stock operating system. This firmware is typically functional for out-of-the-box play but often lacks the polish, features, and performance optimisations that the community craves. Custom firmware (CFW) is often seen as an essential upgrade for any serious retro handheld user, unlocking the full potential of the hardware and improving the overall user experience.

For the RG40XXV, custom firmware development has gained traction since its late 2024 release. While it doesn’t currently support the widely popular OnionOS or MinUI, which are primarily designed for the Miyoo Mini series, derivatives and alternatives built specifically for the RK3566 SoC are available. These often include updated RetroArch versions, optimised emulator cores, a more visually appealing front-end, and crucial quality-of-life features such as better game scanning, advanced display settings, and improved key mapping.

Community threads from 2025-2026, such as “RG40XXV performance in 2025: SD card speeds and OS advice,” consistently recommend upgrading to a reputable CFW. The stock SD card supplied with Anbernic devices is almost universally advised against; it is often of low quality and prone to failure, risking data corruption. Replacing it with a high-quality SanDisk Extreme Pro microSD Card from a trusted brand is considered a mandatory first step for anyone intending to flash custom firmware. This improves boot times, game loading speeds, and overall system stability, which is especially important for N64 and PS1 titles that generate larger savestate files.

One notable issue with custom firmwares on devices like the RG40XXV has been the “sleep mode non existent on custom firmwares.” This specific problem, reported by users in 2025, means that instead of entering a proper low-power sleep state, the device consumes battery at a rate similar to active gameplay when “asleep.” This necessitates fully powering down the device between sessions to conserve battery, which can be inconvenient for casual pick-up-and-play gaming. Custom firmware developers are usually responsive to these issues, and patches or updated releases may address this over time, but it remains a point of frustration for early adopters.

The process of flashing custom firmware typically involves downloading the image, writing it to a new microSD card using a tool like Rufus or BalenaEtcher, and then inserting the card into the device. Specific guides for the RG40XXV have emerged on platforms like Retro Game Corps and r/SBCGaming, offering step-by-step instructions. For any user considering this, it is vital to follow the instructions precisely and backup any existing data. The benefits—better performance, a more refined interface, and access to advanced RetroArch features—usually outweigh the initial setup effort, though the sleep mode issue is a clear exception that buyers need to weigh against the convenience of custom firmware. For an extensive look at how custom firmware enhances retro gaming, our Setup & Emulation Guide Hub provides a deeper dive into the world of handheld optimisations.

Value Proposition: Is £60–£80 Justified in 2026?

The central question surrounding the Anbernic RG40XXV in 2026 revolves around its value proposition at a price point of around £60–£80. For that money, you receive an RK3566-powered device with a 4-inch 640×480 IPS screen and dual analog sticks, capable of robust PS1 emulation and reasonable N64 performance for less demanding titles. On paper, this seems like a solid deal, particularly for those entering the retro handheld market or upgrading from older, less capable devices.

However, the value is significantly impacted by the documented control limitations and screen durability issues. The persistent community complaints about the D-pad’s inaccuracy—producing “too many accidental diagonals”—undermine the device’s utility for many classic games that demand precise 2D input. For serious fans of fighting games, platformers, or even certain N64 titles like Super Smash Bros., this is not a minor inconvenience; it is a fundamental flaw that compromises the gameplay experience. A device that cannot reliably register directional inputs struggles to offer genuine value, regardless of its raw processing power.

In addition, the screen’s fragility, described by users as “notorious to develop red lines” due to flimsy bezel adhesive, introduces a long-term durability concern. A device that is likely to develop a critical screen defect after a few months of typical portable use represents a poor investment. Whilst the initial price tag is attractive, the potential for early hardware failure or a frustrating gaming experience due to controls significantly diminishes the perceived value. In the retro handheld market, where longevity and reliable input are highly prized, these issues are difficult to overlook.

Compared to alternatives, the RG40XXV faces stiff competition. For slightly less money, the Anbernic RG35XX H (around £55–£75) offers a horizontal form factor and a D-pad generally regarded as more accurate, though it lacks analog sticks entirely. For those prioritising N64, a Retroid Pocket 2S (around £100–£120) provides a more robust RK3566 implementation, superior build quality, and significantly better controls, making it a stronger contender for N64 at a slightly higher price point. If your budget stretches towards £100, the Retroid Pocket 2S becomes a much more compelling purchase, offering a higher quality experience that justifies the extra spend.

The RG40XXV feels like a device that attempts to hit an aggressive price point whilst including features like analog sticks, but compromises too much on the core user experience—specifically, control accuracy and build durability. For someone primarily interested in a wider array of retro systems, including 8-bit and 16-bit, and for whom the D-pad issues might be less critical for their specific game choices, it might offer acceptable value. However, for those specifically seeking a “sweet spot” for PS1 and N64 with reliable controls and long-term durability, the RG40XXV unequivocally falls short. It is a handheld that promises much but delivers with too many caveats for its primary use case.

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Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Anbernic RG40XXV?

Identifying the ideal buyer for a retro handheld device like the Anbernic RG40XXV requires a careful examination of its strengths against its acknowledged weaknesses. This device is certainly not for everyone, particularly those with specific demands for certain game genres or long-term durability.

Who Should Consider the RG40XXV?

• Budget-Conscious Enthusiasts for Lighter PS1 & N64: If your budget strictly limits you to the £60–£80 range, and your primary interest lies in the less demanding PS1 library or casual N64 gaming (e.g., Super Mario 64 and Mario Kart 64 without competitive aspirations), the RG40XXV offers an entry point. It handles most PS1 titles with good frame rates and provides a playable, if not flawless, N64 experience for many popular games.
• Fans of the Vertical Form Factor with Analog Sticks: For those who prefer the classic vertical orientation of a Game Boy but desire analog sticks for modernised retro play or specific N64 titles, the RG40XXV is one of the few options available at this price point. It fills a niche for users who want that specific ergonomic blend.
• Primarily 8-bit and 16-bit Gamers: If your main focus is on NES, SNES, Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, or Sega Genesis/Mega Drive titles, the RG40XXV performs admirably. Its 4-inch 4:3 screen is well-suited for these systems, offering good integer scaling options. The D-pad issues are less critical for some of these libraries, particularly if you’re not playing precision-heavy platformers or fighting games.
• Experimenters Willing to Flash Custom Firmware: Users who enjoy tinkering with custom firmware and optimising their handheld experience might appreciate the RG40XXV as a project device. The improvements offered by CFW can significantly enhance the user interface and overall performance for supported systems, provided they are aware of the potential for unresolved issues like the sleep mode problem.

Who Should Skip the RG40XXV?

• Precision-Focused Gamers: If you play a lot of 2D platformers, fighting games, or any genre requiring pinpoint accurate D-pad inputs, the RG40XXV’s “accidental diagonals” and general inaccuracy will lead to frustration. Games like Mega Man X, Street Fighter Alpha, or even competitive Super Smash Bros. on N64 will suffer.
• Users Prioritising Durability and Reliability: The widely reported screen fragility, with its tendency to develop red lines from minor pressure, makes the RG40XXV a risky choice for long-term ownership or daily transport. If you need a device that can withstand being carried in a bag or occasional bumps, look elsewhere.
• Demanding N64 and PSP Emulation: For flawless or near-flawless N64 emulation across its more demanding library (e.g., Perfect Dark, Conker’s Bad Fur Day) or consistent PSP performance, the RG40XXV’s RK3566 SoC simply lacks the power. More expensive devices like a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro or even an AYN Odin 2 are necessary for truly enjoyable experiences on these platforms.
• Those Expecting Flawless “Pick-Up-and-Play” Usability: The lack of a reliable sleep mode on custom firmwares means you’ll often need to fully power down and restart the device, hindering quick game sessions. This makes it less ideal for short bursts of gaming or casual users who prefer immediate resumption of play.
• Anyone Seeking “Sweet Spot” Value for PS1/N64: For a true “sweet spot” that combines solid performance with reliable, accurate controls and good build quality, investing slightly more into a device like the Retroid Pocket 2S or a Miyoo Flip will yield a significantly better and less frustrating experience overall.

In short, the RG40XXV at around £60–£80 is a device of compromises. It attempts to bridge the gap between low-end and mid-range, offering features that would normally command a higher price. However, these features come with significant caveats, particularly around control accuracy and screen durability, making it a difficult recommendation for the discerning retro gamer in 2026 who values precise input and device longevity.

Alternative Handhelds for PS1 and N64 Emulation UK 2026

While the Anbernic RG40XXV presents itself as a budget option for PS1 and N64, its control and durability issues mean many players will seek alternatives. The market for retro handhelds in 2026 offers several compelling choices at various price points, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these alternatives is crucial for making an informed purchase decision, especially if the RG40XXV’s specific flaws are deal-breakers.

Retroid Pocket 2S: A Stronger RK3566 Contender

For those willing to stretch their budget slightly to around £100–£120, the Retroid Pocket 2S stands out as a superior choice. It also features the RK3566 SoC, but with a refined implementation and, crucially, significantly better controls. Community consensus consistently praises the Retroid Pocket 2S’s D-pad and analog sticks for their accuracy and tactile feedback. This makes it a much more reliable device for precision-heavy PS1 platformers and a more enjoyable experience for N64 titles, where its horizontal form factor often feels more natural for dual-stick input. While its screen is slightly smaller at 3.5 inches, its overall build quality and user experience are noticeably more polished than the RG40XXV. It is a handheld that truly delivers on the RK3566’s potential without compromise on fundamental aspects like controls.

Anbernic RG35XX H: Budget Horizontal Excellence for Lower Systems

If you are strictly budget-constrained and prefer a horizontal form factor, the Anbernic RG35XX H (around £55–£75) is a popular choice. While it uses the slightly less powerful H700 chip and lacks analog sticks, its D-pad is generally well-regarded within the community for its accuracy. It excels at 8-bit, 16-bit, and even some lighter PS1 titles, offering a smooth experience for these systems. Its limitation lies in N64 emulation, which it generally cannot handle reliably, and the absence of analog sticks makes modernised N64 controls impossible. However, for sheer value for money for everything up to most PS1 games, and with a reliable D-pad, it often surpasses the RG40XXV in overall user satisfaction, especially if N64 is not a primary focus.

Miyoo Flip: Clamshell Form Factor with Good Controls

For those intrigued by a vertical design but desiring better protection and more reliable controls, the Miyoo Flip (around £100–£120) offers a clamshell design that provides excellent screen protection. It uses a different SoC (likely a MediaTek Kompanio chip), offering performance in a similar bracket to the RK3566 but often with better power efficiency. The Miyoo Flip’s D-pad and buttons are typically praised for their quality, a direct contrast to the RG40XXV. Its clamshell form factor also protects the screen entirely when closed, mitigating durability concerns inherent to the RG40XXV. This device represents a more premium budget option, and while more expensive, it addresses several of the RG40XXV’s critical shortcomings.

Higher-End Options for Flawless N64 and PSP

If true “sweet spot” means flawless N64 and robust PSP emulation without compromise, then the budget needs to expand significantly. Devices like the Retroid Pocket 5 (around £180–£220) or a Retroid Pocket 6 (around £250–£300) offer substantially more powerful SoCs capable of handling the most demanding N64 titles at higher resolutions and often delivering playable PSP at 2x or 3x scaling. These devices also come with premium controls and build quality, justifying their higher price tags for serious enthusiasts. For an in-depth look at these options, our Retro Buying Guides Hub provides extensive comparisons.

Ultimately, the choice depends on priorities. The RG40XXV might be an option for some, but its compromises mean there are often better alternatives available, even if they require a slightly larger investment. Buyers should weigh the reported D-pad issues and screen fragility heavily against the attractive price point and specific feature set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Anbernic RG40XXV a good purchase in 2026?

In 2026, the RG40XXV presents a mixed bag. It offers capable PS1 emulation and some N64 play for its £60–£80 price point. However, consistent community reports of an inaccurate D-pad and screen durability issues (red lines appearing) make it a harder recommendation, especially for precise games. For those with a higher budget, a Retroid Pocket 2S is a better choice.

What is the RG40XXV performance like for PS1 and N64 in 2025-2026?

PS1 emulation on the RG40XXV is generally strong, with most games running at locked 60fps, even with 2x upscaling. For N64, many popular titles like Super Mario 64 are playable at 25-30fps, but demanding games like Perfect Dark experience significant slowdowns and graphical glitches. PSP emulation remains a challenge, with only lighter titles proving playable.

What are the common reported issues with the Anbernic RG40XXV?

Key issues reported by the community include D-pad inaccuracy, often leading to unintended diagonal inputs, and screen fragility, with users frequently experiencing “red lines” appearing due to poor bezel adhesive. Custom firmwares also suffer from a “non existent sleep mode” in their early stages, draining battery whilst ‘asleep’.

Is the RG40XXV reliable for daily use?

Due to the reported screen durability issues and the D-pad’s inconsistency, the RG40XXV’s reliability for daily, portable use is questionable. The risk of the screen developing red lines under normal handling, as widely discussed in community forums, makes it less dependable than many other retro handhelds. This is a critical factor for long-term ownership.

Should I upgrade the SD card immediately for the RG40XXV?

Yes, upgrading the microSD card is highly recommended for the RG40XXV. The stock SD cards provided by Anbernic are often low quality and prone to failure. Replacing it with a reputable brand like a SanDisk Extreme Pro improves system stability, game loading times, and overall performance, especially when using custom firmware.

How does the RG40XXV compare to the Anbernic RG35XX H?

More powerful with an RK3566 SoC, the RG40XXV includes analog sticks, making it better for N64. By contrast, the Anbernic RG35XX H uses the H700 chip and lacks sticks. Its D-pad is generally more accurate, and it excels for 8-bit, 16-bit, and most PS1 titles. This alternative is also typically slightly cheaper and offers a horizontal form factor.

What to Read Next

If you found this useful, here are a few articles worth reading next:

• Best Handheld for N64 Games Under £150 UK (2026) — Explores other handhelds that offer superior N64 emulation and control accuracy.
• Retroid Pocket 2S Review: Best Value Under £100 in 2026 UK? — A detailed look at a compelling alternative with the same SoC but better overall execution.
• Retro Handheld Hub — Our complete guide to all things retro handhelds, covering everything from budget devices to high-end powerhouses.

At around £60–£80, the Anbernic RG40XXV attempts to offer a vertical form factor with analog sticks and PS1/N64 capability. Its hardware can push these systems, but the pervasive D-pad accuracy issues and significant screen durability concerns from community reports prevent it from being the “sweet spot” for thorough PS1 and N64 emulation in 2026. Anbernic’s attractive price point, however, does not outweigh the compromises on fundamental aspects like controls and build quality, meaning players might find a more satisfying, albeit slightly more expensive, experience elsewhere.

Ultimately, the RG40XXV serves as a cautionary tale: features on a spec sheet do not always translate to a genuinely good user experience when core components falter. If your budget is tight and you are willing to overlook these flaws for casual play, it might find a place in your collection. However, for those seeking precision and peace of mind, the next question is clear: which handheld truly balances price, performance, and player satisfaction without making such critical compromises?

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