buying guidecomparisonr36s

R36S vs RG35XX: Which Retro Handheld Should You Buy in 2026?

“RG35XX” can describe several different Anbernic handhelds. Identify the exact version before comparing it with the R36S: the original RG35XX, the 2024 revision, Plus and H do not all have the same hardware or controls.

R36S versus RG35XX 2024

This table uses the RG35XX 2024 as the comparison model. It should not be read as a specification sheet for every RG35XX variant.

FeatureR36SRG35XX 2024
ProcessorRockchip RK3326 quad-coreAllwinner H700 quad-core
Screen3.5-inch IPS, 640 × 4803.5-inch IPS, 640 × 480
Analog sticksTwoNone
StoragemicroSDmicroSD
What to checkBoard and display revision, card quality and included accessoriesExact model name, revision and included card

See Anbernic’s RG35XX 2024 product specifications for the manufacturer’s current information. Our R36S identification guide covers the board checks for the R36S family.

Controls and intended games

The R36S has two analog sticks in addition to its directional pad. The RG35XX 2024 uses a directional pad and buttons without analog sticks. Choose according to the games and control layouts you actually use. A stick does not guarantee that a demanding game will run well.

For either device, emulator compatibility and speed vary by game and configuration. Compare demonstrations of your priority titles instead of assuming that every console named in an emulator menu runs perfectly. We do not claim a measured performance winner without a common test protocol.

Software and microSD cards

Firmware images are device-specific. R36S instructions do not automatically apply to an RG35XX, and instructions for one Anbernic revision may not apply to another. Back up the supplied card before changing anything and identify the board and screen where required.

Storage capacity affects how much you can keep on the card. It does not change the processor or guarantee the reliability of the card. Check whether the advertised package includes the capacity and accessories you need.

Battery, price and delivery

Compare battery measurements only when the brightness, games, volume and test conditions are comparable. We do not treat unsupported runtime figures as a reason to choose one device.

Prices vary with seller, storage, accessories and destination. Compare the total delivered price and return conditions. The current R36S price is on our product page; there is no universal price that applies to every offer.

Which should you choose?

Consider the R36S if you want its vertical layout with two analog sticks. Consider the RG35XX 2024 if you prefer its control layout and its specific hardware and software options. If you are looking at an RG35XX Plus or H, compare that exact model separately.

Compare our R36S options · Delivery information · R36S features and buying considerations

R36S - Portable Retro Game Console

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