Anbernic RG Cube Review: Tiger T820 CPU Android Gaming Handheld

In our Anbernic RG Cube Review we take a closer look at this square display Android gaming console,, comparing to other models, emulation performance and more!

Anbernic RG Cube Unique Square-Screen Experience

We start the Anbernic RG Cube review with a brief overview. The Anbernic RG Cube’s standout feature is its 3.95-inch IPS LCD screen with a 1:1 aspect ratio and 720×720 resolution. This unique square display is particularly well-suited for emulating classic handheld consoles like the Nintendo DS and 3DS, allowing games to be played in their native resolutions without awkward adjustments. The square screen also brings a nostalgic feel to retro games from the early ’90s, enhancing the overall gaming experience for enthusiasts. While some users may find the square format unconventional, it offers a fresh perspective on both retro and modern gaming, setting the RG Cube apart in the Android gaming device, market.

Emulation Performance Breakdown

Next in our Anbernic RG Cube review we will discuss the emulation performance. The Anbernic RG Cube demonstrates impressive emulation capabilities across various gaming systems. It handles Dreamcast, Nintendo 64, PlayStation 2, PSP, and Wii games with solid performance. The device’s Unisoc Tiger T820 processor and 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM enable smooth emulation of more demanding systems like the Nintendo 3DS, running titles such as Street Fighter IV and Ocarina of Time 3D.

For PlayStation 2 emulation, the RG Cube utilizes the AetherSX2 emulator, showcasing its ability to handle more complex 3D games. While specific frame rates and settings are not detailed, early demonstrations indicate that the RG Cube offers a compelling emulation experience for a wide range of classic consoles, making it an attractive option for gaming Android handheld, enthusiasts

Ergonomic Design and Comfort

The Anbernic RG Cube boasts an ergonomic design that prioritizes comfort during extended gaming sessions. Its compact size, measuring 153 x 86 x 18mm and weighing just 260 grams, makes it ideal for portable gaming. The device features a non-slip grip with a textured surface, ensuring secure and comfortable handling.

This design enhancement improves control and stability, particularly beneficial for longer play periods. The RG Cube’s button layout is intuitive, with Hall effect joysticks and triggers providing precise input. Additionally, the inclusion of a six-axis gyroscope sensor allows for motion controls, further expanding the device’s versatility. These ergonomic considerations, combined with the unique square form factor, make the RG Cube a standout choice for gamers seeking both comfort and functionality in a handheld console

Anbernic RG Model Performance Comparison

The Anbernic RG Cube shares its core performance capabilities with some of Anbernic’s other recent Android gaming handhelds, particularly the RG556. Here’s a brief comparison of key specifications and specs for the Anbernic RG Cube review.

Both the RG Cube and RG556 utilize the same Unisoc Tiger T820 processor, which allows them to deliver similar performance in emulation and Android gaming.

The main differences lie in their form factors and screen sizes, with the RG Cube featuring a unique square display that caters to specific retro gaming experiences. Despite its smaller size, the RG Cube manages to incorporate a slightly larger battery capacity compared to the Anbernic RG556, potentially offering longer playtime. Both devices represent a significant performance upgrade over previous Anbernic models, capable of handling more demanding emulation tasks like PlayStation 2 and Nintendo Wii games

Price Comparison

The Anbernic RG Cube enters a competitive market of handheld gaming devices, with its price point positioning it as a mid-range option. Here’s a comparison of the RGCube pricing against some of its key rivals as part of our Anbernic RG Cube review.

The RG Cube is priced competitively within the Anbernic lineup, offering similar performance to the RG556 at a comparable price point. It’s significantly more expensive than budget options like the Powkiddy RGB30, but offers superior performance and a more premium build. Compared to higher-end devices like the Asus ROG Ally, the RG Cube provides a more affordable entry point for retro gaming enthusiasts, albeit with less raw power. This pricing strategy positions the RG Cube as an attractive option for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability in a unique form factor.

User Feedback and Opinions

User opinions on social media regarding the Anbernic RG Cube are generally positive, with many praising its unique design and performance. Here’s a summary of common sentiments: It’s a great addition if you’re looking to buy the Anbernic RG Cube.

• Positive reception of the square screen, particularly for retro gaming and vertically-oriented arcade games
• Appreciation for the device’s compact size and portability
• Impressive emulation performance, especially for GameCube games
• Good out-of-the-box experience with pre-installed emulators and BIOS files
• Excellent 3DS emulation with touch screen controls
• Mixed opinions on the aesthetics, with some finding it «ugly» and others considering it «super cool»
• Concerns about light bleed issues in early units, though later batches seem to have resolved this
• Some users report needing to lower resolution for optimal PS2 performance
• Overall, many users find the RG Cube enjoyable and a good value for its price rang

While not without its quirks, the general consensus seems to be that the Anbernic RG Cube offers a unique and fun handheld gaming experience, particularly for retro gaming enthusiasts.

Battery Life and Charging

As part of our Anbernic RG Cube review we always check the battery life. The Anbernic RG Cube is equipped with a 5200mAh polymer lithium battery, offering users an impressive battery life of up to 7 hours on a single charge. This substantial capacity ensures extended gaming sessions without frequent interruptions. The Android gaming device, supports 5V/2A charging, allowing for a full recharge in approximately 3 hours. This quick charging feature minimizes downtime between gaming sessions, enhancing the overall user experience.

The RG Cube’s battery life is particularly noteworthy given its powerful hardware and vibrant display, striking a balance between performance and longevity that should satisfy most portable gaming enthusiasts.

User Interface and Navigation

The Anbernic RG Cube runs on a customized Android 13 interface, offering users a blend of familiar Android navigation and gaming-specific features. The Android gaming console utilises gesture navigation for a more intuitive user experience, allowing for smooth transitions between apps and games. The interface includes power-saving settings, display brightness controls, and customizable RGB lighting effects for the joysticks, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.

Users have reported that the initial setup may require some tweaking, such as adjusting display settings and removing pre-installed emulators, to optimize the gaming experience. The RG Cube supports multi-language options, making it accessible to a global audience. You can buy the Anbernic RG Cube now. While the custom Android build offers gaming-centric features, some users may need to familiarize themselves with Anbernic’s specific interface quirks to fully utilize the device’s capabilities. These features make it one of the latest gaming Android handhelds worth considering..

Final Thoughts: Anbernic RG Cube Review Key Features and Verdict

Time to sum up our Anbernic RG Cube review with our final thoughts. The Anbernic RG Cube stands out with its innovative 3.95-inch square IPS display, offering a unique 1:1 aspect ratio that’s ideal for classic handheld and arcade games. Its Hall effect joysticks and triggers provide precise control, while the customizable RGB lighting adds a modern flair. The device’s compact form factor, coupled with a powerful Unisoc T820 processor and Android 13 OS, delivers a versatile gaming experience in a portable package.

Pros include its unique design, impressive emulation capabilities, and good battery life. The square screen excels at displaying retro games and vertical arcade titles. Cons involve potential light bleed issues in early units, a learning curve for the custom Android interface, and a price point that may be higher than some competitors.

Gamers should consider the RG Cube for its blend of nostalgia and modern technology. You might also want to try playing Game Boy and DS games on it. Its ability to handle a wide range of emulators, from classic consoles to more demanding systems like GameCube and PS2, makes it an attractive option for retro gaming enthusiasts. The device’s portability and unique form factor offer a fresh take on handheld gaming, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a distinctive and capable retro gaming experience.

You can learn more and buy the Anbernic RG Cube here. That wraps up our Anbernic RG Nano review, we hope you found it useful. If you have any questions please ask in the comments and we will be happy to answer them.