R36S or Anbernic RG35XX? Both are popular retro handhelds under $100. We tested both side by side. The honest verdict: the R36S wins on value, game library, and community support. The RG35XX wins on build quality and screen. Here's the complete breakdown to help you decide.
Lab-Tested · Gamer-Verified · Expert-Curated by the iGC Team — www.handheldgameconsoles.games
Side-by-Side Lab Test
Value + Game Library
Review Score
R36S Cheaper
Risk-Free Purchase
⚡ 60-Second Verdict
Value is priority
Want 6,000+ preloaded
First retro handheld
Premium build matters most
Already have game library
Anbernic ecosystem user
R36S for most buyers
Better value overall
R36S: 4.69/5 (6,860)
RG35XX: ~4.3/5 (fewer)
📊 R36S vs RG35XX: Full Specs Comparison
| Feature | R36S 🏆 | Anbernic RG35XX |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.99 | $89-99 |
| Screen Size | 3.5" IPS | 3.5" IPS |
| Resolution | 640x480 | 640x480 |
| Processor | H700 Quad-core | H700 Quad-core |
| RAM | 1GB | 1GB |
| Battery | 3200mAh · 6-8h | 3500mAh · 7-9h |
| Games Preloaded | 6,000+ | Varies (often fewer) |
| Build Quality | Good | Very Good |
| Verified Reviews | 6,860 · 4.69★ | Fewer · ~4.3★ |
| Community Support | Very Large | Large |
| iGC Recommendation | 🏆 Most Buyers | Build-quality focused |
🎮 Performance: R36S vs RG35XX Head-to-Head
$79.99 vs $89-99 for the RG35XX. The R36S is $10-20 cheaper with the same processor, same screen resolution, and 6,000+ games preloaded. For first-time buyers, the R36S delivers more value per dollar.
6,000+ games preloaded on the iGC R36S. The RG35XX ships with fewer preloaded games depending on the seller. For buyers who want to play immediately without setup, the R36S wins decisively.
6,860 verified reviews at 4.69/5 stars. The R36S has the largest community of any retro handheld in its price range. More tutorials, more firmware support, more accessories. The RG35XX has a smaller but dedicated community.
Anbernic is known for premium build quality. The RG35XX feels slightly more premium in hand with tighter tolerances and better button feel. The R36S build quality is good but not quite at Anbernic's level. For buyers who prioritize feel over value, the RG35XX is worth considering.
The RG35XX has a 3500mAh battery vs the R36S's 3200mAh. In testing, the RG35XX lasts 7-9 hours vs 6-8 hours for the R36S. For heavy travelers, the extra hour matters. For most users, both are sufficient.
Both use the same H700 quad-core processor with 1GB RAM. Performance is essentially identical for NES, SNES, GBA, Genesis, and PS1. N64 performance is similar on both — playable but not perfect. Neither device has a clear performance advantage.
🏆 Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
- First retro handheld purchase
- Want maximum preloaded games
- Value is the priority
- Want largest community support
- Gift for someone else
- Budget under $85
- Premium build quality is essential
- Already have your own ROM library
- Already in Anbernic ecosystem
- Extra 1-2 hours battery matters
- Experienced retro gamer
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
For most buyers: yes. The R36S is $10-20 cheaper, has 6,000+ games preloaded, and has 6,860 verified reviews at 4.69/5 stars. The RG35XX has slightly better build quality and battery life. For first-time buyers and gift buyers, the R36S is the better value.
Both use the same H700 processor and 3.5" IPS screen. Key differences: R36S is $79.99 vs RG35XX at $89-99. R36S has 6,000+ preloaded games vs fewer on RG35XX. RG35XX has slightly better build quality and larger battery (3500mAh vs 3200mAh). Performance is essentially identical.
The iGC R36S comes with 6,000+ games preloaded across NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Genesis, PS1, and more. The RG35XX ships with fewer preloaded games depending on the seller. For buyers who want to play immediately without adding their own ROMs, the R36S wins.
Only if build quality is your top priority. The RG35XX costs $10-20 more for slightly better build quality and 1-2 hours more battery. For most buyers, the R36S's better value, larger game library, and 6,860 reviews make it the smarter choice.
Yes. Both devices use the same H700 processor and support the same emulators: NES, SNES, Game Boy, GBA, Genesis, PS1, N64, and more. Game compatibility is essentially identical between the two devices. The R36S comes with more games preloaded.
