Pros
- Excellent Hardware: Comfortable design, high-quality buttons, vibrant display, HDMI output.
- Strong Performance: Handles 16-bit consoles flawlessly, improvements in demanding games.
- Versatile: Offers both Linux and Android environments.
Cons
- Software Issues: Bugs in Linux software affect performance, sound delay disrupts gameplay.
- Pricey: At $240, it faces stiff competition with its software shortcomings.
- No Bluetooth: Lacks a useful wireless connectivity option.
Overall:
A promising device with impressive hardware let down by software issues. The high price tag makes these issues harder to swallow. Consider waiting for potential software fixes and price drops before buying.
Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars.
In this review, we’ll dive into the latest offering from Anbernic, the RG552 handheld gaming console. With an upgraded system-on-a-chip, a larger display, and a heftier build, the RG552 promises a step forward in handheld gaming. However, does it live up to the expectations? Let’s break down the key aspects and find out.
Score Breakdown:
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- Performance and Game Compatibility (Score: 7/10): The RG552 showcases impressive performance in handling 16-bit consoles like SNES and Genesis flawlessly. However, a notable sound delay issue on various emulators, including 16-bit generation games, hinders the overall experience. While improvements are seen in demanding games like Dreamcast, intermittent glitches persist, affecting gameplay. The device’s Linux software seems to have bugs that need addressing, impacting the overall performance.
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- Hardware and Comfort (Score: 8/10): The build quality of the RG552 is commendable, featuring a comfortable design and excellent button feel. The integrated Wi-Fi is a welcome addition, but the absence of Bluetooth is a missed opportunity. The HDMI output functionality is a standout feature, though manual audio switching on the Linux side poses a minor inconvenience. The display, with its vibrant colors and rich contrast, steals the spotlight, contributing significantly to the overall hardware appeal.
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- Budget (Score: 6/10): Priced at $240, the RG552 falls on the higher end of the spectrum. The premium cost places it against stiff competition, making it crucial for the device to deliver a smooth and polished user experience. However, the software issues encountered, especially on the Linux side, make it challenging to justify the steep price tag.
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- Overall (Score: 7/10): Despite its solid hardware foundation, the RG552 falls short of expectations due to software-related challenges. The display’s brilliance and other hardware features shine through, but the premium price demands a more polished and trouble-free user experience. The choice between Linux and Android environments offers versatility, yet both come with their set of pros and cons.
Conclusion: The Anbernic RG552 is a device with great potential, marred by software issues that hinder its overall appeal. While the hardware impresses with its build quality and stunning display, the software’s lack of polish and the notable sound delay issue dampen the gaming experience. With a steep price point, potential buyers might find it challenging to overlook these drawbacks. A revisit in the future, with resolved software issues and perhaps a more competitive price, could position the RG552 as a more compelling choice in the handheld gaming market.