Anbernic RG406H Review: Everything Rolled Into One

Anbernic has returned with all new iterations. What occurs when an RG Cube is crossed with an RG406 V? You get something similar to the new RG406H. You can view Stubbs's video below, as well as Andrew's initial thoughts here.

Anbernic RG406H: The Feel and Buttons

The RG Cube's design has always struck me as strangely cosy, and this one is no exception. It has slightly more texture and the same kind of grooves on the back. It feels comfortable and safe in your hand because of this. The shoulder buttons are easily accessible and in a pleasant, comfortable location.

Speaking of shoulder buttons, I was disappointed that the RG406V had stacking hall triggers; fortunately, this new device has them. It is a pleasure to push the R2/L2. However, I don't like how loud and clicky the R1/L1 are.

The floating Genesis-style D-pad, which Anbernic has been employing for the cube, is the D-pad for this gadget, and it's comfortable to pivot with. Over the years, we have come to appreciate the typical Anbernic quality of the face buttons. The finest aspect?

The new analogue sticks from the RG406V are used in this instrument. They are incredibly smooth and do not snap like the Cardinals do. They look really weird and are really tall, but I'll choose performance over appearance.

Anbernic RG406H: Out-of-the-Box Experience

Opening a brand-new Anbernic gadget is identical to opening any other Android smartphone that they provide. The sole distinction? The morality problem with preloaded cards is lessened because they don't come with SD cards. The gadget does, however, pre-download a vast array of emulators for you when it first boots up. Although some of these programs aren't the greatest and are typically paid for, this can be useful for a simple setup. Not much better, then.

It was simple to get started; I only had to insert my SD card, which I use for Android devices, and direct the emulators to the locations where I keep each console. This is simple if you know how to set up Android devices. As someone who has recently become enthralled with their Analogue Pocket and OLED deck, I've noticed that this screen is excellent for an IPS panel. The colours look fantastic and are so vivid.

Anbernic RG406H: Performance

I began by using a 1x resolution to test X-Men Legends. In the first level, I observed a consistent 60 frames per second. After increasing the resolution to 2x, I noticed a few drops in performance. The frame rate returned to 60 after adjusting the CPU setting to "High" (located in the drop-down menu). Some GameCube games appear to be upscaled, and they look amazing on the 4:3 screen.

I then tried a PS2 game with a 1.5x resolution. To test the controls, especially the shoulder buttons and analogue sticks, I played XIII, one of my favourite shooters. Even with the CPU set to "High," the game played smoothly and at a steady 60 frames per second. Fortunately, playing a shooter on this setup was considerably more comfortable than on the RG406V, as was to be expected. The sticks felt good, and the shoulder buttons seem much better.

The lower-end performance is perfectly acceptable, of course. GB, GBC, Genesis, NES, SNES, and similar systems should all function flawlessly.

Anbernic RG406H: Battery

When I test these products, the battery is one of the most critical factors. My infant is beginning to roll over and grip objects, and he will soon be crawling. I don't want gadgets that will be on her warpath plugged in.

I found that the RG406H's battery is highly similar to the RG406V when I tested it. I tried some GBA for the lower end. After an hour or two of playing Good Boy Galaxy, I noticed that my battery had gone from 100% to 91%. After that, I put the gadget in sleep mode, left it for a few hours, and then picked it up when it was 90% charged.

For the higher end, I chose to play a little GameCube. I turned on some Bomberman Generations for an hour. This time, I had the device go from 90% to 76%. These short tests reveal the device is highly functional for prolonged gaming sessions away from an outlet.

Anbernic RG406H: Final Thoughts

My last thoughts are based on preference. This is the ideal gadget for you if you like horizontal devices and are interested in the RG406V. I favour the former since I am more of a lover of vertical devices. Although the performance is pretty good considering the budget, there comes a time when an RP Mini or RP5 will perform better if you are willing to pay a little more.

I'm amazed by the screen; however, as I mentioned earlier, the OLED screen that Retroid is selling in their most recent releases is a little more expensive. The device fulfils a number of requirements, and the sticks and buttons feel fantastic.

What I Like:

  • New Anbernic sticks that don't snap like the Cardinals
  • Holding it comfortably
  • Wonderful IPS screen

What Can Take a Hike:

  • Sticks appear towering and ungainly.
  • Clicky R1/L1
  • Around the same price range, there are more interesting options.