Choosing between the Anbernic RG 35XXPRO and the R36S is a classic handheld dilemma: do you want a lower-priced console that comes ready to play, or a more feature-rich model with wireless extras and room to grow? Both devices run Linux and use a 3.5-inch IPS display, but they lead with different strengths.
Quick verdict
Pick the Anbernic RG 35XXPRO if you want the more feature-rich Linux handheld that lists wireless and battery extras. Pick the R36S if you want a lower-priced console with a large preloaded library that is ready out of the box.
Price at a glance
| Product | Listed price | Price bar |
|---|---|---|
| Anbernic RG 35XXPRO | USD 69.99 | |
| R36S | USD 28.99 |
Where the Anbernic RG 35XXPRO stands out
The Anbernic listing includes Bluetooth compatibility, a 3200mAh battery capacity, and expandable storage up to 512GB. Its listed specs also mention a 1.5GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 CPU and dual-core G31 MP2 GPU. That makes it the choice if you want wireless audio, longer play sessions, or a way to grow your collection on a bigger card.
Where the R36S takes the lead
The R36S is the lower-priced of the two, and it lists more built-in storage and a larger preloaded library than the Anbernic Black option. USB-C connectivity is also listed, which keeps charging and syncing simple. If you want to start playing immediately without a lot of setup, this console leans heavily on its preloaded library.
Product notes
Anbernic RG 35XXPRO 3.5" IPS Screen Video Game Console Linux Built-in 64G Gifts
At USD 69.99, this Anbernic handheld brings together Linux and a feature set that focuses on connectivity and battery life. The listing includes Bluetooth compatibility, a 3200mAh battery, and expandable storage up to 512GB, while the Black option ships with 4,500+ games. The built-in storage is listed as 64GB, so if you want to carry a large library on the device itself, you can rely on the expandable card slot. One reason to choose it: the wireless and battery details make it a better fit for longer, more connected play sessions. The trade-off is the higher price point, which is more than double the R36S's listed price.
R36S Retro Handheld Video Game Console Linux System 3.5 Inch IPS Screen 128GB
At USD 28.99, the R36S is the lower-priced entry in this matchup, and it arrives with 128GB of storage and 20,000+ games preloaded. The 3.5-inch IPS screen runs at 640x480, and the listing highlights USB-C for connectivity. If you want to start playing immediately without building your own library, this is the convenient pick. The trade-off is that its listed feature set focuses on the preloaded library and USB-C connection, while the Anbernic model lists wireless and battery specifications as part of its appeal. If wireless extras matter to you, the Anbernic is the one that calls them out.
Final choice by use case
Choose the Anbernic RG 35XXPRO if you want the higher-priced Linux handheld with wireless and battery extras, and you are comfortable paying more for them. Choose the R36S if you want a lower-priced retro console with a large preloaded library ready to play.
