When you're choosing console handheld hardware, the real split is simple: do you want the least expensive way into a big retro library, or are you willing to pay more for extras like Bluetooth and a larger battery? The four models here-three R36S variants and the ANBERNIC RG35XX H-all use 3.5-inch IPS screens, but the similarities end there.
Quick take
The three R36S models cover the lower part of the price range, while the ANBERNIC RG35XX H sits at the upper end with extra hardware details. Use the price table to see how storage and game counts change as the price climbs, then read the product notes to match one to your habits.
| Model | Price | Price bar | Storage / game count |
|---|---|---|---|
| R36S (15,000+ games) | $21.25 | 15,000+ games | |
| R36S (64/128GB card, 20,000+ games) | $30.99 | 64/128GB card, 20,000+ games | |
| R36S (64-128GB, 20,000 games) | $40.99 | 64-128GB, 20,000 games | |
| ANBERNIC RG35XX H (64G, 5K+ games) | $67.99 | 64G, 5K+ games |
Decision matrix
| If you... | Choose this | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Want the lowest outlay with an explicit control set | R36S (15,000+ games) | Dual joystick, D-pad, action buttons and shoulder buttons |
| Want the card included | R36S (64/128GB card) | The memory card is part of this package |
| Prefer Linux software with storage choices | R36S (64-128GB) | Linux system and multiple storage options |
| Want Bluetooth and battery capacity | ANBERNIC RG35XX H | Bluetooth 4.2 and 3300mAh battery |
Product notes
#### R36S with card and 20,000+ games
This model is for players who want the card included rather than dealing with storage later. The title highlights a 64/128GB card and a 20,000+ game count, and it is priced at $30.99. That puts it above the entry-level R36S by a few dollars, but you get the card and the larger advertised library in the same package. The screen size is 3.5 inches with IPS, matching the rest of the group. The limitation is that the extra money buys storage media and a bigger library count, not a bigger screen. For someone who wants a larger advertised library without stepping up to the most expensive model, this card version is the middle ground.
#### R36S with storage options and Linux
This $40.99 R36S is for players who want storage flexibility without leaving the R36S line. The title points to multiple storage choices and a Linux system, so it sits apart from the card-based version. The price step is about the configuration and operating system rather than a larger display. Linux is the operating system, which can appeal if you like a more customizable setup. The main drawback is that the price is the highest of the three R36S models. If your priority is simply the lowest cost, the other R36S options are better fits.
#### R36S with 15,000+ games
At $21.25, this purple R36S is the least expensive way into the group, and it still includes an explicit control set: dual joystick, D-pad, action buttons, and shoulder buttons. It also includes 3D Audio Technology. The advertised library is 15,000+ games, which is smaller than the 20,000+ figures on the other R36S models, so the lower price comes with a smaller library size. The purple shell also gives the group a little color variety, which is a small bonus at this price. If you want the card or the storage options, you would need to move up to a higher-priced R36S.
#### ANBERNIC RG35XX H
The ANBERNIC RG35XX H carries the highest price at $67.99, and it lists Bluetooth 4.2, a 3300mAh battery, and an H700 quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor. The title says 64G and 5K+ games, so the game library is smaller than the R36S models with higher counts even though the hardware details are more extensive. The bundle is described as Only Machines, so the price focuses on the console itself. Bluetooth support matters if you want to use wireless accessories. If you care about connectivity and battery capacity more than a massive game count, this is the model to choose.
Final recommendation by use case
- Lowest-cost way in: entry-level R36S.
- Card-based package: the R36S sold with a memory card.
- Storage-flexible R36S: the Linux version with multiple storage choices.
- Extras-focused option: ANBERNIC RG35XX H.
