Head-to-Head
RG DS vs RG-503
RG DS vs RG-503: a head-to-head comparison of specs, performance, screen, battery, and which one is the better buy for your retro library.
| Spec | RG DS | RG-503 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Anbernic | Anbernic |
| Form Factor | Clamshell (Dual Screen) | Horizontal |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Linux ArkOS, JELOS, Retro Arena |
| Chipset | RockChip RK3568 | RockChip RK3566 |
| RAM | 3 GB | 1 GB LPDDR4 |
| Screen | 4.0 inch x2 | 4.95 inch |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 | 960 × 544 |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 3500 mAh |
| Price | $94 (+ shipping) | 140.0 |
The RG DS and RG-503 are two retro handhelds that often end up on the same shortlist. They are not identical, and the right choice depends on what you actually want to play and how much you want to spend.
Performance and emulation ceiling
The RG DS is powered by a RockChip RK3568 with 3 GB. The RG-503 uses a RockChip RK3566 with 1 GB LPDDR4. On our performance scale, the RG DS scores 5.75 and the RG-503 scores 5.5. The RG DS grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. The RG-503 grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range. The RG-503 reaches N64, PSP & Dreamcast mostly playable but not all full speed.
Screen and ergonomics
The RG DS has a 4.0 inch x2 display at 640 x 480. The RG-503 has a 4.95 inch display at 960 × 544. The RG DS is a clamshell (dual screen) device, while the RG-503 is horizontal. That shape difference matters for how the device feels in the hand and how comfortable it is for longer sessions.
Battery and price
The RG DS carries a 4000 mAh battery, and the RG-503 a 3500 mAh battery. On price, the RG DS sits around $94 (+ shipping), while the RG-503 is around 140.0.
Which should you buy?
Choose the RG DS if you want the stronger overall package for the money. The best handheld is the one that makes the games you actually play feel natural.