RG DS vs RG ARC-D

The RG DS and RG ARC-D 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 ARC-D uses a RockChip RK3566 with 2 GB LPDDR4. On our performance scale, the RG DS scores 5.75 and the RG ARC-D 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 ARC-D 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 ARC-D 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 ARC-D has a 4.0 inch display at 640 x 480. The RG DS is a clamshell (dual screen) device, while the RG ARC-D 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 ARC-D a 3500 mAh battery. On price, the RG DS sits around $94 (+ shipping), while the RG ARC-D is around 98.0.

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.