Head-to-Head
RG DS vs RG DS Plus
RG DS vs RG DS Plus: 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 DS Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Anbernic | Anbernic |
| Form Factor | Clamshell (Dual Screen) | Clamshell |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Linux |
| Chipset | RockChip RK3568 | RockChip RK3568 |
| RAM | 3 GB | 1 GB |
| Screen | 4.0 inch x2 | 4.3 inch x2 |
| Resolution | 640 x 480 | 1024 x 768 (x2) |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | ? |
| Price | $94 (+ shipping) | ? |
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The RG DS and RG DS Plus 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 DS Plus uses a RockChip RK3568 with 1 GB. On our performance scale, the RG DS scores 5.75 and the RG DS Plus scores 5.75. 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 DS Plus grades Game Boy, Nintendo Entertainment System, Sega Genesis, Game Boy Advance as A-level, with Nintendo 64, Dreamcast, PSP in the B range.
Screen and ergonomics
The RG DS has a 4.0 inch x2 display at 640 x 480. The RG DS Plus has a 4.3 inch x2 display at 1024 x 768 (x2). The RG DS is a clamshell (dual screen) device, while the RG DS Plus is clamshell. 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 DS Plus a ? battery. On price, the RG DS sits around $94 (+ shipping), while the RG DS Plus is around ?.
Which should you buy?
Choose the RG DS if its specific strengths match your library, and the RG DS Plus if its tradeoffs suit you better. The best handheld is the one that makes the games you actually play feel natural.