Anbernic RG Slide: Too Bulky for Pocket Gaming?
▼ Summary
– Anbernic’s upcoming RG Slide handheld, priced at $189 and launching June 20, 2025, features an octa-core Unisoc Tiger T820 CPU, 8GB RAM, 128GB storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with up to six hours of playtime.
– The RG Slide’s 4.7-inch, 1280 x 960 screen enhances retro game visuals, but its sliding mechanism, while solid, produces a loud “clack” when opened or closed.
– Reviewers praise the RG Slide’s controls as comfortable and well-balanced but note they aren’t as ergonomic as other handhelds.
– Critics argue the RG Slide is too large and thick (380 grams) to be pocket-friendly, comparing unfavorably to lighter devices like the PSP Go (158 grams).
– Anbernic may have prioritized novelty and nostalgia over practicality, missing the compact appeal of devices like the PSP Go and Xperia Play.
The Anbernic RG Slide handheld gaming console has sparked mixed reactions among early reviewers, with its unique sliding design and retro gaming capabilities facing scrutiny over its bulky form factor. While the device promises impressive performance for emulating classic games, questions remain about whether its size compromises the portability that made similar devices like the PSP Go so popular.
Priced at $189, the RG Slide is expected to launch on June 20, 2025, packing hardware that positions it as a premium option for retro gaming enthusiasts. Under the hood, it features an octa-core Unisoc Tiger T820 processor, the same chip found in Anbernic’s higher-end models, capable of smoothly running titles from the PS2 and GameCube era. Complementing this are 8GB of RAM, 128GB of internal storage, a microSD slot, and a 5,000mAh battery that delivers up to six hours of gameplay.
Early hands-on impressions highlight the 4.7-inch display with a sharp 1280 x 960 resolution, which reviewers say enhances the visual quality of older games compared to previous Anbernic devices. The sliding mechanism, though sturdy, has drawn criticism for its loud clicking sound when opening or closing.
Where the RG Slide stumbles, according to testers, is in its bulky dimensions and weight. At 380 grams, it’s nearly as heavy as the original Nintendo Switch and significantly heftier than the featherlight PSP Go. While the controls are responsive and well-placed, the overall ergonomics fall short of competitors, making extended play sessions less comfortable than on sleeker alternatives.
For retro gaming fans who prioritize performance over pocketability, the RG Slide could still be a compelling choice. However, those hoping for a truly portable experience may find its size and weight hard to overlook.
(Source: The Verge)
