Anbernic RG477V Review

When a „Game Boy” clone becomes a powerful computer

For a long time, retro gaming enthusiasts had to choose: either a compact, nostalgic vertical form with limited power or a powerful but horizontal device. The Anbernic RG406V was the first serious attempt to change this, but the RG477V, released at the end of 2025, fundamentally changes the game. This is not just an evolution – it’s a statement that a vertical console can be a premium-class device.
However, this leap comes at a cost – both literally and ergonomically. Is it worth sacrificing pocket size for the ability to play PS2 games at high resolution?

4.77-inch screen and the triumph of 4:3 aspect ratio

The number „477” encoded in the name indicates the biggest advantage of this model – the 4.77-inch diagonal screen. In the context of retro emulation, where the 3.5-inch standard has long dominated, this is a huge increase in space.

Why is the 4:3 aspect ratio critical?

Most classic consoles – from PlayStation 1 to GameCube or Dreamcast – were designed specifically for the 4:3 aspect ratio. This means that when playing with the RG477V, the image fills the entire screen area without any annoying black bars on the sides.

Technological Advantage

With a 120 Hz refresh rate and extremely high pixel density, the image is not only sharp but also smooth. This is particularly noticeable when navigating the Android interface or playing games that support higher frame rates. Admittedly, the glass front gives a sense of solidity, but it acts like a magnet for fingerprints – a microfiber cloth will become your best friend.

Is the Dimensity 8300 overkill or a necessity?

The biggest engineering achievement here is the integration of the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 processor (specifications may vary slightly depending on the region, but the performance class remains the same). This is a leap from budget to mid-high range.

Emulation Capabilities

• PlayStation 2 Dominance: This is the first vertical console on the market that not only „launches” PS2 games but allows them to be played at 3x or 4x increased resolution. Heavy titles like „God of War 2” or „Gran Turismo 4” run smoothly.
• GameCube and Wii: Performance is practically flawless.
• Switch Nuances: While the processor is powerful, the Mali graphics chips still lag behind the Snapdragon series when emulating the Switch console due to driver specifics. Nevertheless, the „green power” allows for smooth gameplay in many lighter 2D and 3D games.

No longer a pocket device, but a backpack resident

Let’s be honest – the RG477V is no longer a „pocket” device. It is large, heavy, and bulky.

Comfort vs. Portability

The larger body allowed the manufacturer to space out the buttons more comfortably, making it one of the most comfortable vertical consoles on the market for those with larger hands. Thumbs do not bump into each other, and hands tire less during longer sessions. However, the L/R buttons (shoulders) on the back still require some adjustment compared to horizontal devices.

Active Cooling

Such power generates heat. The device has an integrated fan. When playing graphically intensive games, you will hear its hum – a compromise that must be accepted for stable performance.

Numbers that matter to enthusiasts