R36S vs Anbernic: Which Budget Retro Handheld Should You Buy?

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If you’re shopping for a cheap retro handheld, two names dominate the search results: the R36S family (including the R36 Ultra) and Anbernic, the established brand behind the popular RG35XX line. Here’s how they really compare — and how to pick.

The quick take

• Anbernic = the recognised brand, consistent quality control, and a big community.
• R36 family = maximum value, often a larger screen for the money, and the same broad classic-era emulation.

Both play the same eras (NES through PS1) well. The decision is really about brand assurance vs price-to-screen value.

Price & value

The R36 family’s biggest strength is value. You typically get a comparable or larger IPS screen for less than an equivalent Anbernic unit. The R36 Ultra’s 4.0-inch panel, in particular, often undercuts similarly-sized Anbernic models. If you want the most screen and capability per dollar, the R36 side usually wins.

Build & quality control

This is where Anbernic earns its premium. As a single established brand, its quality control is more consistent unit-to-unit. The R36 family is made across multiple factories (which is why clones and rebrands exist), so buying from a well-reviewed listing matters more. Do that, and a genuine R36 unit holds up well.

Software

Both run capable stock firmware and both are supported by popular custom firmware like ArkOS. Anbernic devices have very mature community support; the R36 family is well-supported too (see our custom firmware guide). For most buyers, the out-of-the-box experience on either is fine.

Performance

At this budget tier, both target the same sweet spot: 8-bit and 16-bit systems run flawlessly, GBA is excellent, and PS1 is the comfortable ceiling. Neither budget class is the right pick for PSP or Dreamcast — that’s a step up in price. Our emulation guide covers the details.

Which should you buy?

• Choose the R36 Ultra / R36S if you want the best screen and value for money and you’re happy to buy from a reputable listing. → R36 Ultra
• Choose Anbernic if brand consistency and a specific model’s ergonomics matter more to you than saving money.

Bottom line

Anbernic is the safe brand; the R36 family is the value champion. For most people who just want to play the classics on a great screen without overpaying, a well-reviewed R36 Ultra is the smarter buy. Just make sure you’re getting a genuine unit, not a mystery clone.