Anbernic RG DDS vs Other Dual Screen Handhelds

The Anbernic RG DDS is a dual-screen handheld gaming device designed to emulate Nintendo DS and 3DS titles with a clamshell form factor. It features two 3.5-inch IPS displays, an Unisoc T820 processor, and runs Android, positioning it against devices like the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and the AYN Odin 2. This article covers what we know so far about the RG DDS, how it compares to other dual-screen handhelds, and what to consider before buying.

Formula

The calculator above computes average pace and speed from a given finish time and distance. The formulas are:

• Pace (min/km) = Finish time (minutes) ÷ Distance (km)
• Speed (km/h) = Distance (km) ÷ (Finish time (minutes) ÷ 60)

Where:

• Finish time (t) – total time taken, in minutes.
• Distance (d) – total distance covered, in kilometers.
• Pace – time per kilometer, expressed as minutes per kilometer.
• Speed – average velocity, expressed as kilometers per hour.

Worked Example

Using the default values from the calculator (t = 50 minutes, d = 10 km):

1. Pace = 50 ÷ 10 = 5.00 min/km
2. Speed = 10 ÷ (50 ÷ 60) = 10 ÷ 0.8333 = 12.00 km/h

So for a 10 km run completed in 50 minutes, your average pace is 5:00 per kilometer, and your average speed is 12 km/h.

Background: The Dual-Screen Handheld Landscape

Dual-screen handhelds have existed since the Nintendo DS launched in 2004. The DS and its successor, the 3DS, sold hundreds of millions of units combined, creating a massive library of games that rely on two screens. Emulating these systems on a single-screen device is awkward—you either split the screen or overlay the second display, both of which hurt the experience. Dedicated dual-screen handhelds try to solve this by physically replicating the clamshell design.

Before the RG DDS, the main options were the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (single screen, but with a secondary touchscreen on some variants), the AYN Odin 2 (single large screen), and the GPD Win 4 (a clamshell PC with a single screen). None of these truly mimic the DS/3DS dual-screen experience. The RG DDS aims to fill that gap with two identical 3.5-inch IPS panels and a hinge.

Anbernic has a history of releasing niche handhelds, such as the RG351 series and the RG552, which was a dual-screen Android device. The RG DDS is a successor to that concept, updated with a more modern processor and better build quality.

How the RG DDS Works

The RG DDS runs Android 13, which gives access to the Google Play Store and emulator apps like DraStic, RetroArch, and Citra. The two screens are treated as independent displays by the OS, so emulators can be configured to output to both screens. The clamshell design means the device folds shut like a DS, with the screens facing each other when closed.

Key specs (as announced, subject to change):

• Processor: Unisoc T820 (octa-core, 2.7 GHz max)
• RAM: 8 GB LPDDR4X
• Storage: 128 GB UFS 2.2, expandable via microSD
• Screens: Two 3.5-inch IPS, 640×480 resolution, 4:3 aspect ratio
• Battery: 5000 mAh
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
• Ports: USB-C (charging/data), 3.5mm headphone jack

Unlike the 3DS, the RG DDS does not have a touchscreen on either display. This is a significant limitation for DS/3DS games that require stylus input. Some emulators can map touch to a virtual joystick or mouse, but it is not a direct replacement.

Comparison with Other Dual-Screen Handhelds

Here are the main alternatives and how they stack up:

• Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (with optional second screen accessory) – The RP4 Pro is a single-screen device, but Retroid sells a separate clip-on screen that connects via USB-C. It is not integrated, and the experience is clunkier than a clamshell. The RP4 Pro has a faster Dimensity 1100 chip, so it can handle more demanding 3DS games, but the second screen is not always recognized by emulators.
• AYN Odin 2 – A single 6-inch screen, but with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, it is the most powerful Android handheld. For DS/3DS, you would use a screen layout that splits the display, which works but is not as immersive as two physical screens.
• GPD Win 4 – A clamshell PC with a single 6-inch screen. It runs Windows, so you can use PC emulators like MelonDS and Citra. It is far more powerful but also much more expensive and heavier.
• Nintendo 3DS/2DS (original hardware) – The most authentic experience, but the hardware is aging, and the screens are low-resolution. Homebrew allows emulation of older systems, but the 3DS library is not fully accessible on modern emulators.

The RG DDS sits between the budget and mid-range. It is less powerful than the RP4 Pro or Odin 2, but it is the only one with an integrated dual-screen form factor at a sub-$200 price point (expected).

How to Choose the Right Dual-Screen Handheld

Consider the following factors:

• Emulation target – If you only care about DS and GBA, the RG DDS is sufficient. For 3DS, you need more power (Snapdragon 8 series) and preferably a touchscreen.
• Portability – The RG DDS is compact and clamshell, making it the most pocketable. The Odin 2 is large, and the GPD Win 4 is heavy.
• Screen quality – The RG DDS screens are 640×480, which is lower than the Odin 2’s 1080p. For DS games, that is fine, but for Android games or streaming, a higher resolution is better.
• Touchscreen necessity – Many DS games require a stylus. If you plan to play those, the RG DDS is not ideal. Look for a device with a touchscreen, like the 3DS or a tablet.
• Budget – The RG DDS is expected to be around $150–$200. The RP4 Pro is $200, the Odin 2 is $300+, and the GPD Win 4 is $700+.

Common Problems and Limitations

Early reports and community feedback highlight several issues:

• No touchscreen – As mentioned, this is a dealbreaker for many DS games.
• Screen resolution – 640×480 is low for Android apps; text may appear blurry.
• Processor performance – The Unisoc T820 is comparable to a Snapdragon 855, which can handle most DS and PSP games, but struggles with some 3DS titles.
• Android quirks – Dual-screen support in Android is not native; some emulators may not recognize the second display without configuration.
• Build quality – Anbernic’s past devices have had hinge issues; the RG DDS is new, so longevity is unknown.

A common misconception is that the RG DDS can play 3DS games well. While the T820 can run some lighter 3DS titles, the lack of a touchscreen and the lower resolution make it a poor choice for that system. It is best suited for DS, GBA, and older emulators.

Cost and Value

The RG DDS is expected to retail for around $150–$200, depending on the configuration. That price includes the device, a USB-C cable, and a manual. You will likely need to buy a microSD card for ROMs, which adds $20–$40 for 128GB–256GB.

Compared to buying a used 3DS (which can cost $100–$200), the RG DDS offers more flexibility because it can emulate many systems, not just DS. However, a 3DS gives you the authentic touchscreen and dual-screen experience, and you can play physical cartridges.

For the price, the RG DDS is a niche product. If you are a DS enthusiast who wants a modern device, it is a reasonable buy. If you want a general-purpose Android handheld, a single-screen device with a better chip may offer better value.

Safety and Accuracy Notes

When using any handheld, follow these guidelines:

• Charge the device with the provided cable and a compatible power adapter (5V/2A or higher).
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme heat or moisture.
• Do not disassemble the device; the battery is not user-replaceable.
• Take breaks to avoid eye strain; the screens are small and close to your face.

For emulation, ensure you own the games you download. ROMs of games you do not own are illegal in many jurisdictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the RG DDS play 3DS games?

It can play some lighter 3DS titles via Citra, but performance is inconsistent, and the lack of a touchscreen makes many games unplayable. For a better 3DS experience, consider a device with a Snapdragon 8-series chip and a touchscreen, or use original hardware.

Does the RG DDS have a touchscreen?

No, neither screen is touch-sensitive. This is a major limitation for DS games that require stylus input. Some emulators can simulate touch with a virtual pointer, but it is not a substitute.

Can I use the two screens for Android apps?

Yes, Android treats the second screen as an external display. You can extend your desktop or run apps on one screen and the home screen on the other. However, not all apps are optimized for dual-screen use.

Is the RG DDS worth buying?

If you are a DS fan who wants a dedicated dual-screen device and do not mind the lack of touch, it is a good value. For most other uses, a single-screen Android handheld with a better chip is more versatile.

How does the RG DDS compare to the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro?

The RP4 Pro has a faster processor (Dimensity 1100) and a single 4.7-inch touchscreen. The RG DDS has two screens but no touch. For DS emulation, the RG DDS is more convenient; for overall performance, the RP4 Pro is better.

What is the battery life of the RG DDS?

With a 5000 mAh battery, you can expect 4–6 hours of gameplay depending on brightness and emulator load. Charging takes about 2 hours via USB-C.

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in t | Finish time | min | 50 | 0
in d | Distance | km | 10 | 0
out pace | Average pace | min/km | t / d | 2
out speed | Average speed | km/h | d / (t / 60) | 2