Why We Love the Anbernic RG405M and RG505 for True Retro Gaming Fans

As retro gaming fans, we’ve spent countless hours testing handheld consoles that bring back the nostalgia of classic games while offering the comfort of modern design. Among the many options out there, the Anbernic RG405M and RG505 stand out for their performance, build quality, and how well they capture that classic gaming spirit.

A Blend of Classic Feel and Modern Tech

We believe a good retro console should feel familiar but not outdated. That’s exactly what makes the Anbernic RG405M special. With its sleek metal body and sturdy design, it feels solid in your hands, reminding us of old-school handhelds but with a modern edge. It’s powered by a Unisoc Tiger T618 processor and offers smooth gameplay across a wide range of emulators — from NES and SNES to PSP and Dreamcast.

The best part? The 4-inch touchscreen gives it a premium feel, and the ergonomic controls make long gaming sessions comfortable. Whether we’re reliving old favourites or discovering forgotten titles, the RG405M delivers consistent performance without lag or overheating.

Why the RG505 Stands Out

The RG505 takes things a step further for gamers who want more screen space and Android flexibility. Its 5-inch OLED display is bright, colourful, and perfect for games that rely on vibrant visuals. We noticed how smooth it runs even demanding emulators, and switching between retro and Android games is effortless.

It’s also one of the few handhelds that supports Android apps, so we can access streaming platforms, game stores, and even cloud gaming. That makes the RG505 not just a retro console but a complete handheld entertainment device.

Performance and Battery Life

Both consoles perform surprisingly well for their price. We’ve tested them with a variety of titles — from old-school platformers to 3D games — and both handled them smoothly. The Anbernic RG405M offers longer battery life, perfect for long road trips or gaming on the go, while the RG505 delivers a better display experience if you prefer visual quality over endurance.

For us, it often comes down to what you value more: portability and efficiency with the RG405M, or display quality and Android versatility with the RG505.

A Nostalgic Yet Practical Choice

Retro gaming isn’t just about playing old games — it’s about revisiting a time when gaming felt simpler and more personal. Both of these Anbernic devices make that possible without the usual technical hurdles. We’ve found that setting up emulators, ROMs, and even modern apps is straightforward. The build quality and smooth interface make these consoles ideal for both beginners and seasoned collectors.

Final Thoughts

At Pocket Games, we’ve seen many handheld consoles come and go, but few capture the essence of gaming nostalgia like the Anbernic RG405M and RG505. Whether you’re looking for a compact metal handheld or a feature-rich Android device, these two models deliver where it matters most — performance, comfort, and that unmistakable retro charm.

If you’re ready to relive the golden days of gaming, these two consoles are a solid start. For us, they’re more than just devices; they’re a link to the memories that made us fall in love with gaming in the first place.