Unveiling the R35S: Pros and Cons of the Brandless Retro Handheld Gaming Console
R35S enthusiasts and gaming aficionados, welcome! Today, we delve into a comprehensive review of the R35S, a retro handheld gaming console that has caught the attention of many since its release in June 2023. In this post, we will explore both the pros and cons of this intriguing device, helping you decide whether it merits a place in your gaming arsenal.
The Rise of the R35S
The R35S is a brandless console, which raises some eyebrows among gamers who often prefer name brands due to perceived reliability. Interestingly, early research indicates that the R35S seems to be a copy of existing models, particularly the RGB20S and the Anbernic RG351MP. Many have likened it to a “Frankenstein” of gaming consoles, as it combines various elements from different models.
This clone-like nature leads us to wonder about its performance compared to more established brands. After thoroughly testing the device for over a week, I’ve gathered valuable insights on what works well and what doesn’t. Let’s break these findings down into clear sections.
Pros of the R35S
1. **Sturdy Build Quality**:
The R35S’s shell is surprisingly robust and well-made. Unlike many other handheld consoles, it features a transparent casing that not only looks appealing but also feels durable. This sturdiness makes it suitable for extended gaming sessions without the fear of breaking.
2. **Comfortable Controls**:
One concern with the R35S is its dual analog stick design. Initial impressions might suggest an awkward grip; however, after playing for several hours, I found the controls to be comfortable. Your thumbs only need to move a short distance, minimizing discomfort even during long play.
3. **Crisp Sound Quality**:
The audio quality of the R35S is commendable. The sound produced is clear and powerful, enhancing the overall gaming experience. You may find the sweet spot for volume is between 80-85%, where the sound remains balanced without distortion.
4. **Dual SD Card Slots**:
With two SD card slots—one for the operating system and another for games—you can easily expand storage. The R35S comes pre-installed with a 32GB card for the OS and a 64GB card for games, allowing immediate gameplay right out of the box.
5. **WiFi Connectivity**:
Being able to connect to WiFi opens doors for updates and theme downloads. Users have reported successfully updating the console and changing themes via wireless connectivity, giving it a customizable edge.
6. **Versatile Game Compatibility**:
The R35S supports multiple gaming systems like PSP, NDS, and Dreamcast, making it a versatile option for retro gaming enthusiasts. You’ll find that playing classic titles is straightforward and enjoyable.
7. **Impressive Battery Life**:
Featuring a 3,500mAh battery, the R35S promises around 5-6 hours of continuous gameplay. My tests revealed minimal battery drainage during idle periods, giving users confidence for long gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
Cons of the R35S
1. **Button Design Flaws**:
While the buttons are responsive and tactile, their size poses a challenge. Smaller buttons can lead to unintended presses, particularly for those with larger hands. Moreover, the power and volume buttons blend into the console’s shell, making them difficult to locate and press.
2. **Sound Distortion at High Volumes**:
Despite the great sound quality at moderate volumes, pushing it beyond 85% can lead to distortion. It’s advisable to keep the volume within the optimal range to maintain audio clarity.
3. **Generic SD Cards**:
Though the console includes free SD cards, they are generic. For better reliability, consider replacing them with higher-quality alternatives to avoid potential data loss or corruption.
4. **Inconsistent Screen Quality**:
Some units may arrive with screen issues, such as black spots. Although this can sometimes resolve itself, it remains a potential drawback when unboxing the device.
5. **Slow Boot Time**:
One of the notable complaints is the slow boot time. Users should be prepared for a delay when starting up the device, which can be frustrating during quick gaming sessions.
6. **Limited Bluetooth Functionality**:
Although advertised, the Bluetooth feature seems underwhelming, with no concrete information available on how to utilize it effectively. Users may need additional dongles to enable full functionality.
7. **Performance Issues with Heavy Graphics Games**:
When attempting to run graphics-heavy games, the R35S struggles significantly. This may require manual configuration of settings to achieve playable frames, which can be tedious and time-consuming.
Conclusion: Is the R35S Worth It?
In conclusion, the R35S offers a mix of impressive features and notable drawbacks. For retro gaming fans looking for an affordable console that can play a wide array of classic games, this device presents a solid choice given its price point of around 2,800 PHP. However, potential buyers should weigh the cons, especially regarding build quality and button design.
For those willing to embrace the quirks of a brandless console, the R35S could become a beloved companion. If you’re ready to dive into the world of retro gaming without breaking the bank, consider giving the R35S a shot. Happy gaming!
Feel free to share your experiences with the R35S in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more gaming reviews and tips!