Anbernic is reshaping the RG SP around portability and a more restrained retro appearance. The clamshell handheld is about 10 percent smaller than its predecessor, while its upper bezel has been reduced by as much as 25 percent.
Those physical changes are paired with an aluminium-style finish intended to give the device a more premium impression. The underlying material is expected to remain high-quality plastic with a special coating.
A smaller clamshell approach
The reduced body size positions the Anbernic RG SP as a more compact option for carrying around. Its design continues to preserve the familiar character of a classic foldable handheld console.
Trimming the upper bezel addresses the thicker-looking top section of the earlier model. The adjustment gives the front of the device a cleaner and more minimal appearance when opened.
| Design area | RG SP | Change from RG34XX SP |
|---|---|---|
| Controls | No dual analog sticks | Closer to the GBA SP layout |
| Body size | More compact | Reduced by about 10 percent |
| Upper bezel | More minimal | Reduced by up to 25 percent |
| Finish | Aluminium-style | More premium visual impression |
Analog sticks removed
The most noticeable change is the removal of the two analog sticks found on the RG34XX SP. That choice brings the control area closer to the visual language of the Game Boy Advance SP.
Community feedback had regarded analog sticks as a less natural match for a clamshell design inspired by Nintendo handhelds from the 2000s. Anbernic has therefore adopted a simpler control layout for the new model.
The decision creates a clear separation between the RG SP and the earlier RG34XX SP. Rather than prioritising the previous control arrangement, the newer handheld emphasises a more faithful classic silhouette.
A simpler product name
The RG SP also introduces a different naming approach for Anbernic. The company has moved away from names using screen-size numbers and the “XX” suffix, which had been used to identify the H700 chipset.
Its new name directly references the Game Boy Advance SP that inspired the device’s design. The simpler approach is similar to the naming pattern used for the RG DS model.
According to mediaindonesia.com, the streamlined name arrives alongside the physical redesign. The focus extends beyond appearance to the convenience of carrying a more compact foldable console.
Four classic colour options
Anbernic has also stepped away from experimental colour treatments, including GameCube-themed options and multicoloured buttons seen on earlier series. The RG SP is offered in four colours that are closer to the Game Boy Advance SP palette.
| Colour variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Silver | Most similar to the original 2004 version |
| Black | Classic colour option |
| Light Pink | Classic colour option |
| Light Blue | Classic colour option |
Silver is positioned as the colour closest to the original version released in 2004. Black, Light Pink, and Light Blue complete the set of classic choices.
For the retro handheld console market, details such as button placement, body thickness, bezel size, and colour remain important to collectors and players. The RG SP reflects an effort to combine modern console technology with a more precise homage to the Game Boy Advance SP.
