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RetroGame RS-97 Plus (Anbernic) Review: A Budget Retro Handheld

RetroGame RS-97 Plus (Anbernic) Review: A Budget Retro Handheld

Overview

The RetroGame RS-97 Plus, also known as the Anbernic RS-97 Plus, is a compact retro gaming handheld released in 2018. It features a 3.0-inch TFT display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a resolution of 320x480 pixels. Powered by the Ingenic JZ4760B processor clocked between 528 MHz and 740 MHz, paired with 128 MB of DDR2 RAM and a Vivante GC200 GPU, this device can emulate classic consoles up to some PlayStation 1 games. The handheld runs on an open-source operating system and offers storage via internal and external MicroSD cards. Its 1800 mAh battery is replaceable (model BP-5L), and it weighs just 142 grams, making it highly portable. The plastic shell comes in a translucent black color, and connectivity is limited to AV Out and a 3.5mm headphone jack, with no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Key Specs Highlights

  • CPU: Ingenic JZ4760B (XBurst, 1 core 1 thread, 528-740 MHz)
  • GPU: Vivante GC200 (250-375 MHz)
  • RAM: 128 MB DDR2
  • Display: 3.0-inch TFT, 320x480, 4:3, 60Hz, 133.33 PPI
  • Storage: Internal + external MicroSD
  • Battery: 1800 mAh (BP-5L, replaceable)
  • Weight: 142 g
  • Dimensions: 144 x 64 x 19 mm
  • Emulation: Up to some PS1 and earlier
  • Price: ~$50 (budget range $0-$50)

Who It Is For

The RetroGame RS-97 Plus is ideal for retro gaming enthusiasts on a tight budget who want a simple, no-frills device for playing classic games from the NES, SNES, Game Boy, and similar eras. It's also suitable for tinkerers who enjoy open-source handhelds and don't mind limited connectivity. However, it is not for those seeking high-end performance, modern connectivity (Wi-Fi/BT), or a premium build.

Buying Notes

As a 2018 model, the RS-97 Plus is an older budget handheld. Its performance is modest, handling most 8-bit and 16-bit systems well but struggling with more demanding PS1 titles. The screen resolution (320x480) is non-standard and may cause scaling issues. The lack of Wi-Fi means no online multiplayer or easy ROM transfers. The replaceable battery is a plus, but the plastic build feels cheap. If you can find it for around $50 or less, it's a decent entry-level device, but consider newer alternatives like the Anbernic RG35XX or Miyoo Mini for a better experience.

Specifications
CPUXBurst
GPUVivante GC200
RAM128 MB DDR2
NameRetroGame RS-97 Plus
BrandAnbernic
Weight142 g
Battery1800 mAh (BP-5L, replaceable)
SpeakerMono
StorageInternal & External MicroSD
Grip TypeHorizontal
ProcessorIngenic JZ4760B
Body ColorTranslucent Black
Dimensions144 mm x 64 mm x 19 mm
Screen PPI133.33
Price Range$0 - $50
Screen Size3.0 inches
Screen TypeTFT
Audio Output3.5mm Headphone Jack
Connectivity❌
Launch Price$50
Release Date2018
Screen Ratio4:3
Video OutputAV Out
CPU Frequency528 MHz - 740 MHz
Shell MaterialPlastic
Operating SystemOpen Source
Screen Resolution320 x 480
GPU Core Frequency250 - 375 MHz
Screen Refresh Rate60Hz
CPU Cores and Threads1 core 1 thread
Emulator Game SupportUp to some PS1 and earlier

Full specs and updates on our site: https://www.oldman.dpdns.org/en/handheld/retrogame-rs-97-plus

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