Anbernic RG DS Plus Brings Higher Resolution to Budget Nintendo DS Clone

Anbernic has introduced the RG DS Plus, an updated version of its Nintendo DS-style handheld that brings notable improvements to the original design while maintaining an affordable price point. The new model features a 1024 x 768 display, significantly upgrading from the previous version's 640 x 480 resolution, which the company achieves through "4x pixel perfect scaling" and "16-in-1 pixel density" processing.

Compared to the original Nintendo DS's 256x192 pixel display, the RG DS Plus offers substantially increased clarity for playing classic DS games. The device includes a stylus that slides into the side, though Anbernic notes it is a capacitive stick with a rubber end rather than a pressure-sensitive stylus. The handheld features a single thumbstick, similar to the MagicX Zero 40.

The hardware changes extend beyond the screen. Anbernic has reduced the RAM from 3GB to 1GB and removed built-in eMMC storage, opting instead for a microSD-based approach. The company swapped Android for Linux as the operating system, which reportedly requires less memory to function effectively.

The RG DS Plus includes a built-in NNDDSS emulator and a customized front-end interface designed specifically for managing a DS game library. While the device's design resembles a 3DS XL more than the original DS, Anbernic emphasizes its focus on DS compatibility rather than attempting to replicate the 3DS experience.

The handheld will be available for under $100, positioning it in the same price range as the original RG DS model. The previous version remains available at AliExpress for under $100 for users who prefer its higher memory and storage specifications. An official release date and complete specifications for the RG DS Plus have not yet been announced.