Mechdiy - Mar 27 2025

Anbernic RG557 Rumor Analysis
With performance upgrades, can it become a new benchmark for retro handhelds?

Updated on 2025/4/9:
🎉Anbernic has officially unveiled its flagship Android handheld device: Anbernic RG557. This device will also be making an appearance on Mechdiy shortly. Stay tuned and keep an eye out for more details!

New Chipset: Anbernic officially refers to the RG557 as a "Flagship Android Handheld," showcasing emulation performance superior to any of its previous Android handhelds. This suggests that Anbernic has adopted a new chipset, one that surpasses the capabilities of the processors used in earlier RG devices.

We can further confirm this through the device's name. Anbernic typically adheres to a consistent naming convention, with the final number in an RG model usually indicating the generation of the chipset. The RG557’s designation confirms that this is the first device to feature the company's 7th generation chipset.

Screen: Based on an earlier leak, the RG557 will incorporate a 5.48-inch 1080p AMOLED screen. It is anticipated that this will be identical to the screen utilised in the RG556, which remains a personal favourite among Anbernic device enthusiasts for its display quality.

Colorways: The RG557 will be offered in two distinct color options: All White and Transparent Purple. These choices are expected to appeal to a wide range of consumers seeking both classic and contemporary aesthetics.

In recent years, Anbernic has won wide reputation among gamers for its cost-effective retro handhelds. In 2024, Anbernic launched a new device almost every month, demonstrating its strong R&D capabilities in the handheld market. However, after entering 2025, Anbernic's release rhythm seems to have slowed down, but rumors about its new device RG557 have gradually surfaced recently. This device is likely to be the successor to the RG556 released in February 2024.

1. Rumors and specifications of RG557

According to multiple sources, Anbernic is developing a new handheld called RG557, which is expected to be equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 chipset, replacing the Unisoc Tiger T820 in the RG556. This upgrade is expected to bring significant performance improvements, especially in graphics processing capabilities. Although the specific GPU model has not yet been determined, it is expected to use Adreno A21 1, which may not be as powerful as the Adreno 650 in the Retroid Pocket 5, but it is still capable of meeting the needs of mid-to-high-end games.

In terms of screen, RG557 is expected to be equipped with a 5.5-inch display with a resolution of 1080p, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and an aspect ratio of 16:9. Compared with RG556, the screen size has increased slightly, and the display effect is expected to be further improved. However, whether OLED panel technology will be used is still uncertain.

In terms of other specifications, the RG557 will be equipped with 8GB LPDDR4 RAM and support 33W fast charging. The device measures 255 x 114 x 32 mm and has a matte plastic finish, which is comfortable to hold and has improved design over the RG556.

According to multiple sources, Anbernic is developing a new handheld called RG557, which is expected to be equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 chipset, replacing the Unisoc Tiger T820 in the RG556. This upgrade is expected to bring significant performance improvements, especially in graphics processing capabilities. Although the specific GPU model has not yet been determined, it is expected to use Adreno A21 1, which may not be as powerful as the Adreno 650 in the Retroid Pocket 5, but it is still capable of meeting the needs of mid-to-high-end games.

In terms of screen, RG557 is expected to be equipped with a 5.5-inch display with a resolution of 1080p, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and an aspect ratio of 16:9. Compared with RG556, the screen size has increased slightly, and the display effect is expected to be further improved. However, whether OLED panel technology will be used is still uncertain.

In terms of other specifications, the RG557 will be equipped with 8GB LPDDR4 RAM and support 33W fast charging. The device measures 255 x 114 x 32 mm and has a matte plastic finish, which is comfortable to hold and has improved design over the RG556.

Image source: Retro Handhelds

2. Competition with Retroid Pocket 5

The release of RG557 will undoubtedly make it a strong competitor to Retroid Pocket 5. Although the Adreno 650 GPU of Retroid Pocket 5 may be more powerful than the Adreno A21 1 of RG557, RG557 is expected to have more advantages in price and ergonomic design. Anbernic has always been known for its high cost performance. The price of RG557 may be slightly higher than the 180 US dollars of RG556, but it is expected to be less than 200 US dollars, keeping it competitive in the market.

Credit: Sillicon Den and Retroid

3. Players' expectations

Anbernic fans are looking forward to the release of RG557, especially those who have higher requirements for performance. The addition of Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 1 chipset means that RG557 will be able to run modern games better while maintaining compatibility with retro games. In addition, the configuration of 33W fast charging and 8GB RAM also shows Anbernic's efforts in improving user experience.

Although Retroid Pocket 5 may be slightly better in GPU performance, the balance of price, design and overall performance of RG557 makes it likely to stand out in the highly competitive handheld market. For players who pursue cost-effectiveness and comfortable gaming experience, RG557 is undoubtedly a choice worth looking forward to.

Credit: Sillicon Den

Conclusion

The rumors about Anbernic RG557 have attracted widespread attention. This device is expected to be a strong successor to RG556. As more details are revealed, players will be able to have a more comprehensive understanding of the performance and features of this new handheld. Whether you are a retro game enthusiast or a loyal fan of modern games, RG557 may become your next handheld choice. Let's wait and see whether Anbernic can once again create a new wave in the handheld market with RG557.