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| Anbernic offers the RG G01 in three colours at launch. |
The handheld gaming giant Anbernic is making a serious play for your living room. Hot on the heels of its first controller, the company has unveiled the Anbernic RG G01, a versatile wireless controller aiming directly at popular models like the GameSir G7 Pro and 8BitDo Ultimate 2.4G. Priced aggressively and packed with features rarely seen in its bracket, the RG G01 is making waves, but early testing reveals it might not be a flawless victory.
A Familiar Design with an Anbernic Twist
Departing from the look of its first controller and the popular 8BitDo Ultimate series, the RG G01 finds its inspiration elsewhere. Its design, button layout, and feature set are strikingly similar to the Mamba One wireless controller. It retains the comfortable, offset Xbox-style thumbsticks and ergonomic grips that have become a standard for PC and cloud gaming.
However, Anbernic has made some clear trade-offs. Notably, the RG G01 does not include a charging dock, nor does it have the pogo pins necessary to add one later. This means charging the sizable 2,100 mAh battery is done exclusively via the USB Type-C port. For those who love the convenience of a drop-in dock, this is a notable omission.
See the official specifications and purchase directly on the Anbernic website here.
Versatility is the Name of the Game
Where the RG G01 shines is in its sheer compatibility. It’s a true multi-mode controller, supporting:
- Xinput (for PC and Xbox Cloud Gaming)
- Dinput (for older PC games and emulators)
- Nintendo Switch
- Android & iOS devices
This connectivity is available across Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless (via a USB Type-A dongle), and wired USB-C, making it a one-controller solution for a vast array of devices.
The Highs and Lows: Polling Rates & The Built-In Screen
Anbernic advertises a blistering 1000 Hz polling rate for ultra-responsive input. Important caveat: this is only achievable in Xinput mode and when using either a wired or 2.4 GHz wireless connection. Early in-depth testing by outlets like Retro Game Corps has uncovered a significant shortfall in Bluetooth performance, with polling rates measuring between 125-131 Hz, far below Anbernic’s claimed 180 Hz for that mode. For competitive gamers who rely on Bluetooth, this is a critical point to consider.
One of the controller's most unique features is its built-in display. This screen allows for full configuration of buttons, stick sensitivity, trigger dead zones, and even macro programming—all without needing a companion app on your phone or PC. It’s an innovative solution for on-the-fly tweaks. Be aware that the screen lacks a timeout function and will eventually revert to the pairing screen if left idle.
Another headline feature is the integrated heart rate monitor. While a novel addition for tracking your excitement during intense gaming sessions, early reviewers have reported inconsistent results, suggesting it's more of a fun gimmick than a reliable biometric tool.
Practical Touches and Pricing Strategy
Anbernic included some welcome practical features. The trigger stops (for shortening the pull on the L2/R2 buttons) are cleverly placed right where your index fingers naturally rest, a user-friendly design copied from the Mamba One. The overall build quality, from the buttons to the hall effect joysticks (which resist drift), is reported to be solid, especially for the price.
And what a price it is. The RG G01 launches with an incredibly competitive direct price of $35.99 from Anbernic's store. Be warned: this price is scheduled to rise to $39.99. For comparison, you can also find it on Anbernic's Official AliExpress Store, though it's currently listed at a higher MSRP.
Check current pricing and discounts on AliExpress here.
For a similar design inspiration, see the Mamba One on Amazon.
Final First Impressions
The Anbernic RG G01 is a compelling and ambitious controller. It bundles hall effect joysticks, a configuration screen, multi-platform support, and a large battery into a package that undercuts much of the competition on price. However, its inconsistent Bluetooth polling rate and the unreliable heart rate monitor hold it back from being an outright champion out of the gate.
For gamers primarily using 2.4 GHz or wired connections on PC, the RG G01 represents staggering value. Those seeking top-tier Bluetooth performance or dock-charging convenience might want to weigh their options. Anbernic has thrown down a formidable gauntlet; it will be fascinating to see how the established players respond.
What do you think of Anbernic's foray into controllers? Is the RG G01 on your wishlist? Let us know in the comments below.