The ANBERNIC RG35XX Plus is certainly a capable retro handheld, but many users aren't satisfied with ANBERNIC's stock OS. If that describes you, you're in luck! Even though this handheld is relatively new, there are already many great custom firmware options out there!
Here I'll give a brief overview of everything available for the RG35XX Plus today!
GarlicOS 2.0
If you're an owner of the original RG35XX, you've most likely heard of GarlicOS. Luckily for us, we now have a version available for the RG35XX Plus!
At the time of this article being written, GarlicOS 2.0 is still being developed. This is understandable as the RG35XX Plus is still relatively new. So with this OS, there are still some features that we are waiting to be fixed. For example, some have reported WiFi not working.
While GarlicOS 2.0 does have the same sleek look as the original GarlicOS from the RG35XX, I wouldn't recommend using it yet. Some users love messing around with these early builds, and if that's you, go for it!
But for the average user, GarlicOS 2.0 isn't there yet. But give it a few months, and this will certainly be one of the top contenders (if not the top contender) for RG35XX Plus custom firmware.
For those interested, get GarlicOS 2.0 here.
Koriki
Out of all the options available right now, Koriki (a version of Batocera) is the best. Not only does it have good functionality, it has a polished look with many different themes to mess around with.
The WiFi works great here, unlike some other options on this list. So if you want to do something like RetroAchievements or box art scraping you will be satisfied with Koriki. Bluetooth is also working, so if you want to use a Bluetooth controller, you're in luck with Koriki.
And I really can't overstate how nice this OS looks, which is honestly a big motivator for many people to install custom firmware. Not to mention you can use the same MicroSD card on the RG35XX H if you have that handheld too, plug and play.
After you get everything set up, bringing in ROMS, BIOS files, etc. this firmware is truly awe-inspiring!
And make sure to keep your eye out for updates, as Koriki is still in development.
MinUI
Thankfully MinUI is now compatible with the RG35XX Plus! MinUI is certainly a unique option, but one that has a very dedicated fanbase.
It stays true to its name and has a very minimal UI. You will be missing out on certain options, but that is by design. MinUI's signature black background and white text make everything super simple, and is great for those new to retro handhelds or for those who don't like messing around with settings constantly.
Sure, you won't have WiFi or pretty box art, but for a lot of people that doesn't matter. They want something easy that doesn't require too much technical know-how. If that's you, you will love MinUI.
Modded Stock OS
This one is certainly an interesting option. A helpful Redditor created this version of ANBERNIC's stock OS, and it adds a few new interesting features.
These features include FTP server support, so you can remotely add ROMS to your handheld. It also includes fixes for the problems with clock resetting on power on/off that was present with that version of the stock OS.
This OS has a few known issues but appears to be being updated.
Which Is The Best RG35XX Plus Custom Firmware?
With GarlicOS 2.0, MinUI, and Koriki all being out early, there isn't really a definitive answer on which will be the best in the future, as an update could change the game completely.
I personally think Koriki is the best, but for some users, MinUI will be the way to go, just due to its simplicity. GarlicOS 2.0 isn't really the best yet, but once in a more finalized form that will certainly change.
So choose whichever you like, or even use more than one MicroSD card and switch between them at your every whim. That's the beauty of retro handheld emulation!