Anbernic is taking direct aim at popular pro-style gamepads with the new RG G01, a feature-packed wireless controller designed to work across multiple platforms without needing any extra apps. It supports Xinput, Dinput, Nintendo Switch, Android, and iOS modes, giving it broad compatibility whether you’re gaming on a PC, console-style setup, or mobile device.
You can connect the RG G01 in several ways: Bluetooth, a wired connection, or 2.4 GHz wireless through a USB Type-A dongle. That flexibility makes it appealing for players who switch between devices or want a low-latency option for competitive play. However, there’s an important detail performance-focused buyers should know. While Anbernic advertises a 1,000 Hz polling rate, that top-tier responsiveness is only possible in Xinput mode when using either a wired connection or the 2.4 GHz wireless option. If you plan to play primarily over Bluetooth, the controller won’t reach those numbers.
In fact, hands-on testing has found Bluetooth polling speeds landing around 125 Hz to 131 Hz, which is noticeably lower than the 180 Hz figure Anbernic has promoted. For casual gaming, this may not be a dealbreaker, but for rhythm games, shooters, or anyone sensitive to input latency, the best experience will likely come from using 2.4 GHz or wired mode.
One of the RG G01’s more unusual additions is a built-in heart rate monitor, a feature meant to add a fun, biofeedback-style twist to gameplay or streaming. Early impressions suggest results can be inconsistent, with reviewers reporting mixed success getting reliable readings. Still, it’s a unique extra in this price range, even if it ends up feeling more like a novelty than a must-have.
A standout convenience feature is the controller’s built-in display, which lets you adjust settings directly on the device without installing companion software. That’s excellent for players who want quick tweaks across different platforms or who prefer a plug-and-play setup. The trade-off is that the screen doesn’t include a timeout function and will eventually revert back to the pairing screen, which could be mildly distracting depending on your setup.
Anbernic also includes trigger stops, a popular feature for competitive gaming that can reduce trigger travel for faster inputs. Their placement reportedly mirrors the intuitive positioning found on other well-regarded controllers, sitting naturally where your index fingers typically rest during play.
Pricing is another reason the RG G01 is grabbing attention. The controller starts at $35.99 when purchased directly, with the price increasing to $39.99 on February 10 at 10:00 UTC. Pricing elsewhere can be significantly higher before discounts, so shoppers who are interested may want to compare listings carefully.
Overall, the Anbernic RG G01 is shaping up to be a strong value controller with multi-platform support, multiple connection modes, onboard configuration, and enthusiast-friendly extras like trigger stops. Just keep expectations realistic around Bluetooth performance and the heart rate monitor, and plan to use wired or 2.4 GHz mode if you’re chasing the lowest latency and highest polling rate.
