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To get Nintendo DS games showing across both displays on the Anbernic RG DS, identify whether the handheld is running Android or Linux, prepare storage only if you need it, then set the emulator’s screen layout and verify both panels and touch input in a game. The RG DS has two 4-inch, 640×480 touch displays; the emulator still needs to be configured to use them as separate screens.
Check the RG DS operating system before changing anything
The RG DS is sold with Android 14/Linux support, but its firmware downloads are separate for each operating system. The current ANBERNIC product and update pages list Android RG DS V1.18 and Linux RGDS-LINUX-V1.0-260513. Check your installed OS and firmware version in the device’s settings or system information, then use the official RG DS page to find instructions for that exact OS and hardware or storage variant.
Do not flash an update just to make both screens work. ANBERNIC’s Android V1.18 notes describe adding Google Mobile Services and changing how the frontend recognizes game-image paths, including its checks of the game list and image folders or filenames. Those notes do not establish that every dual-screen problem requires an update. Firmware versions and instructions can change, so confirm them on ANBERNIC’s page before updating.
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Prepare a microSD card if you need more storage
ANBERNIC lists TF-card expansion up to 2TB. That is the manufacturer’s supported maximum, not a required card size. An independent RG DS setup guide suggests 128GB or 256GB cards and using a card reader to prepare files on a computer; choose capacity according to the files you intend to store rather than treating those suggestions as a device requirement.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
On Android, portable storage is intended for files and can be moved between devices. Android’s internal or adopted storage can also hold apps, but is not transferable in the same way. Google’s explanation is general Android guidance, not an RG DS-specific card-menu walkthrough, and the available options may vary by firmware. Before formatting any card, copy off anything you want to keep: formatting deletes its existing data. See Google’s guidance on using an SD card with Android.
Use game files and system files you are entitled to use. The device’s support for game formats does not grant permission to download commercial game ROMs or BIOS files.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Set DraStic to display the two DS screens separately
Open DraStic and inspect its display or layout settings. The emulator’s settings guide describes choosing a size for each screen and then selecting an “original layout with gap.” If that arrangement fits the RG DS panels, it preserves the familiar DS top-screen/touch-screen relationship; other layouts may suit your preference or make game text easier to read.
- Open DraStic and locate its screen size and layout controls. Menu labels and button paths can vary by version, so use the options shown in your installation rather than assuming a universal sequence.
- Choose a size and layout that puts the emulated top screen on the upper physical display and the DS touch screen on the lower display. The settings guide’s original-size screens with original layout and gap is one option to try.
- Start a game that uses both DS screens. Confirm that each emulated screen appears on its intended physical panel and that touching the lower panel controls the game.
If both physical displays show the same emulated screen, return to DraStic’s display and layout settings and check the selected arrangement. A community question reports that symptom, but does not establish one universal fix. If the available controls do not resolve it, consult current RG DS-specific guidance for your OS and emulator version; an independent RG DS setup walkthrough links to separate device-specific dual-screen guidance.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Use the launcher and other emulators according to your OS
ANBERNIC lists support for NDS and other retro systems and describes a frontend with customizable settings. The specific emulators, launcher options, hotkeys, and menu layout depend on the installed OS and firmware. For a guided look at first boot, SD-card setup, the stock launcher, DraStic, RetroArch, other emulators, and hotkeys, see the independent RG DS walkthrough. It is a setup resource, not an official specification or a side-by-side performance test of Android and Linux.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
When the two-screen setup is working
- The game’s top display is on the upper RG DS panel and its touch display is on the lower panel.
- Touch input on the lower panel works in a game that uses it.
- The chosen layout is readable and fits the game; original-size screens with a gap are an option, not a requirement.
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