Does the R36S Have WiFi?

📡 Does the R36S Have WiFi? Complete Connectivity Guide (2025 Update)

If you just unboxed your R36S handheld console and you’re wondering “does the R36S have WiFi?” — the short answer is:

👉 Yes, but it depends on your version.

Not every R36S model includes built-in Wi-Fi. Let’s explore what that means, how to check if your R36S supports Wi-Fi, and what you can actually do with it once connected.

 

🧩 Quick Answer: Does R36S Have Wi-Fi?

Most R36S consoles come in two main versions:

R36S Standard Version (No Wi-Fi)

– Uses Rockchip RK3326 processor

– Designed for offline, lag-free gaming

– No built-in Wi-Fi chip

R36S Plus / Pro / R36S Wi-Fi Edition

– Includes Wi-Fi 2.4GHz module

– Supports online updates, RetroArch sync, multiplayer

So, if your R36S model is labeled as “Wi-Fi version”, you can connect wirelessly.

If not, it’s still an amazing offline retro handheld — perfect for travel or distraction-free gaming.

 

⚙️ How to Check If Your R36S Has WiFi

Not sure which version you own? Here’s how to find out:

1️⃣ Look at the Box or Product Label

If it says “WiFi Edition” or “R36S+”, you’re good — it has a built-in wireless module.

If there’s no WiFi logo or mention, it’s likely the base R36S without it.

2️⃣ Check the Settings Menu

Go to Main Menu → Settings → Network

If you see options like “Enable Wi-Fi” or “Connect to Network,” your unit has Wi-Fi.

3️⃣ Firmware Type

Some firmware versions like JELOS, ArkOS, or Batocera show a WiFi toggle on the system bar.

If it’s missing, your hardware doesn’t include the chip.

 

🌐 What You Can Do with WiFi on the R36S

If you own the WiFi model, here’s what’s possible:

✅ Sync Game Saves via RetroArch Cloud

Automatically back up your saves across devices.

✅ Download Box Art and Metadata

Enhance your game library with cover art, system logos, and game info.

✅ Wireless File Transfer (FTP Mode)

No more SD card swaps — upload ROMs directly via your PC’s browser.

✅ Online Updates

Update firmware, themes, and emulator cores easily through Wi-Fi.

✅ Multiplayer over Local Network

Play select emulators with other R36S or Anbernic devices on the same Wi-Fi network.

💡 Tip: Wi-Fi performance depends on your firmware. For the smoothest updates and transfers, JELOS and ArkOS are the most stable options.

 

🔒 What You Can’t Do (Even with Wi-Fi)

Even though Wi-Fi adds convenience, remember that:

-You can’t browse the web or use YouTube on R36S.

-It’s not Android-based, so there’s no app store or web browser.

-Wi-Fi is mainly for updates, syncing, and data transfer, not general internet use.

The R36S is designed as a retro gaming powerhouse, not a modern smart device — and that’s what keeps it fast, stable, and lag-free.

 

📶 How to Connect R36S to Wi-Fi (Step-by-Step)

If you have a Wi-Fi model, follow these steps:

1. Go to Main Menu → Settings → Network.

2. Select Wi-Fi → Enable Wi-Fi.

3. Wait for your home network to appear.

4. Enter your Wi-Fi password using the on-screen keyboard.

5. Press OK → Connect.

You’ll see a small Wi-Fi icon once connected.

Now you’re ready to sync, update, or transfer files wirelessly!

⚠️ Note: The R36S only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi networks. It won’t connect to 5GHz routers.

 

🧠 Alternative: Add Wi-Fi via USB Dongle

If your R36S doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi, you can still use a USB Wi-Fi dongle compatible with Linux ARM devices.

Look for adapters using RTL8188EUS or MT7601 chipsets — they often work with JELOS and ArkOS.

Steps:

Plug the dongle into the USB-C OTG port using an adapter.

Enable network drivers in your firmware settings.

Connect like normal.

This method gives you wireless transfer and updates even on non-Wi-Fi R36S models.

 

🚀 Offline vs. Wi-Fi Gameplay – Which Is Better?

Feature	R36S (No Wi-Fi)	R36S Wi-Fi Version
Battery Life	⏱️ Longer	🔋 Slightly shorter
Lag/Performance	⚡ Fastest	⚡ Still smooth
Online Features	❌ None	✅ RetroArch, FTP
Setup	Plug-and-play	Needs configuration

If you mainly play offline classics (NES, SNES, PS1), the non-Wi-Fi version is perfect.

If you love tinkering, updating, and syncing — the Wi-Fi model is worth it.

 

🏁 Final Thoughts

So, does the R36S have WiFi?

✅ Yes — if you have the Wi-Fi edition or the R36S+ / Pro variant.

While not every unit includes wireless connectivity, the ones that do unlock extra functionality like cloud sync, FTP transfer, and multiplayer fun.

Either way, the R36S remains one of the best retro gaming handhelds in its class — portable, affordable, and endlessly customizable.