Ayaneo, renowned for crafting aesthetically pleasing yet premium-priced handheld PCs, is venturing into new territory with the Ayaneo 3, a device that aims to bridge the gap between boutique appeal and mainstream affordability. While previous iterations, like the Ayaneo 2, suffered from a high price tag and a less-than-stellar experience compared to the budget-friendly Steam Deck, the Ayaneo 3 looks to redefine the handheld landscape with a starting price of $900, placing it within reach of the higher-tier handheld market. This new device boasts a comprehensive feature set, including dual USB4 ports, an OcuLink connector, RGB-laden Hall effect joysticks, and a choice between two compelling screen options, making it one of the most feature-rich portables to date. The highlight, however, is the introduction of a modular design allowing for customizable joystick and button layouts, addressing a long-standing ergonomic challenge in the handheld gaming world.
Dubbed the “world’s first modular handheld,” the Ayaneo 3 introduces a unique system of interchangeable modules that empower users to personalize their gaming experience. While the basic module for adjusting joystick and button orientation and swapping joystick caps is included standard, an optional “Magic Module” kit offers a wider array of customization. For an additional $139, this kit provides six modules enabling the replacement of joysticks with analog sticks, the option of a six-button microswitch pad for fighting game enthusiasts, and even D-pads and face buttons with conductive silicone for a distinct tactile feedback. This modularity opens up a realm of possibilities for tailoring the Ayaneo 3 to individual preferences and playstyles.
Beyond its modularity, the Ayaneo 3’s impressive specifications further solidify its position as a compelling contender in the handheld market. The base model, priced at $900, features the Ryzen 8840U processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 512GB of storage. While a Z2 option is not available at this price point, and the HX 370 model starts at a significantly higher $1500, the inclusion of either an OLED or IPS display at the base level adds considerable value. The OLED variant offers a 1080p resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR support, a peak brightness of 800 nits, and 110% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, potentially outshining even the acclaimed Steam Deck OLED screen.
Alternatively, for users prioritizing smooth visuals, the IPS display provides a 120Hz refresh rate, 500 nits of brightness, a native landscape 1080p resolution, a 7ms response time, and 100% sRGB color gamut coverage. While not as vibrant as the OLED option, the inclusion of variable refresh rate technology makes the IPS screen a viable alternative for those seeking a smoother gaming experience. Furthermore, the Ayaneo 3 comes standard with top and bottom USB4 ports supporting 65W PD charging, an OcuLink port for external GPU connectivity, and a full-length M.2 2280 SSD slot for convenient storage upgrades. A dedicated hardware mode switch on the bottom edge allows seamless toggling between controller and virtual mouse/keyboard modes, potentially enhancing the Windows experience on a handheld device. Added features include trigger locks for the Hall effect triggers, enabling a hair-trigger mode.
Despite the Ayaneo 3’s promising features, some potential drawbacks warrant consideration. The electronically latched modules, while innovative, raise concerns about potential fiddly operation. Users must press a software button to activate a motor that releases the latch, potentially introducing unnecessary complexity to the swapping process. Another concern is the relatively small 49 watt-hour battery, especially considering the Asus ROG Ally X manages to accommodate an 80 watt-hour battery in a similar form factor and weight class. This limited battery capacity, coupled with the absence of a specifically handheld-optimized chip, raises concerns about potential battery life limitations.
Finally, it’s crucial to acknowledge the crowdfunding nature of this project. While Ayaneo has a history of delivering its promised handhelds, the quality and performance haven’t always met expectations. The Ayaneo 3 represents the company’s most ambitious project to date, and as with any crowdfunded venture, there are inherent risks involved. For those willing to embrace the potential rewards and challenges, the Ayaneo 3 presents a unique proposition in the handheld gaming market, offering a compelling combination of customization, performance, and features, all within a striking industrial design. The device is available for pre-order on Indiegogo, with an estimated shipping date of late April. The price breakdown details various configurations and options, allowing potential backers to choose the setup that best suits their needs and budget.
The Ayaneo 3 stands poised to redefine the handheld PC landscape with its modular design and impressive specifications. However, the relatively small battery capacity, potential complexity of the module swapping mechanism, and the inherent risks associated with crowdfunding warrant careful consideration. While the $900 starting price is a significant step towards affordability compared to previous Ayaneo devices, it still positions the Ayaneo 3 in the premium segment of the handheld market. Whether the blend of innovation and customization justifies the price will ultimately be determined by the final product and user experience. The Ayaneo 3 certainly presents a compelling proposition for handheld enthusiasts seeking a unique and personalized gaming experience.
