The portable PC gaming market continues to swell with increasingly premium and powerful devices, benefiting from a strong user interface established by Microsoft. This translates to typically high price tags, but the cost of the Ayaneo Next 2 raised a few eyebrows even by that standard.
The company has launched an Indiegogo campaign inviting anyone interested in the device to pre-order, revealing that those hoping to purchase the top-end model will need to pay $4,299 (approximately £3,300/€3,700). Currently, early bird pricing offers the device for $3,499, featuring a 9.06-inch OLED screen with a refresh rate up to 165Hz, 128GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a substantial 116Wh battery. This behemoth weighs 1.5 kilograms (3.14 lbs).
the Ayaneo Next 2 appears to be a rare, high-powered offering squarely aimed at the premium end of the market. It will undoubtedly deliver a smooth experience with AAA titles, but prospective buyers will need to be prepared to pay a significant premium.
A Premium Handheld Experience: Specs and Features
Ayaneo is positioning the Next 2 as a flagship Windows handheld, emphasizing its pursuit of innovation. The device boasts several features not currently found in competing products. Notably, it’s the first Windows handheld to offer adjustable-torque TMR Hall-effect joysticks, designed to provide more precise and durable control compared to traditional analog sticks. It also includes Hall-effect linear triggers with a dual-lock switch, offering customizable sensitivity and responsiveness.
The 9.06-inch OLED display, with a resolution of 2400 x 1504 and a 165Hz refresh rate, is a key selling point. This larger screen size differentiates it from competitors like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally X, offering a more immersive gaming experience. The device also incorporates dual smart touchpads, four customizable rear buttons, and front-facing stereo speakers, expanding control options.
Connectivity is handled through two USB4 Type-C ports supporting charging and DisplayPort, alongside Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5. The inclusion of a large 116Wh battery is particularly noteworthy, addressing a common concern with handheld gaming devices – battery life. Ayaneo claims this is the largest battery found in any handheld in its category.
Under the Hood: Processor Choices and Performance
The Ayaneo Next 2 will be available with two processor options: the AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 and the higher-end Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The available RAM and storage configurations vary depending on the processor selected. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 features 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and 32 threads, paired with an 8060S GPU with 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units. Ayaneo states this configuration can handle demanding games at higher graphics settings than smaller handhelds. The Ryzen AI Max 385 offers 8 cores and a 32-unit GPU for improved efficiency.
Both processors support up to 85W TDP, which Ayaneo claims prevents throttling and overheating during extended gaming sessions. The cooling system is an advanced dual-fan design, further contributing to sustained performance.
Pricing and Availability
As of , the Ayaneo Next 2 is available for pre-order through Indiegogo. Early bird pricing is as follows:
- AMD Ryzen AI Max 385, 32GB RAM + 1TB SSD: $1799 (Retail: $1999)
- AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 64GB RAM + 1TB SSD: $2299 (Retail: $2699)
- AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAM + 2TB SSD: $3499 (Retail: $4299)
All variants will be available in Polar Black, with the previously advertised white color option reportedly shelved. The device’s larger size and weight – 3.14 lbs – are significant considerations compared to other handhelds like the Steam Deck.
Positioning in a Crowded Market
The Ayaneo Next 2 enters a rapidly expanding market for portable PC gaming devices. Competitors include the Asus ROG Ally, the Steam Deck, and other emerging handhelds. However, the Next 2 distinguishes itself through its premium build quality, high-end specifications, and unique features like the adjustable-torque Hall-effect joysticks and large battery. Its high price point, however, will likely limit its appeal to a niche audience of enthusiasts and gamers willing to pay a premium for top-tier performance and features.
The success of the Indiegogo campaign will be a key indicator of demand for this high-end handheld. Whether the Ayaneo Next 2 can carve out a sustainable position in the market remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly represents a bold attempt to push the boundaries of portable PC gaming.
