Ayaneo 3 Debuts with Zen 5-Powered Gaming Handheld and Modular Controller, Starting at $699

Ayaneo, a well-known name in the handheld gaming console market, has just launched its third-generation flagship device for crowdfunding. What’s truly amazing about this Ayaneo 3 is its innovative modular controller design. According to details on its Indiegogo page, this new gadget offers a variety of modules for an enhanced gaming experience. There’s the Standard Module, which includes the typical joysticks, D-pad, and ABXY buttons. Then, there’s a Touchpad Module, which lets you swap joysticks for a touchpad. Finally, you’ve got a Fighting Module that trades the right-side ABXY and joystick for a six-button setup.

The magic doesn’t stop there; you can mix and match these modules, even install them upside down, giving you a whopping 56 possible layout combinations. This level of personalization means you can tailor the device precisely to your gaming preferences. However, there’s a potential snag: the Ayaneo 3 uses a motor to eject these modules, which might complicate what could be a straightforward swap. We’re reserving final judgment until we see it up-close.

Under the hood, one of the Ayaneo 3 variants packs AMD’s latest processor—an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU. This makes Ayaneo one of the pioneers in integrating this chip into a handheld gaming device. Alternatively, if you feel that’s more power than you need, there’s also an option with the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor.

Looking at the different configurations, the Ayaneo 3 offers a range of choices. Users can select between a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD screen with a maximum brightness of up to 500 nits, or go for a 7-inch 144 Hz OLED screen, boasting brightness that can reach up to 800 nits. Interestingly, the pricing for the LCD and OLED displays remains identical, allowing gamers to focus on their preference rather than cost. Memory starts at a substantial 16GB with the 8840U processor but can be ramped up to a staggering 64GB with the HX 370. Storage is also versatile, starting at 512GB yet expandable up to a massive 4TB for those who can’t stand uninstalling games.

Pricing for the Ayaneo 3 kicks off at $899 for the basic setup without any extra controller modules. If you want the full works with top specs, your investment could rise to $2,099. There’s a silver lining, though—a solid discount of $200 to $300 awaits those who jump on board during the crowdfunding campaign.

It’s also important to note that lower-end configurations don’t include the additional controller modules. These are bundled predominantly with the higher-end 64GB/2TB versions. Unfortunately, these extra modules aren’t available for separate purchase, necessitating a move towards the pricier versions if you want the complete package.

As of now, Ayaneo has successfully hit its $50,000 funding goal, suggesting the device is on track for production. Ayaneo has a reliable record of fulfilling its commitments, giving backers a good degree of confidence in receiving their devices as promised.

However, even when crowdfunding targets are achieved, there are no absolute guarantees in this realm. Investing at this early stage means you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting the company’s efforts in bringing something new to life, assuming a share of the risk in the process. The upside? You receive a nice discount and the privilege of being one of the first to own their latest innovation.