Ayaneo's latest handheld gaming device is a beast, but it comes with a hefty price tag! The new Ayaneo Next 2, a Windows 11 handheld, is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, both in size and power. But here's the catch: the top-tier model will set you back a whopping $4,299!
This powerful handheld measures 13.45 inches in width and 10.3 inches in height, making it quite a large device. And it's heavy too, weighing in at 3.14 pounds, which is more than double the original Ayaneo Next. But with great power comes great size, right? The Next 2 seems to be targeting those who prioritize performance over portability.
The base model starts at $1,999, featuring a Ryzen AI Max 385 processor, 32GB of RAM, and a spacious 1TB SSD. But the early bird pricing on Indiegogo sweetens the deal, dropping the price to $1,799. If you want to go all out, the maxed-out specs include an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, 128GB of memory, and a massive 2TB of storage, but it will cost you $4,299 (or $3,499 with early bird discounts).
The display is a beauty, boasting a 9.06-inch OLED screen with a sharp 2400x1504 resolution and a variable refresh rate of 60Hz to 165Hz. And it's bright, reaching a peak brightness of 1,155 nits, which is significantly higher than the Switch 2's LCD screen.
In terms of controls, the Next 2 offers a comprehensive setup: TMR joysticks with customizable torque and lighting, Hall effect triggers for FPS gaming, an eight-way D-pad, dual touchpads, and an array of buttons, including four on the back. It also features front-facing stereo speakers and a convenient pair of USB-C ports, a microSD slot, and a headphone jack on the top edge.
Cooling this powerhouse are a pair of fans, and a large 116Wh battery provides the juice. However, Ayaneo remains tight-lipped about the battery life, especially when running demanding AAA titles at max settings. And with a battery this size, you might need special permission to bring it on your next flight, as it exceeds the carry-on battery limit.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is the Ayaneo Next 2 worth the price? Considering the powerful specs and features, it might be a dream device for enthusiasts. But with a price tag that rivals high-end laptops, is it a practical purchase? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
