Ayaneo 3 Unveils Zen 5-Powered Gaming Handheld with Modular Controllers, Starting at $699

Recently, the well-loved handheld gaming console creator, Ayaneo, launched their third-generation flagship device for crowdfunding. This impressive release is making waves with its revolutionary modular controller design. According to Ayaneo’s Indiegogo page, the new Ayaneo 3 offers three distinct modules for customization: the Standard Module, which includes joysticks, a D-pad, and ABXY buttons; the Touchpad Module, swapping out traditional joysticks for a touchpad; and a Fighting Module that replaces the ABXY buttons and right joystick with a six-button setup.

What’s particularly exciting is the ability to mix and match these modules, even installing them upside down, giving you a whopping 56 layout combinations. It’s like having a console tailor-made to fit both your playing style and game preferences. One potential concern is the console’s motorized system used to eject the modules, which some worry might add unnecessary complexity. But, of course, a hands-on experience will provide better insight.

Additionally, Ayaneo is using AMD’s cutting-edge processors for some versions of the Ayaneo 3. Gamers can choose between the powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, one of the first gaming handhelds to feature it, or the more modest AMD Ryzen 7 8840U for those not requiring extreme power.

The Ayaneo 3 comes in several configurations. Users can opt for a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD screen offering up to 500 nits of maximum brightness, or a more vibrant 144 Hz OLED screen capable of reaching 800 nits. Despite the difference in technology, both screens are priced the same, leaving the decision purely to personal preference. As for memory, the basic model with the 8840U processor starts with 16GB, but can surge to 64GB on devices with the HX 370 processor, while storage options begin at 512GB and can scale up to a hefty 4TB for those who dislike uninstalling games.

Pricing for the Ayaneo 3 starts at $899 for the base model, which notably doesn’t include extra controller modules. If you’re after all the bells and whistles with the maximum specs, it could set you back as much as $2,099. Fortunately, Ayaneo is offering early bird backers a discount of $200 to $300 during their campaign.

Keep in mind, the more budget-friendly configurations don’t come with the extra controller modules, which are mainly bundled with the higher-end 64GB/2TB versions. Ayaneo hasn’t announced plans to sell these modules separately, so you’d need to go for the premium versions if you want the complete set.

At the time of writing, Ayaneo reached its crowdfunding target of $50,000, signaling a likely green light for production. Given Ayaneo’s solid track record in fulfilling its promises, backers can feel optimistic about receiving their new console as planned.

However, remember that contributing to crowdfunded projects always carries risks, even if the funding goal is surpassed and the company enjoys a good reputation. Supporting at this stage means you’re investing in the company’s future with an element of risk, but it also gives you the chance to enjoy a nice discount and be among the first to experience this innovative device.