As Christmas Eve became a cherished memory, Ayaneo has been busy stirring excitement by unveiling more about its upcoming Ayaneo 3 handheld. The major highlight so far is the introduction of swappable control modules, offering unprecedented levels of customization for handheld gaming. It’s reminiscent of the Victrix Pro BFG controller’s adaptable approach, but witnessing this level of personalization in handhelds, especially with the addition of long-lasting hall-effect sensors in the analog sticks and triggers, is truly a treat for gaming enthusiasts.
Along with posts on Twitter and Discord revealing the Ayaneo 3, the company has also dropped a video showcasing the device from various angles, along with the control modules. Back in November, when Ayaneo 3 was first on our radar, we discovered it would feature Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and Ryzen 7 8840U options. However, details on pricing and technical specifications remain under wraps, confined to the APU used, and choices between LCD and OLED screens. We’re hoping to get these missing pieces in January, as the official launch event is set for late that month.
The modular design is taken further with options to invert and swap individual buttons, making the Ayaneo 3 suitable for a range of game genres. For instance, fans of six-button fighting games like Street Fighter or Sega enthusiasts will appreciate the six-face-button module. On the other hand, modules that incorporate a touchpad could enrich desktop-style gaming experiences, particularly with Steam Input’s capabilities.
While we’re still waiting for the full picture on pricing, it’s tough to say if the Ayaneo 3 will be a must-buy. Its initial offerings, though, suggest flexibility and might cater to budget-conscious users opting for the Ryzen 7 8840U with a 7-inch LCD instead of OLED. Whether this compromise will be beneficial is hard to judge without a price tag. Nonetheless, it seems poised to compete well with other high-end handhelds expected next year, especially with its unique emphasis on sophisticated, modular input controls.
