New Zen 5-Powered Gaming Handheld with Modular Controller Unveiled — Ayaneo 3 Priced from $699

The folks over at Ayaneo are shaking things up again with the release of their third-generation flagship handheld gaming console, and it’s causing quite a stir. Launched as a crowdfunding project, this device boasts a revolutionary modular controller system that’s turning heads. Over on Indiegogo, Ayaneo reveals that the Ayaneo 3 comes equipped with a Standard Module that includes the typical joysticks, a D-pad, and ABXY buttons. But that’s just the beginning; there’s also a Touchpad Module that swaps out the joysticks for a touchpad and a Fighting Module that changes up the right-side ABXY and joystick for a six-button setup ideal for fighting games.

What’s truly exciting is the ability to mix and match these modules and even install them upside-down, offering a staggering 56 layout combinations. This level of customization means you can tailor the controller to suit your gaming style or even specific games. Our only small reservation is about the module ejection mechanism, which relies on a motor and could complicate things a tad more than necessary. But of course, we’re holding off on any final opinions until we can actually get our hands on the device.

In addition to these innovative features, Ayaneo is packing some serious horsepower under the hood. They’re one of the first to integrate AMD’s latest processor into a handheld format. You can snag the console powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, a first in this class of device, or opt for the less powerful but still robust AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor.

Now, let’s talk the nitty-gritty details. The Ayaneo 3 offers a range of configurations. You can opt for a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD with a peak brightness of 500 nits or elevate your experience with a 7-inch 144 Hz OLED display boasting 800 nits of brightness; both display choices sit at similar pricing tiers. Memory options start at 16GB for the 8840U, stretching up to a whopping 64GB if you choose the powerhouse HX 370. Storage starts at a generous 512GB but can be bumped up to 4TB, perfect for those who like keeping all their games at the ready.

The starting price for the Ayaneo 3 is set at $899, though this doesn’t include those additional, exciting controller modules. At the top end, you’re looking at around $2,099 for the fully loaded version. Early birds backing the campaign are eligible for discounts ranging from $200 to $300, which makes jumping on board a tempting proposition.

For those eyeing the more affordable models, it’s important to note that extra controller modules aren’t included—you’ll only find them bundled with most of the 64GB/2TB configurations. These modules aren’t available separately, so opting for the pricier model is your only route to these extras.

As of now, Ayaneo has surpassed their $50,000 funding goal, setting them on a solid path to production. With a reliable track record, supporters can be quite confident in Ayaneo’s ability to deliver.

That said, as with any crowdfunded venture, meeting funding goals doesn’t guarantee the final product will arrive at your doorstep, regardless of how reputable the company might be. Investing at this stage involves some risk, but the payoff includes a sweet discount and the thrill of being among the first to experience this fresh innovation in gaming.