Ayaneo 3 Unveils Zen 5 Gaming Handheld with Customizable Controller, Starting at $699

Ayaneo, renowned for its handheld gaming consoles, has just unveiled its third-generation flagship device, designed ingeniously and now open for crowdfunding. What sets this gadget apart is its innovative modular controller design. Described on its Indiegogo page, the Ayaneo 3 offers a Standard Module packed with joysticks, a D-pad, and ABXY buttons. Additionally, it features a Touchpad Module swapping out the joysticks for a touchpad, and a Fighting Module where the right ABXY and joystick are replaced with a six-button setup.

The real charm lies in the flexibility to mix these modules up and even flip them upside down. With 56 different layout combinations, you can tailor the console precisely to your preferences and gaming needs. While the motorized mechanism used for ejecting these modules introduces an extra step in the swapping process, we’re reserving final opinions until we can experience it firsthand.

Under the hood, the device is powered by AMD’s latest technology, making Ayaneo one of the pioneers in utilizing the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU in a gaming handheld. For those not needing such high performance, there’s also the option of the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor.

The Ayaneo 3 offers a variety of configurations. It boasts a choice between a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD screen offering up to 500 nits brightness and a 144 Hz OLED display that can reach 800 nits. With both screen types priced similarly, it all comes down to personal preference. Memory options begin at 16GB for configurations with the 8840U processor, but those opting for the HX 370 could benefit from a whopping 64GB. Storage starts at 512GB, and for those inclined to keep all their games handy, it stretches up to a spacious 4TB.

You can grab the starting model for $899, which doesn’t come with the additional controller modules. For the most tricked-out version, the price can soar to $2,099. However, they are running a limited-time campaign offering discounts from $200 to $300, if you decide to back it today.

It’s worth noting that, if you’re opting for the less expensive models, these won’t include the extra controller modules. To snag those, you’d have to go for the pricier 64GB/2TB versions. Plus, at this moment, Ayaneo doesn’t plan to sell these add-on modules separately.

Support for the Ayaneo 3 has been strong, with its crowdfunding already exceeding the $50,000 goal, signaling likely production. Ayaneo has built a reputation for delivering on their promises, which gives backers some peace of mind that their investment will bear fruit.

While supporting a crowdfunded project can undoubtedly be exciting, even reaching the funding goal doesn’t guarantee a finished product. Supporting at this stage also means sharing some of the risks associated with launching a new product. That said, the benefits include securing a neat discount and being among the first to experience the innovation firsthand.