Since Christmas Eve, Ayaneo has been trickling out more tantalizing details about its Ayaneo 3 handheld gaming device. The latest surprise? Swappable control modules, allowing gamers to customize their experience like never before. This level of adaptability isn’t entirely new—just look at the Victrix Pro BFG controller’s similar feature—but bringing it to handhelds, coupled with durable hall-effect sensors in the analog sticks and triggers, is certainly exciting for handheld enthusiasts.
Alongside their announcements on Twitter and Discord, Ayaneo has shared a video showcasing the Ayaneo 3 from various angles, highlighting the innovative control modules. Back in November, Ayaneo revealed that the device would ship with either the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 or Ryzen 7 8840U processors. While pricing and other tech specifications remain a mystery, such details are expected to emerge at the official launch set for late January 2025.
One of the most intriguing aspects of these swappable modules is their versatility—they can be inverted, and buttons can be completely swapped out. This modular design makes the Ayaneo 3 adaptable to virtually any gaming genre that benefits from a controller. Fans of six-button setups, such as those who love Street Fighter and old-school Sega games, will appreciate the six-face-button module. Meanwhile, modules with touchpads cater to those who enjoy desktop-style gaming, especially when paired with Steam Input.
At this stage, without concrete pricing and more specifics, it’s hard to say if the Ayaneo 3 will be a must-have. Yet, the initial offerings hint at both flexibility and a nod towards cost-conscious buyers. Those opting for a Ryzen 7 8840U chip and the 7-inch LCD display might find a sweet spot in terms of budget, although the true value of these choices remains to be seen once pricing is unveiled. What’s certain is that Ayaneo 3 is set to stand toe-to-toe with next year’s high-end handhelds, thanks largely to its commitment to modular, customizable controls.
