Zen 5 Gaming Handheld with Modular Controller: Ayaneo 3 Launches Starting at $699

Ayaneo, a well-known name in the world of handheld gaming, has unveiled its third-generation flagship device through a crowdfunding campaign, featuring a truly revolutionary modular controller design. As detailed on their Indiegogo page, the Ayaneo 3 introduces a variety of modular options: a Standard Module sporting traditional joysticks, a D-pad, and ABXY buttons; a Touchpad Module that swaps out the joysticks for a touchpad; and a Fighting Module which trades the right ABXY buttons and joystick for a six-button layout, catering to die-hard fighting game enthusiasts.

What’s particularly appealing about these modules is the flexibility they offer. You can combine different modules or even flip them upside down, which opens up a staggering 56 different layout combinations. This level of customization means you can tailor your gaming experience to fit both your preferences and the demands of individual games. However, there’s a slight caveat: the process for ejecting the modules involves a motor, potentially adding unnecessary complexity. I’d like to see this in action before jumping to conclusions about its practicality.

On the technological front, Ayaneo is pushing boundaries by rolling out one variant of the Ayaneo 3 powered by AMD’s latest processor. The console offers an option between the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, breaking new ground in the handheld gaming scene, and a slightly less powerful but still capable AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor for those who don’t need extreme performance.

In terms of display, buyers can choose between a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD with a peak brightness of 500 nits or a 7-inch 144 Hz OLED screen that can shine even brighter at 800 nits. Interestingly, both display choices come at the same price, leaving it up to user preference. Memory options start at 16GB under the 8840U model, with possibilities reaching up to a hefty 64GB if you opt for the HX 370. Storage is equally flexible, beginning at 512GB but expandable up to an impressive 4TB, perfect for players who prefer not to delete older games.

Pricing for the Ayaneo 3 begins at $899 for the base model without additional controller modules. However, it can soar to $2,099 for a fully-spec’d version, complete with maximum configurations. That said, there’s an enticing early-bird discount ranging from $200 to $300 for those who back the project during its crowdfunding phase.

It’s worth mentioning that the more budget-friendly models of the Ayaneo 3 do not come with extra controller modules. These additions are generally included in most of the higher-end 64GB/2TB configurations. Also, it appears that these modular components aren’t available for separate purchase, so if fancy modularity is a must-have for you, you’ll need to invest in one of the pricier options.

At the time I’m writing this, Ayaneo has successfully reached its $50,000 funding goal, suggesting that this groundbreaking device is likely heading towards production. Ayaneo’s prior track record inspires confidence that backers will receive the product they’re eagerly waiting for.

However, a word of caution is always advisable with crowdfunding ventures: hitting a funding target doesn’t automatically guarantee you’ll receive a finished product. Even with a reputable company like Ayaneo, purchasing at this stage means sharing the risk inherent in launching a new product. The upside? Besides a nifty discount, you also get the chance to be one of the first to experience this cutting-edge gaming console.