Zen 5 Gaming Handheld with Modular Controller Design Launches — Ayaneo 3 Priced From $699

Ayaneo has just taken the wraps off its third-generation flagship handheld console, now live for crowdfunding with a modular controller design that’s truly innovative. On its Indiegogo page, Ayaneo introduces the Ayaneo 3, which boasts a Standard Module equipped with joysticks, a D-pad, and ABXY buttons. For those seeking a twist, there’s a Touchpad Module that swaps out the joysticks for, you guessed it, a touchpad, and a Fighting Module that replaces the right ABXY and joystick with a six-button configuration.

This modular approach allows for a creative flair—users can mix, match, and even flip the modules to craft one of 56 possible layout combinations. This kind of customization lets you mold the device to your personal gaming style. One point of slight concern is the Ayaneo 3’s reliance on a motor to eject the module—potentially complicating the process more than it needs to be. But before casting any real judgment, it’s something we’d like to play around with in person.

In terms of what’s under the hood, the Ayaneo 3 is powered by AMD’s latest offerings. One variant houses the cutting-edge AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, making Ayaneo among the pioneers in deploying this chipset in a gaming handheld. Alternatively, users can opt for a slightly more modest AMD Ryzen 7 8840U processor if they aren’t after extreme power.

Let’s break down the options: There’s a choice between a 7-inch 120 Hz LCD screen, reaching up to 500 nits in brightness, and a 7-inch 144 Hz OLED screen, capable of hitting 800 nits. Interestingly, these screen choices are priced the same, leaving the decision largely up to personal display preference. Memory options start at 16GB with the Ryzen 7, but can soar to 64GB with the HX 370, and storage configurations begin at 512GB, maxing out at an incredible 4TB for those who never want to uninstall a game again.

Starting prices for the Ayaneo 3 are pegged at $899 for the basic model, sans extra controller modules. If you’re eyeing the most decked-out version, prices go up to $2,099. That said, early buyers can snag a $200-$300 discount during the campaign, making it a tempting offer.

An important note for potential buyers: the more budget-friendly versions of Ayaneo 3 don’t include the extra controller modules. Only most 64GB/2TB configurations of the console come with these modular extras. Ayaneo also doesn’t offer these modules for sale separately, so those seeking modular versatility will need to spring for the pricier models.

As of now, Ayaneo has already surpassed its initial funding goal of $50,000, a promising indicator that the Ayaneo 3 is likely to hit production. Historically, Ayaneo has delivered on its commitments, which assures backers that they’re likely to receive the console they’ve backed.

Of course, backing a crowdfunded project always comes with the inherent risk that even if goals are met, there’s no ironclad guarantee of receiving a completed product. Supporting at this stage means you’re actively investing in the company’s future with some potential risk, but in return, you benefit from a significant discount and the chance to be among the first to experience this modular marvel.