Katarzyna Petru
Ayaneo is once again pushing the boundaries in the handheld segment with Windows. The Next II model is a design that resembles a portable gaming computer more than a traditional handheld gaming console. The device impresses not only with its size and weight but above all with specifications close to those of desktops. The manufacturer has opted for a top-of-the-line AMD processor, a 165 Hz OLED display, and a massive battery that exceeds many laptops. This device is clearly aimed at enthusiasts of maximum performance, not individuals looking for a lightweight, mobile toy. In this case, the term "handheld" should be taken with a pinch of salt.
Handheld only in name
The handheld segment with Windows has just received a design that redefines mobility. Ayaneo showcased the Next II model, which weighs around 1.4 kg and measures over 13 inches in width. This is clearly a larger device than the Lenovo Legion Go or Steam Deck OLED, but the manufacturer deliberately prioritises maximum performance over compact size. Mobility takes a back seat; what matters is power.
In its most powerful version, the Next II is powered by a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with 16 Zen 5 cores and a Radeon 8060S RDNA 3.5 GPU. Its performance is said to be comparable to a computer equipped with a GeForce RTX 4060 or hardware in the ROG Flow Z13 class. Additionally, it features a 9.06-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2400 × 1504 px, refresh rates of up to 165 Hz, and brightness of 1155 nits.
Batteries larger than in many laptops
Inside, there is a battery with a capacity of 116 Wh, which exceeds the aviation limit of 100 Wh for carry-on luggage. Cooling is managed by two turbine fans and a dual vapor chamber, which illustrates how much energy and heat this equipment generates.
Price for the most demanding
The version with Max 385, 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD starts at 1999 dollars. The most powerful configuration with Max+ 395, 128 GB RAM and 2 TB of storage costs even 4299 dollars. This is an option for enthusiasts who want the absolute maximum performance in the handheld segment and are prepared to pay for this privilege.
Ayaneo Next II is a device that pushes the boundaries of what a handheld with Windows can be. It offers performance close to that of a desktop, a huge OLED screen, and a battery larger than many laptops, but this comes at the cost of weight, size, and a very high price. This device is for enthusiasts of maximum power, not for those looking for a lightweight console for gaming on the go. The Next II demonstrates that the portable PC segment can move towards the extreme, even if it means abandoning the classic definition of mobility.
source: ayaneo.com
