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 especially with a specification comparable to desktops. The manufacturer opted for a top-tier AMD processor, a 165 Hz OLED screen, and a massive battery that surpasses many laptops. This device is clearly aimed at enthusiasts seeking maximum performance rather than those looking for a lightweight, portable toy. In this case, the term "handheld" should be taken with a grain 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 device is clearly larger than the Lenovo Legion Go or Steam Deck OLED, but the manufacturer intentionally focuses on maximum performance instead of compact size. Mobility takes a back seat; power is what matters.
In the 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 graphics card. Its performance is said to be comparable to a computer equipped with a GeForce RTX 4060 or a device in the ROG Flow Z13 class. Additionally, it features a 9.06-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 2400 × 1504 px, a refresh rate of up to 165 Hz, and a brightness of 1155 nits.
A battery larger than in many laptops
Inside, there is a 116 Wh battery that exceeds the aviation limit of 100 Wh for carry-on baggage. Two turbine fans and a dual vapor chamber are responsible for cooling, which shows 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. The strongest configuration with Max+ 395, 128 GB RAM, and 2 TB of storage costs even $4299. This is a proposal for enthusiasts who want the absolute maximum performance in the handheld segment and are ready to pay for that 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. Next II shows that the portable PC segment can lean towards the extreme, even if it means moving away from the classic definition of mobility.
source: ayaneo.com
