Indiegogo staffers are putting crowdfunded products to the test in our series of honest reviews. In this edition Cheryl, Head of APAC at Indiegogo, tested the AYANEO 3, the world’s first modular handheld console. How well did it work? Read on to find out more.
Unboxing experience
Hello everyone, the AYANEO 3, the world’s first modular handheld console, is a flagship device that has garnered significant attention from both gamers and the media. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to unbox and experience it firsthand. When I first opened the packaging of the AYANEO 3, I was genuinely excited. The packaging, filled with a sense of technology and design, revealed a Retro Power-colored modular Windows handheld console. Its sleek and artistic exterior reminded me of the work of top industrial designers. The classic color scheme evokes the essence of gaming handhelds, while its highly innovative features give it a futuristic vibe. From the packaging to the product itself, the quality is astonishingly high. Of course, what matters most is the hands-on experience after powering it on. Let’s explore the wonders of its modular design together.
Features I appreciate
Here are the features of the AYANEO 3 that I particularly love:
Magic Module: The AYANEO 3 is equipped with the Magic Module, a freely modular controller that offers up to 56 different control layouts. This allows players to swap out the controller modules based on the needs of different games.
Control Experience: The AYANEO 3 supports hardware-level “Free Buttons,” which can be detached and rearranged at will. It also features a new ergonomic dual back button design and a highly practical trigger lock button, providing a richer array of control combinations.
Flagship Processor: The unit I have is powered by the flagship AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 processor, delivering exceptional performance. Of course, players can also opt for the AMD Ryzen™ 7 8840U processor version.
Screen Visual Experience: My unit boasts a 7″ 144Hz OLED high-refresh-rate display with stunning in-game colors. Alternatively, players can choose the 7″ LCD screen version. The AYANEO 3 allows players to select their preferred screen based on their needs.
Stereo Sound Speakers: The gaming audio is incredibly immersive, delivering excellent sound quality whether you’re playing action games or rhythm games.
Design: Having experienced multiple AYANEO handhelds, I can say that their design has always been distinctive, blending simplicity with artistic beauty.
Handheld Software: The AYASpace 3.0 software on this device is incredibly user-friendly and intelligent, which is something I really appreciate.
Magic Module： modular handle experience
Of course, the most standout feature of this handheld is its Magic Module modular controller. I’ve occasionally played games on handheld devices before, but this hands-on experience felt truly exceptional in terms of control. It offers different functionalities tailored to various games, making it highly practical.
D-pad + ABXY Button Module: This classic combination is perfect for most players, offering a great feel and smooth, seamless operation.
Membrane Micro Switch Module: The membrane micro switch version has a crisp and tactile response, which I think is ideal for fast-paced games.
Touchpad Module: Featuring AYANEO’s self-developed TouchTAPMagic touchpad, its directional sensing and extensive customization options make it particularly suitable for FPS games.
8-Way Directional Pad + Fighting Button Module: From my experience, this module is perfectly suited for fighting games—it feels like it was tailor-made for them.
The unlocking mechanism of the AYANEO 3 Magic Module is also full of technological sophistication. It can be ejected by long-pressing the controller/keyboard-mouse mode switch button, or by operating the ejection through the AYASpace main interface, or even via the AYASpace quick settings pop-up window. The unlocking process itself is quite enjoyable.
Summary and personal reflections
Overall, the AYANEO 3 has left a deep impression on me, both in terms of its design and user experience. Particularly, its Magic Module modular controller significantly enhances personalization and the freedom of gaming experiences. Combined with the high-performance AMD AI processor and the 7″ OLED screen, it fully meets the demands of discerning handheld gamers.
Currently, the early bird price for the AYANEO 3 on INDIEGOGO starts at $699. Considering its versatile modular combinations and multifunctional control experience, it remains a great value. In an era that fully respects players’ freedom of choice, this is an outstanding gaming handheld. I must say, I truly love it—a stunning piece of work that blends technology and art.