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After an extended wait, the Ayaneo Pocket S has officially launched, poised to transform the premium Android gaming landscape. Announced in December 2023, it became available for purchase on Indiegogo in April 2024 and began shipping in June of the same year. As of September 2024, interested buyers can now purchase the device directly from Ayaneo.
The Pocket S is lauded as one of the most powerful handheld gaming devices on the market, boasting a robust Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 processor. The design reflects meticulous attention to detail, featuring a borderless display and industrial aesthetics, signaling that minimal compromises were made in its construction.
Despite its strong offerings, the Pocket S is not without its flaws. This article explores its features, pricing, and overall performance, providing a comprehensive evaluation of what the handheld has to offer.
Ayaneo Pocket S: Price and availability
Launched following its initial announcement, the Ayaneo Pocket S is available in multiple RAM and storage configurations, alongside two color choices. The starting price is $509 for the base model that features 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the premium “Unmarked Edition” retails for $749.
Configurations and pricing include:
- 12GB RAM / 128GB Storage: $509
- 16GB RAM / 512GB Storage: $609
- 16GB RAM / 1TB Storage: $669
- 16GB RAM / 1TB (Unmarked Edition): $749
Ayaneo Pocket S: What I like
The Pocket S exudes a premium quality that is felt right from the first touch. The device is crafted from a blend of aluminum, glass, and plastic, resulting in a solid and substantial feel. This build quality reassures gamers that it can withstand the rigors of intense play.
The striking all-glass front panel, while prone to reflections, enhances the overall visual experience, especially with the impressive borderless 6-inch screen available in 1080p or 1440p resolutions. Those opting for the latter can expect visually pleasing gaming experiences, capitalizing on the benefits of an IPS display.
Equipped with an array of useful features, the handheld includes a microSD card slot, a power button that serves as a fingerprint scanner, and a hardware switch to easily toggle between performance modes. This range of capabilities enhances functionality and overall user experience.
Performance-wise, the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2, paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage in the review model, positions the Pocket S as one of the leading devices in the Android handheld market. Its emulation capabilities are impressive, handling Switch-level games and even some Windows titles with ease, though some users may need to tweak settings for optimal performance.
Ayaneo Pocket S: What I don’t like
Despite its strengths, the Pocket S faces challenges in terms of ergonomics. The design, though aesthetically appealing, features flat edges that can lead to discomfort during extended gaming sessions. Players may find that their hands start to cramp after 30-45 minutes of play.
Although Ayaneo offers an “Ergonomic Case” for purchase, which provides a more comfortable grip, it’s not included with the device itself and is somewhat difficult to find on their website. This additional accessory, meant to make the handheld feel more like a traditional controller, could be a crucial addition for those concerned about comfort during long gaming periods.
Another point of concern is the pricing, which starts just above $500. While it boasts impressive specs, consumers have alternatives in the form of other handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally, which offer greater flexibility and performance at only slightly higher prices.
Lastly, while the display is commendable, some enthusiasts might have preferred an OLED screen or a faster refresh rate. It’s worth noting that Ayaneo plans to address some of these concerns with their upcoming Pocket EVO.
Ayaneo Pocket S: The competition
In the competitive landscape of Android gaming handhelds, the Ayaneo Pocket S faces exciting alternatives, particularly from AYN. Their Odin 2 handheld, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, is popular for its ergonomic design and lower price point, starting at $459 for the same RAM and storage configuration as the Pocket S.
Recent releases such as the Odin 2 Mini and upcoming models like AYN’s Odin 2 Portal further intensify the competition. These alternatives provide similar or enhanced performance at more accessible price points, challenging the Pocket S’s market position.
Ayaneo Pocket S: Should you buy it?
You should buy this if…
- You seek the most powerful Android gaming handheld on the market.
- You appreciate premium designs and build quality.
- You require a device capable of tackling various gaming needs.
- You want the ability to remap touchscreen controls easily.
You shouldn’t buy this if…
- You are on a tight budget.
- You prefer using a controller with your phone.
- You intend to primarily use it for cloud gaming.
- An OLED display or higher refresh rates are important to you.
Ultimately, the Ayaneo Pocket S delivers a strong gaming experience complemented by a sleek design, though potential buyers should weigh its conveniences and drawbacks against competitors in the market. For those not willing to wait for newer models, the Pocket S remains a compelling option for dedicated Android gamers.
The definition of premium Android gaming
The Ayaneo Pocket S encapsulates high-end gaming in a compact design, justifying its price for those not seeking an x86 handheld experience.
Source
www.androidcentral.com