AYANEO’s NEXT 2 is a mobile gaming powerhouse that’s about the size of an ultraslim laptop that has been slightly shrunk down. This Windows-powered machine features AMD’s newest Strix Halo processor, a significant piece of hardware, as well as an eye-catching 9.06-inch OLED screen and a price tag to match its ambitions. Those early bird bookings start at $1,799, but the top build goes all the way up to $3,499 during crowdfunding, then to a staggering $4,299 when it hits the regular retail circuit.
AYANEO’s engineers chose the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, which has 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and 32 threads, to power the NEXT 2. At the same time, the 8060S GPU integrated into the chip brings no less than 40 RDNA 3.5 compute units, which can handle demanding games at graphics settings that smaller handhelds simply cannot handle, but if you want to take a step back and don’t need all that power, you can use the Ryzen AI Max 385, which has 8 cores and a 32-unit GPU for greater efficiency. In any case, it’s an excellent pick because it supports up to 85W TDP, which keeps the device from slowing down or overheating.
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One of the features that will set the NEXT 2 apart is its stunning screen real estate, a 9.06-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 2400 x 1504 in a roughly 16:10 ratio. Refresh rates may be adjusted from a smooth 60Hz to 165Hz, and peak brightness ranges between 1,100 and 1135 nits for individuals who prefer watching HDR material. Plus, the colors are vibrant, thanks to the same panel technology used in high-end tablets.
The controls have been carefully designed to ensure precision. Adjustable torque TMR joysticks sit beside Hall-effect linear triggers, which also include dual-mode locking for a somewhat distinct feel. A floating eight-way D-pad and dual smart touchpads that may be used as mice further simplify input. Four rear macro buttons offer ten-finger layouts, allowing you to play sophisticated games that need all of your fingers. In terms of immersion, the device also has linear haptics and a rotor-style feedback mechanism to help you get into the zone, but not to the point where it becomes overbearing.
Battery life is actually rather good thanks to a built-in 116Wh battery, which is one of the largest in any portable machine, but be realistic and keep in mind that gaming will naturally deplete it. If you decide to take it on the road, keep in mind that you may require one of those special airline approval forms for carry-on luggage, which is something to consider before a long flight.
At 1.4kg (3.1 pounds), it’s obviously a bit of a handful, but substantial is a better word, as the extra size is due to the screen and cooling system. With a construction like this, it’s about getting the job done rather than fitting into a pocket. You have two full-function USB-C connectors with USB4 40Gbps capability and DisplayPort 1.4, as well as a 3.5mm audio jack on the side. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 provide connectivity, while a fingerprint sensor in the power button simplifies logins.
Of course, you can scale the configuration to meet your specific requirements, with the lowest level offering 32GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB storage, while the top tier includes 64GB or 128GB of RAM and up to 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD.
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