Handheld gaming PCs have gradually inched toward the mainstream over the past few years.
The success of Valve’s Linux-powered Steam Deck, of course, is the prime example of this.
Influential manufacturer support is key in popularizing new tech, but perhaps even more important is practicality.
With that in mind, it’s understandable why consumer interest could be limited.
But when that pricey portable can also realistically replace your pricey gaming laptop or even desktop PC?
Well, then you’re onto something.
The Ayaneo 2S offered similar performance, with comparable default parameters and frame rates in the same games.
I tested the model with 32GB of RAM and a 2TB SSD.
The RAM is overkill, as very few games are power hungry enough to utilize more than 16GB.
This has been the case with each subsequent Ayaneo iteration.
From a build perspective, the Ayaneo 2S is exquisite.
Ayaneo’s devices have always been well-made, and the 2S is no different.
Keeping with the norm for Ayaneo, the controller inputs are superb.
The 7-inch touchscreen is bezel-less glass and has a 1920x1200 resolution.
It boasts a high contrast ratio and 130% sRGB.
Screen quality falls between the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch OLED.
At its default 15W TDP setting, the Ayaneo 2S handled everything I threw at it.
The 2S ran a lot of modern games at high presets with frame rates north of 30.
I saw practically no difference between Diablo 4 on the 2S and the Lenovo Legion.
Battery life remains a concern for these workhorse handhelds, but the 2S has made some solid strides.
After all, I’d rather play Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered on a big screen for the spectacle.
And when hooked up to a hub or docked, the battery is of no concern.
That said, all Windows handheld buyers should invest in a good laptop-grade portable charger, especially for travel.
Windows simply isn’t designed for this form factor.
And the software recently got better with the introduction of Aya Space 2.0.
Most everyone needs a computer, and gaming is only becoming more popular.
Early bird pricing for theAyaneo 2S is still available at Indiegogo.
you’re able to check out Ayaneo’s full lineup of products on theAyaneo Store.
Ayaneo provided a sample of the Ayaneo 2S for the purpose of this review.
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