AYANEO Next 2 Brings Desktop-Class Power to Handheld Gaming — For Around $4,000

AYANEO is once again pushing the boundaries of portable PC gaming with the AYANEO Next 2, a handheld that aims to deliver true desktop-level performance in a compact form factor. But while the specs are undeniably impressive, the price makes one thing clear: this is a device built for enthusiasts with deep pockets.

The fully specced version of the AYANEO Next 2 lands at around $4,000, placing it firmly in ultra-premium territory. That’s not just expensive for a handheld — it’s high-end gaming laptop or even custom desktop PC money.

Laptop-Class Hardware in Your Hands

Unlike many handheld gaming PCs that balance power with affordability, the Next 2 is designed to go all out. It features advanced AMD Ryzen processors from the latest AI-focused lineup, paired with powerful integrated Radeon graphics. This setup is engineered to handle demanding AAA games, heavy multitasking, and even professional workloads.

Memory and storage options are where things truly escalate. Configurations go up to a massive 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 2 TB of SSD storage, specifications rarely seen outside of workstation-grade systems. In practical terms, that means faster load times, smoother multitasking, and the ability to push modern games at higher settings than most handheld competitors can manage.

A Larger OLED Experience

The device sports a large 9-inch OLED display, offering richer contrast and more vibrant colors than traditional LCD panels. The increased screen size alone sets it apart from typical 7-inch handhelds, providing a more immersive experience — particularly for open-world adventures and visually intense games.

With this much power under the hood, cooling and battery life become critical factors. AYANEO has reportedly equipped the Next 2 with a substantial battery and an upgraded cooling solution to sustain performance during extended play sessions. Still, given the hardware inside, users should expect battery life to vary significantly depending on how hard the system is pushed.

Who Is It Really For?

At roughly $4,000 for the top configuration, the AYANEO Next 2 is not competing with mainstream devices like the Steam Deck or ROG Ally. Instead, it’s targeting hardcore PC gamers, tech enthusiasts, and early adopters who want cutting-edge performance in a portable package — regardless of cost.

It’s also worth noting that this is essentially a full Windows PC in handheld form. That means access to Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and productivity applications. For some users, the idea of having a portable machine that doubles as a workstation might justify the price.

A Bold Statement in the Handheld Market

The AYANEO Next 2 isn’t just another portable gaming device — it’s a statement piece. It shows how far handheld PCs have evolved, moving closer to true desktop performance than ever before. But at $4,000, it’s also a reminder that bleeding-edge technology comes at a premium.

For those willing to invest, the Next 2 could represent the ultimate handheld PC experience. For everyone else, it’s an impressive glimpse into the future of portable gaming — even if that future currently carries a luxury price tag.

Source