The mobile gaming industry is facing intense hardware competition as Ayaneo introduces the Next 2 handheld, which remarkably features options for up to 128GB of RAM and starts at $1,299, with a top configuration reaching $4,299. Positioned as a premium device, the Next 2 aims for users seeking high-performance Windows gaming experiences in a compact form. While most handheld gaming devices do not require such large memory capacity, Ayaneo continues to push hardware boundaries, intending to appeal to both gamers and professionals looking for portable desktop-class performance. Interest piques among enthusiasts, but some question the necessity of such powerful hardware in a portable form factor.
Prior devices in this category, like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, have typically capped RAM at 16GB or 32GB. Ayaneo previously targeted compact, mid-range gaming with lower-cost options, attracting gamers who prioritize portability over extreme performance. The leap to 128GB of RAM in the Next 2 positions it above these rivals in terms of specifications, although the target market for such a device remains relatively niche. Price differences also set the Next 2 apart, as its top-tier price point far exceeds competitors, presenting a new segment within handheld gaming.
What does the Ayaneo Next 2 offer?
The Ayaneo Next 2 is equipped with AMD Ryzen 7 8840U or Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processors, and a discrete AMD Radeon RX 6550M GPU. This hardware is paired with a 7-inch 120Hz display, dual trackpads, and Hall effect triggers, delivering a feature set expected in a high-end portable gaming system. Its storage ranges from 1TB to 16TB, and the unique RAM ceiling elevates the device to a new performance class. According to Ayaneo, the design supports advanced multitasking and creative software, in addition to AAA gaming titles.
How does Ayaneo justify its pricing strategy?
Ayaneo has addressed concerns regarding the pricing of the Next 2. The company states,
“We have engineered the Next 2 to be the highest performing handheld PC for users who demand desktop-level power in a portable design.”
They argue that the substantial investment in top-of-the-line components and custom engineering escalates production costs, which in turn impacts retail price. Ayaneo’s spokesperson further explains,
“Our customers value options, and for professionals and enthusiasts, the additional RAM allows for workloads previously impossible on handhelds.”
Despite the high price tag, the company believes there is a segment willing to pay for uncompromised mobility and capability.
Will such high RAM specs affect real-world usage?
For most consumers, 128GB of RAM exceeds typical gaming or daily computing needs, especially on a device meant to be portable. However, Ayaneo targets niche users running advanced applications, such as developers, engineers, or video editors, who may benefit from this memory headroom. In practice, games and even complex software rarely utilize more than 32GB of RAM, making this feature more future-proofing than a necessity. The move also showcases Ayaneo’s willingness to experiment and challenge perceptions of what handheld PCs can accomplish.
The arrival of the Next 2 signals an effort to innovate at the high end of gaming hardware, but it also raises practical questions about the balance between performance needs and portability. Ayaneo’s strategy indicates confidence in pushing technical boundaries, though broader adoption is likely to be limited due to price and overspecification for most users. While most gamers are unlikely to use a fraction of the available RAM, the Next 2’s specs could set a precedent for future devices as software and workflows grow more demanding. For buyers considering such a purchase, assessing actual workload requirements and long-term technological trends will be crucial. The device offers a chance to handle tasks that were solely the domain of desktops mere years ago, but the investment remains substantial compared to established gaming handhelds. Prospective users should weigh whether their specific use cases justify the expense and capabilities.
