Handheld gaming consoles have seen a surge in popularity for valid reasons. The Nintendo Switch initiated this trend, leading to an array of impressive options from companies of all sizes. Noteworthy examples include the Logitech G Cloud, Steam Deck, and Asus’ ROG Ally, among others. Adding to this lineup is the Ayn Odin 2, recently unveiled by Ayn. This handheld console stands out with its utilization of the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, currently regarded as one of the top-tier mobile chipsets available.
In the earlier part of this year, Ayn introduced the Loki, an impressive high-tier option featuring a choice of Intel or AMD CPUs. In contrast, the Odin 2 seems to present a more budget-friendly choice, priced at $299. Presently, there’s a scarcity of information available, but from the images released thus far, the Odin 2 appears to share a resemblance with the Loki – a resemblance that holds promise.
At the price point of $299, you’ll be acquiring the base Ayn Odin 2 model, equipped with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Alternately, you have the option to opt for variants featuring 12/256GB and 16/512GB storage configurations, depending on your preference.
Similar to its predecessor, the original Odin, the new handheld iteration also incorporates an active cooling fan. This feature might provide it with an advantage over smartphones or tablets boasting similar specifications. Positioned on the back of the Odin 2, a sizable air intake vent exists, accompanied by a smaller vent on the top, facilitating the expulsion of hot air.
The handheld device exhibits a minimum of two ports, one situated on the top and the other on the bottom. While the exact nature of these ports is not entirely discernible, it would be unexpected if the Odin 2 did not include, at the very least, a USB port and a 3.5mm audio jack. Similar to its predecessor, the original Odin boasted a mini HDMI port, along with compatibility with WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset holds significant power, making it a crucial aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked. If your intention is to engage in diverse gaming experiences, whether through emulation or official channels, this forthcoming gaming console might just be the ideal choice for you.
Via Indiegogo