Tag: gaming handheld

  • Anbernic RG477M: Compact Gaming Handheld Preview and Details

    Anbernic RG477M: Compact Gaming Handheld Preview and Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic is developing a new handheld gaming device called the RG477M, with no detailed hardware specs released yet.
    2. The RG477M features a 4.7-inch screen with a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio, likely using the same display as the RG Slide.
    3. The device is expected to support a 4x integer scale for Nintendo 64 games and 2x scaling for titles from Dreamcast, GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Wii.
    4. Anbernic is rumored to use the Dimensity 8300 chip for performance, which is also found in the RG557 model.
    5. Although no official release date is announced, the RG477M is expected to be available for purchase by the end of the month.


    Earlier this week, Anbernic announced that they are working on a new handheld gaming device. As usual, the company shared only a sneak peek of the gadget without revealing any details about its hardware. However, some rumored information surfaced before Anbernic officially stated that the RG477M would be hitting the shelves.

    New Leaks Surface

    Recently, the YouTube channel Nittrx contributed more to the ongoing buzz with additional information about Anbernic’s upcoming handheld. They reported that the RG477M comes with a 4.7-inch screen that has a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels and a 4:3 aspect ratio. Essentially, it appears that Anbernic is reusing the LTPS IPS display from the RG Slide, which currently retails for $249.99 on Amazon.

    Performance Expectations

    Because of this, the RG477M is likely to deliver a 4x integer scale for Nintendo 64 games, while scaling down to 2x for titles from Dreamcast, GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Wii. To make this happen, Nittrx claims that Anbernic will utilize the Dimensity 8300, which is already included in the RG557 model. Although Anbernic has yet to announce a specific release date, it’s anticipated that the RG477M will be available for purchase by the end of this month.

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  • SteamOS Beta Expands Support for Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld

    SteamOS Beta Expands Support for Lenovo Legion Go S Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion Go S is a strong competitor to the Valve Steam Deck due to its SteamOS compatibility.
    2. SteamOS beta update allows direct customization of joystick RGB settings through the Steam client.
    3. The update includes bug fixes for the system file browser and high contrast mode.
    4. Recent enhancements support third-party handhelds, including improved compatibility for the Asus ROG Ally X display and controllers.
    5. The Lenovo Legion Go S is available for $649.99 on Amazon (Windows version) and $599.99 at Best Buy (SteamOS version).


    The Lenovo Legion Go S has shown to be a remarkable gaming handheld in our latest device review, with its SteamOS compatibility making it a strong rival against the Valve Steam Deck. Windows users typically rely on Lenovo Legion Space to customize features such as the joystick RGB settings, whereas Linux users had to depend on unusual methods involving Decky Loader plugins and terminal commands.

    New Features in SteamOS

    In the latest SteamOS beta update (you can find the patch notes here), Valve has introduced the option to modify the RGB LEDs on the joysticks of the Legion Go S directly through the Steam client. You can access these new settings by navigating to Settings→Customisation. The update also includes various bug fixes addressing issues with the system file browser and high contrast mode.

    Enhancements for Gaming Devices

    The inclusion of RGB controls may appear to be a simple enhancement for SteamOS, but it emphasizes the growing compatibility for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S and other gaming handhelds from third parties. Previous improvements to the third-party handheld experience featured enhanced support for the Asus ROG Ally X display and its controllers, as well as frame-rate caps for VRR displays. Additional updates for the Legion Go S included features such as charge rate limits, a SteamOS compatibility indicator, built-in firmware updates for controllers, and a repair tool for both the Legion Go S and Steam Deck.

    Where to Buy

    You can find the Windows-based Lenovo Legion Go S on Amazon for the current price of $649.99 or the SteamOS version of the Legion Go S at Best Buy for a current price of $599.99.

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  • MSI Claw A8: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Handheld Now Available

    MSI Claw A8: AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme Handheld Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MSI Claw A8 has not yet received an official global release date, but it has launched in China.
    2. The Claw A8 is priced at CNY 6,999 in China and is now available for pre-order in Taiwan at TWD 27,900 (approximately $950).
    3. The Claw A8 is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, allowing early users to compare it with Intel-based models.
    4. The pricing of the Claw A8 is lower than the Claw 8 AI+, which is listed at $999, despite its enhanced storage capabilities.
    5. The Claw A8 may be priced between the Claw 7 AI+ ($899) and Claw 8 AI+ ($999) when it eventually reaches North America and other markets.


    The latest MSI Claw still hasn’t been given an official release date for the global market. However, VideoCardz has spotted the device popping up in another country, marking its first step into international waters.

    Recent Launch in China

    To give some background, the Claw A8 made its debut in China earlier this month, priced at CNY 6,999. Shortly after that, MSI’s first gaming handheld powered by AMD began shipping, providing early users an opportunity to compare the Claw A8 with its Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU against other options, such as the Intel Lunar Lake-based Claw 8 AI+ (currently listed at $999 on Amazon).

    Pre-Orders in Taiwan

    Currently, the Claw A8 is available for pre-order in Taiwan at TWD 27,900, which roughly translates to about $950. Notably, this pre-order price is lower than that of the Claw 8 AI+ in both its Sandstorm and Polar Tempest versions, with MSI pricing the latter differently due to its enhanced storage capabilities.

    Comparison with Other Models

    In comparison, the new MSI Claw comes at a much higher price than the original 7-inch model and its Lunar Lake-based successor, which are only available in select regions. It seems that when the Claw A8 finally reaches North America and other markets, it will likely be priced between MSI’s two Lunar Lake gaming handhelds. To provide some context, MSI charges $899 for the Claw 7 AI+ and $999 for the Claw 8 AI+ in the US. Sadly, there is no clear indication of when the Claw A8 will leave Asia for other locations.

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  • Mangmi Air X: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks

    Mangmi Air X: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mangmi is set to launch its first gaming handheld, the Air X, globally after its introduction in China.
    2. The Air X is priced at CNY 499 (approximately $70) and features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 chipset for enhanced performance.
    3. Key features include Hall effect joysticks, a 5.5-inch 1080p IPS display, a six-axis gyroscope, a 5,000 mAh battery, and 4 GB of RAM.
    4. The Air X offers 64 GB of expandable storage and is expected to outperform similar gaming handhelds using other chipsets.
    5. Availability outside China is not yet announced, but early subscribers can receive a $5 discount.


    It looks like Mangmi is getting ready to launch its first gaming handheld on a worldwide scale. The Air X was introduced earlier this month in China and is priced at CNY 499 (around $70) in that region, largely due to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 chipset. This chipset, along with its Adreno drivers, is expected to offer better performance compared to similar SoCs such as the MediaTek Helio G85, Unisoc T610, or Unisoc T618, which are used in gaming handhelds like the Anbernic RG505 (currently priced at $142.49 on Amazon).

    Impressive Features of the Air X

    Furthermore, the Mangmi Air X comes equipped with Hall effect joysticks and triggers, which are typically found in pricier gaming handhelds. Additionally, it boasts a 5.5-inch IPS display that supports a native resolution of 1080p and can achieve a peak brightness of 450 nits. On top of that, the Air X has a six-axis gyroscope, a 5,000 mAh battery, and 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, along with 64 GB of expandable storage.

    Availability and Discounts

    As of now, Mangmi has not disclosed when the Air X will be available outside of China. The company also hasn’t provided any information regarding the potential cost of the device in other markets. However, they are offering a $5 discount for early subscribers to their mailing list. For further information, check out Mangmi’s global website.

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  • MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme

    MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has started selling the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition in China, despite not providing an official release date for fans.
    2. The Claw 8 Ryzen Edition features an 8-inch display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and 1200p resolution, similar to the Claw 8 AI+.
    3. The device is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, showing strong performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessor.
    4. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme’s performance is competitive with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 but has better power efficiency due to its lower core count.
    5. Benchmark comparisons between the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition and Claw 8 AI+ are complicated by the use of outdated Intel drivers, making direct performance assessments challenging.


    MSI has yet to provide fans with details about when they can expect their first gaming handheld powered by AMD Ryzen. Recently, the company began selling the MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition in China, just days after saying it would be available later in the summer. Surprisingly, the handheld is already being shipped.

    Early Impressions

    While MSI hasn’t officially confirmed much, a YouTuber has shared some initial thoughts about the device, which can be seen in the video linked below. The Claw 8 Ryzen Edition has a close resemblance to the Claw 8 AI+ (currently priced at $999 on Amazon), as both feature an 8-inch display with 120 Hz refresh rate and 1200p resolution. However, the newer model offers a glimpse into the capabilities of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, which hints at the performance we might see from upcoming devices like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go later this year.

    Performance Comparison

    The Ryzen Z2 Extreme shows impressive performance, surpassing its predecessor at 12 W of power, but it falls just behind the regular Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 found in recent handhelds such as the Aokzoe A1X and the OneXFly F1 Pro. It seems that the Ryzen Z2 Extreme closely tracks the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 at higher power levels, but it has the advantage of slightly better overall power efficiency due to its reduced CPU core count and lack of an NPU.

    Benchmark Challenges

    Sadly, the choice to utilize benchmarks from the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V with older Intel drivers complicates direct comparisons between the new Claw 8 Ryzen Edition and the Claw 8 AI+ for now. That said, the Core Ultra 7 258V seems to be the more efficient APU at lower wattages. For further details, check out the video below.

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  • T16 Max: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Sharp Display Under $38

    T16 Max: Affordable Gaming Handheld with Sharp Display Under $38

    Key Takeaways

    Eye-Catching Design: The T16 Max features a unique design inspired by Batman, with controls arranged in vertical rows and the screen positioned above them.

    Controls and Buttons: It includes two analog sticks, action buttons, a D-pad, extra menu buttons, and four shoulder buttons for enhanced gaming experiences.

    Specifications: Powered by an RK3326 processor with four cores at 1.6GHz and 1GB DDR4 RAM, it can emulate various gaming platforms and consoles.

    Storage Options: The device has two SD card slots for the operating system and game storage, allowing for expanded game libraries.

    Display and Battery: It features a 3.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 720 pixels and a 3,000mAh battery, supporting multiplayer gaming with wireless controllers.


    The T16 Max is a fresh and budget-friendly gaming handheld that sports an eye-catching design. The makers seem to have taken inspiration from Batman, as evident from the logos, although these might not have official permission.

    Unique Design Features

    This device stands quite tall, with its input controls set up in two vertical rows. Instead of being placed between the buttons, the screen sits above them. Specifically, it includes two analog sticks, action buttons, a D-pad, and extra menu buttons. On the back, there are four shoulder buttons, which should accommodate even more demanding gaming experiences.

    Specs and Performance

    Regarding its specifications, the affordable T16 Max is powered by an RK3326 processor featuring four cores that can reach speeds of up to 1.6GHz, along with 1GB of DDR4 RAM. This setup is likely capable of emulating various platforms and consoles, including several generations of Game Boy, the Sony PlayStation 1, PSP, and Nintendo 64.

    Storage and Battery Life

    Gamers have access to two SD card slots, one of which typically houses the operating system, while the other is for game storage. Furthermore, it boasts a 3.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 720 pixels, ensuring a reasonably clear picture. Finally, the T16 Max comes equipped with a 3,000mAh battery and is compatible with wireless controllers, allowing for multiplayer gaming fun.

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  • MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Launches Ahead of Asus ROG Ally

    MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Launches Ahead of Asus ROG Ally

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has launched the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition gaming handheld in select East Asian and Southeast Asian markets, such as Cambodia, China, and Taiwan.

    2. The device features an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, 24 GB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM, and an 8-inch screen, marking it as the first gaming handheld with this AMD processor available for purchase.

    3. The Claw 8 Ryzen Edition is priced at CNY 6,999 (approximately $976), similar to existing models, but MSI has not announced pricing for other regions yet.

    4. The launch of the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition follows its showcase in China and comes before the release dates of competing devices from Asus and Lenovo.

    5. MSI has listed the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition on its global site, suggesting that a wider release is planned in the future.


    MSI has introduced its newest Claw gaming handheld in select markets after showcasing the device earlier this week in China. At that time, the firm only stated that the Claw A8 BZ2EM would be available this summer, also calling it the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition in their advertising due to its AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU.

    Availability and Release

    Initially, it seemed that Asus would hold off until next week to launch its new Claw, following its confirmed appearance at BiliBiliWorld 2025. However, the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition is now available for purchase in various East Asian and Southeast Asian nations such as Cambodia, China, and Taiwan.

    Specifications and Pricing

    For those interested, the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition features only a Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU, along with 24 GB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM and the 8-inch screen from the Claw 8 AI+ (currently priced at $999 on Amazon). In essence, this new Claw marks the first AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme-based gaming handheld that is openly available for purchase. In contrast, Asus and Lenovo have yet to provide specific launch dates for their upcoming ROG Ally and Legion Go devices.

    The new variant is priced similarly to existing models at CNY 6,999 (about $976). Sadly, MSI has not yet announced pricing for other regions. Nonetheless, the company has listed the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition on its global site, indicating that a broader release is forthcoming. Below is a table containing more technical information about MSI’s first gaming handheld powered by AMD.

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  • Ayaneo Flip 1S Launch Date Announced for New OLED Handhelds

    Ayaneo Flip 1S Launch Date Announced for New OLED Handhelds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo plans to release the Flip 1S handheld gaming device in July, following competitors like GPD Win Mini 2025 and OneXPlayer G1.
    2. The Flip 1S features a redesigned model with dual screens and built-in keyboard options, similar to its previous version.
    3. Both variants of the Flip 1S have 7-inch OLED displays with a 144 Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 800 nits, while the secondary display is a 3.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels.
    4. The Flip 1S models include TMR joysticks and a CNC-machined top cover, though the body may be made from plastic.
    5. The Flip 1S DS and Flip 1S KB will be available for pre-order on Indiegogo between July 7 and July 13.


    Ayaneo seems to be sticking to its commitment of releasing the latest clamshell gaming handheld in July. Following competitors like the GPD Win Mini 2025 and OneXPlayer G1 (currently priced at $1,419.95 on Amazon), the Ayaneo Flip 1S will feature both dual screen and built-in keyboard options similar to its previous model.

    Redesigned for a New Generation

    As mentioned before, Ayaneo has revamped the Flip for the new 1S version instead of just upgrading to a stronger APU. Additionally, both variants of the Flip 1S showcase 7-inch OLED displays with a refresh rate of 144 Hz and can reach peak brightness of up to 800 nits. The secondary display of the Flip 1S DS is an IPS screen that measures 3.5 inches, offering a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels and a 3:2 aspect ratio.

    Features and Construction

    Both models of the Flip 1S come with TMR joysticks and a CNC-machined top cover. However, it’s possible that the rest of the body is made from plastic. Nevertheless, Ayaneo has announced that the Flip 1S DS and Flip 1S KB will be up for grabs between July 7 and July 13. As is common practice, the company plans to launch both versions on Indiegogo first, and the campaign is already accessible in its preview mode.

    Ayaneo’s new handheld promises to bring exciting features and improvements, keeping gamers eagerly awaiting its release.

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  • Mangmi Air X: Affordable Hall Effect Retro Gaming Handheld Unveiled

    Mangmi Air X: Affordable Hall Effect Retro Gaming Handheld Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mangmi has announced its first gaming handheld, the Air X, with no confirmed release date yet.
    2. The Air X features a 5.5-inch IPS screen with 1080p resolution, 60 Hz refresh rate, and 450 nits peak brightness.
    3. It includes Hall effect joysticks, triggers, a 6-axis gyroscope, 4 GB of RAM, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor.
    4. The starting price for the Air X in China is CNY 499 (approximately $70).
    5. A setup video on Bilibili shows the Air X is wider than the TrimUI Smart Pro, but international availability is still unknown.


    Just a little over a week ago, Mangmi revealed its first gaming handheld. Although the company hasn’t announced a release date yet, it has provided the pricing for the Air X, which will be available in China when it launches.

    Display Details

    To summarize, the Mangmi Air X features a 5.5-inch IPS screen with a native 1080p resolution, a refresh rate of 60 Hz, and a 16:9 aspect ratio. The display is said to reach a peak brightness of 450 nits, making it brighter than many low-cost gaming handhelds and even some pricier models like the Anbernic RG557.

    Specs and Pricing

    In addition, the Mangmi Air X comes with Hall effect joysticks and triggers, as well as a 6-axis gyroscope. While these features are typically found in higher-end gaming handhelds, Mangmi has opted for 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 processor, all powered by a 5,000 mAh battery to keep the price lower. The company has confirmed that the starting price for the Air X in China will be CNY 499, which is about $70 at the current exchange rate.

    Setup Insights

    Mangmi also shared a setup video on Bilibili featuring the Air X. In this video, it’s clear that the Air X is a bit wider than the TrimUI Smart Pro (currently priced at $86.99 on Amazon), even though it has significantly more power. However, there’s still no information on when it will be available internationally.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket S2 Shines in Early Videos for PS2, Wii U, Switch

    Ayaneo Pocket S2 Shines in Early Videos for PS2, Wii U, Switch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Cooling System: The Ayaneo Pocket S2 features a revamped cooling system that addresses issues from the original Pocket S, improving thermal management during gameplay.

    2. Improved Performance: Equipped with the new Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset, the Pocket S2 delivers significantly higher performance, capable of emulating sixth-generation consoles like the PlayStation 2 at 1440p.

    3. Emulation Capabilities: The device can handle Wii U emulation with varying resolutions and successfully runs games like Super Mario Odyssey, though it requires Max performance mode for optimal play.

    4. Game Streaming Quality: The Pocket S2 offers very good game streaming quality, enhancing the overall gaming experience for users.

    5. Performance Limitations: Activating Gaming mode may lead to a performance cap of 30 FPS after some time, regardless of the device’s cooling state.


    The Ayaneo Pocket S2 was launched on Indiegogo a few weeks ago as an upgrade to the Pocket S, featuring multiple hardware improvements. Although pre-orders are not scheduled to start shipping until next month, reviewers from ETA Prime, Retro Game Corps, and TechDweeb have already tested their units.

    Enhanced Cooling System

    Ayaneo has stated that it revamped the cooling system for the Pocket S2, which was a common complaint in reviews of the original Pocket S. The previous cooling system struggled to keep up with the Snapdragon G3x Gen 1. However, Russ from Retro Game Corps reports that he hasn’t faced any such problems with the Pocket S2.

    Improved Performance

    The new Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset allows the handheld to achieve significantly higher performance compared to the Pocket S and other powerful Android gaming devices such as the Retroid Pocket 5 (currently priced at $259 on Amazon). The Pocket S2 can emulate sixth-generation consoles like the PlayStation 2 at 1440p, all while running in its Balanced performance mode with the fan mostly turned off.

    Emulation Capabilities

    Wii U emulation varies based on the selected game, with resolutions ranging from 720p to 1080p. Moreover, the Pocket S2 can even run Super Mario Odyssey, though this requires enabling Max performance mode. Game streaming quality is reportedly very good as well. Nonetheless, Ayaneo’s new Android handheld does come with some problems at this point. Reportedly, activating Gaming mode could restrict games to 30 FPS after a little while, no matter how cool the device is. For more information, check out the videos linked above and below.

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