Gaming handhelds have come a long way from their bulky origins, but finding one that balances power with portability remains challenging. Most devices sacrifice aesthetics for performance or vice versa. The AYANEO Pocket S2 Pro tackles this dilemma head-on, combining flagship-level specifications with genuinely premium design elements that make it feel like a luxury device rather than another plastic gaming gadget.

What immediately catches your eye is the sophisticated construction. The CNC-machined aluminum mid-frame gives the device structural integrity while maintaining an incredibly slim 15.9mm profile. Combined with the borderless 6.3-inch display, the Pocket S2 Pro looks more like a premium tablet than a traditional gaming handheld. This attention to design detail sets it apart from competitors that often prioritize function over form.

Designer: AYANEO

The real innovation lies in the detachable directional pad system. Unlike fixed controls that force compromises, the Pro model lets you swap between traditional “cross” and eight-way directional configurations. Fighting game enthusiasts can attach the precision four-way pad for accurate quarter-circle motions, while action game players benefit from the eight-way setup for diagonal movement. This modularity addresses different gaming preferences without requiring multiple devices.

Hardware specifications match the premium exterior. The Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 processor delivers over two million AnTuTu points, while the substantial 10,000mAh battery provides extended gaming sessions. The 16GB of RAM paired with 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage ensures smooth performance and ample space for game libraries. TMR electromagnetic joysticks eliminate drift issues while offering customizable RGB lighting for personal expression.

Cooling represents another thoughtful engineering choice. The custom system incorporates a large copper plate spanning 6630mm² and an extensive fin array covering 14295mm². This thermal management maintains comfortable temperatures during intensive gaming while sustaining the full 20W power output. Extended play sessions remain comfortable without the device becoming uncomfortably warm.

AYANEO understands that gaming handhelds can be personal statements. The limited edition variants reflect this philosophy beautifully. The Retro Power edition channels classic Nintendo aesthetics with its red and beige color scheme, appealing to nostalgic gamers. Meanwhile, the B.Duck collaboration brings playful yellow accents and toy-like charm, targeting collectors who appreciate unique designs over conventional gaming aesthetics.

The differences between Pro and standard models justify the price premium. Beyond the obvious 16GB RAM versus 8GB and 1TB versus 128GB storage disparity, the Pro exclusively features the detachable directional pad system. The enhanced 60W fast charging compared to 40W also reduces downtime between gaming sessions, while the larger 10,000mAh battery extends portable play time significantly.

At $699, the Pocket S2 Pro commands premium pricing, but the combination of innovative controls, luxurious materials, and powerful internals creates compelling value. Whether you prioritize the modular controls, appreciate the sophisticated design, or simply want the most capable Android gaming handheld available, the Pro model delivers an experience that feels genuinely different from typical gaming devices.

The post AYANEO Pocket S2 Pro gaming handheld delivers premium looks and swappable D-pad controls first appeared on Yanko Design.