Ayaneo launches Pocket S Mini handheld for classic console gaming

Ayaneo has introduced a new handheld gaming device aimed squarely at fans of classic console titles, positioning the Pocket S Mini as a premium option for retro gaming enthusiasts. The device has been designed with a specific focus on preserving the original look and feel of older games, many of which were created for televisions with a 4:3 aspect ratio.

While the handheld gaming market has become increasingly crowded, most modern devices favour widescreen displays. This can result in black bars appearing on either side of the screen when older games are emulated. Ayaneo says the Pocket S Mini avoids this issue by offering what it describes as a “true 4:3 retro handheld”, allowing games from the CRT television era to fill the display without distortion.

Focus on aspect ratio and display design

The defining feature of the Pocket S Mini is its 4:3 screen, chosen to match the original presentation of classic console games closely. The device uses a 4.2-inch LCD panel with a resolution of 1,280 x 960, offering a higher pixel density than many older handhelds while retaining the familiar proportions of vintage systems.

Ayaneo is not the first company to release a handheld with a 4:3 display, and even within its own product line, there are alternatives such as the Pocket Air Mini. Other manufacturers, including Anbernic, also offer similar aspect ratios. However, the company is positioning the Pocket S Mini as a more upmarket option, focusing on materials, finish and overall build quality.

The device features a full-metal frame paired with a glass front panel, giving it a more substantial, polished feel than plastic-bodied rivals. On either side of the display are Hall-effect joysticks, designed to reduce wear over time compared with traditional analogue sticks. These joysticks include RGB lighting, adding a visual flourish that contrasts with the retro focus of the screen itself.

Hall effect triggers are also included, alongside what Ayaneo calls “crystal-textured” buttons. Together, these elements suggest that the Pocket S Mini is intended not just as a nostalgic device, but as a modern handheld capable of handling extended play sessions comfortably and reliably.

Performance hardware and internal specifications

Inside the Pocket S Mini, Ayaneo has opted for Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chip, a processor designed specifically for gaming handhelds. This choice places the device at the higher end of the retro handheld spectrum, with enough performance to handle a wide range of emulated systems and more demanding Android-based games.

The handheld is powered by a 6,000mAh battery, which Ayaneo says should provide ample playtime for retro gaming sessions. While the company has not offered specific battery life estimates, the combination of a relatively small display and a mobile-focused chipset suggests a balance between performance and efficiency.

Memory and storage options vary depending on the configuration. The entry-level model includes 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage, which should be sufficient for a sizeable library of classic games and emulators. Higher-end versions increase both memory and storage, catering to users who want to install more demanding software or carry larger collections locally.

Unlike some of Ayaneo’s previous handhelds, which launched through crowdfunding platforms, the Pocket S Mini is being sold directly. This approach may appeal to buyers who prefer a more straightforward purchasing process and immediate availability, rather than waiting for a campaign to conclude and units to ship.

Pricing, availability and market positioning

The Pocket S Mini is already available for order on Ayaneo’s website, with early-bird pricing currently in place. The starting price is US$319 for the Obsidian Black or Ice Soul White versions, both of which come with 8GB of memory and 128GB of storage.

For buyers seeking the highest specifications, Ayaneo is offering a Retro Power colour option exclusive to the top-tier model. This version includes 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, with an early bird price starting at US$479. As with previous Ayaneo releases, colour options are used to differentiate configurations and visual styles.

Ayaneo has not confirmed how long the early bird pricing will remain available. The company has indicated that standard retail prices will eventually rise, with the range expected to fall between US$399 and US$559, depending on the configuration chosen. This places the Pocket S Mini firmly in the premium segment of the retro handheld market.

By focusing on build quality, display accuracy and modern internal hardware, Ayaneo is targeting enthusiasts who value authenticity and performance over budget pricing. The Pocket S Mini is unlikely to compete with lower-cost handhelds on price. Still, it may appeal to players who want a dedicated device for revisiting classic games without compromise.