Ayaneo has introduced the Pocket Micro, a compact gaming device featuring a MediaTek Helio G99 processor and options for 6 or 8 GB of RAM. This portable console, inspired by the Game Boy Micro, offers a high-quality aluminum build and a 3.5-inch IPS screen. It excels at emulating retro games, although it struggles with more demanding titles. Available through an Indiegogo campaign, it offers two configurations priced between $219 and $279, emphasizing quality over budget alternatives in the market.
Introducing the Ayaneo Pocket Micro: A Compact Gaming Marvel
Since its inception in 2020, Ayaneo has quickly established itself as a formidable player in the realm of portable gaming PCs. This Shenzhen-based company has carved a niche by presenting high-quality alternatives to popular devices like Valve’s Steam Deck, forging ahead even before Valve entered the scene.
Unlike many of its Chinese counterparts flooding the market with subpar products, Ayaneo is committed to quality and innovation, even if this means a slightly higher price tag. The company ventured into the Android ecosystem with the Pocket Air and has now introduced the Pocket Micro— a device inspired by the beloved Game Boy Micro, but smaller and more advanced.
Technical Specifications and Design
At the core of the AYANEO Pocket Micro lies a MediaTek Helio G99 processor, paired with options of either 6 or 8 GB of RAM. While this hardware may not compete with the latest Windows portable consoles, it is perfectly tailored for its intended use.
This mini console not only looks compact, but its dimensions are larger than a Game Boy Micro yet smaller than a standard smartphone, weighing a mere 233 grams. The striking flush glass front protects the 3.5-inch IPS screen (960 x 640 pixels), creating an immersive display with minimal bezels. However, be prepared for fingerprints to make an appearance on the sleek surface.
Having tested numerous portable consoles, the build quality of this device took me by surprise. The aluminum chassis exudes a robust feel, a refreshing departure from the flimsy plastics often found in budget gaming devices. It also stands apart from the retro-gaming consoles typically available on platforms like AliExpress.
The Ayaneo Pocket Micro is truly pocket-friendly. It fits effortlessly into your pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go gaming sessions. I’ve taken it on public transport and found it to be exactly what I needed for quick gaming bouts.
Featuring a circular D-pad above the left analog stick—an unconventional yet sensible placement for retro gaming—this console also includes compact ABXY face buttons and a second analog stick on the right, both utilizing Hall Effect technology to prevent drift. The device boasts four triggers on top, a micro SD port on the left, and a power button integrated with a fingerprint reader. The bottom includes a central USB-C port and dual stereo speakers, while a ventilation grille on the back ensures effective cooling.
One standout feature is the outstanding D-pad, which delivers precision and a satisfying feel akin to Nintendo’s best offerings. Although the buttons might feel slightly small initially, you quickly adapt. However, the stick placement can be a bit challenging at first, particularly when utilizing the D-pad.
Performance and Gaming Experience
As a fan of GBA games, I was thrilled to discover that this console excels in that category. I revisited Golden Sun, one of my all-time favorite RPGs, and the experience was delightful. The 3:2 aspect ratio of the screen perfectly complements retro titles, with a 4x scaling that enhances the pixel art beautifully.
The quality of the IPS screen is impressive; despite its 3.5-inch size, the resolution of 960 x 640 pixels results in a pixel density of 330 PPI, ensuring sharp visuals. Colors are vibrant, blacks are deep, and viewing angles are excellent. With a maximum brightness of around 400 nits, outdoor gaming is quite feasible, though reflections can sometimes hinder visibility.
I pushed the machine to its limits, and it handled everything from 16-bit to 64-bit games seamlessly. Titles like Golden Sun, Zelda, Sonic, Pokémon, and Castlevania looked stunning. However, performance falters with PS2 emulation, indicating that this device isn’t designed for more demanding console games like Xbox or PS3.
The MediaTek Helio G99 provides ample power for emulating earlier consoles and light Android games. The proprietary AYASpace software allows users to toggle between performance profiles, optimizing the balance between power and battery life. The economy mode can deliver up to 5-6 hours of gameplay on lighter emulation tasks.
Running on Android 13, the system is responsive, although navigating on the smaller screen can be cumbersome. While some modern native Android games perform well, more resource-intensive titles like Genshin Impact struggle due to the hardware limitations.
Web browsing is feasible but not ideal; constant zooming is necessary for readability, and the virtual keyboard can be frustratingly small. The design of the device naturally encourages the use of retro games and pixel art Android titles, which align perfectly with the compact screen.
Pricing and Availability
Ayaneo is currently offering the Pocket Micro through an Indiegogo campaign, with two available configurations. The base model features 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage for $219 (approximately €200), while the 8 GB/256 GB variant is priced at $279 (around €255). Keep in mind that these prices do not account for potential customs fees in Europe.
As Ayaneo’s availability can be inconsistent, it is advisable to avoid inflated offers on third-party sites. Instead, consider purchasing directly from the official Ayaneo store for the best experience.