AYANEO Pocket Vert – a vertical Android powerhouse that feels like a work of art
RetroGear When we got our hands on the AYANEO Pocket Vert ’s (in red), I knew straight away: this is something quite different. A handheld that’s not only truly amazing in terms of design, ergonomics and specs, but also looks like a work of art. As we’ve come to expect from Ayaneo, it was a long wait, but as backers of this device, we have a number in stock which we’re naturally reserving for our customers at RetroGear.
The processor is a Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 and is incredibly powerful. With this device, you can easily play games right up to Switch level (depending on settings and the emulator).
The screen is also of exceptional quality. With a resolution of 1600×1440 and a pixel density of 615 PPI, it can hold its own against screens found on modern smartphones.
The case is made of aluminium and feels very high-quality too. Combined with the cool design, which is truly unlike anything else on the market, you know you’re holding a work of art.
Key features
- Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor
- Super-sharp screen: 1600×1440 (615 PPI)
- Premium aluminium casing with a unique design
- Front-facing touchpad for additional input
- Touchscreen display
- Quiet, high-quality buttons with a satisfying feel
- Robust D-pad for fighting games and shoot ’em ups
- Analogue volume knob (nice and old-school to turn)
- Android operating system with quick setup and emulators
Why the ‘ AYANEO Pocket Vert ’ is special
Another special feature is the touchpad built into the front of the device. You can use it as a replacement for a mouse, joysticks or a touchpad, or assign a specific action to it. Of course, the screen is also a touchscreen.
The buttons are quiet and, as we’ve come to expect, very good. The D-pad is perfect for both Street Fighter and shoot ’em ups, and the face buttons provide great feedback. It also features an analogue volume control, so you can turn the volume up or down by turning the ‘ Game Boy ’ just like in the old days.
The operating system is Android, complete, of course, with all the extras we’ve come to expect from Ayaneo. Emulators are pre-installed, and a simple setup process gets you gaming in no time.
I’m really pleased with it and have personally gone for the 12G version in red. It might be a bit over the top for what I’m going to play on it, but it offers plenty of possibilities. Incidentally, the 8G version is more than enough for most systems. If you’re set on emulating the Switch, the 12G is definitely worth considering.
Written by Jorne
What you get
- AYANEO Pocket Vert -handheld
- USB-C charging cable
No ROMs are included. This is not permitted by law within the EU.
Specifications
- Processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
- Operating system: Android
- Display: 1600 × 1440, 615 PPI, touchscreen
- Housing: Aluminium
- RAM/Storage: 8 GB/128 GB or 12 GB/256 GB
- Extra: Front-facing touchpad, analogue volume control
Frequently Asked Questions
Which version should I choose: 8 GB or 12 GB?
8 GB is brilliant for just about everything. 12 GB is worth a look if you’re mainly interested in running resource-intensive emulators (such as the Switch) or want to multitask extensively.
Is this device suitable for fighter games and shoot ’em ups?
Yes, exactly. The D-pad and buttons are really great for this.
Are there any games on it?
No. No ROMs are included. You install your own apps and emulators and use your own legal backups.
What is that touchpad on the front?
An additional input surface that you can use as a mouse or for controls, or to assign actions to. Useful for streaming, menus and certain emulators.
Why buy from RetroGear
- Dispatched from the Netherlands
- European warranty
- Personalised support with installation and use