AYN Odin 2 Review: The best portable Android console
AYN Odin 2 stands out in the realm of Android portable consoles, gaining popularity in a market that’s seen a surge in gaming devices. Riding on the success of its predecessor, the Odin, AYN returns with the Odin 2 console, poised to appeal to a broad audience.
The recent trend in portable gaming consoles has witnessed the rise of free alternatives, evident with the success of devices like the Steam Deck. As awareness grows that a satisfying gaming experience doesn’t necessitate allegiance to major publishers like Nintendo or Sony, the market is witnessing a surge in interest for devices that break free from traditional norms. Shenzhen, known for innovation in electronics, has been at the forefront of this movement, with console-shaped PCs and free consoles running Android gaining prominence. AYN, a relatively young player in this space, gained recognition with its earlier release, the Odin. With the Odin 2, the brand continues to make a strong impression.
AYN Odin 2: Video Review
| Specs | AYN Odin 2 |
| Screen | 6-inch IPS LCD 1920 x 1080p Touch Screen |
| CPU | Qualcomm Kyro 64bit, 1 [email protected] / 4 [email protected] / 3 [email protected] |
| GPU | Adreno 740 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB / 16GB (LPDDR5X) |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB (UFS4.0) |
| OS | Android 13 |
| Video Output | HDMI + Display Port |
| WiFi | WiFi7 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Interface | USB 3.1 Type C/Micro HDMI/3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Battery | 8000mAh |
| Charging Power | 65W Quick Charge 5.0 |
| Cooling | Active Cooling |
| Size | 225 x 98 x 17 mm |
| Weight | 420g |
| Color | Black/White/Cold Grey/Clear Blue/Clear Purple |
AYN Odin 2: Design
The AYN Odin 2 represents a significant evolution from its predecessor, focusing on enhancing user experience and addressing feedback from the initial model. While the first Odin borrowed the design concept of the Nintendo Switch Lite, the Odin 2 emerges as a unique and refined gaming console with improved ergonomics.
The noticeable changes start with a slightly thicker and more rounded body, providing a natural and comfortable grip. The back of the Odin 2 features two handles integrated into the plastic chassis, offering excellent support under the fingers. These changes contribute to an enhanced gaming experience, ensuring prolonged comfort during gameplay sessions.
On the front, the layout has been redesigned, with the Start and Select buttons now placed at the top left and right of the screen, resembling a modern controller. The inclusion of Android’s Home and Back buttons at the bottom adds a contemporary touch. The hall effect joysticks, reminiscent of the Joy-Con, provide increased precision, replacing the ones inherited from the PS Vita in the previous model. The cross has evolved, maintaining the PS Vita format but with a more pronounced and clicky feel.
The triggers have undergone a complete transformation, featuring large analog extensions that are not only comfortable but also precise. The only drawback lies in the placement of the B/A/Y/X buttons, now more qualitative and following the traditional Nintendo organization. However, AYN allows users to switch to the A/B/X/Y format with a simple click at the software level, offering flexibility and customization.
Protected behind a flap above the device, the microSD card port and micro HDMI port provide expandable storage and the option for external display output, respectively. The lock button is equipped with a fingerprint reader, adding a layer of security and convenience for quick access to the console without the need for patterns or passwords.
At the bottom, the AYN Odin 2 features a classic combo jack and a USB-C 3.1 port, which is not only compatible with DisplayPort but can also output a 4K signal at 60 Hz. This makes the micro HDMI port, limited to 1080p, appear somewhat redundant. Additionally, the USB-C port serves as the charging port for the device.
A notable improvement is the relocation of the speakers to the front, providing a clearer and more immersive audio experience. Despite being close to the screen, the speakers deliver a surprising volume without distortion. While not the largest audio configuration available, the AYN Odin 2 stands out as a top-tier gaming console in terms of audio quality.
Screen
The AYN Odin 2 continues to impress with its 6-inch IPS LCD panel, maintaining a resolution of 1920 x 1080p. While the screen is multi-touch, it adheres to a 60 Hz refresh rate, reminiscent of devices like the Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite, with distinctly marked borders.
Upon scrutiny using DisplayCal software, the screen reveals impressive color capabilities. It covers 133.8% of the sRGB space and an impressive 94.8% of the DCI-P3 space. The maximum brightness of 469 cd/m² is commendable, ensuring a vivid and clear display under most conditions. However, users may find it slightly challenging to use the screen in intense sunlight during the summer.
One standout feature of the screen is its excellent contrast ratio of 1659:1, a remarkable achievement for an IPS LCD display. The vibrant colors on this screen are further emphasized by the choice of a very cold average color temperature measured at 7729K. While this may not be ideal for those seeking warmer tones, the screen’s potential for adjustment allows users to fine-tune the color temperature to their preference.
In terms of color accuracy, the AYN Odin 2 displays an average Delta E00 of 1.73, showcasing the device’s commitment to providing accurate and true-to-life colors. However, a maximum deviation of 7.06, primarily concentrated in blue tones, suggests a slight departure from accuracy in specific color ranges.
Software
The AYN Odin 2 comes preloaded with Android 13, and as is typical with these devices, don’t expect updates beyond the initial version. The device currently operates on the Android security update of May 5, 2023, with no promises of future updates – a common trait in the realm of Android consoles where users have limited control over software management.
AYN offers users a choice between a custom application launcher or the basic Android launcher. The custom launcher is somewhat limited, prompting many users to explore more appealing alternatives available on the Play Store, with Daijisho being a recommended option. The basic Android launcher, while functional, may not be the most optimized for controller-based navigation.
Beyond the launcher options, the AYN Odin 2 functions as a straightforward tablet. However, it comes equipped with several noteworthy tools. Users have the ability to adjust the console’s power settings, allowing them to prioritize either performance or battery life. Additionally, the fan power can be adjusted with a customizable curve, providing flexibility in managing the device’s thermal performance.
Calibrating and recalibrating the joysticks and triggers is made easy with the Odin 2, offering a user-friendly interface for these adjustments. It’s worth noting that calibration might be necessary, as observed in the testing of the device.
In terms of in-game features, the Odin 2 offers a convenient options pane, accessible on the right side of the device. This pane can be toggled on or off at will and serves as a hub for monitoring performance indicators and accessing practical shortcuts. Noteworthy among these features is a utility that simplifies the process of mapping buttons to specific areas of the screen, offering a user-friendly and customizable solution.
AYN Odin 2: Performance
The AYN Odin 2 showcases a robust hardware configuration, featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC paired with 12 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. This powerful combination ensures compatibility with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, complemented by the latest Adreno 740 GPU. The console’s integrated active cooling system takes full advantage of this hardware, allowing for extended and consistent performance without succumbing to thermal throttling.
Benchmark results for the AYN Odin 2 align with expectations for a device equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. The impressive 3DMark stress test score is particularly notable, highlighting the console’s ability to maintain peak performance continuously without any signs of thermal throttling. This resilience to thermal constraints sets the AYN Odin 2 apart from traditional smartphones, demonstrating the true capabilities of mobile chips when heat is effectively managed.
The hardware prowess translates into a gaming experience that surpasses expectations. Genshin Impact, a demanding title, runs effortlessly at 60 FPS with all settings pushed to the maximum, showcasing the console’s capabilities. The AYN Odin 2 doesn’t stop at native games, as it excels in the world of emulation. Well-established emulators operate smoothly, allowing users to increase rendering definition without compromising performance. Even emulators in active development run well, with the most demanding games hovering around 20 FPS and popular platformers surpassing the 50 FPS mark.
Cooling
The active cooling system of the AYN Odin 2 provides two modes – “Smart” and “Sport.” The Smart mode adapts fan speed to active heating, while the Sport mode operates the fans at full speed. Impressively, there is minimal difference in heating or performance between the two modes. Even at full blast, the noise level remains audible but not particularly disturbing, akin to a distant vacuum cleaner in another room.
Perhaps most noteworthy is the exceptional thermal management of the AYN Odin 2. The console maintains a maximum temperature of 38°C during tests, showcasing its ability to deliver high performance without compromising user comfort. Overall, the AYN Odin 2 stands out as a powerful and well-cooled gaming console, offering a superior gaming experience and promising possibilities for the future.
Autonomy
One notable feature of the AYN Odin 2 is its integration of a substantial 8000 mAh battery. Charging is efficient, thanks to the USB-C port that supports Power Delivery and Quick Charge 5.0, allowing for a rapid 65W recharge. A full charge takes no more than 2 hours, ensuring minimal downtime between gaming sessions.
In extensive tests focusing on demanding experiences, where the console operated at its most resource-intensive profile, the AYN Odin 2 demonstrated a battery life ranging between 5 to 6 hours. This was achieved by running graphics-intensive 3D games and emulators that fully utilized the CPU, GPU, and RAM. Even under these strenuous conditions, the Odin 2 delivers commendable performance. In more typical and moderate use scenarios, users can expect around 10 hours of battery life, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions or on-the-go entertainment.
AYN Odin 2: Conclusion
The AYN Odin 2 asserts itself as the unparalleled champion among Android consoles. Its exceptional raw power, coupled with precise control, finds a perfect outlet in the Android platform, providing access to a plethora of games. The console’s ergonomics, meticulously optimized for an immersive gaming experience, outshine competitors, including industry giants like Nintendo.
One of the standout features of the Odin 2 lies in its astonishing battery life, even under the most demanding usage scenarios. In a market where autonomy is a crucial factor, the Odin 2 sets itself apart, delivering performance that rivals the best while maintaining impressive longevity.
The quality-to-price ratio of the AYN Odin 2 is not just compelling; it’s downright indecent in its favor. Furthermore, the potential for future improvements only adds to its appeal. For those who understand the allure of an Android console, the Odin 2 stands head and shoulders above the competition, offering an unparalleled gaming experience at a fraction of the cost.
The AYN Odin 2 not only competes with its Android counterparts but also holds its own against gaming titans like the Nintendo Switch and emerging players like the Steam Deck. Its prowess in gaming, combined with its affordability, positions the AYN Odin 2 as the go-to choice for those seeking a top-tier Android gaming console without compromise. In a market flooded with options, the Odin 2 manages to stand out as a testament to innovation, performance, and value, setting new standards for what an Android console can achieve.
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