AYANEO AM02

The AYANEO AM02 stands out as a retro-inspired powerhouse, blending nostalgic design with modern AMD hardware. At its core lies the Ryzen 7 8845HS (Zen 4, 8 cores/16 threads, 3.8GHz base/5.1GHz boost) paired with the Radeon 780M iGPU (RDNA 3, 12 CUs, up to 2700MHz), delivering robust performance for both productivity and gaming. The 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD configuration ($629) ensures snappy multitasking, while the 4-inch multifunction touchscreen adds unique utility for monitoring system stats or adjusting settings on the fly. Unlike budget mini PCs, the AM02’s 45W cooling system—featuring quad copper heat pipes and a 68,105mm² heatsink—keeps thermals in check, though fan noise escalates under heavy loads.

Design-wise, the AM02 channels Nintendo’s NES with a sleek metallic finish, flip-top front panel, and compact 0.94L footprint (146×134×48mm). The retro aesthetic extends to practical features: hidden ports (USB4, dual USB 3.2 Gen2, and a 3.5mm jack) under the front flap evoke classic cartridge slots, while dual Ethernet (2.5G + Gigabit) enables NAS or server use :cite[2]:cite[4]. The touchscreen, though initially gimmicky, proves useful for real-time FPS monitoring and TDP adjustments via Ayaspace software, though custom screensavers remain pending updates. Windows 11 Home comes preinstalled, but Linux compatibility is touted for developers.

Gaming performance impresses for a mini PC: titles like Cyberpunk 2077 hit 46–72 FPS at 1080p/low settings, while Forza Horizon 5 exceeds 90 FPS on medium :cite[1]:cite[6]. Emulation thrives too, with PS3 and Switch games running smoothly at native resolutions :cite[3]:cite[6]. However, AAA titles demand FSR upscaling for 60 FPS, and the Radeon 780M struggles beyond 1080p. Connectivity shines with USB4 (40Gbps) for eGPU support and dual M.2 slots (one PCIe 4.0, one SATA), though upgrading RAM/SSD requires disassembling the cooling system—a hassle compared to tool-free competitors.

Priced at $629 for 32GB/1TB, the AM02 faces stiff competition from similarly specced mini PCs like the Beelink SER7. Its retro charm and touchscreen justify a premium, but the barebone model’s undisclosed pricing limits value flexibility. For emulation enthusiasts or compact desktop users, the AM02 excels, yet creators or 4K gamers might prefer systems with Thunderbolt 4 or dedicated GPUs. AYANEO’s blend of nostalgia and power makes the AM02 a niche standout, albeit with room for refinement in upgrade accessibility and software polish.

- GhostKeyboard Review.