ONEXPLAYER X2 Mini Pro Launches With Ryzen AI Max+ 388 Chip

ONEXPLAYER has officially begun taking direct orders for its latest handheld gaming device, the X2 Mini Pro. This new model boasts the powerful AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 388 processor and is slated to start shipping to customers in August. The device is currently available for pre-order, with a base configuration priced at $2,499. This entry-level setup includes 48GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 1TB SSD storage drive.

The pricing structure extends to higher configurations, with a model offering 64GB of RAM and 1TB of storage costing $2,799. A version with 64GB of memory and a 2TB SSD is set at $2,999. ONEXPLAYER is not offering configurations with 32GB of RAM or 512GB of storage. For those seeking enhanced cooling, liquid-cooled models begin at $2,579 for a configuration without the external Frost Bay cooler. Adding the Frost Bay liquid cooling system to the 48GB RAM and 1TB SSD model increases the price to $2,729.

Advanced Cooling and Processing Power

The top-tier configuration, combining 64GB of memory, a 2TB SSD, and the Frost Bay liquid cooler, reaches a price of $3,229. The inclusion of the Ryzen AI Max+ 388 processor is a significant highlight. AMD described this chip in January as an ideal fit for handheld gaming systems, featuring eight Zen 5 CPU cores and sixteen threads. Crucially, it retains the full Radeon 8060S integrated graphics with 40 RDNA 3.5 Compute Units, capable of running at up to 2.9 GHz. This configuration leverages a 256-bit memory interface, consistent with higher-core-count Strix Halo processors.

AMD had previously suggested that the Ryzen AI Max+ 388 would be a more suitable choice for handhelds than the 16-core Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The rationale behind this is that most games do not necessitate 16 CPU cores, while preserving the complete graphics configuration avoids the 32-CU limitation found in the Ryzen AI Max 385. The reduced CPU core count was also anticipated to lead to more affordable products. However, the ONEXPLAYER X2 Mini Pro's pricing indicates it is targeting a premium segment of the market, rather than the lower-cost options once envisioned.

The ONEXPLAYER X2 Mini Pro features a vibrant 8.8-inch 1920x1200 OLED display that supports a variable refresh rate ranging from 30Hz to 144Hz. The device also includes detachable controllers for versatile gameplay options and a substantial 85Wh removable battery. For storage expansion, it offers two SSD interfaces. The standard air cooling system supports sustained power draw up to 80W, while the optional Frost Bay liquid cooling solution enhances this capability to 120W. The choice to equip models with higher memory capacities, such as 48GB and 64GB, appears to be a strategy for ONEXPLAYER to increase profit margins, a practice not uncommon among niche handheld manufacturers.

The adoption of advanced processors like the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 388 in handheld gaming devices signifies a growing trend towards more powerful, portable computing. These devices aim to bridge the gap between traditional consoles and PC gaming, offering enthusiasts the flexibility to play high-fidelity games on the go. As technology continues to evolve, expect further innovations in processing power, display technology, and battery efficiency for handheld gaming devices, potentially making AAA gaming accessible anywhere.