Antec, a prominent name in the computer hardware industry, is making a bold move into the burgeoning handheld gaming market with its latest product, the Core HS. This new handheld console is the result of a strategic partnership with Ayaneo, a manufacturer known for its innovative gaming devices.
The Core HS is essentially a rebadged Ayaneo Slide, featuring a unique sliding screen, an integrated RGB-backlit keyboard, and the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor. Set to launch in the European and North American markets in June and July, the Core HS promises to deliver a high-performance gaming experience, blending Antec’s robust distribution network with Ayaneo’s cutting-edge technology. This venture not only marks Antec’s entry into a new market segment but also represents a significant step in the company’s strategy to diversify and enhance its product offerings amidst a challenging financial landscape.
Antec Enters the Handheld Gaming Market with Core HS Powered by the Ryzen 7 7840U
Antec has partnered with Ayaneo, a well-known handheld console manufacturer, to launch its first product in the handheld gaming market, the ‘Core HS.’ This new entry is essentially the Ayaneo Slide under Antec’s branding, featuring a unique sliding screen with a tilt of up to 30 degrees, an integrated keyboard with RGB backlighting, and the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, an eight-core, sixteen-thread CPU that has been popular in handhelds since December of last year.
Specifications and Market Release
The Core HS is expected to hit the European and North American markets in June and July, with prices ranging from ₹49,374 to ₹74,061 INR ($600 to $900 USD). It will come pre-installed with Windows 11, making it a ready-to-use device for gamers. While Antec has not disclosed the exact configurations it will offer, the Ayaneo Slide’s base model is priced at ₹73,948 INR ($899 USD), and the high-end model costs ₹1,31,593 INR ($1,599 USD). It is likely that Antec will provide similar configuration options, leveraging Ayaneo’s existing models.
| Screen Size | 6′ 1080p High Brightness Wide Color Gamut IPS Floating Screen |
| Screen Specifications | Adjustable screen angle | 368 PPI | 400nits | 120% Srgb color gamut volume |
| Row 2 – Cell 0 | 100% sRGB color gamut coverage | 85% DCI-P3 |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 7 7840U |
| Storage | 16GB + 512GB |
| Row 5 – Cell 0 | 32 GB + 512GB |
| Row 6 – Cell 0 | 32 GB + 2TB |
| Row 7 – Cell 0 | 64GB + 4TB |
| Memory | LPDDR5X |
| SSD | M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD |
| Row 10 – Cell 0 | Supports up to single-sided 4TB |
| Cooling | New “3+2” Triple Copper Tube Cooling System |
| Maximum TDP | 28W |
| Color | Sunrise White / Bright Black |
| Keyboard | QWERTY full keyboard | Fn function keys | Supports RGB lighting effects |
| Controller | Master controller |
| Joystick | Hall sensing joystick |
| Trigger | Linear Hall Trigger |
| Vibration Motor | X-axis Linear Motor |
| Gyroscope | Six-axis gyroscope |
| Interface | 2* Full Function USB4 Type-C |
| Row 21 – Cell 0 | 1*SD 7.0 TD card slot | Read speed up to 700 MB/s (The actual reading speed depends o the TF card used) |
| Biometric Function | Power Button integrated fingerprint recognition |
| Battery Capacity | 46.2 Wh (12,000 mAh) |
| Size | 226 x 90 x 28.5mm (37.5mm at controller) |
| Weight | About 650g |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6E / BT 5.2 |
| Software Management | AYASpace 2 |
| OS | Windows 11 64-bit Home Edition |
Strategic Partnership and Market Expansion
This partnership between Antec and Ayaneo is strategic, combining Antec’s extensive distribution network with Ayaneo’s innovative design and technology. Currently, Ayaneo’s handhelds are available only through its website and crowdfunding platforms, but with Antec’s global retail presence, these devices will become more accessible worldwide. This move will also simplify the process for customers to claim warranty support and avoid customs charges, enhancing the overall purchasing experience.
Financial Impact on Antec
For Antec, entering the handheld gaming market could be a significant boost, especially as the company has faced a 6.25% revenue decline and a 3.71% annual loss. With the global PC market beginning to recover to pre-COVID levels, diversifying into the handheld market could help Antec explore new business models and achieve financial stability. However, it will take more than a single product offering to recover from its recent financial setbacks.
Competitive Landscape
The Core HS will compete with other popular handheld consoles like the Asus ROG Ally X, MSI Claw, and Steam Deck. Despite the competition, Ayaneo’s unique design and configuration options provide a distinct edge. If the Core HS proves successful, it might pave the way for more collaborative models between Antec and Ayaneo. There is also potential for introducing Ayaneo’s mini PC lineups to a broader market, challenging established mini PC brands like Asus NUC.
Conclusion
Antec’s entry into the handheld gaming market with the Core HS marks a significant step in its strategic growth. By partnering with Ayaneo, Antec aims to leverage its global distribution capabilities to bring innovative handheld gaming solutions to a wider audience. As the company navigates its financial recovery, the success of the Core HS could be a crucial factor in its journey toward renewed profitability and market relevance.
