What's your gadget buying tactic? Example, marry one of these form-factors to one of these ecosystem/operating system: Form-factors: Phone, Tablet, Laptop, Desktop, TV Screen. Ecosystems: Apple/iOS/iPadOS/macOS Google/Android/Gtv/ChromeOS Microsoft/Windows 10/Phone Open-Source/Linux/Etc Proprietary/Locked-down/PlayStation
The AYN Odin2 makes a lot of sense for an iPhone user. You get to have an entry way into Android Apps and Ecosystem, and have something kickarse. Especially if they diversify their gadgets, instead of getting locked in to arbitrary limitations or walled gardens.
The battery life is genuinely incredible on this device. I just did a playthrough of Pokemon heart gold and I think I only had to charge my Odin 2 base once during the whole 25+ hour playthrough
That for me is a huge benefit to overpowered devices with large batteries. You can actually run a game like that full speed even with battery saver mode extending the battery and device life a lot more.
I used my tax break to buy the the clear blue Pro model and man was it worth it. During the Spring, Summer and Fall months, I work in places deep in the bush with little to no internet. I always have my switch and my laptop to play offline games but to have my entire emulation catalog at my finger tips playing as smooth as the Odin 2 does is just amazing. Well worth the price
The only trouble I have with all this is that I dont have time to play this awesome device. If you decide to buy it, be aware it will take alot of your time....
This channel somehow manages to post the exact video I’m looking for every single time. I must say that for a beginner in the world of emulation, channels like this make starting this journey so much easier. I’m looking forward to getting mine soon!
For sure! This channel has come a long way in a very short time. Russ really hit the right approach to retro handhelds and I love seeing how much his channel has grown.
It’s amazing how emulation has gone from mostly video game collectors and enthusiasts to a more broad casual market in such a short period of time, and mostly on the back of these wonderful handheld devices. It’s great to see
Russ, you nailed it perfectly. I am a firefighter and used the original Odin and now Odin 2 in between calls when everything else had been accomplished for the day. In between retro emulation, Switch and remote playing PS5 via the PsPlay app it is the perfect device! My only ask would be a bigger screen in the same form factor, maybe with the Odin 3.
@@jarredwilliams7948 it's not. Specially for the oled model where the weight distribution is very optimal. If you take it in hands you'll understand immediately. I also used to think it was too big and heavy but when I tried my OLED I changed my mind.
I had planned to upgrade my android handheld from the Retroid 3+ at some time in 2024, but when the Yuzu drama went down, and after Russ's last Odin video (titled "I freaking love my Odin 2") I said screw it and got an Odin 2 Pro. Its fantastic and I find myself wanting to play it more than my steam deck
I know my Steam Deck will run whatever I want, but I enjoy using a smaller form factor 90% of the time. Not TOO small, Odin/RP3+ is just about perfect size.
@declanmalone1279 Yes it is. In fact, I would have gotten the RP4 since it doesn't cost as much and does what I want, but the screen size was the deal breaker.
man it amazes me how you put out quality videos so often, these are the types of videos that youtubers would typically release like twice a month and here you are making them every few days. bravo!
I picked one up based on your recommendation. I love my Odin 2. Your setup and update videos have been super helpful so thank you for that. Nice work man.
Edit: Nevermind: Just saw in the vid where base vs pro doesnt really matter for what it can/cant do, etc Have fun with your pro. I am looking forward to picking one up soon.
Saw this and ended up snagging one used today. It's awesome, just the right size and feels great. Thanks for coming back to something you already reviewed!
I was going to get the RP4 Pro back when preorders were running, ended up cancelling and grabbing a base model Odin 2 because of your great reviews and constant updates on the device, and I’m glad I did. I went with base and got the TPU shell, carrying case and tempered glass, I really can’t put it down, it’s just amazing.
I wonder if there's a service that will powder coat electronics for us, like if you send all of your shells to them, they'd power coat it and send it back to you.
@@ScottWozniak Ahh true true! I used to work for one back in the early 2000's, we didn't do it then but I'm sure they do them now. I also worked for Protech chemical, a powder coating company, there's a special coating and treatment only for plastics. We can't exactly powder coat plastics the same for metal, especially when it comes to curing. Autobody shops might not be able to do that, I'm not sure. But it just got me thinking since I worked in that field, there's gotta be some online service that specializes in powder coating electronics/plastics. I tried to find but after 5 minutes I gave up lol.
Was so close to buying a Retroid Pocket 4+ before you convinced me to spend more and go with the Odin 2 instead-and I love it! My favorite handheld of all time, hands down. Thanks RGC!
The Windows emulation scene on the Odin 2 makes things much more crazy. With the latest version of Winlator some games runs pretty amazingly good (Fallout 3, GTA IV, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. and more). A storm is coming.
Thats very impressive. I started on android handhelds but moved to linux only and then x86 64 running linux. Win600 and then steam deck. Because you can run PC games in even Batocera on x86 64 handhelds this was a plus. But with winulator on android this sounds good. However theres still systems on android that simply isnt available to emulate which you can on x86 64 handhelds. Wii U,Naomi 2,xbox, 360 and ps3 for eg. Course ps3 and 360 are very high end, steam deck doesnt run that many 360 but runs quite a bunch of ps3. At least in my testing.
I bought my Odin 2 because of your recommendation. I set it up perfectly because of your videos, and I absolutely love my device! I appreciate everything you are doing. My Odin 2 has made my life great.
@@aestheticpetal yeah I can buy the Odin 2 but I gotta wait "until I can afford two" to get my first one The steam deck prices are dropping like crazy so the process is really worth the wait.
I got a refurbished steam deck(after saving up) recently and I love it. I'd like to get an Odin 2 but.....the steam deck does EVERYTHING. In no way can I justify buying the odin 2 haha. Highly recommend checking valve for refurbished 64gb steam deck though. After taxes and everything it was $300.
@@glazedbelmontthe first Odin Pro has had sales down to $199. Give this device another year and it will start to see similar discounts. I at least expect it to drop to 250 eventually at least on sales.
Steam deck is going for 300$ (used) from time to time. Its really hard to beat it for that price. Just wish it was smaller or they made a Steam deck mini
Hey Russ, I love your stuff! I decided to get the Odin 2 after watching your videos, especially the Japan trip one. My wife and I are going to Japan in November and I wanted something portable for travel and this checked all the boxes. Thanks for creating such awesome videos!
I'm glad you brought up the comparison to the Steam Deck. I got the Odin 2 Pro for its smaller form factor, but I actually ended up selling my Odin 2 Pro because I thought the Deck had more customization options like screen colors, etc. When I compared the same game on both Steam Deck and Odin 2 Pro, I preferred how they looked on the Deck. Both devices are great though.
Just a bit too chonky for me, I switched to a RP4p but I can't deny it's by far the best product on the market for it's price/performance but I can pocket the RP4P
I hope people realize how great it is that you decided to make a TH-cam channel. Ever since the beginning of your channel it's always been such a great avenue for information. The way you lay out information and tutorials is extremely easy to consume and makes it very easy to follow along. I can telly you growing up I would have loved to have these devices and this information lol I don't think people get just how incredible the Odin 2 is. We grew up with displays that when on have less visibility than the Playdate and it uses e-ink! I can't believe a device like this exists at the same price as the original switch! The sheer amount of what you can play with this really is a pretty solid one stop shop for all your games! I mean you can play Super Mario 2 but then also play Hades with little to no time to jump in between them! As you stated it opens the entire catalogue of so many of these systems!! There are literally lifetimes worth of games all available to people for the same price! Just wanted to send a little thank you for everything you do. You offer all these resources and make it easy to consume. For someone who is just not that bright ha ha like me it's very very helpful so I can play my favorites all over again. Like you said with Jax and Daxter and all that I haven't played them so if I had an Odin 2 I'd be glued to it ha ha
There have been some promising posts on the Odin subreddit about Winlator. Looking forward to someone who thinks onions are gross to make a video about it.
The Odin 2 is my favorite handheld of all time easily, I can play all the games I had as a kid and also the ones I could not afford and always wanted to play. I can play most GC with HD Textures and 60fps cheat codes. I can play 3DS at 1080p with 4K Textures, I can play Switch. I have all the nostalgia at the palm of my hand with the best battery life on any handheld currently for the price.
@@donniedarko4497 it's a lot easier for an android system that also runs a arm processor to translate whatever the switch is doing than a completely different instruction set like x84. Heck, the SOC on the switch was originally made for android devices.
I have a Steam Deck, an Anbernic Rg35xx and a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and my go to system for all retro games is my Pocket 4 Pro. Mind that it want to play high end system that's a no go, but rather than that you can trow it all out. You can play ps2, Wii, Gamecube, Dreamcast, 3ds and even some Switch games (like Dave the Diver, and that pixalated games) and all works like a charm, and to top it all off is slightly bigger than my RG35XX. So yeah, you did good
If it makes you feel any better, I got my Odin 2 before the RP4 Pro was released, and while I love it, sometimes I wonder, "man, the RP4 Pro is so much smaller, I like that it has the dpad on top, it's a hundred bucks cheaper..." The grass is always greener. (:
I got my Odin2 because of your videos. And let me tell you, such a great decision. Does everything I want it to do AND more. Thanks, Russ. This device is tough to beat.
I just cannot justify buying this when I already have the ROG Ally. I had the Odin 1 and sold it for the Ally. Now I wish I had a low end emulation device with great battery life. Instead, I opted to use my S24 Samsung phone with a controller attachment for emulation up until PS2/Wii/GameCube. That way I always have something to play while I'm on the go. ROG ally for PC and demanding games such as PS3 and switch. Phone for mostly GBA and anything else. It's always with me and has small form factor, very portable, great battery and performance. I think I will wait for the next leap in gaming for an upgrade
I just commented something similar. I don't see the point on this android devices. Just strap a controller to your phone. Maybe I can understand the appeal on having a dedicated gameboy-like device like the RG35 which is only $50-60. But spending 300 on this? I don't see the point
Your S24 works great as a replacement. A little low on storage, no SD, but you get to pick just your very favorites. I have 1.5T sd card on my Odin 2 and still need more. Switch emulation eats huge storage. Will have to get even more space if ever WiiU and PS 3 emulation come to Andriod.
@@santukagameplays5862in my case I don't like playing with a touch-only device which needs external controllers, it's just not the same thing as playing on a device made specifically for gaming, having built-in controls is a big thing, plus the battery is better, the aspect ratio is better for gaming than the ones used on modern phones, and you don't need to worry about not playing to save the battery for tasks like calls, finding an uber, etc. like you need when on a phone,
I have a Steam Deck, but its really tempting to get an Odin 2 just for the smaller size. The Steam Deck is pretty massive, and a bit harder to daily drive.
Knew about the Odin 2 (much thanks to this channel!) but wasn't planning on getting one, mostly because of the price and not being sure if I'd actually like or use it enough. But when a local listing went up and there was an opportunity to not have to pay import taxes or wait for it to spend weeks stuck in customs, I pulled the trigger. SO glad I did! Haven't used and been so pleased with a handheld since the DS Lite(!), and I've had a fair few over the years although no Switch (which in hindsight I might've enjoyed - super bummed I missed out on F-Zero 99! - but coming off the Wii and 3DS which both collected dust I couldn't justify the gamble) or Steam Deck (a little too bulky for my use, and I simply do most of my Steam gaming on PC anyway). Although it's not entirely apples to apples and both excel at different things, the Odin 2 _has_ already seen more use than my launch Analogue Pocket too. Finally an emulation handheld that doesn't just tread water and struggle with the same systems/games most have for years and years, and doesn't have any other silly dealbreaking flaws. Expensive, but what many of us always wanted and a way overdue technological push forward the market needed. Played so much Vampire Survivors on PC last year, and after a break this was the perfect excuse to get sucked back in, works so well on this, I'm hooked again! Also been emulating some of the easier to control DOS favorites using Magic DosBox. RetroArch CRT shaders for consoles look amazing, currently halfway through replaying Super Castlevania IV and the vibes are just right.
It trips me out when people are asking questions like, "should I get the rg556 or spend a little more and get an Odin 2". It's like, yeah man, get the Odin 2.
The Odin 2 costs almost twice as much. That's more than "a little" more. Definitely if you can afford it, the O2 is hands down a better package, but if you're price sensitive, the RG556 gives a lot of bang for your buck.
To be fair, it's not necessarily a "little" more. It's at least $100 more, and for some that extra hundred-plus just puts it outside of what they're willing to spend on retrogaming. That said, if the cost of the Odin 2 base isn't a problem but you only want to get one Android emulation handheld, get the Odin 2.
@@benc.5558 It's absolutely worth it, though. Theres not even really a competition: you'd be better off saving the extra and getting the 02 than getting the RG556
Russ, where are your Cat breaks, i miss them, but continue the good work, and making new owners of Handhelds, able to set them up, as nice as your systems are. We all Love you Russ
Circa 2005, I let my eldest cousin who is about 4-5 years older than me borrow my PS2 and OG Xbox for a month. I was the one who insisted. The only gaming device he had owned at that time was the OG GBA. The one without a backlight. GBA was the first gaming device he owned since the NES. He never owned any console or handheld between the NES and GBA. He usually would play a Genesis or SNES at a friend’s house. He was the first in my family to own an NES or “Nintendo” was what we called it at the time. He would later get a PSP slim by 2008 and then get a Raspberry Pi to emulate retro games on his PC. So I ask him back in 2005 if he enjoyed playing my PS2 and Xbox? He said, “Yeah.” He enjoyed playing Gran Turismo 4 since he’s into cars as he was studying to be a mechanic. But he said something interesting I never forgot and he said it almost passively. He told me they’re cool but they’re not portable. He prefers portable due to convenience. Now this was before iPhone changed the world and turned us into zombies. I remember thinking how my cousin made a great point because I did have a Dreamcast, PS2, Xbox, and GameCube hooked up to my Sony WEGA TV at the time and got so fed up with all the cords at the back. Each of those consoles needed two things plugged to it. One connected to an outlet to power it on and one to connect to the back or front of a TV (composite cables or S-video). I even had one of those octopus cables for the PS2, Xbox, and GCN, but it still got messy. Add the fact I went out a lot with my girlfriend at the time. So I rarely did play any of my consoles when I finally got home. Fast forward to Nov 19, 2006. I get a launch day Wii I pre-ordered a week before. Great fun in the beginning but didn’t touch it for several months after that initial gimmicky novelty wore off. That was the last home console I would own until May 6, 2017. After I won some money from the Kentucky Derby, I bought a PS4 slim from Best Buy for $200 because I had a $100 credit from a previous LG G5 / Sprint deal. And 6 days later, I bought a used Vita. The Vita started my exclusivity at sticking to only portables. I haven’t powered on my PS4 slim in 5 years. My cousin already had the foresight of going only portable since the mid 00s well before the smartphone revolution. I finally decided to follow his path with that. Every gaming device I will ever purchase from now on must be portable. And must be played without an Internet connection, so no to streaming devices. I sold my Switch OLED because I didn’t want it or my Lite always needing a brief Internet connection if one of them wasn’t set to primary. PlayStation Portal has zero appeal to me because I don’t plan to ever buy a PlayStation 5. When PS5 came out late 2020 during the pandemic, I had zero anticipation and excitement for it. I was good with my Vita. Now a lot of people are saying Sony should release another true handheld but that’s easier said than done. Look who Sony will go against if say their handheld gets released in 2-3 years…. Successor to the Switch Steam Deck (or it’s successor) ROG Ally (or it’s successors, in plural) Legion Go (or it’s successors) Smartphones Tablets Many Chinese retro handhelds Possible Xbox handheld Sony tried getting into portables with the PSP and Vita and lost badly each time. Nintendo is practically unbeatable in the handheld space dating back to 1989. And it’s weird to say PSP being a flop when it still sold 82M. That’s more than NES, SNES, N64, GameCube, Wii U, and every Sega console and handheld sold. That’s more than the 3DS. Vita sold around 15M which would be a number Valve would love to reach with their Steam Deck. We know Asus and Lenovo are hardware manufacturers and can release another PC handheld almost annually like they do with their laptops and phones. They want to sell as much hardware as possible. By the time this Sony handheld is released, it would be D.O.A. They always had the stronger hardware over Nintendo’s handhelds and Sony always lost. The weaker DS outsold the PSP by 2:1. The weaker 3DS outsold the Vita by 5:1. Steam Deck is the winner for me. I say between Vita vs. Switch vs. Deck, I use the Deck 90% of the time. Then 8% for the Switch and 2% for the Vita. And I prefer my Vita slim more than my Switch Lite as an overall device and for sentimental reasons but I rarely play it for games except if I want to play SSF2 because it has a great d-pad like my PSP slim. My last save for Final Fantasy X on my Vita was back in Feb 2019. I rarely play it. It sucks I have to wait another 2 years to play Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on a Steam Deck but there should be plenty of other games to entertain me by then considering I missed out on a lot since 2007 thanks to me being more into cell phones at that time. I know the Steam Deck isn’t perfect. It has it’s share of hardware and software limitations. But it fulfills most of my gaming needs. + Affordable + Great ergonomics + Great customer support + Great community support Steam Deck is the greatest handheld ever made. A game-changer and life-changer the same way the original iPhone was.
Thank you for sharing. And yes I also shared this sentiment. My first real purchase is the no backlit purple GBA, and it really does affect all my decision in buying game console. Beside the consoles gifted to me. Only Nintendo Switch that I really bought with my own money to play on TV because it's portable. I also absolutely love my Steam Deck.
Steam deck plays PC games so there is really no contest unless you don’t want that . I have a ton of retro games on my SD but 99% of the time I’m playin PC games.
I absolutely love my Odin 2 Pro. Worth the high cost. Had it since January and haven't put it down yet. I originally had a 405M which was great, metal finish, pocketable - but to all the points Russ made the Odin became my main device. Bought a cheap Switch case and I'm good to go.
I think your "scrap" Odin 2 has the best color combination lol, those white buttons on the clear blue shell look amazing IMHO. I might have to steal the look If I decide to get one.
@@const3llations_370 not a dumb decision at all. Odin 2 has way better ergonomics, the Pocket S only has 1 USB-C port vs Odin 2 having a USB-C port, headphone jack and HDMI port, Ayaneo's first Android handheld was just mid, the Pocket S' extra performance doesn't mean much if you want to focus on emulation, and depending on your personal preference, the Odin 2 looks better (I personally like the SNES look).
I bought the Steam Deck OLED 1TB. I am a first time deck owner and very excited. One of my main reasons for getting the deck is for emulation purposes. If I didn't buy the Steam Deck I believe Odin 2 would of been my next choice other than ROG ally. But Rog ally kinda sketches me out with the melting sd cards and what not. Odin 2 looks so amazing and I wouldn't mind having one
I really wish the Loki would have been this size like it was originally supposed to be. I'd still buy it in a heartbeat if they released a PC in this shell
Bro stop tempting me. I'm working very hard right now to earn money for a ROG ALLY, which is OBVIOUSLY better than the Odin 2. I keep having to tell myself, "Odin 2 can't run Windows. It's lacks Steam games. It's much less powerful. The ROG ALLY is better. The ROG ALLY is worth it. Don't let the world tell you otherwise" 😢
ROG Ally is a great device. I really love playing with it, amazing analog, comfy form factor, marvelous screen, and wonderful performance. Just one gripe about it, barely functional suspend and resume feature. And I got 2 hours to play Monster Hunter Rise on it.
You realize this is MUCH cheaper than a Steam Deck and isn't even comparable, right? It doesn't play PC games lmao. Also has 5 times the battery life of a Steam Deck.
Loving the Odin 2. Watching my kids play SOR2 one minute and Metroid the next is awesome. But for me it's the level of tinkering I got to do with the advice.
When Russ got to the part when he said he doesn’t have time to play all these games, he’s being 100% real on that. He happens to also be a husband and dad, so how can he find that time to play all those games? We have so many games from so many handhelds/smartphones that we will never find the time to play a majority of them. I think it’s kinda pointless if Russ is playing Balatro on a $300+ emulation device. And I’m kinda done wanting to emulate PS2 and GameCube games. We got $150-$200 handhelds/smartphones capable of handling PS2 and GameCube. Odin 2 doesn’t play OG Xbox which the Steam Deck can easily do. And Wii emulation is excellent thanks to the trackpad to move the pointer. I don’t want to keep playing PS2 and GameCube forever. Give me Final Fantasy VII Remake and Uncharted 4 on the go. Give me Unreal Engine 4 graphics. Give me some AAA titles released within the last 10 years. Not AAA titles from 20 years ago that’s starting to have very dated graphics especially coming from the muddy, dull graphics of a PS2. GameCube graphics are still nice but it’s nowhere as nice as the Switch or PS4 era. PC handhelds has pretty much eliminated the need for a Chinese retro handheld unless you want that smaller form factor.
No hate whatsoever, but I truly don't understand why anyone would waste hundreds on all these devices when you can just get an ASUS ROG Ally and put Emudeck and EmuStation on it, while also getting a full contemporary gaming experience with all the AAA titles as well. You can play literally everything ever with a handheld PC.
Battery life. Size. The fact that if I want to play AAA new games I'll play on my 4080 rig or stream it to my phone on my 6ghz connection. And the fact that I'm not gaming seriously when I'm out and about. I really want to reemphasize: 2 hour battery life
I have a rog ally too and I do that but I also have an RG35XX just because it's something I can put in my pocket and is small enough to have it during waiting rooms. The ally is portable but I can't pocket it.
I’ve been really into playing on the psp again. I ended up finding the old one my wife got me back when we were dating and got it all set up for emulation. I was getting so much enjoyment out of that little handheld that I order 2 PS Vitas so my kids could play. It’s amazing what all these handhelds can do.
I'm an Odin 2 user, and it should be noted that (for me) the wi-fi on this thing is ass. So if you're planning on buying it for device streaming, you should avoid doing so. Apart from that issue it's still pretty good. Edit: I should add, I've only tried using Steamlink, rather than Sunshine/Moonlight. Maybe I should try experimenting more?
@Game4Lord yeah you're right. Weirdly I researched it on the odin2 reddit, and other people had similar issues. I'm not sure if my Odin 2 is defective or something. Either way my wi-fi is not bad or anything. I just thought I should warn people just in case. I have found a solution by using a USB c to ethernet cable adapter and plugging it into my odin 2. So when I want to stream I need a cable.
I'm so tempted to get one of these but as someone who's trying to pursue minimalism and has a Pixel phone I'm leaning towards just getting a Galileo for my phone instead. The difference in price nudges me in that direction too and it'd allow me to stream games off my PC
Great video and look on the Odin 2. I am picking one of these up as a bedtime entertainment console. My Steam Deck is a bed hog, lol. Using Windows on this would be super amazing and open so many new doors to explore, in modding and using the console outside of gaming.
I bought the Odin 2 during launch and I'm loving it. I was recently on a vacation and had it with me to play during flights/transit. And I usually find myself playing for hours on weekends. It plays everything I want (PS2/GC and before) with a great battery life, simply Amazing.
I decided to pick up an Odin 2 Base and have zero regrets. It does all the emulation I'd ever want, is like half the size and weight of the Steam Deck with the 4nm SD8Gen2 and gets amazing battery life. I don't even mind the black shell because it's a lot less conspicuous to take out and game on.
Hi Russ, after your first videos of the Odin 2 I decided to order one. After about three weeks it arrived and I didn't really use it for another month or two because I was finishing up games on other consoles. Now I finished Revelations: Persona PS1 and I am playing Persona 2: Innocent Sin PS1 on it and I love it! After P2 Eternal Punishment and P3 FES I will take a break to play P4 Golden on Switch. I hope to see good PS3 emulation within 5 years so that we can finally utilize the performance mode hehe. Thanks for the in-depth guide and I will keep following you!
Just got my cold grey pro last Monday and I have used it nonstop. Coming from a RP4P, this is a huge upgrade to which I gave to someone who graduated from basic training.
After seeing the processor on this and seeing the price of a phone with that processor it was a no brainer for me. Did a lot of research on processors before coming to the conclusion of getting this one and I’m so glad I did !
Over the past 25 years I have been an avid collector of handhelds and have gone from GP32, Tapwave Zodiac, OpenPandora (I still think the D-Pad on that thing is king) as well as Xperia Play - dipping my toes into everything I could get. I believe at this point I own more than 75 of these devices and to this day my Odin 1 is by far the best of these devices I have ever used. They completely knocked it out of the park and the competition doesn't even come close. This is also a rare time for me when the second version of the device doesn't justify an upgrade because they got so much right the first time.
I'm sitting here trying to replay Jak and Daxter, sly racoon and racket and Clank on my Odin 2 aswell and it's all thanks to you! You have made my Odin feel so amazing! Thanks again!
Today I'm starting three months of paternity leave. I already have a Steam Deck, but I'm looking for something smaller, with more battery life for emulating and tackling retro achievements, while being with the little one. Your videos on the Odin 2 have made me decide to likely pull the trigger and place an order. Thanks for your time and passion.
I have both the Steam Deck and the Ayn Odin 2, and I have ended playing the steam games in the Ayn Odin 2 through GeForce NOW, which I pay monthly to play in the computer already or you can use Steam Link, which works incredibly well. The GeForce NOW route lets you play even some GOG and Epic games.
Hey everyone, if you're on the fence as to which handheld to get... Just do yourself a favour and get this. It's so good. I've got other handhelds, I don't play them because of this. Russ is absolutely right in his first comments about forcing himself not to keep using the Odin 2.
Still rocking my PS Vita 1000 for most of my emulation and still enjoying it, but the Odin 2 does look awesome, I'll admit. Might save up and get one for Christmas. Great vid as usual, Russ!
The Steam Deck OLED as a compliment to my Desktop PC has been a perfect companion device. I emulate all consoles up to when PC ports tended to get good so I can't think of a game I don't have access to that I want. That said it is a bit of a chonker and a perfect device for me would be what the steam deck oled offers but in the form factor of the Odin 2. Here's hoping we get there in the next 4-5 years.
I picked up the Odin 2 Pro and I love it. I just have two things I wish it did. 1. I wish I could play my Steam games natively on it. 2. I wish the screen was a bit bigger and OLED. I have so many games loaded on it that I would never be able to play all it in my life time.
ordered an odin 2 pro today based on this video (and your other odin 2 content) - have been waiting to see what "premium" handheld to get and i think the odin 2 is the right pick for me. glad it's held up over time.
i was on the fence between the odin 2 and the ayaneo pocket s... but once I saw the price they were asking for on IGG it made up my mind for me. Odin 2 it is
I had it for two months and I gotta say that it's the best handheld device that I ever had. This takes anything you throw at. My only gripe that I have is setting up emulators (mainly MAME) Emudeck really needs to have a dedicated Android app. The setup holds it back for me. Besides that, this device is king to me. Just get the Base model.
![FNAF Into the Pit has A LOT of Unused Graphics | LOST BITS [TetraBitGaming]](/img/n.gif)
I love when youtubers make videos reinforcing my poor spending choices
Lol we have been there lmao
Exactly 😂
Whoops, same
What's your gadget buying tactic?
Example, marry one of these form-factors to one of these ecosystem/operating system:
Form-factors:
Phone, Tablet, Laptop, Desktop, TV Screen.
Ecosystems:
Apple/iOS/iPadOS/macOS
Google/Android/Gtv/ChromeOS
Microsoft/Windows 10/Phone
Open-Source/Linux/Etc
Proprietary/Locked-down/PlayStation
The AYN Odin2 makes a lot of sense for an iPhone user. You get to have an entry way into Android Apps and Ecosystem, and have something kickarse. Especially if they diversify their gadgets, instead of getting locked in to arbitrary limitations or walled gardens.
The battery life is genuinely incredible on this device. I just did a playthrough of Pokemon heart gold and I think I only had to charge my Odin 2 base once during the whole 25+ hour playthrough
God tier bro!!
Yeah the battery on my Odin Lite lasts way longer than my phone does, especially on DS games.
That for me is a huge benefit to overpowered devices with large batteries. You can actually run a game like that full speed even with battery saver mode extending the battery and device life a lot more.
Yeah no emulation handheld touches it when it comes to battery life and pc handhelds are not even worth bring up battery life wise 😂
I would hope it's doing a ds emulation. lol
I used my tax break to buy the the clear blue Pro model and man was it worth it. During the Spring, Summer and Fall months, I work in places deep in the bush with little to no internet. I always have my switch and my laptop to play offline games but to have my entire emulation catalog at my finger tips playing as smooth as the Odin 2 does is just amazing. Well worth the price
you coud'lve had it sooner if you didn't overpay in taxes lol
The only trouble I have with all this is that I dont have time to play this awesome device. If you decide to buy it, be aware it will take alot of your time....
how long did the shipping take?
@@taji4092 China to a small city in Canada. So 3 weeks
@@djkehoe4480 oh alright thanks man
This channel somehow manages to post the exact video I’m looking for every single time. I must say that for a beginner in the world of emulation, channels like this make starting this journey so much easier.
I’m looking forward to getting mine soon!
For sure! This channel has come a long way in a very short time. Russ really hit the right approach to retro handhelds and I love seeing how much his channel has grown.
I love his detailed starter guide for the Odin 2.
It’s amazing how emulation has gone from mostly video game collectors and enthusiasts to a more broad casual market in such a short period of time, and mostly on the back of these wonderful handheld devices. It’s great to see
Love these casual videos with reflections and comparisons! So cool to see how well the Odin 2 has been received.
I just ordered an Odin 2 a couple days ago!! Can't wait to put your guides to use!! Thank you for all your hard work with this stuff Russ!
how long did it take to arrive?
@@timvenus5186 im currently wondering this as well, their website is the only place i can find the odin 2 besides amazon, but they only have the max.
Russ, you nailed it perfectly. I am a firefighter and used the original Odin and now Odin 2 in between calls when everything else had been accomplished for the day. In between retro emulation, Switch and remote playing PS5 via the PsPlay app it is the perfect device! My only ask would be a bigger screen in the same form factor, maybe with the Odin 3.
Agree. They could just remove the bezel and increase the screen size to match.
Nobody will judge you for being honest and saying you skip alarms to play Zelda. They have insurance anyways.
if you want bigger screen the Steam Deck OLED is a no brainer I think
@@Tonno7steam deck is too damn heavy imo
@@jarredwilliams7948 it's not. Specially for the oled model where the weight distribution is very optimal. If you take it in hands you'll understand immediately. I also used to think it was too big and heavy but when I tried my OLED I changed my mind.
I had planned to upgrade my android handheld from the Retroid 3+ at some time in 2024, but when the Yuzu drama went down, and after Russ's last Odin video (titled "I freaking love my Odin 2") I said screw it and got an Odin 2 Pro. Its fantastic and I find myself wanting to play it more than my steam deck
I know my Steam Deck will run whatever I want, but I enjoy using a smaller form factor 90% of the time. Not TOO small, Odin/RP3+ is just about perfect size.
I have a Retriod Pocket 3 but find the screen too small. Is the Odin 2 screen a bit bigger?
@declanmalone1279 Yes it is. In fact, I would have gotten the RP4 since it doesn't cost as much and does what I want, but the screen size was the deal breaker.
man it amazes me how you put out quality videos so often, these are the types of videos that youtubers would typically release like twice a month and here you are making them every few days. bravo!
I picked one up based on your recommendation. I love my Odin 2. Your setup and update videos have been super helpful so thank you for that. Nice work man.
literally setting up my brand new odin 2 right now watching your starter guide...
Mine just came in yesterday. I absolutely LOVE it! 100,000% worth the price tag.
Thanks for showing the names of the games you're playing. I'll get an Odin 2 eventually.
I just got my Odin 2 Pro, this video is perfect timing lol
I'll be watching your starter guide tonight to finish setup
Edit: Nevermind: Just saw in the vid where base vs pro doesnt really matter for what it can/cant do, etc
Have fun with your pro. I am looking forward to picking one up soon.
@@Ozzie314 yea, the Pro is only really needed if you want a different color, or don't want to use an SD card for some reason
Saw this and ended up snagging one used today. It's awesome, just the right size and feels great. Thanks for coming back to something you already reviewed!
I was going to get the RP4 Pro back when preorders were running, ended up cancelling and grabbing a base model Odin 2 because of your great reviews and constant updates on the device, and I’m glad I did.
I went with base and got the TPU shell, carrying case and tempered glass, I really can’t put it down, it’s just amazing.
Best purchase I made. Perfect for traveling. I call this my "Backpack handheld".
If only they had a Gameboy DMG style colourway 😭😭
Or transparent orange... That would be wild
I see TechDweeb and I upvote. 🎉
I wonder if there's a service that will powder coat electronics for us, like if you send all of your shells to them, they'd power coat it and send it back to you.
@@KyleRuggles Some auto body shops will do that for you. You just have to ask.
@@ScottWozniak Ahh true true! I used to work for one back in the early 2000's, we didn't do it then but I'm sure they do them now. I also worked for Protech chemical, a powder coating company, there's a special coating and treatment only for plastics. We can't exactly powder coat plastics the same for metal, especially when it comes to curing. Autobody shops might not be able to do that, I'm not sure.
But it just got me thinking since I worked in that field, there's gotta be some online service that specializes in powder coating electronics/plastics. I tried to find but after 5 minutes I gave up lol.
Thanks for bring us high quality content, Russ
Just got my Odin 2 a week or so ago and I LOVE IT!!
Same shake hands
wHERE DID U BUY IT? whats best website to buy it?
Was so close to buying a Retroid Pocket 4+ before you convinced me to spend more and go with the Odin 2 instead-and I love it! My favorite handheld of all time, hands down. Thanks RGC!
Odin 2 and the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro are good always enjoyed them
I have the rp4 pro and it's great but don't like analog placement and screen is too tiny, how is the Odin 2 compared to rp4?
The Windows emulation scene on the Odin 2 makes things much more crazy. With the latest version of Winlator some games runs pretty amazingly good (Fallout 3, GTA IV, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. and more). A storm is coming.
Thats very impressive.
I started on android handhelds but moved to linux only and then x86 64 running linux.
Win600 and then steam deck.
Because you can run PC games in even Batocera on x86 64 handhelds this was a plus.
But with winulator on android this sounds good.
However theres still systems on android that simply isnt available to emulate which you can on x86 64 handhelds.
Wii U,Naomi 2,xbox, 360 and ps3 for eg.
Course ps3 and 360 are very high end, steam deck doesnt run that many 360 but runs quite a bunch of ps3.
At least in my testing.
What do you do for a mouse on all those Windows games? Just right control stick?
As a new Odin 2 owner, I wasn’t aware of Winlator. Thanks for bringing it to my attention!
Stalker? Really? Damn
Does this winlator strengthen the case for the Max or Pro is still the sweet spot?
I bought my Odin 2 because of your recommendation. I set it up perfectly because of your videos, and I absolutely love my device! I appreciate everything you are doing. My Odin 2 has made my life great.
The steam deck and the Odin 2 are both dream handhelds for me and I hope to eventually get both.
Same here, good thing I'm saving up for em!
@@aestheticpetal yeah I can buy the Odin 2 but I gotta wait "until I can afford two" to get my first one
The steam deck prices are dropping like crazy so the process is really worth the wait.
You're pretty much covered on all emulation and gaming needs once you have both
If money is no matter for you go for both but if it is to be spent wisely, please try to get one, remember you only have enough time...
I got a refurbished steam deck(after saving up) recently and I love it. I'd like to get an Odin 2 but.....the steam deck does EVERYTHING. In no way can I justify buying the odin 2 haha. Highly recommend checking valve for refurbished 64gb steam deck though. After taxes and everything it was $300.
This one will be hard to beat. Just hope the price starts dropping soon so I can get my hands on one
I don't think it will ever drop sadly, the hardware's value isn't going to drop anytime soon
@@glazedbelmontthe first Odin Pro has had sales down to $199. Give this device another year and it will start to see similar discounts. I at least expect it to drop to 250 eventually at least on sales.
Yeah, it's either this or the Steam Deck for me since I mainly want to emulate...
Steam deck is going for 300$ (used) from time to time. Its really hard to beat it for that price. Just wish it was smaller or they made a Steam deck mini
It's good value given the hardware.
Hey Russ, I love your stuff! I decided to get the Odin 2 after watching your videos, especially the Japan trip one. My wife and I are going to Japan in November and I wanted something portable for travel and this checked all the boxes. Thanks for creating such awesome videos!
I love my Odin2. Nice upgrade from the original Odin! Thanks Russ for your setup guides and recommendations!!
I'm glad you brought up the comparison to the Steam Deck. I got the Odin 2 Pro for its smaller form factor, but I actually ended up selling my Odin 2 Pro because I thought the Deck had more customization options like screen colors, etc. When I compared the same game on both Steam Deck and Odin 2 Pro, I preferred how they looked on the Deck. Both devices are great though.
Just a bit too chonky for me, I switched to a RP4p but I can't deny it's by far the best product on the market for it's price/performance but I can pocket the RP4P
True that. It's why I got both.
Great assessment. Just made 3 months with my unit last week and its been just as much fun tinkering it to my liking as it is playing games
Mine just arrived yesterday currently following your set-up guide 😊
I hope people realize how great it is that you decided to make a TH-cam channel. Ever since the beginning of your channel it's always been such a great avenue for information. The way you lay out information and tutorials is extremely easy to consume and makes it very easy to follow along. I can telly you growing up I would have loved to have these devices and this information lol I don't think people get just how incredible the Odin 2 is. We grew up with displays that when on have less visibility than the Playdate and it uses e-ink! I can't believe a device like this exists at the same price as the original switch! The sheer amount of what you can play with this really is a pretty solid one stop shop for all your games! I mean you can play Super Mario 2 but then also play Hades with little to no time to jump in between them! As you stated it opens the entire catalogue of so many of these systems!! There are literally lifetimes worth of games all available to people for the same price!
Just wanted to send a little thank you for everything you do. You offer all these resources and make it easy to consume. For someone who is just not that bright ha ha like me it's very very helpful so I can play my favorites all over again. Like you said with Jax and Daxter and all that I haven't played them so if I had an Odin 2 I'd be glued to it ha ha
There have been some promising posts on the Odin subreddit about Winlator. Looking forward to someone who thinks onions are gross to make a video about it.
WTF
I picked up an odin 2 a couple of months ago. it's been fantastic!
I have the Odin 2 Pro and it is BEAST! Another amazing video Russ! 🎉🎉🎉
The Odin 2 is my favorite handheld of all time easily, I can play all the games I had as a kid and also the ones I could not afford and always wanted to play. I can play most GC with HD Textures and 60fps cheat codes. I can play 3DS at 1080p with 4K Textures, I can play Switch. I have all the nostalgia at the palm of my hand with the best battery life on any handheld currently for the price.
How do you play switch when my steam deck barely runs them?
@@donniedarko4497 it's a lot easier for an android system that also runs a arm processor to translate whatever the switch is doing than a completely different instruction set like x84. Heck, the SOC on the switch was originally made for android devices.
I just ordered the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro... hoping I don't regret it over just paying that extra for an Odin 2 or Steamdeck...
I have a Steam Deck, an Anbernic Rg35xx and a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro and my go to system for all retro games is my Pocket 4 Pro. Mind that it want to play high end system that's a no go, but rather than that you can trow it all out. You can play ps2, Wii, Gamecube, Dreamcast, 3ds and even some Switch games (like Dave the Diver, and that pixalated games) and all works like a charm, and to top it all off is slightly bigger than my RG35XX. So yeah, you did good
The pocket 4 Pro is a great device. There might be some compatibility issues with some of the higher end ps2 games but you'll be fine.
If it makes you feel any better, I got my Odin 2 before the RP4 Pro was released, and while I love it, sometimes I wonder, "man, the RP4 Pro is so much smaller, I like that it has the dpad on top, it's a hundred bucks cheaper..."
The grass is always greener. (:
If you care for pocketibility, nothing can beat the RP 4 pro right now. Make sure to get the grip, your hands will thank you very much.
You’ll still have more games than you can play in this lifetime + an extra $170 (because let’s be real, we want those color ways) :)
I got my Odin2 because of your videos. And let me tell you, such a great decision. Does everything I want it to do AND more. Thanks, Russ. This device is tough to beat.
Some day you'll get past the opening area of Narshe in Final Fantasy 6 Advance. Keep at it! :P
Maybe one day!
I just cannot justify buying this when I already have the ROG Ally. I had the Odin 1 and sold it for the Ally. Now I wish I had a low end emulation device with great battery life. Instead, I opted to use my S24 Samsung phone with a controller attachment for emulation up until PS2/Wii/GameCube. That way I always have something to play while I'm on the go. ROG ally for PC and demanding games such as PS3 and switch. Phone for mostly GBA and anything else. It's always with me and has small form factor, very portable, great battery and performance. I think I will wait for the next leap in gaming for an upgrade
I just commented something similar. I don't see the point on this android devices. Just strap a controller to your phone. Maybe I can understand the appeal on having a dedicated gameboy-like device like the RG35 which is only $50-60. But spending 300 on this? I don't see the point
Your S24 works great as a replacement. A little low on storage, no SD, but you get to pick just your very favorites. I have 1.5T sd card on my Odin 2 and still need more. Switch emulation eats huge storage. Will have to get even more space if ever WiiU and PS 3 emulation come to Andriod.
@@santukagameplays5862in my case I don't like playing with a touch-only device which needs external controllers, it's just not the same thing as playing on a device made specifically for gaming, having built-in controls is a big thing, plus the battery is better, the aspect ratio is better for gaming than the ones used on modern phones, and you don't need to worry about not playing to save the battery for tasks like calls, finding an uber, etc. like you need when on a phone,
What about the RP4-Pro? I think it's $200, plays most of the GC and PS2 library, a fair bit smaller than the Odin2 and Ally. Good battery life.
I have a Steam Deck, but its really tempting to get an Odin 2 just for the smaller size. The Steam Deck is pretty massive, and a bit harder to daily drive.
Knew about the Odin 2 (much thanks to this channel!) but wasn't planning on getting one, mostly because of the price and not being sure if I'd actually like or use it enough. But when a local listing went up and there was an opportunity to not have to pay import taxes or wait for it to spend weeks stuck in customs, I pulled the trigger. SO glad I did!
Haven't used and been so pleased with a handheld since the DS Lite(!), and I've had a fair few over the years although no Switch (which in hindsight I might've enjoyed - super bummed I missed out on F-Zero 99! - but coming off the Wii and 3DS which both collected dust I couldn't justify the gamble) or Steam Deck (a little too bulky for my use, and I simply do most of my Steam gaming on PC anyway). Although it's not entirely apples to apples and both excel at different things, the Odin 2 _has_ already seen more use than my launch Analogue Pocket too.
Finally an emulation handheld that doesn't just tread water and struggle with the same systems/games most have for years and years, and doesn't have any other silly dealbreaking flaws. Expensive, but what many of us always wanted and a way overdue technological push forward the market needed.
Played so much Vampire Survivors on PC last year, and after a break this was the perfect excuse to get sucked back in, works so well on this, I'm hooked again! Also been emulating some of the easier to control DOS favorites using Magic DosBox. RetroArch CRT shaders for consoles look amazing, currently halfway through replaying Super Castlevania IV and the vibes are just right.
Russ, I'd be honored to help you with your troubles. Send some of those items my way! 😊
It trips me out when people are asking questions like, "should I get the rg556 or spend a little more and get an Odin 2". It's like, yeah man, get the Odin 2.
The Odin 2 costs almost twice as much. That's more than "a little" more. Definitely if you can afford it, the O2 is hands down a better package, but if you're price sensitive, the RG556 gives a lot of bang for your buck.
To be fair, it's not necessarily a "little" more. It's at least $100 more, and for some that extra hundred-plus just puts it outside of what they're willing to spend on retrogaming.
That said, if the cost of the Odin 2 base isn't a problem but you only want to get one Android emulation handheld, get the Odin 2.
In my country, the Odin 2 price is double than RG556.
I agree I always get the best!
@@benc.5558 It's absolutely worth it, though. Theres not even really a competition: you'd be better off saving the extra and getting the 02 than getting the RG556
Russ, where are your Cat breaks, i miss them, but continue the good work, and making new owners of Handhelds, able to set them up, as nice as your systems are.
We all Love you Russ
Please make a video configuring winlator on this handheld, is so promising and that's the future of emulation in android
Damn the battery life is mind blowing. All the portable PCs have terrible battery life imo.
I got the Max for $400 with early bird + promotional offer. Best purchase I've made for an emulation handheld.
Max for the best device now or for future proofing?
@@openinfinity Will be good for PC games since more RAM is always better for PC games.
I’m happy with my quirky Pimax portal for now. But I love seeing all the videos for the Oden too. It looks like a great device
Picked up the Odin 2 after watching your review of it for what felt like the zillionth time. I must say it is pricey but all well worth it.
Circa 2005, I let my eldest cousin who is about 4-5 years older than me borrow my PS2 and OG Xbox for a month. I was the one who insisted. The only gaming device he had owned at that time was the OG GBA. The one without a backlight. GBA was the first gaming device he owned since the NES. He never owned any console or handheld between the NES and GBA. He usually would play a Genesis or SNES at a friend’s house. He was the first in my family to own an NES or “Nintendo” was what we called it at the time.
He would later get a PSP slim by 2008 and then get a Raspberry Pi to emulate retro games on his PC. So I ask him back in 2005 if he enjoyed playing my PS2 and Xbox? He said, “Yeah.” He enjoyed playing Gran Turismo 4 since he’s into cars as he was studying to be a mechanic. But he said something interesting I never forgot and he said it almost passively. He told me they’re cool but they’re not portable. He prefers portable due to convenience. Now this was before iPhone changed the world and turned us into zombies.
I remember thinking how my cousin made a great point because I did have a Dreamcast, PS2, Xbox, and GameCube hooked up to my Sony WEGA TV at the time and got so fed up with all the cords at the back. Each of those consoles needed two things plugged to it. One connected to an outlet to power it on and one to connect to the back or front of a TV (composite cables or S-video). I even had one of those octopus cables for the PS2, Xbox, and GCN, but it still got messy. Add the fact I went out a lot with my girlfriend at the time. So I rarely did play any of my consoles when I finally got home.
Fast forward to Nov 19, 2006. I get a launch day Wii I pre-ordered a week before. Great fun in the beginning but didn’t touch it for several months after that initial gimmicky novelty wore off. That was the last home console I would own until May 6, 2017. After I won some money from the Kentucky Derby, I bought a PS4 slim from Best Buy for $200 because I had a $100 credit from a previous LG G5 / Sprint deal. And 6 days later, I bought a used Vita. The Vita started my exclusivity at sticking to only portables. I haven’t powered on my PS4 slim in 5 years.
My cousin already had the foresight of going only portable since the mid 00s well before the smartphone revolution. I finally decided to follow his path with that. Every gaming device I will ever purchase from now on must be portable. And must be played without an Internet connection, so no to streaming devices. I sold my Switch OLED because I didn’t want it or my Lite always needing a brief Internet connection if one of them wasn’t set to primary.
PlayStation Portal has zero appeal to me because I don’t plan to ever buy a PlayStation 5. When PS5 came out late 2020 during the pandemic, I had zero anticipation and excitement for it. I was good with my Vita. Now a lot of people are saying Sony should release another true handheld but that’s easier said than done. Look who Sony will go against if say their handheld gets released in 2-3 years….
Successor to the Switch
Steam Deck (or it’s successor)
ROG Ally (or it’s successors, in plural)
Legion Go (or it’s successors)
Smartphones
Tablets
Many Chinese retro handhelds
Possible Xbox handheld
Sony tried getting into portables with the PSP and Vita and lost badly each time. Nintendo is practically unbeatable in the handheld space dating back to 1989. And it’s weird to say PSP being a flop when it still sold 82M. That’s more than NES, SNES, N64, GameCube, Wii U, and every Sega console and handheld sold. That’s more than the 3DS. Vita sold around 15M which would be a number Valve would love to reach with their Steam Deck.
We know Asus and Lenovo are hardware manufacturers and can release another PC handheld almost annually like they do with their laptops and phones. They want to sell as much hardware as possible. By the time this Sony handheld is released, it would be D.O.A. They always had the stronger hardware over Nintendo’s handhelds and Sony always lost. The weaker DS outsold the PSP by 2:1. The weaker 3DS outsold the Vita by 5:1.
Steam Deck is the winner for me. I say between Vita vs. Switch vs. Deck, I use the Deck 90% of the time. Then 8% for the Switch and 2% for the Vita. And I prefer my Vita slim more than my Switch Lite as an overall device and for sentimental reasons but I rarely play it for games except if I want to play SSF2 because it has a great d-pad like my PSP slim. My last save for Final Fantasy X on my Vita was back in Feb 2019. I rarely play it.
It sucks I have to wait another 2 years to play Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on a Steam Deck but there should be plenty of other games to entertain me by then considering I missed out on a lot since 2007 thanks to me being more into cell phones at that time. I know the Steam Deck isn’t perfect. It has it’s share of hardware and software limitations. But it fulfills most of my gaming needs.
+ Affordable
+ Great ergonomics
+ Great customer support
+ Great community support
Steam Deck is the greatest handheld ever made. A game-changer and life-changer the same way the original iPhone was.
That's what I call a good post. And why is your opinion about Odin2 and prediction for nex 2 years? Will it handle the competition?
Thank you for sharing. And yes I also shared this sentiment. My first real purchase is the no backlit purple GBA, and it really does affect all my decision in buying game console. Beside the consoles gifted to me. Only Nintendo Switch that I really bought with my own money to play on TV because it's portable. I also absolutely love my Steam Deck.
Ma’am this is a Wendy’s.
Steam deck plays PC games so there is really no contest unless you don’t want that .
I have a ton of retro games on my SD but 99% of the time I’m playin PC games.
I absolutely love my Odin 2 Pro. Worth the high cost. Had it since January and haven't put it down yet. I originally had a 405M which was great, metal finish, pocketable - but to all the points Russ made the Odin became my main device. Bought a cheap Switch case and I'm good to go.
I think your "scrap" Odin 2 has the best color combination lol, those white buttons on the clear blue shell look amazing IMHO. I might have to steal the look If I decide to get one.
I pulled the trigger on the Odin 2 over the new Pocket S based on your reviews.
That’s exactly what i was going back and forth between
Dumb decision. The pocket s isn't even fully out yet nor have any full fledged reviews dropped for it yet.
@@const3llations_370 the price is released and it looks uncomfortable af
@@const3llations_370 not a dumb decision at all. Odin 2 has way better ergonomics, the Pocket S only has 1 USB-C port vs Odin 2 having a USB-C port, headphone jack and HDMI port, Ayaneo's first Android handheld was just mid, the Pocket S' extra performance doesn't mean much if you want to focus on emulation, and depending on your personal preference, the Odin 2 looks better (I personally like the SNES look).
I want to be one of those guys who buys the premium model and tells everyone how it performs so much better LOL
There is a niche for it in PC emulation, the extra ram will open more options for you.
I bought the Steam Deck OLED 1TB. I am a first time deck owner and very excited. One of my main reasons for getting the deck is for emulation purposes. If I didn't buy the Steam Deck I believe Odin 2 would of been my next choice other than ROG ally. But Rog ally kinda sketches me out with the melting sd cards and what not. Odin 2 looks so amazing and I wouldn't mind having one
I really wish the Loki would have been this size like it was originally supposed to be. I'd still buy it in a heartbeat if they released a PC in this shell
Bro stop tempting me. I'm working very hard right now to earn money for a ROG ALLY, which is OBVIOUSLY better than the Odin 2. I keep having to tell myself, "Odin 2 can't run Windows. It's lacks Steam games. It's much less powerful. The ROG ALLY is better. The ROG ALLY is worth it. Don't let the world tell you otherwise" 😢
Good luck with the 30 minute battery
ROG Ally is a great device. I really love playing with it, amazing analog, comfy form factor, marvelous screen, and wonderful performance. Just one gripe about it, barely functional suspend and resume feature. And I got 2 hours to play Monster Hunter Rise on it.
@@kevinmartinez996 Thank you! I'm very excited. 😁
Look into the steam deck, thing is a beast.
@@mart182003 Steam Deck is a beast, but Ally is a monster. 😉
Seriously find this hard to choose over the steam deck, Steam deck just does so much more
deck is a complete beast but yet I'll end up getting this one too.
Like what
You realize this is MUCH cheaper than a Steam Deck and isn't even comparable, right? It doesn't play PC games lmao. Also has 5 times the battery life of a Steam Deck.
Loving the Odin 2. Watching my kids play SOR2 one minute and Metroid the next is awesome. But for me it's the level of tinkering I got to do with the advice.
That battery life on the Odin 2 really is tantalizing and I say that as a Steam Deck OLED owner.
When Russ got to the part when he said he doesn’t have time to play all these games, he’s being 100% real on that. He happens to also be a husband and dad, so how can he find that time to play all those games? We have so many games from so many handhelds/smartphones that we will never find the time to play a majority of them.
I think it’s kinda pointless if Russ is playing Balatro on a $300+ emulation device. And I’m kinda done wanting to emulate PS2 and GameCube games. We got $150-$200 handhelds/smartphones capable of handling PS2 and GameCube. Odin 2 doesn’t play OG Xbox which the Steam Deck can easily do. And Wii emulation is excellent thanks to the trackpad to move the pointer.
I don’t want to keep playing PS2 and GameCube forever. Give me Final Fantasy VII Remake and Uncharted 4 on the go. Give me Unreal Engine 4 graphics. Give me some AAA titles released within the last 10 years. Not AAA titles from 20 years ago that’s starting to have very dated graphics especially coming from the muddy, dull graphics of a PS2. GameCube graphics are still nice but it’s nowhere as nice as the Switch or PS4 era.
PC handhelds has pretty much eliminated the need for a Chinese retro handheld unless you want that smaller form factor.
No hate whatsoever, but I truly don't understand why anyone would waste hundreds on all these devices when you can just get an ASUS ROG Ally and put Emudeck and EmuStation on it, while also getting a full contemporary gaming experience with all the AAA titles as well. You can play literally everything ever with a handheld PC.
Ah, I found the intelligent person in the comment section!
Well the Ally is more expensive and has bad battery life. Also size matters for comfort.
Battery life. Size. The fact that if I want to play AAA new games I'll play on my 4080 rig or stream it to my phone on my 6ghz connection. And the fact that I'm not gaming seriously when I'm out and about.
I really want to reemphasize: 2 hour battery life
Oh and the extreme ally is almost twice as expensive
I have a rog ally too and I do that but I also have an RG35XX just because it's something I can put in my pocket and is small enough to have it during waiting rooms.
The ally is portable but I can't pocket it.
I have a steam deck oled but keep finding myself still wanting a Odin 2.
I’ve been really into playing on the psp again. I ended up finding the old one my wife got me back when we were dating and got it all set up for emulation. I was getting so much enjoyment out of that little handheld that I order 2 PS Vitas so my kids could play.
It’s amazing what all these handhelds can do.
I'm an Odin 2 user, and it should be noted that (for me) the wi-fi on this thing is ass. So if you're planning on buying it for device streaming, you should avoid doing so. Apart from that issue it's still pretty good.
Edit: I should add, I've only tried using Steamlink, rather than Sunshine/Moonlight. Maybe I should try experimenting more?
It has Wifi 7 support. What are you going on about it being "ass"?
@@Game4Lord Agreed. Streaming via steamlink works quite well for me.
@@Game4Lordsupport and utilize are 2 differnt things.
Router issue
@Game4Lord yeah you're right. Weirdly I researched it on the odin2 reddit, and other people had similar issues. I'm not sure if my Odin 2 is defective or something. Either way my wi-fi is not bad or anything. I just thought I should warn people just in case. I have found a solution by using a USB c to ethernet cable adapter and plugging it into my odin 2. So when I want to stream I need a cable.
I can't be a king when it only goes up to PlayStation 2
I'm so tempted to get one of these but as someone who's trying to pursue minimalism and has a Pixel phone I'm leaning towards just getting a Galileo for my phone instead. The difference in price nudges me in that direction too and it'd allow me to stream games off my PC
Great video and look on the Odin 2. I am picking one of these up as a bedtime entertainment console. My Steam Deck is a bed hog, lol. Using Windows on this would be super amazing and open so many new doors to explore, in modding and using the console outside of gaming.
I bought the Odin 2 during launch and I'm loving it. I was recently on a vacation and had it with me to play during flights/transit. And I usually find myself playing for hours on weekends. It plays everything I want (PS2/GC and before) with a great battery life, simply Amazing.
I decided to pick up an Odin 2 Base and have zero regrets. It does all the emulation I'd ever want, is like half the size and weight of the Steam Deck with the 4nm SD8Gen2 and gets amazing battery life. I don't even mind the black shell because it's a lot less conspicuous to take out and game on.
wish I could get an Odin 2 in this colorway
Hi Russ, after your first videos of the Odin 2 I decided to order one. After about three weeks it arrived and I didn't really use it for another month or two because I was finishing up games on other consoles. Now I finished Revelations: Persona PS1 and I am playing Persona 2: Innocent Sin PS1 on it and I love it! After P2 Eternal Punishment and P3 FES I will take a break to play P4 Golden on Switch. I hope to see good PS3 emulation within 5 years so that we can finally utilize the performance mode hehe. Thanks for the in-depth guide and I will keep following you!
Best retro handheld I've owned so far. The battery life is insane!
Now we need a Odin 2+ with a larger screen
Great work as always. Context and honesty.
Just got my cold grey pro last Monday and I have used it nonstop. Coming from a RP4P, this is a huge upgrade to which I gave to someone who graduated from basic training.
When I finished Army Basic Training in 1990, I bought a Gameboy. 😊
@@glennshoemake4200 thank you so much for your service!
After seeing the processor on this and seeing the price of a phone with that processor it was a no brainer for me. Did a lot of research on processors before coming to the conclusion of getting this one and I’m so glad I did !
Over the past 25 years I have been an avid collector of handhelds and have gone from GP32, Tapwave Zodiac, OpenPandora (I still think the D-Pad on that thing is king) as well as Xperia Play - dipping my toes into everything I could get. I believe at this point I own more than 75 of these devices and to this day my Odin 1 is by far the best of these devices I have ever used. They completely knocked it out of the park and the competition doesn't even come close. This is also a rare time for me when the second version of the device doesn't justify an upgrade because they got so much right the first time.
I'm sitting here trying to replay Jak and Daxter, sly racoon and racket and Clank on my Odin 2 aswell and it's all thanks to you! You have made my Odin feel so amazing! Thanks again!
Where do you get PS2 roms
@@omegamanGXE google is your best friend
@@Jakcoon sorry I can’t I have ligma
@@omegamanGXE have you heard about Nintendo trying to sue the website vimslair? You should check that out 👍
Odin 2 the goat! We just need a larger screen with OLED 🔥
Today I'm starting three months of paternity leave. I already have a Steam Deck, but I'm looking for something smaller, with more battery life for emulating and tackling retro achievements, while being with the little one.
Your videos on the Odin 2 have made me decide to likely pull the trigger and place an order. Thanks for your time and passion.
I have both the Steam Deck and the Ayn Odin 2, and I have ended playing the steam games in the Ayn Odin 2 through GeForce NOW, which I pay monthly to play in the computer already or you can use Steam Link, which works incredibly well. The GeForce NOW route lets you play even some GOG and Epic games.
Hey everyone, if you're on the fence as to which handheld to get... Just do yourself a favour and get this. It's so good. I've got other handhelds, I don't play them because of this. Russ is absolutely right in his first comments about forcing himself not to keep using the Odin 2.
Still rocking my PS Vita 1000 for most of my emulation and still enjoying it, but the Odin 2 does look awesome, I'll admit. Might save up and get one for Christmas. Great vid as usual, Russ!
you must be psyched for the odin 2 mini
The Steam Deck OLED as a compliment to my Desktop PC has been a perfect companion device. I emulate all consoles up to when PC ports tended to get good so I can't think of a game I don't have access to that I want. That said it is a bit of a chonker and a perfect device for me would be what the steam deck oled offers but in the form factor of the Odin 2. Here's hoping we get there in the next 4-5 years.
I picked up the Odin 2 Pro and I love it. I just have two things I wish it did.
1. I wish I could play my Steam games natively on it.
2. I wish the screen was a bit bigger and OLED.
I have so many games loaded on it that I would never be able to play all it in my life time.
I've almost got both now. Steam Deck for all my PC games, Odin 2 for PS2 and below. I love my Odin 2. It is awesome for travel use as well l.
Because of your previous video about ODIN 2 I purchased it and YES I do not regret it at all. I am so happy to own it and feel its' power
ordered an odin 2 pro today based on this video (and your other odin 2 content) - have been waiting to see what "premium" handheld to get and i think the odin 2 is the right pick for me. glad it's held up over time.
I picked up the odin 2 base and have loved it, amazed at how it can play everything like you said
I would be so hype and would purchase another Odin 2 if they released a version with an OLED screen.
That's what I'm afraid of...
Waited for steam deck hype to die down then I ordered one, just to find steam oled came out not much longer after that 😢
i was on the fence between the odin 2 and the ayaneo pocket s... but once I saw the price they were asking for on IGG it made up my mind for me. Odin 2 it is
I had it for two months and I gotta say that it's the best handheld device that I ever had. This takes anything you throw at. My only gripe that I have is setting up emulators (mainly MAME) Emudeck really needs to have a dedicated Android app. The setup holds it back for me. Besides that, this device is king to me. Just get the Base model.
Best combo - Steam Deck + Retroid Pocket 4 pro + Switch Lite :)
I have deck + rp4 pro and switch oled. But I want the Odin 2 😢
Please do an updated emulation setup guide for steam deck with your amazing recommended settings for all system
Love your videos and guides. Subbed and liked. Thanks a ton man!
And just like that I’m picking up my Odin 2 more. 😃 Loved this video. I’m currently also in the “two save files” camp but with Dave the Diver.