-Odin Lite-
When I first started exploring the world of handheld emulators, it seemed like every forum and video I found was pointing me towards one of the AYN Odin devices as the pinnacle of sub-Steamdeck machines. I wanted to experience portable GameCube games so badly. So, I started scouring the web for the best deal I could find on one of these mythic platforms. After working my way up the food chain with Anbernic and Trimui handhelds, I finally found a deal I couldn't pass up for an AYN Odin Lite. I've enjoyed the new challenge and experience of learning this new platform so much. So, I decided to make a record of my first impressions and thoughts. That being said, here are the conclusions I've come to in the first days of owning an Odin Lite.
-Build Quality-
Let's start with the build quality. The Odin Lite feels like a more durable, more comfortable Switch Lite. The plastic quality is outstanding, there isn't any flex to the chassis, and the buttons all feel sturdy and satisfying under the thumbs. The L2/R2 triggers feel significantly better than any Joy-Con I've found. The layout is comfortable and all the controls are easily reachable. The only design decision I dislike is the SD card slot. Rather than having a spring loaded slot like all my other devices have, the Odin Lite uses a card tray similar to a cell phone. This makes accessing the card to transfer files from my PC a bit more of a chore. This is in part due to the need for a sim card tool to access the card, and partially because the tray is a bit flimsy and lends itself to misalignment of the card when inserting the tray. Thankfully the Oden Lite has the ability to quickly transfer and organize files over USB-C directly from the PC.
-Screen and Battery-
Next, the screen....the Odin lite has a 6 inch 1080p touch screen. The color reproduction and sharpness is easily the best of my devices. I would rank this visual experience above a Switch lite, but not as impressive as a Switch OLED. The touch screen is perfectly responsive and the refresh rate makes every game I've thrown at it look stunning. The drawback being that the screen (on higher brightness levels) can be a power drain. I set the device to high performance mode with auto fan settings, and kept the screen at or below half brightness and have seen moderate battery life. Playing GameCube and PS2 games, I dropped from 100% battery to 30% after around three and half hours. My experience with less intensive games from the GBA and SNES library had me still over 50% after 3 hours. Much like the Switch, it really comes down to the power needed to emulate your chosen games. In my opinion, the battery life of the Odin lite is more than adequate for a car trip, or an evening gaming in bed.
-Operating System-
The Android operating system is just like my Android phone. I simply logged into my google account and got most of my emulation software from the Google Play store. Though, I did have to find some specialized emulators on the internet and sideload them onto the device. Setup for the OS itself is very fast and intuitive. The setup wizard is a great tool. Setting up each stand-alone emulator was more difficult than on my Linux based devices that came with a pre-setup frontend for games. Retroarch and Daijisho frontend checked all the boxes for older retro systems. But, for PS1 and above, I had to download individual apps. While I do enjoy the increase in power that I get from the standalone emulators, I still prefer the all-in-one convenience of ArkOS and OnionOS on my Anbernic devices. But, time will tell if I adapt and learn to love the Android OS the same way.
-Emulation and Setup-
Emulation power is the biggest perk of upgrading to the Odin Lite. N64 and some PSP
games were the limit of my portable power up to this point. Now, N64 and PSP run as smooth as butter, and I still have plenty of reach to enjoy Gamecube, Dreamcast, and PS2 games. After setting up my video settings, 8 and 16-bit systems run with no issue at all. NES, SNES, Genesis, GB, GBC, GBA all run flawlessly. N64 and PS1 both run exceptionally well so long as the games are in the correct format. GC and PS2 run well for most games. More difficult to emulate games for each system aren't what I would call playable, running slowly or having excessive graphical errors. Ive only run into a handfull of those games though. I was pleasantly surprised by the ability to emulate DS and 3DS games (3DS is a little hit and miss though on playability) In addition, the Odin Lite is a very capable game streaming device. This was a feature I didn't realize I needed in my life. I've found myself linking to my PS5 and enjoying my library of PS Plus games from all around my house. Though the device comes with 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, I still suggest at least a 128GB micro SD card for the number of systems that are within the Odin's reach. I chose a 256GB card for mine. (Gamecube, PS1, and PS2 games are big) All in all, with a little knowhow and some Google searching, setting up the Odin Lite isn't difficult. The OS runs smoothly, the device has more than enough power to keep you gaming for multiple hours on end, and can stand up to normal handling. I would suggest a good screen protector and a Switch travel case to keep the Odin safe in a bag. (The Odin lite is slightly too large to fit a Switch Lite case) It's not pocketable at all, so plan to have a bag to take it on the go.
-Final Thoughts-
If you're looking for a more substantial platform to delve into the retro gaming world, the Odin Lite will definitely fit the bill. But, if you're not looking to play anything above the PS1, I'd recommend looking at a more affordable option. The Anbernic RG35XX or Trimui Smart Pro both handle pre-2000's games very well for less than half the price of an Odin Lite. BUT, if you're a habitual tinkerer and you want to push the envelope of what you can emulate, give AYN a look. The Odin Lite is an outstanding option, and is only one of the family of Odin devices that AYN sells. I don't regret upgrading to the Odin lite at all, but for the price point, it may not be for everyone.
At first impressions, I give the Odin lite a 9/10
Well worth it for portable power, but not necessary for retro fun
Pros
Battery life pushing 5 hours of moderate gaming on higher end systems.
Ergonomics and build quality are exceptional and durable.
It's a portable powerhouse for gaming up to the GC and PS2.
The 6inch screen is clear and sharp. A great gaming experience.
Cons
The price tag is up a tier from many common handhelds.
Starts at $199 from AYN's website
Setup for the OS is easy, but setting up emulators isn't very intuitive for newcomers
There are limited options for purchase of the device or accessories.
Amazon Link for AYN Odin Lite- https://amzn.to/3YaUEVK
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
For the Odin Lite directly from AYN, visit ayntec.com
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