The ASUS ROG Ally brings PC gaming to your hands. This handheld device runs Windows 11 and packs a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. It offers a 7-inch Full HD screen that displays crisp and detailed graphics, outshining competitors like the Steam Deck in visual quality.
The ROG Ally aims to let you play your PC game library on the go. It’s lighter than some rivals, making it more portable. But it faces challenges. Battery life is short, and some games may not run smoothly at higher settings.
For $699.99, the ROG Ally presents an intriguing option for mobile gaming enthusiasts. It supports a wide range of PC games without emulation. Yet, it lacks features like touchpads found on other handhelds. Let’s compare key aspects:
| Feature | ASUS ROG Ally | Steam Deck |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 11 | SteamOS |
| Screen | 7″ 1080p | 7″ 800p |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Battery | Shorter life | Longer life |
| Price | $699.99 | $399-$649 |
ASUS ROG Ally: A Comprehensive Review
What is the ASUS ROG Ally?
The ASUS ROG Ally is a handheld gaming PC designed to offer a console-like experience with the flexibility of a Windows-based system. It aims to provide a portable solution for playing PC games on the go, competing with other handhelds like the Steam Deck.
Design and Hardware
The ROG Ally features a compact design with integrated controls, including joysticks, buttons, and triggers. Key hardware specifications include:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen Z1 Series APU (Accelerated Processing Unit)
- Display: 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Memory: 16GB LPDDR5 RAM
- Storage: PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD (various capacities available)
- Operating System: Windows 11
Performance
Gaming Performance
The ROG Ally’s performance is driven by its AMD Ryzen Z1 Series APU, which combines CPU and GPU cores on a single chip. This allows for decent gaming performance at its native 1080p resolution, especially in less demanding titles. Performance highlights include:
- Smooth gameplay in many indie games and older titles.
- Playable frame rates in more demanding AAA games at lower settings or with upscaling technologies like AMD FSR.
- The 120Hz display provides a smooth visual experience in supported games.
Windows Experience
Running Windows 11 provides access to a vast library of PC games from various storefronts like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass. However, the Windows interface isn’t always optimized for handheld use. ASUS has included its Armoury Crate software to provide a more streamlined experience for launching games and managing settings.
Features and Software
Armoury Crate SE
This special edition of Armoury Crate is designed for the ROG Ally, offering a centralized hub for managing games, performance settings, and system updates. It aims to simplify navigating Windows on a handheld device.
Connectivity
The ROG Ally includes various connectivity options, including:
- USB-C port for charging, data transfer, and connecting external displays.
- microSD card slot for expanding storage.
- Wi-Fi 6E support for fast wireless connectivity.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key consideration for any handheld device. The ROG Ally’s battery life varies depending on the game being played and the settings used. Demanding AAA games will drain the battery faster than less intensive titles. Expect anywhere from 1-6 hours of gameplay depending on usage.
Comparison with Competitors
The ROG Ally competes directly with the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming PCs. Key comparisons include:
| Device | Operating System | Key Features | Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Ally | Windows 11 | 120Hz display, access to all PC game stores | Wider game compatibility, higher refresh rate screen |
| Steam Deck | SteamOS (Linux-based) | Optimized for Steam library, lower price | Better software integration for gaming, more affordable |
| AYANEO 2 | Windows 11 | More powerful hardware options | Higher performance potential |
Overall
The ASUS ROG Ally offers a compelling handheld PC gaming experience with its powerful hardware, high refresh rate screen, and access to the full Windows gaming ecosystem. However, battery life and Windows’ optimization for handheld use remain areas for potential improvement.
Design and Build Quality
The landscape of gaming has constantly evolved, moving from bulky desktops to sleek laptops and now into the realm of portable handheld PCs. The ASUS ROG Ally steps into this arena, aiming to provide a true PC gaming experience in a compact, on-the-go form factor. It’s a device that promises to bring the vast library of PC games directly into the hands of gamers, offering a unique blend of power and portability. This device makes a significant entry into the competitive handheld gaming market.
The Asus ROG Ally boasts a sleek and modern design. Its build quality reflects Asus’ commitment to creating a premium handheld gaming device. The device strikes a balance between durability and portability.
Ergonomics and Portability
The ROG Ally fits comfortably in your hands. Its curved edges and textured grips enhance the gaming experience. At 608 grams, it’s lighter than some competitors. This makes it easier to hold during long gaming sessions.
The button layout is intuitive. You’ll find the controls easy to reach. The D-pad is responsive and well-placed. Trigger buttons offer good tactile feedback.
A kickstand allows tabletop play. This feature adds versatility to your gaming setup.
Display Quality
The ROG Ally’s screen is a standout feature. It sports a 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS panel. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals in fast-paced games.
The display supports variable refresh rate technology. This reduces screen tearing and stuttering. Color reproduction is vibrant, enhancing game graphics.
Brightness levels are impressive. You can game comfortably in various lighting conditions. The screen’s anti-glare coating reduces reflections.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display Size | 7 inches |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Panel Type | IPS |
| VRR Support | Yes |
Hardware and Performance
The Asus ROG Ally packs powerful components in a compact form factor. Its AMD Z1 Extreme chip and advanced cooling system deliver impressive gaming performance across many titles.
AMD Z1 Extreme Chip
The ROG Ally uses AMD’s custom Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, designed specifically for handheld gaming PCs. This processor combines:
- 8 Zen 4 CPU cores
- RDNA 3 graphics
- 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM
The Z1 Extreme provides enough power to run most modern games smoothly at the device’s native 1080p resolution. It outperforms the Steam Deck in both CPU and GPU benchmarks.
For less demanding tasks, the chip can dynamically adjust its power draw. This helps extend battery life when you’re not gaming.
Gaming Performance
The ROG Ally delivers solid framerates in many popular games:
| Game | Average FPS (1080p) |
|---|---|
| Doom Eternal | 60+ |
| Forza Horizon 5 | 50-60 |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 30-40 |
You can expect 60+ FPS in less demanding titles and 30-40 FPS in graphically intensive games. The 120Hz display makes lighter games feel extra smooth.
For the best performance, you’ll want to adjust in-game settings. Lowering resolution to 720p can boost framerates significantly in demanding titles.
Thermals and Turbo Mode
The ROG Ally uses a vapor chamber and dual fans for cooling. This system keeps the device comfortable during extended gaming sessions.
Turbo mode increases the chip’s power limit to 30W. This boosts performance but generates more heat and noise. You can toggle Turbo easily using the Armoury Crate software.
Regular mode limits power to 15W. This reduces performance slightly but improves battery life and keeps the system quieter.
The vapor chamber cooling allows the ROG Ally to maintain its performance over time. You won’t see significant throttling even during long gaming sessions.
Software and User Experience
The Asus ROG Ally offers a versatile software experience with Windows 11 and Armoury Crate integration. These elements work together to provide a user-friendly interface for gaming and system management.
Operating System Compatibility
The ROG Ally runs on Windows 11, giving you access to a wide range of PC games and applications. This sets it apart from the Steam Deck, which uses SteamOS. Windows 11 allows you to install games from various storefronts like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass.
You can use the device as a handheld gaming console or connect it to a monitor for a desktop-like experience. The familiar Windows interface makes navigation easy for most users. However, the touch controls may take some getting used to in handheld mode.
Windows 11 also supports features like Xbox Game Bar and Xbox Cloud Gaming, enhancing your gaming options.
Armoury Crate Software Integration
Armoury Crate software is a key component of the ROG Ally’s user experience. This app serves as a central hub for system management and game launching. It offers several useful features:
- Performance modes
- Fan control
- Game library management
- System monitoring
You can easily switch between different performance profiles to balance power and battery life. The software also allows you to customize controller mapping for individual games.
Armoury Crate integrates well with Windows 11, providing a seamless experience. It automatically detects installed games and organizes them in one place. This feature simplifies game launching and management on the handheld device.
| Feature | Armoury Crate | Windows 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Game Library | Yes | No |
| Performance Control | Yes | Limited |
| System Monitoring | Yes | Basic |
| App Store | No | Yes (Microsoft Store) |
Storage and Expansion
The Asus ROG Ally X offers improved storage options and expandability compared to its predecessor. You’ll find ample space for your game library and the flexibility to add more when needed.
Built-in Storage Options
The ROG Ally X comes with a 1TB SSD, doubling the storage capacity of the original model. This upgrade gives you more room for your favorite games and apps without constant uninstalling.
The faster SSD also improves load times and system responsiveness. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time playing.
Here’s a comparison of storage options:
| Model | Storage Capacity |
|---|---|
| ROG Ally (original) | 512GB SSD |
| ROG Ally X | 1TB SSD |
The larger SSD is especially helpful for modern AAA games, which often exceed 100GB in size.
MicroSD Card Support
When you need even more storage, the ROG Ally X includes a microSD card slot for easy expansion. This feature lets you add up to 2TB of extra space for games, media, and other files.
MicroSD cards offer a cost-effective way to increase your storage. You can keep less-demanding games on the card while reserving the faster internal SSD for performance-critical titles.
The expandable storage also makes the ROG Ally X more versatile as a portable media player. You can load up your favorite movies and TV shows without worrying about running out of space.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Asus ROG Ally has sparked interest among gamers with its powerful specs and portable design. Let’s address some common queries about this handheld gaming device.
How does the Asus ROG Ally compare to the Steam Deck in terms of gaming performance?
The Asus ROG Ally outperforms the Steam Deck in many areas. It has a faster processor and a brighter, higher-resolution screen. The ROG Ally can run more demanding games at higher frame rates.
Its Windows operating system allows access to a wider range of games and launchers. This flexibility gives you more gaming options.
What are the specifications of the Asus ROG Ally?
The ROG Ally boasts impressive hardware:
- AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor
- 7-inch 1080p IPS LCD touchscreen
- 120Hz refresh rate
- 16GB LPDDR5 RAM
- 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD
- Windows 11 operating system
These specs enable smooth gameplay and quick load times for most modern games.
What is the current pricing for the Asus ROG Ally, and is it cost-effective compared to its competitors?
The Asus ROG Ally is priced at $699.99 for the top model. This puts it in a higher price bracket than the Steam Deck.
While pricier, the ROG Ally offers more power and versatility. You get a Windows device that can double as a portable PC. This added functionality may justify the cost for some users.
What new features does the Asus ROG Ally X offer over its predecessors?
As of November 2024, Asus hasn’t released an “Ally X” model. The current ROG Ally is the first in its line. It introduces features like:
- Aura Sync lighting for the joysticks
- Compatibility with other Asus gaming peripherals
- A custom AMD processor designed for handheld gaming
These features set it apart in the handheld gaming market.
How has the Asus ROG Ally been received by the gaming community?
The gaming community has given the ROG Ally a mixed reception. Many praise its performance and screen quality. The Windows OS is seen as both a strength and a weakness.
Some users appreciate the flexibility of Windows. Others find it less user-friendly than the Steam Deck’s interface. Battery life has been a point of criticism for heavy gaming sessions.
Can the Asus ROG Ally be considered a breakthrough in portable gaming technology?
The ROG Ally represents a significant step in handheld gaming PCs. It combines high-end mobile components with a full Windows experience. This allows you to play PC games on the go without major compromises.
Its powerful hardware and versatile OS make it stand out. However, calling it a breakthrough may be premature. It builds on existing concepts rather than introducing entirely new technology.
| Feature | Asus ROG Ally | Steam Deck |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 11 | SteamOS (Linux) |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme | Custom AMD APU |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5 | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD | Up to 512GB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 7″ 1080p 120Hz | 7″ 800p 60Hz |
| Price | $699.99 | $399 – $649 |
This table highlights key differences between the ROG Ally and its main competitor. The ROG Ally offers higher specs in several areas but at a higher price point.
