Asus ROG Ally, a potential rival to the Steam Deck, is gearing up for a market debut with enticing features and competitive pricing. The leak, revealing a price tag of $699.99 for the AMD Z1 Extreme variant, suggests that Asus is boldly challenging the Steam Deck’s dominance in the handheld gaming realm.
Asus ROG Ally: Leaks & Infos
Reliable tech informant, along with leaked information from BestBuy by Wickedkhumz and previous details from SnoopyTech, provides concrete evidence of the ROG Ally’s specifications. Notably, the leaked data indicates that the $699.99 model will be the Z1 Extreme version with 512GB storage. While the price could potentially change, the information suggests a compelling contender in the handheld gaming market.
Asus Form and Function: ROG Ally's Key Attributes
The ROG Ally boasts dimensions of 11.02 inches width, 4.37 inches height, and 0.83 inches depth, with a weight of 608 grams (1.34 pounds), according to leaked data. Prominent features include the ease of upgrading the M.2 2230 SSD, an IPS screen fortified by Gorilla Glass DXC, and rapid charging capabilities. The Ally can recharge from 0 to 50 percent within just 30 minutes using the included 65W USB-C power brick.
Contrast with Steam Deck: A Different Gaming Experience
In terms of gaming experience, the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck share common ground as handheld gaming machines capable of running PC-level games. However, the ROG Ally distinguishes itself by providing a more PC-like encounter. Running Windows natively, the Ally offers a full Windows experience, eliminating compatibility concerns with major gaming platforms such as Steam, GeForce Now, and Battle.net. This distinct approach positions the Ally as an appealing option for gamers seeking seamless compatibility and performance.
- Advertisement -
Immersive Gaming: Hardware and Performance
The Ally’s hardware reveals a meticulous design aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. Notably, the device accommodates an Xbox-style button layout and dual front-facing speakers, enhancing gameplay audio. A noteworthy feature is the Ally’s compatibility with Asus’ XG Mobile docking station, enabling users to harness the power of high-end GPUs for enhanced gaming performance. Impressively, the device effortlessly managed Ghostrunner with maxed-out settings, showcasing its gaming prowess.
Critical Factors: Price, Battery Life, and Performance
As the anticipated May 11th launch date approaches, key aspects demand attention. The pricing strategy of the Ally, battery life in practical usage scenarios, and any potential glitches require thorough evaluation. The device’s performance under various conditions, including wattage adjustments and compatibility, will also be closely monitored. Additionally, Asus’ response to potential hardware issues and the software’s overall performance, especially within the Armoury Crate app, will play a crucial role in the device’s reception.
The Road Ahead: A Potential Game-Changer
The ROG Ally emerges as a formidable contender in the handheld gaming landscape, presenting a unique offering in contrast to the Steam Deck. Its Windows-native experience and emphasis on compatibility position it as an attractive option for gaming enthusiasts seeking a premium handheld experience. As the tech community awaits the official launch and subsequent reviews, the question remains: Will Asus seize the opportunity to redefine handheld gaming or adhere to more traditional pricing norms?
