ASUS ROG Ally Review: Is This Worth Your Money?

The handheld gaming market has exploded in recent years. Players want console quality games on the go. The ASUS ROG Ally enters this space as a powerful Windows gaming handheld.

This device promises PC gaming freedom in your hands. But does it deliver on these promises? Can it compete with established players like the Steam Deck?

This review dives deep into every aspect of the ROG Ally. You will discover its strengths and weaknesses. You will learn if this gaming handheld fits your needs. By the end, you will know if the ROG Ally deserves a spot in your gaming setup.

Key Takeaways

• Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor delivers excellent gaming performance with 8 cores running at up to 5.1 GHz, making it one of the most powerful handheld gaming devices available today.
• Stunning Display Quality: Features a 7-inch Full HD 1080p touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness, providing crystal clear visuals that surpass many competitors in the handheld space.
• Windows 11 Freedom: Runs full Windows 11, giving you access to every PC game launcher including Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and Battle.net without any compatibility limitations.
• Battery Life Concerns: The 40Whr battery provides only 1 to 2 hours of intensive AAA gaming, which is the device’s most significant weakness compared to competitors like the ROG Ally X with its 80Whr battery.
• Premium Build and Ergonomics: Weighs just 608 grams making it lighter than the Steam Deck, with a comfortable grip design and quality button layout that feels great during extended gaming sessions.
• Price to Performance Leader: Starting at around $548 to $730 depending on the model, it offers exceptional value for the raw performance you get compared to other Windows gaming handhelds.

What is the ASUS ROG Ally

The ASUS ROG Ally represents a bold entry into portable gaming. This device is a full Windows 11 gaming PC. It fits in your hands. ASUS designed it to compete directly with Valve’s Steam Deck. The company wanted to create something more powerful. They succeeded in many ways.

The device runs on AMD’s custom Ryzen Z1 processor. This chip was built specifically for handheld gaming. ASUS offers two versions. The base model uses the Z1 chip. The premium version features the Z1 Extreme processor. Most gamers choose the Extreme version. It provides better performance for demanding games.

The ROG Ally looks sleek and modern. White plastic dominates the design. RGB lighting accents the device. It feels premium despite the plastic construction. The device weighs 608 grams. This makes it lighter than many competitors. You can hold it comfortably for hours.

ASUS built this device for gamers who want flexibility. You are not locked into one game store. You can install Steam, Epic Games, Xbox Game Pass, and more. This freedom sets it apart from devices like the Steam Deck. The ROG Ally gives you access to your entire PC game library.

Display and Screen Quality

The display stands as one of the ROG Ally’s best features. ASUS equipped this handheld with a 7-inch IPS touchscreen. The resolution hits Full HD 1080p. This matches 1920 x 1080 pixels. Most competing devices offer lower resolutions. The extra sharpness makes a real difference.

The screen refreshes at 120Hz. This high refresh rate creates smooth visuals. Fast-paced games benefit greatly. Racing games feel more responsive. Shooters look incredibly fluid. The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz is immediately noticeable.

Brightness reaches 500 nits. This makes the screen usable in bright environments. You can game outdoors without struggling to see. The colors pop beautifully. The screen covers 100% of the sRGB color space. Images look vibrant and accurate.

Touch responsiveness works well. The screen responds quickly to your inputs. Navigating Windows 11 feels natural. You can pinch to zoom and swipe between apps. The 7-inch size provides enough space for comfortable gaming. It is not too big or too small.

The 16:9 aspect ratio suits most modern games. You get the full experience developers intended. Black bars rarely appear. The screen supports FreeSync Premium technology. This reduces screen tearing during gameplay. Your games look smoother as a result.

Performance and Gaming Power

The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor drives this handheld. This chip features 8 cores and 16 threads. Clock speeds reach up to 5.1 GHz when needed. The processor handles demanding games with ease. It represents one of the most powerful mobile gaming chips available.

Graphics come from integrated Radeon RDNA 3 architecture. This GPU delivers solid performance for a handheld. You can run AAA games at respectable settings. Modern titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring work well. You need to adjust settings for best results.

The device includes 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM. This fast memory keeps games running smoothly. Multitasking works without issues. You can switch between games and apps quickly. The memory bandwidth supports demanding applications.

Storage options include 512GB or 1TB depending on the model. The device uses fast NVMe SSD storage. Load times stay short. You can upgrade the storage yourself. The M.2 2230 slot accepts aftermarket SSDs.

Gaming performance varies by title and settings. At 1080p resolution, you need to make compromises. Most modern games run at medium to high settings. You typically achieve 30 to 60 frames per second. Lowering resolution to 720p gives you better frame rates. The device handles indie games and older titles with ease.

The ROG Ally offers three performance modes. Silent mode saves battery and reduces heat. Performance mode balances speed and efficiency. Turbo mode pushes everything to the limit. This mode draws 25 to 30 watts. Your games run faster but battery drains quickly.

Top 3 Alternatives for ASUS ROG Ally

If you are considering the ROG Ally, you should also explore these excellent alternatives. Each offers unique advantages for different types of gamers.

The Valve Steam Deck OLED represents the refined version of the original Steam Deck. This device features a gorgeous OLED display that makes colors pop beautifully. Battery life exceeds the ROG Ally significantly. The Steam Deck OLED runs on SteamOS, which feels more console-like. Games work instantly without Windows hassles. The device costs around $549 for the 512GB model. You sacrifice some raw power compared to the ROG Ally. However, the overall experience feels more polished. The Steam Deck OLED suits gamers who primarily use Steam. The tight integration with Valve’s ecosystem creates a seamless experience.

The Lenovo Legion Go brings a massive screen to handheld gaming. This device features an 8.8-inch display with 144Hz refresh rate. The screen dwarfs the ROG Ally’s 7-inch panel. Detachable controllers set it apart from competitors. You can use them like Joy-Cons for the Nintendo Switch. The Legion Go runs the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. Performance matches the ROG Ally closely. The larger size makes it less portable. Battery life sits around 2 hours for intensive gaming. Pricing starts at approximately $699. The Legion Go appeals to gamers who want the biggest possible screen. The unique controller design offers flexibility other handhelds lack.

The Lenovo Legion Go S offers a more affordable entry point into handheld gaming. This device features AMD Ryzen Z2 Go processor. Performance sits below the ROG Ally and original Legion Go. The 8-inch display refreshes at 120Hz. Build quality remains solid despite the lower price. The Legion Go S runs full Windows 11 like the ROG Ally. You get access to all PC game stores. Pricing starts around $499 making it budget friendly. Battery life improves slightly over more powerful models. The Legion Go S works well for gamers on a tight budget. It handles older games and indie titles with ease.

Battery Life Reality Check

Battery life remains the ROG Ally’s biggest weakness. The device packs a 40Whr battery. This capacity is modest for a gaming handheld. Real-world results often disappoint users.

Heavy AAA gaming drains the battery fast. You get approximately 1 to 2 hours in Turbo mode. This short runtime limits serious gaming sessions. You need to stay near a power outlet. The charger becomes essential for longer play.

Performance mode extends battery life slightly. You might reach 2 to 3 hours with less demanding games. Silent mode pushes this to 3 to 4 hours for indie titles. Video playback lasts much longer at around 5 to 6 hours.

The 65W charger included in the box charges quickly. You can reach 50% in about 30 minutes. Full charge takes approximately 90 minutes. Fast charging helps offset the short battery life.

The newer ROG Ally X addresses this issue. It features an 80Whr battery that doubles the capacity. Battery life improves to 2.5 to 3 hours for intensive gaming. This upgrade costs significantly more. The original ROG Ally remains cheaper but requires frequent charging.

Users need realistic expectations. This device is not meant for long flights. It works better for short gaming sessions. Having a power bank extends usability. Battery reality represents the main trade-off for this level of performance.

Design and Build Quality

ASUS crafted the ROG Ally with attention to detail. The white plastic chassis looks clean and modern. It resists fingerprints better than glossy finishes. The build feels solid despite using plastic construction. No creaking or flexing occurs during normal use.

The device measures 280 x 111 x 21 mm. This compact size fits most hands comfortably. Weight sits at 608 grams. It feels lighter than the Steam Deck’s 669 grams. Extended gaming sessions remain comfortable.

Button placement follows standard gaming controller layouts. The analog sticks sit high on the face. They offer good resistance and precision. The D-pad feels clicky and responsive. Face buttons have satisfying travel. Shoulder buttons and triggers work smoothly.

Grip texture on the back provides secure handling. Your hands will not slip during intense moments. The curves fit naturally in your palms. ASUS designed the grips for long gaming sessions.

Ventilation comes through top and side vents. Hot air exhausts away from your hands. The device stays cool enough to hold comfortably. Thermal management works well overall.

The ROG logo lights up with RGB effects. You can customize colors through Armoury Crate software. This adds personality to the device. You can turn off the lighting to save battery.

Port selection includes USB-C, microSD card slot, and headphone jack. The USB-C port handles charging and external displays. A single port limits connectivity options. The microSD slot expands storage easily. Standard UHS-II cards work well for game storage.

Software Experience and Windows 11

The ROG Ally runs full Windows 11 Home. This provides maximum compatibility. Every Windows game works on this device. You can install any launcher you want. Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, Xbox app, and Battle.net all function perfectly.

ASUS includes Armoury Crate SE software. This interface overlays Windows for gaming. It shows your installed games from all launchers. You can adjust performance settings here. Quick settings let you change TDP limits and display refresh rate.

Armoury Crate SE acts as a game launcher. You can browse your library easily. The interface works better with a controller than the desktop. However, it still feels less polished than SteamOS. You sometimes need to access the Windows desktop.

Windows 11 brings both benefits and problems. The desktop interface is not optimized for small screens. Text can appear tiny. Touch targets feel cramped. You often need to zoom or adjust scaling. This creates friction during setup and troubleshooting.

Game compatibility is excellent. Anything that runs on Windows works here. Older games, emulators, and niche titles all function. You have complete freedom over your software. This flexibility attracts many users.

Updates happen automatically. Windows Update runs in the background. These updates sometimes interrupt gaming. You need to manage update settings carefully. This is less elegant than SteamOS.

Driver updates come through Windows Update and ASUS support. Keeping everything current requires more attention. Users must occasionally visit the ASUS website. This is more work than console-like systems.

Gaming mode in Windows 11 helps with performance. It prioritizes game processes. Background tasks get reduced resources. This optimization improves frame rates slightly.

Gaming Library and Compatibility

The ROG Ally gives you access to your entire PC gaming collection. This represents a huge advantage. You are not limited to a single storefront or compatibility layer.

Steam works perfectly on the device. Your entire Steam library transfers over. Cloud saves sync automatically. Steam Input provides controller configuration. The experience matches gaming on a desktop. Big Picture mode works well for controller navigation.

Xbox Game Pass integration feels native. The Xbox app runs smoothly. You can stream games through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Downloaded games run locally for better performance. Game Pass represents incredible value on this device.

Epic Games Store functions without issues. Your free games and purchases work immediately. Epic’s launcher can feel sluggish on the small screen. The store interface works better with touch than controller.

Battle.net enables Blizzard games on the go. Diablo IV, Overwatch 2, and World of Warcraft all run. Performance varies by game. You need to adjust settings for handheld play.

Emulation represents a huge draw. RetroArch and standalone emulators run perfectly. You can play classic games from Nintendo, Sony, and Sega systems. The controls work great for retro gaming. The screen looks fantastic for older titles.

Indie games shine on this device. Titles like Hades, Dead Cells, and Hollow Knight perform flawlessly. The 120Hz screen makes fast-paced indies incredibly smooth. Battery life improves significantly with less demanding games.

AAA titles require compromises. You need to lower settings for playable frame rates. Cyberpunk 2077 runs at medium settings around 30fps. Elden Ring achieves 40 to 60fps with optimized settings. Red Dead Redemption 2 requires low to medium settings.

Cooling System and Thermal Performance

ASUS designed a dual-fan cooling system for the ROG Ally. These fans work together to manage heat. The system handles intensive gaming reasonably well. Heat dissipation occurs through top vents primarily.

During light gaming, the device stays cool. Fans run quietly or remain off completely. You can game comfortably without noticing thermal issues. The chassis remains cool to touch.

Intensive gaming changes the equation. Turbo mode generates significant heat. Surface temperatures can reach 40 to 45 degrees Celsius. This feels warm but not painful. The grip design keeps hot areas away from your palms.

Fan noise becomes noticeable under load. The fans spin up to move heat away quickly. Noise levels reach 40 to 45 decibels in Turbo mode. This sounds like a laptop under stress. Headphones help mask the noise.

Performance mode keeps things quieter. Fans run at moderate speeds. Noise stays below 35 decibels typically. This level remains acceptable for most users.

Silent mode lives up to its name. Fans stay very quiet or off. The device throttles performance to reduce heat. This mode works well for older or less demanding games.

The vapor chamber cooling helps spread heat evenly. No single point becomes uncomfortably hot. The thermal solution represents solid engineering. ASUS learned from gaming laptop experience.

Long gaming sessions remain comfortable. The device does not overheat or throttle severely. Sustained performance stays consistent. This reliability matters for longer play sessions.

Audio Quality and Speakers

Sound quality surprises users positively. ASUS included dual front-facing speakers. These speakers sit near the top of the device. They fire sound directly at you. The positioning makes a big difference.

Volume gets impressively loud. Maximum levels can fill a small room. You have plenty of headroom for noisy environments. Gaming in public spaces works fine with speaker audio.

Clarity remains good across volume levels. Dialogue in games comes through clearly. Sound effects have decent detail. Music sounds acceptable for built-in speakers.

Bass response is limited as expected. Small speakers cannot produce deep bass. Explosions and impacts lack weight. This represents normal limitations for handheld devices.

The speakers support Dolby Atmos virtual surround sound. This creates a wider soundstage. Positional audio works better in competitive games. The effect is subtle but helpful.

Headphone audio performs well through the 3.5mm jack. Sound quality stays clean without interference. The amplifier drives most headphones easily. Audiophiles might want an external DAC.

Bluetooth audio works for wireless headphones. Latency remains acceptable for most games. Competitive multiplayer might benefit from wired connection. Pairing is straightforward through Windows settings.

The microphone quality is basic. It works for voice chat in games. Quality is not broadcast level but functional. Most users prefer dedicated headset microphones.

Controller Layout and Input Experience

The control layout follows familiar patterns. ASUS placed everything logically. Experienced gamers adapt quickly. The inputs feel responsive and precise.

Analog sticks use Hall Effect sensors. These eliminate stick drift issues. The sticks offer good resistance and range. Dead zones feel minimal. Precision aiming works well in shooters.

Stick placement sits higher than traditional controllers. This takes minor adjustment. Some users prefer this layout. Others find it slightly awkward initially. Most adapt within hours.

The D-pad delivers satisfying clicks. Each direction registers clearly. Fighting games and retro titles control well. The cross design works better than circular alternatives.

Face buttons have good travel and feedback. They feel clicky without being loud. Button labels use Xbox layout. A, B, X, Y match Xbox positions.

Shoulder buttons sit comfortably under your fingers. L1/R1 buttons click satisfyingly. They never feel mushy. Rapid presses register consistently.

Triggers offer analog control with decent travel. L2/R2 work well for racing games. Trigger pulls feel smooth throughout the range. Resistance is appropriate for handheld use.

Back buttons are programmable. Two buttons sit on each side. You can map any function to them. These buttons help with competitive gaming. Placement takes getting used to.

Haptic feedback provides vibration during gameplay. The motors are not as sophisticated as modern console controllers. Rumble feels adequate but basic. Some games take advantage of variable intensity.

Touchpads are absent from this design. This differs from the Steam Deck. Some PC games benefit from touchpad control. You must use the touchscreen or analog sticks instead.

Storage and Expandability Options

The ROG Ally ships with either 512GB or 1TB of internal storage. The SSD uses the M.2 2230 format. This compact size fits the handheld design. Storage speed reaches PCIe Gen 4 levels.

Read speeds hit around 5000 MB/s. Write speeds approach similar numbers. Game loading stays fast. Windows boots quickly. These speeds match modern gaming laptops.

Upgrading the SSD is possible but tricky. You must open the device carefully. ASUS designed the process for advanced users. Warranty concerns exist when opening the device. Upgrading voids official support in some regions.

The microSD card slot provides easier expansion. Cards up to 2TB work without issues. UHS-II speed cards perform well. Game storage on microSD works fine for many titles.

MicroSD performance lags behind internal storage. Load times increase slightly. Modern games benefit from internal SSD placement. Older games and indies run well from cards.

You can manage storage through Windows. Moving games between drives is straightforward. Steam handles this easily. Other launchers vary in ease of use.

Cloud storage options help manage limited space. Cloud saves sync across devices. You can delete and redownload games freely. Fast internet makes this practical.

Consider storage needs carefully. Modern AAA games consume 50 to 100GB each. The 512GB model fills quickly. The 1TB version provides breathing room. MicroSD expansion becomes necessary eventually.

Connectivity and External Display Support

The single USB-C port handles multiple duties. It charges the device. It supports data transfer. It enables external displays. This versatility helps offset having just one port.

USB-C hubs expand connectivity significantly. You can add HDMI, USB-A ports, and Ethernet. The device supplies enough power for basic peripherals. Complex setups might need powered hubs.

External display support works excellently. You can output to monitors and TVs. Resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz function properly. The device acts like a portable gaming PC.

Gaming on external displays changes the experience. You get desktop-level gaming anywhere. Performance drops slightly at 4K resolution. 1080p external gaming works beautifully. This flexibility adds tremendous value.

DisplayPort Alt Mode works through USB-C. You can connect directly to many modern monitors. HDMI requires an adapter or hub. Most users keep an adapter handy.

WiFi 6E provides fast wireless networking. Downloads happen quickly on compatible networks. Online gaming stays stable. Latency remains low enough for competitive play.

Bluetooth 5.2 connects wireless accessories. Controllers, headphones, and keyboards pair easily. Multiple devices can connect simultaneously. Bluetooth audio works for casual gaming.

No Ethernet port comes built in. Wired internet requires a USB-C adapter. Serious multiplayer gamers should invest in one. Wired connections eliminate WiFi stability concerns.

Price and Value Proposition

The ASUS ROG Ally starts at approximately $548 to $599 for the Z1 base model. The Z1 Extreme version costs $699 to $730 typically. Prices fluctuate based on sales and retailers. The Extreme model offers significantly better performance.

Value depends on your priorities. The ROG Ally delivers impressive raw power. It costs more than the Steam Deck. However, it provides better performance and a superior screen. The Windows 11 flexibility justifies the premium for many users.

Competing devices vary in pricing. The Steam Deck OLED costs around $549. The Lenovo Legion Go starts at $699. The ROG Ally X jumps to $799. Each device targets slightly different audiences.

Budget considerations matter. The cheaper Z1 model saves money but sacrifices performance. The performance gap is significant enough to recommend the Extreme version. Saving $100 is not worth the reduced gaming experience.

Included accessories are minimal. You get the device and charger. No carrying case comes in the box. No screen protector is pre-installed. Budget for accessories separately.

Long-term value looks promising. The powerful hardware should age well. Games will remain playable for years. The ability to upgrade storage adds longevity. Windows updates continue indefinitely.

Resale value stays relatively strong. Gaming handhelds hold value better than phones. The ROG brand carries weight in gaming communities. Taking care of your device preserves investment.

Accessories Worth Considering

Several accessories enhance the ROG Ally experience significantly. These additions solve common problems and improve usability.

A protective case is essential for travel. Hard shell cases provide maximum protection. Soft cases weigh less and take up less space. Cases should fit the device with controls attached. Many options exist from third-party manufacturers.

Screen protectors prevent scratches and damage. Tempered glass protectors feel smooth. They maintain touch responsiveness. Anti-glare options reduce reflections in bright light. Installation requires care to avoid bubbles.

Power banks extend gaming away from outlets. Look for 65W USB-C PD capable banks. Lower wattage options charge slowly or not at all. Large capacity banks add significant weight. Balance capacity against portability.

A USB-C hub or dock expands connectivity. Hubs add HDMI, USB-A, and Ethernet ports. Docking stations provide desktop-like setups. Choose hubs with adequate power delivery. Cheap hubs can cause connection issues.

MicroSD cards provide cost-effective storage expansion. 256GB to 512GB cards offer good value. UHS-II speed cards perform better. Samsung and SanDisk make reliable options. Avoid suspiciously cheap cards.

Headphones or earbuds improve audio quality. Wireless options eliminate cable hassles. Low latency models work better for gaming. Comfortable fit matters for long sessions.

Controller grips add comfort for some users. These slip over the existing grips. They increase size but improve ergonomics. Preference varies between individuals. Try the device first before buying grips.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Users report several recurring issues. Understanding these helps set expectations. Most problems have solutions or workarounds.

SD card problems frustrate some owners. Cards stop being recognized randomly. Games crash when running from SD cards. Solutions include reformatting cards and using high-quality brands. Running games from internal storage avoids these issues.

Windows update interruptions annoy during gaming. Updates download in the background. Restart prompts appear at inconvenient times. Configure Windows Update to manual mode. Schedule updates for specific times only.

Armoury Crate glitches occur occasionally. The software stops responding. Games fail to launch from the interface. Restarting Armoury Crate usually fixes problems. Updating to the latest version helps prevent issues.

Sleep mode problems drain battery unexpectedly. The device does not wake properly sometimes. Disabling certain sleep states helps. Using hibernate instead of sleep works better. This is a Windows limitation more than hardware.

Game launcher conflicts create confusion. Multiple launchers compete for control. Controller configurations conflict between Steam and other launchers. Managing controller settings per launcher helps. Steam Input can interfere with other launchers.

Driver updates require manual checking sometimes. ASUS releases updates through their support site. Windows Update does not always catch device-specific drivers. Check monthly for new BIOS and driver releases.

Thermal throttling happens during extended max performance gaming. The device reduces speeds to stay cool. This is normal protective behavior. Improving airflow around vents helps. Limiting maximum TDP reduces heat generation.

Comparison with Steam Deck

The Steam Deck represents the ROG Ally’s main competition. Both devices target similar audiences. Each has distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Performance favors the ROG Ally clearly. The Ryzen Z1 Extreme outpaces the Steam Deck’s older chip. Games run at higher settings. Frame rates exceed the Steam Deck in demanding titles. The gap widens with newer games.

Display quality goes to the ROG Ally decisively. The 1080p 120Hz screen beats the Steam Deck’s 800p 60Hz panel. Sharpness and smoothness are noticeably better. The ROG Ally looks more premium.

Battery life favors the Steam Deck OLED significantly. Valve’s device lasts longer during gaming. The efficiency optimization of SteamOS helps. The Steam Deck OLED can reach 3 to 4 hours of AAA gaming. This beats the ROG Ally by a significant margin.

Software experience depends on preferences. SteamOS feels more console-like and polished. Everything just works without tweaking. Windows 11 offers unlimited compatibility but requires more management. Power users prefer Windows flexibility. Casual users prefer SteamOS simplicity.

Game library gives ROG Ally the edge. All Windows games work without compatibility layers. The Steam Deck relies on Proton for Windows games. Some titles do not work on Steam Deck. The ROG Ally plays everything immediately.

Price positions them similarly. Both start around $549 to $699. The Steam Deck offers better value for Steam-focused gamers. The ROG Ally delivers more performance per dollar spent.

Ergonomics slightly favor the Steam Deck. Valve designed comfortable grips. The weight distribution feels balanced. The ROG Ally is lighter but some find it less comfortable. Personal preference determines the winner here.

Who Should Buy the ASUS ROG Ally

The ROG Ally suits specific types of gamers. Understanding if you fit these categories helps make the right choice.

PC gamers wanting portability benefit most. If you have a large Steam library plus other launchers, this device shines. You get access to everything. Cloud saves sync across devices. Continue gaming anywhere.

Xbox Game Pass subscribers find tremendous value. The service includes hundreds of games. All work perfectly on the ROG Ally. The device effectively becomes a portable Xbox. Cloud gaming adds even more titles.

Performance enthusiasts appreciate the raw power. The Z1 Extreme delivers impressive specs. You get desktop-level gaming in your hands. The 120Hz screen showcases smooth gameplay. Demanding games run better here than on competing handhelds.

Windows power users prefer the flexibility. You can customize everything. Install any software you want. The device acts like a real PC. Emulation, modding, and tweaking all work perfectly.

Gamers with short play sessions handle the battery limitations better. If you game near outlets or in short bursts, the battery matters less. The device works great for commutes or lunch breaks.

Budget-conscious buyers might consider the sales. When discounted to $500 or less, the value becomes exceptional. At full price, competition intensifies. Wait for deals if price sensitivity matters.

Who Should Skip the ROG Ally

Certain users should consider alternatives. The ROG Ally is not perfect for everyone. Recognizing limitations saves disappointment.

Battery life prioritizers should look elsewhere. The 40Whr battery is simply too small. Long flights or full day trips prove frustrating. The Steam Deck OLED or ROG Ally X offer better battery. Choose those if untethered gaming matters most.

Simplicity seekers might prefer Steam Deck. If you want console-like ease of use, SteamOS delivers. Windows 11 requires more technical knowledge. Troubleshooting falls on you. The Steam Deck just works with less fuss.

Budget limited buyers face tough choices. At $700 the ROG Ally competes with capable laptops. Used Steam Decks cost significantly less. The Nintendo Switch offers different value. Assess if portable PC gaming justifies the investment.

Primarily Steam users might prefer official Valve hardware. The Steam Deck integrates perfectly with Valve’s ecosystem. SteamOS gets optimized for Steam gaming. If you rarely use other launchers, the tight integration matters.

Large-screen lovers should consider the Legion Go. The 8.8-inch display dwarfs the ROG Ally’s 7 inches. The extra screen real estate improves readability. If screen size trumps portability, go bigger.

Patient gamers might wait for next generation. Technology advances quickly. New devices arrive constantly. The ROG Ally X already improves key weaknesses. Future models will address remaining issues.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It

The ASUS ROG Ally delivers impressive portable gaming power. The hardware specifications impress on paper. Real-world performance backs up the specs. This device handles demanding games better than most handheld competitors.

The stunning 1080p 120Hz display provides a premium viewing experience. Colors pop beautifully. Motion stays buttery smooth. The screen alone justifies consideration. It significantly enhances visual quality over lower-resolution alternatives.

Windows 11 flexibility opens your entire gaming library. No compatibility layers or limitations exist. Every launcher and game works immediately. This freedom appeals to gamers with diverse collections. The ability to play anything anywhere provides real value.

However, battery life remains a glaring weakness. The short runtime limits use cases significantly. You need frequent charging during intensive gaming. This disappoints users expecting all-day portable gaming. The newer ROG Ally X addresses this but costs more.

Software refinement needs improvement. Windows 11 feels less polished than SteamOS for handheld use. Armoury Crate helps but cannot match console simplicity. You need technical comfort to handle occasional issues.

Overall, the ROG Ally succeeds as a powerful Windows gaming handheld. It excels at delivering desktop-level performance portably. The device works best for gamers who prioritize performance and compatibility. Battery concerns and software polish prevent it from being perfect.

For gamers seeking the most powerful Windows handheld with excellent screen quality, the ROG Ally delivers. The $600 to $700 price range offers solid value for the specs. Wait for sales to maximize value. Consider the ROG Ally X if battery life critically matters to you.

The ROG Ally pushes portable gaming forward. ASUS created a compelling device despite flaws. Your specific needs determine if those flaws matter. The device shines brightest for tech-savvy PC gamers wanting power on the go.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can the ASUS ROG Ally play all PC games

Yes, the ROG Ally runs full Windows 11. This means every Windows compatible game works on this device. You can install Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, Battle.net, and any other launcher. The device handles games exactly like a desktop PC. However, performance varies by game. Demanding AAA titles require lowered settings. Older games and indies run perfectly. Emulation works flawlessly for retro gaming.

How long does the battery last on the ROG Ally

Battery life depends heavily on what you play and at what settings. Intensive AAA gaming in Turbo mode lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours. Performance mode extends this to 2 to 3 hours with less demanding games. Silent mode can reach 3 to 4 hours for indie titles. Video playback stretches to 5 to 6 hours. The 40Whr battery capacity limits extended gaming sessions. Budget for frequent charging or consider a power bank.

Is the ROG Ally better than the Steam Deck

The answer depends on priorities. The ROG Ally offers significantly better raw performance. The 1080p 120Hz screen surpasses the Steam Deck’s display. Windows 11 provides unlimited game compatibility. However, the Steam Deck OLED has much better battery life. SteamOS feels more polished and console-like. The Steam Deck costs less typically. Choose the ROG Ally for performance and compatibility. Pick the Steam Deck for battery life and simplicity.

Can you upgrade the SSD in the ROG Ally

Yes, the internal SSD can be upgraded. The device uses an M.2 2230 format SSD. Replacement drives are available from various manufacturers. However, the upgrade process requires opening the device carefully. This voids warranty in many regions. You must be comfortable with electronics disassembly. The microSD card slot offers easier storage expansion. Most users choose microSD cards over internal SSD upgrades. Only advanced users should attempt SSD replacement.

Does the ROG Ally overheat during gaming

The ROG Ally manages heat reasonably well. The dual-fan cooling system handles intensive gaming. Surface temperatures reach 40 to 45 degrees Celsius under load. This feels warm but not painful. Grip design keeps hot areas away from your hands. Fan noise becomes noticeable in Turbo mode. The device does not throttle severely during normal gaming. Long sessions remain comfortable. Thermal management represents solid engineering. Overheating is not a major concern for most users.

Can you connect the ROG Ally to a TV or monitor

Yes, external display support works excellently. The USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode. You can connect to monitors and TVs up to 4K resolution at 60Hz. This requires a USB-C to HDMI adapter or compatible cable. Performance drops slightly at 4K resolution. 1080p external gaming works beautifully. The device essentially becomes a portable gaming PC. You can use it docked at home and portable away. This flexibility adds significant value to the device.