| **OUR VERDICT** |
|---|
| The Asus ROG Ally sets a new standard for handheld gaming, combining desktop-level performance, a vibrant 120Hz display, and Windows 11 versatility. Despite its premium price and limited battery life, it’s the ultimate choice for gamers seeking power and portability. |
The Asus ROG Ally has shaken up the handheld gaming market, delivering a potent mix of portability, performance, and versatility. With its powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, high-refresh-rate display, and seamless integration with Windows 11, the ROG Ally is redefining how gamers experience PC gaming on the go.
KEY FEATURES AND SPECIFICATIONS
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme with RDNA 3 graphics for high-performance gaming. |
| Display | 7-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Sync technology. |
| Operating System | Windows 11, offering compatibility with PC games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games, and Xbox Game Pass. |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5, providing fast and efficient multitasking capabilities. |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD, expandable via a microSD card slot. |
| Battery Life | 40Wh battery delivering up to 2–4 hours of gaming, depending on the title and settings. |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 and charging support, and a proprietary eGPU port. |
| Weight | 608 grams, making it lightweight and portable for extended gaming sessions. |
| Audio | Dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support for immersive sound quality. |
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS: A PORTABLE POWERHOUSE
The Asus ROG Ally’s AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip is at the heart of its remarkable performance, delivering a desktop-like gaming experience in a handheld form. Built on the RDNA 3 architecture, the chip combines powerful graphics capabilities with energy efficiency, making it suitable for even the most demanding titles. This level of power places the ROG Ally at the forefront of handheld gaming devices, bridging the gap between portability and high performance.
Gaming Experience
The ROG Ally shines when running AAA games like Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, and Forza Horizon 5. It delivers 1080p gaming with smooth frame rates, often hitting 60 FPS at medium to high settings. Its performance rivals that of mid-range gaming laptops, thanks to the synergy between the powerful chip and its 16GB LPDDR5 RAM.
The 120Hz refresh rate further enhances the gameplay experience, making fast-paced games like Call of Duty: Warzone and Valorant feel incredibly responsive. The Adaptive Sync technology minimizes screen tearing and stuttering, ensuring buttery-smooth visuals, even during graphically intense scenes.
Thermal Management
Despite packing such powerful hardware, the ROG Ally maintains excellent thermal management. Its advanced cooling system, which includes dual fans and heat pipes, efficiently dissipates heat during extended gaming sessions. Unlike many handhelds that throttle performance under heavy load, the ROG Ally delivers consistent performance with minimal thermal issues, even during long playtimes.
Windows 11 Integration
One of the standout aspects of the ROG Ally is its full-fledged Windows 11 operating system. Unlike competitors limited to proprietary operating systems, the ROG Ally provides access to the entire PC ecosystem, allowing users to install and run games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and more. This also means gamers can use mods, tweak settings, and even switch between gaming and productivity tasks seamlessly.
Productivity and Versatility
The ROG Ally isn’t just for gaming; its integration with Windows 11 enables multitasking for productivity tasks. Whether you’re browsing the web, editing documents, or even streaming gameplay, the device handles it effortlessly. The 7-inch touchscreen enhances usability for productivity, making the device suitable for light creative tasks or media consumption.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Runs demanding games smoothly: Handles AAA titles at medium to high settings without noticeable stutter, achieving impressive frame rates for its size.
- Excellent cooling system: Maintains consistent performance during extended gaming sessions, with minimal overheating or throttling.
- Windows flexibility: Provides access to a wide range of games, apps, and services, offering unparalleled versatility compared to competitors.
- Adaptive Sync technology: Ensures smooth visuals by reducing screen tearing and stuttering.
- Future-proof hardware: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, combined with RDNA 3 graphics, delivers a gaming experience comparable to mid-range gaming laptops.
Beyond its core gaming and performance features, the Asus ROG Ally introduces several advanced technical elements and design improvements that elevate it above other handheld gaming devices.
DISPLAY AND VISUAL EXPERIENCE
The 7-inch Full HD touchscreen (1920×1080 resolution) delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details, making it ideal for both gaming and media consumption.
- Brightness and Contrast: The display boasts up to 500 nits of brightness, ensuring visibility even in outdoor settings. The wide color gamut provides rich, true-to-life colors, enhancing immersion in visually stunning games like Horizon Zero Dawn.
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: A rare feature in handhelds, the high refresh rate ensures fluid motion and responsive gameplay, particularly in fast-paced games.
- Touchscreen Precision: Supports multitouch gestures, making it useful for both gaming and productivity tasks, such as navigation in Windows or light creative work like drawing.
AUDIO AND CONNECTIVITY
The ROG Ally offers an impressive audio experience and flexible connectivity options that enhance the user experience.
- Dual Stereo Speakers with Smart Amp Technology: The speakers produce clear and immersive sound, with enhanced bass and minimal distortion, even at high volumes. This is especially noticeable in games with dynamic soundscapes, such as The Last of Us Part II.
- 3.5mm Audio Jack and Bluetooth 5.2 Support: Gamers can use their favorite wired or wireless headsets for a more personalized audio experience.
- Dolby Atmos Support: Adds spatial audio for a 3D sound experience, perfect for competitive gaming where directional audio provides an edge.
- Wi-Fi 6E Compatibility: Ensures blazing-fast connectivity, reducing latency during online gaming or streaming.
STORAGE AND EXPANDABILITY
The ROG Ally comes with 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD storage, which provides quick load times for games and apps.
- Expandable Storage: A microSD slot supports additional storage, allowing users to carry an expansive library of games without worrying about running out of space. The slot supports high-speed UHS-II cards, minimizing performance loss.
INPUT AND ERGONOMICS
The ergonomic design of the ROG Ally makes it one of the most comfortable handheld devices to use for extended periods.
- Precision Controls: Features Xbox-style analog sticks, a D-pad, and customizable back paddles for versatile gameplay.
- Haptic Feedback and Gyro Aiming: Adds immersive tactile feedback and motion controls, particularly useful for shooters and racing games.
- Weight and Grip: At just 608g, it’s lightweight and easy to handle. Textured grips provide a secure hold, reducing strain during long sessions.
TECHNICAL HARDWARE INSIGHTS
The ROG Ally’s hardware configuration is at the cutting edge of handheld gaming technology. Here’s a closer look:
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme (8-core, 16-thread) based on Zen 4 architecture. |
| Graphics | AMD RDNA 3 GPU with 12 compute units for exceptional performance. |
| RAM | 16GB LPDDR5 running at 6400MHz for fast multitasking and gaming. |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD (expandable via microSD). |
| Cooling System | Dual fans with heat pipes and vapor chamber for optimal heat dissipation. |
| Battery | 40Wh battery offering 2-4 hours of gaming, depending on settings. |
DOCKING AND ECOSYSTEM INTEGRATION
The Asus ROG Ally is designed to integrate seamlessly with external displays and peripherals, further enhancing its versatility.
- Asus ROG XG Mobile eGPU Compatibility: The Ally supports external GPU docking with Asus’s XG Mobile, allowing users to connect powerful GPUs like the Nvidia RTX 4090. This transforms the Ally into a desktop-class gaming rig when connected.
- USB-C and Display Connectivity: Offers USB-C 3.2 with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, enabling fast charging, video output, and connection to a wide range of accessories.
- Multiple Peripherals Supported: Compatible with external keyboards, mice, and controllers, making it a hybrid between a handheld and a mini-PC.
GAMING BENCHMARKS
The performance benchmarks below demonstrate how the ROG Ally handles modern AAA titles:
| Game | Settings | Resolution | FPS (Average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 | Medium | 1080p | 50-60 FPS |
| Elden Ring | High | 1080p | 55-60 FPS |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | Medium | 1080p | 70 FPS |
| Forza Horizon 5 | High | 1080p | 60-70 FPS |
| Apex Legends | High | 1080p | 90-100 FPS |
ASUS ROG ALLY vs COMPETITORS
The ROG Ally faces stiff competition from other handheld gaming devices, but its superior hardware and versatility set it apart.
| Feature | Asus ROG Ally | Steam Deck | Ayaneo 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme | AMD Ryzen 7 6800U | AMD Ryzen 7 6800U |
| Graphics | RDNA 3 | RDNA 2 | RDNA 2 |
| Display | 7-inch, 1080p, 120Hz | 7-inch, 800p, 60Hz | 7-inch, 1200p, 60Hz |
| OS | Windows 11 | SteamOS | Windows 11 |
| Battery Life | 2-4 hours (gaming) | 2-8 hours (gaming) | 2-5 hours (gaming) |
| Weight | 608g | 669g | 680g |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (microSD) | Yes (microSD) | Yes (microSD) |
| Price | $699 | $399 (base), $649 (512GB model) | $999 |
Verdict on Comparisons:
The ROG Ally stands out for its 120Hz refresh rate, superior ergonomics, and price-to-performance ratio. While the Steam Deck offers better battery life and lower price points, it lacks the Ally’s graphical prowess and Windows flexibility.
PROS AND CONS
Pros
- Exceptional performance with AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme.
- High-refresh-rate display for smooth visuals.
- Full Windows 11 experience for gaming and productivity.
- Lightweight design for a portable gaming machine.
- Supports external GPUs for enhanced performance.
Cons
- Limited battery life, especially for demanding titles.
- Proprietary eGPU port restricts universal compatibility.
- Price may be steep for casual gamers.
FINAL VERDICT
The Asus ROG Ally redefines handheld gaming, delivering desktop-class performance with the convenience of portability. Its powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip, 120Hz display, and Windows 11 integration make it a standout device for gamers who value both versatility and performance. Whether tackling AAA titles or multitasking with Windows apps, the ROG Ally excels with seamless fluidity. While its battery life and premium pricing might deter some users, its robust ecosystem integration and high-end build quality justify the investment. For serious gamers who demand uncompromising power on the go, the ROG Ally is a game-changer in its class.
