ROG Ally Review: Handheld PC Gaming Perfected?

As a seasoned gamer with decades of gaming experience under my belt, I must say that the ROG Ally has caught my attention like no other device in recent memory. Coming from a background where I’ve juggled between desktops, laptops, and consoles, the idea of having a portable PC gaming powerhouse is an absolute game-changer for me.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve always yearned for the convenience of PC gaming on-the-go without compromising performance. Well, dream no more! The ASUS ROG Ally has arrived, transforming that distant dream into a tangible reality. This handheld marvel boasts an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and a captivating 7-inch display, making it more than capable of tackling even the most graphics-intensive games. But how does this device hold up in practical use? In this review, we delve deep into the ROG Ally, scrutinizing its hardware, software, and overall gaming experience. We’ll assess its pros and cons, compare it to other options on the market, and help you decide if this portable powerhouse is a worthy addition to your gaming collection.

Key Takeaways

Experience true PC gaming on the go: The ROG Ally’s powerful hardware lets you play AAA games anywhere, with access to your favorite platforms like Steam and Xbox Game Pass. Enjoy a premium portable experience previously only possible with a full-sized gaming rig.
Access a vast library of games: The Ally’s Windows 11 operating system unlocks a world of gaming possibilities. Play titles from various launchers, expanding your options beyond console exclusives and creating a truly versatile handheld experience.
Weigh the investment: The ROG Ally offers top-tier performance, but consider its price and battery life. Research user reviews and compare specs to ensure it aligns with your gaming needs and budget before purchasing.

What is the ROG Ally?

Handheld Gaming Powerhouse

The ROG Ally is stirring up excitement as a pioneering handheld gaming PC. PC Gamer has even labeled it “the best handheld gaming PC on the market, and potentially the best budget gaming PC overall.” This device stands out by enabling AAA games to be played on-the-go, a feat that was previously considered impossible for handheld devices. However, its appeal goes beyond raw power; the Ally is also renowned for its superior sound system, receiving a perfect 5/5 rating from Windows Central in audio tests. This unique blend of power and mobility makes the ROG Ally an unprecedented innovation. Windows Central additionally commends its exceptional performance, effortlessly running games from multiple platforms due to the efficiency of Windows 11.

Developed by ROG

The ROG Ally hails from ASUS’s Republic of Gamers (ROG), a label recognized for top-tier gaming hardware with exceptional performance. For years, ASUS has been pushing the limits in PC gaming, and the Ally continues this trend. According to Tom’s Hardware, ASUS is taking handheld gaming to new heights with the Ally’s 7-inch, 120Hz display boasting 1080p resolution. This focus on delivering high-quality visuals in a portable format showcases ROG’s commitment to innovation within the gaming industry. A Reddit post further verifies its heritage, firmly establishing it as part of the ROG family.

Play Anywhere: Multi-Platform Compatibility

One major advantage of the ROG Ally is its open design. Unlike consoles that are confined to their exclusive systems, this portable PC gaming device operates on Windows 11. This allows access to an extensive collection of games from multiple platforms, making it incredibly versatile. Say goodbye to managing multiple devices or launchers—the Ally consolidates your entire gaming universe into one convenient location.

Xbox Game Pass

For Game Pass subscribers, the ROG Ally is a dream. Imagine having your entire Game Pass library accessible on a handheld. Whether you’re craving a quick match or diving into a sprawling RPG, the Ally lets you experience your favorite Game Pass titles anywhere. YouTuber Wudijo even showcased Diablo 4 running on the Ally via Game Pass, demonstrating the device’s capabilities.

Steam

PC gamers rejoice! The ROG Ally seamlessly integrates with Steam, giving you access to your game collection on the go. The Ally’s power makes it a portable powerhouse for enjoying your Steam library, from indie games to AAA titles. As Windows Central highlighted in their ROG Ally review, the device handles Steam games with ease.

Battle.net & Epic Games Store

With Game Pass and Steam not being the only options, you can also play games from various platforms like Battle.net and the Epic Games Store on the Ally. This expansion of choices means you can enjoy numerous titles such as Call of Duty, Overwatch, Fortnite, and many more, all using a single portable device. PC Gamer has verified this extensive access, making the Ally a comprehensive, one-stop portable gaming solution.

Power Up: Hardware Specs

This wouldn’t be a proper ROG Ally review without looking at the hardware that makes this handheld gaming PC tick. Let’s break down the specs.

AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU

The ROG Ally boasts impressive power due to its custom-made AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, making it ideal for handheld gaming. Unlike standard mobile processors, this one is designed specifically for gaming and surpasses the Steam Deck’s chip in performance, as indicated by IGN’s assessment. This advantage translates into improved gameplay with higher settings and smoother performance.

RDNA 3 Graphics

Equipped with a potent CPU is a setup of 12 RDNA 3 Compute Units, as per Windows Central’s report. The CPU, an 8-core, 16-thread Zen 4 model, can boost up to 5.10 GHz, while the GPU reaches speeds of up to 2.7 GHz. This dual setup offers exceptional graphics performance for a handheld device, allowing even demanding games to run smoothly and beautifully on the Ally’s compact screen. In essence, it’s like carrying a portable gaming station that fits comfortably in your hands.

Display: 7-inch 1080p, 120Hz

The ROG Ally features a clear, 7-inch 1080p screen that refreshes at an impressive 120 times per second, offering vivid colors and smooth motion. Tom’s Hardware commends this screen for its high-quality performance. The fast refresh rate guarantees seamless gameplay with reduced blur, providing a distinct advantage in competitive gaming. Moreover, the 16:9 aspect ratio ensures you won’t miss any details due to black bars, unlike some handheld devices with wider screens.

RAM & Storage

The standard version of ROG Ally features 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, offering plenty of room for your game collection and enabling smooth multitasking performance. As indicated on the ASUS website, this setup guarantees swift load times and seamless switches among games and applications. Moreover, you can extend storage by using a microSD card, allowing you to bring more of your preferred games with you on the go.

Level Up Your Game: Performance & Experience

Will the ASUS ROG Ally truly offer a top-tier portable PC gaming experience? We’ll dive into the essential performance factors that could make or break this compact gaming device.

Frame Rates & Resolution

In my gaming world, the 7-inch Full HD (1080p) screen on the ROG Ally really takes things up a notch! With its speedy 120Hz refresh rate, games feel like they’re leaping off the screen. It’s almost as if I’m playing on a top-tier gaming laptop, with those fast-action scenes looking incredibly smooth and responsive. And as Tom’s Hardware points out, this display is where the Ally truly shines – it’s all about the vibrant graphics and seamless motion that make every handheld gaming session feel like an upgrade.

Loading Times

It’s always frustrating to have to look at loading screens. Fortunately, the ROG Ally performs exceptionally well when it comes to reducing wait times. Asus seems to have put a lot of emphasis on optimization, ensuring that you can dive into your games swiftly. This efficiency is something PC Gamer appreciates, as it saves valuable gaming time for those who prefer getting right into their games without delay.

Cooling & Thermals

Handheld gaming devices can get hot, impacting performance and comfort. The ROG Ally addresses this with a robust cooling system designed to keep the device running smoothly, even during extended play. Windows Central discusses the Ally’s thermal management, noting that it stays comfortable to hold even when pushing the hardware. This is crucial for longer gaming sessions.

Audio Quality

In many handheld devices, sound design is often disregarded, but not in the ROG Ally. This device’s built-in speakers produce rich, top-notch audio that enhances the immersive aspect of your gaming sessions. The review by Windows Central underlines the exceptional sound quality, indicating Asus placed a strong emphasis on delivering superior audio.

Game Your Way: Versatile Modes

Among the key advantages of the ROG Ally is its adaptability. This portable powerhouse can adjust to your preferred gaming approach, providing various options for play. Be it while traveling, unwinding at home on the sofa, or if you’re more accustomed to a traditional desktop setup, the Ally caters to all situations.

Handheld Mode

The ROG Ally stands out as a portable, handheld computer. Essentially, it’s a mobile powerhouse PC that fits comfortably in your hands. This means you can enjoy PC gaming anytime, anywhere. With it, you have access to your entire game library from platforms such as Xbox Game Pass, Steam, the Epic Games Store, and Battle.net. Envision playing Diablo IV on your commute—that’s a possibility with the Ally. YouTube content creator wudijo demonstrates this portable gaming feature in his video featuring Diablo IV on the ROG Ally.

Console Mode (TV)

Looking for a more expansive view? Link up the ROG Ally with your television and sync it with controllers for a gaming experience similar to consoles. This configuration is ideal for cooperative local games or when you wish to unwind and play on a broader screen. Wudijo emphasizes this feature in his ROG Ally review, demonstrating how effortlessly the device transitions from portable to console mode.

Desktop Mode (Keyboard & Mouse)

If you’re more comfortable with the accuracy of a keyboard and mouse, the ROG Ally can effortlessly transition into a full-fledged desktop PC. Connect it to a screen, attach your peripherals, and immerse yourself in a complete desktop gaming experience. This versatility allows you to adapt to various playstyles according to the game and your mood. Wudijo’s review showcases this setup’s flexibility, highlighting the Ally’s ability to adjust to different situations.

Software & Interface: Seamless Control

On the ROG Ally, the software performance really stands out, combining the comfortable Windows 11 interface with thoughtful enhancements tailored for portable gaming. Instead of simply shrinking a PC to a compact form factor, it’s designed as a specialized gaming device, prioritizing user-friendly interaction.

Windows 11

With a complete installation of Windows 11, you unlock a myriad of opportunities. You’ll find yourself with easy access to game launchers such as Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and the Epic Games Store, among others, all conveniently in one location. This adaptability allows you to play games from multiple platforms, transforming the Ally into a genuine multi-platform handheld gaming device. As one critic remarked, the Ally “effortlessly handles games from various platforms due to Windows 11.

ROG Software

Asus didn’t merely transfer Windows 11; they specifically adapted it for a mobile-friendly user experience. The custom ROG software layer offers user-friendly controls and game-centric features, resulting in an intuitive and efficient navigation of the operating system on smaller screens. A notable PC Gamer review highlights that Asus has “crafted a thoughtfully designed interface that elevates the gaming experience.

Game Optimization

The ROG Ally, beyond just an operating system, provides a range of customization tools to enhance your gaming experience. You can fine-tune various aspects such as performance settings and graphics options, while also monitoring essential system metrics like temperature and frame rate. This degree of control allows for the perfect balance between visual quality and game performance. Moreover, being hailed as the “most powerful performance in any gaming handheld” by this review implies that you’ll have ample power at your disposal.

Armoury Crate

The core of the ROG Ally’s software interface revolves around the Armoury Crate, acting as a command center. It conveniently gathers all your crucial settings in one place, allowing you to effortlessly switch between performance profiles, customize controls, and manage RGB lighting with ease. Familiar to users of other ROG devices, this tool provides a smooth transition for existing Asus users, as T3 points out, making the Ally incredibly user-friendly.

Designed for Comfort: Ergonomics & Design

The ROG Ally is designed to provide a comfy gaming environment, which is essential for extended gameplay. We’ll examine how it performs regarding size, weight, and control features.

Size & Weight

The ROG Ally’s portability is one of its key advantages. Surprisingly light at 608 grams, it offers more power than you’d anticipate. This means it’s comfortable to hold for long periods and conveniently compact enough to carry around for mobile gaming. As ASUS emphasizes, the Ally ensures that portable PC gaming won’t ever feel like a burden when it comes to packing it in your bag.

Comfort & Extended Play

The ROG Ally, known for its sleek and light build, offers additional advantages tailored for extended gaming periods. Its integrated sound system produces high-quality audio, allowing you to lose yourself in the game without needing headphones. A veteran Steam Deck user, in their review, admired the Ally’s “attractive design, powerful speakers, and exceptional screen,” noting how these elements contribute significantly to a favorable long-term gaming experience. For more insights, check out their complete ROG Ally review.

Buttons & Controls

In a nutshell, although the overall design of the ROG Ally is well-liked, its button arrangement and comfort have sparked some diverse opinions. Users have noted that, despite being responsive, they find the rear buttons to be stiff and not ideally positioned. A user on Reddit pointed out that the grip isn’t as comfortable as on the Steamdeck, and the back buttons are challenging to use while gaming. This implies that even though the ROG Ally shines in numerous aspects, there’s potential for refining its control layout.

Power On: Battery & Management

This wouldn’t be a true handheld gaming review without talking about battery life, would it? Let’s get into how the ROG Ally handles power.

Battery Life

The ROG Ally’s battery life is key for gamers on the go. Realistically, you can expect between 1.5 to two hours of playtime with demanding games like Diablo IV or Baldur’s Gate 3 on lower settings. This is consistent with other reviews comparing it to similar handheld PCs. However, the newer ROG Ally X features a larger 80Whr battery, promising significantly longer gaming sessions (Windows Central). If extended play is a priority, the Ally X might be worth a look.

Power-Saving

It’s evident that ASUS has dedicated resources to enhance the efficiency of the Ally in terms of power usage. Through periodic software upgrades, they’ve added beneficial energy-saving functionalities such as gyroscopic controls and adjustable settings. These updates not only boost stability and performance but also prolong battery life. By fine-tuning these settings, you can strike a balance between performance and power conservation.

Charging

In a nutshell, the Ally’s petite design has its drawbacks – it houses a smaller battery. Although two hours of gameplay could suffice for certain users (according to Tech Toy Reviews), it’s essential to bear in mind this aspect. Since other tech reviewers advise having the 65W charger handy, you may find yourself plugging in often, which can be slightly inconvenient despite the fast charging feature.

ROG Ally vs. The Competition

Has the ROG Ally created a ripple in the portable PC gaming sector? But how does it stack up against other contenders? To help you decide, let’s look at the strengths of the Ally in terms of power, adaptability, and cost.

Performance Advantages

The ROG Ally, equipped with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, delivers a remarkable gaming performance. Critics are consistently wowed by its capabilities, with PC Gamer deeming it “the top-tier handheld gaming PC available on the market, and potentially the best budget gaming PC overall.” This superiority is evident when compared to competitors like the Steam Deck, particularly in demanding AAA games. IGN points out that the Z1 Extreme offers a noticeable power boost over the Steam Deck’s APU, leading to smoother gameplay and higher resolutions. Windows Central concurs, stating that the Ally boasts “the best performance and hardware specifications among all current handheld PC gaming devices.” For gamers aiming for an exceptional portable gaming experience, the Ally’s performance sets it apart from the competition.

Versatility

The ROG Ally truly shines not just for its raw power, but also for its adaptability. It functions as a complete PC, able to run games across various platforms such as Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and Battle.net, as explained by YouTuber wudijo. This expansive ecosystem opens up access to an extensive collection of games, something that consoles or other handhelds usually can’t match because they are often restricted to specific marketplaces. PC Gamer commends Asus for making Windows surprisingly user-friendly on a portable device, thus delivering a comprehensive gaming experience. Furthermore, as noted by Tom’s Hardware, the 7-inch, 120Hz Full HD display adds to this adaptability, providing sharp visuals and smooth gameplay.

Price & Value

Although the ROG Ally is pricier than some similar devices, many experts think it’s worth the cost due to its exceptional performance and features. TechSpot refers to it as “the portable Xbox Game Pass device that gamers have been eagerly anticipating.” Windows Central and Digital Trends both praise the Ally, with Windows Central calling it an “outstanding gaming handheld” offering smooth gameplay and stunning visuals. Digital Trends’ reviewer even forgot they were testing and simply enjoyed playing the games, demonstrating the premium, immersive gaming experience the Ally provides.

Is the ROG Ally For You?

Of course, you seem quite interested in the ROG Ally. With its stylish appearance and the allure of portable PC gaming, it’s definitely catching your eye. But here’s the question: Is this the perfect fit for your needs? Let’s delve a bit deeper to find out.

Ideal Uses

The ROG Ally stands out as a powerful portable gaming machine, making it possible to enjoy high-quality AAA games anytime, anywhere. According to Windows Central’s review, the device flawlessly runs games from multiple platforms due to its Windows 11 operating system. Envision playing titles from your Steam library, Xbox Game Pass, or even classic exclusives like God of War and The Last of Us, all while on the move. In their long-term test, Windows Central found that even demanding games such as Cyberpunk 2077 run exceptionally well on this device. If you often travel or crave the flexibility to game from anywhere, the ROG Ally is a strong choice.

Before You Buy

The ROG Ally provides an exceptional, one-of-a-kind experience. PC Gamer’s review demonstrates how Asus has managed to make Windows function seamlessly on a handheld device. It’s a sleek and enjoyable piece of hardware that’s a pleasure to interact with. Moreover, as pointed out by Windows Central, the Ally features excellent speakers and high-performance capabilities for a handheld device. However, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. Keep in mind that this is a high-end product that comes with a corresponding high price.

Potential Drawbacks

While the ROG Ally is impressive, it’s not without its shortcomings. Some users have reported a frustrating user experience and less-than-ideal battery life, as highlighted in TechSpot’s analysis. Another common complaint revolves around the grip, which some find less comfortable than the Steam Deck’s, according to user feedback on Reddit. It’s also worth noting that, while powerful, the Ally isn’t a perfect replacement for a gaming PC or console. Tom’s Guide’s review emphasizes this, stating that the Ally, while solid, doesn’t quite match the overall experience of the Steam Deck. Consider these factors before making a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ROG Ally a good replacement for my gaming PC?

Although the ROG Ally delivers strong performance in a handheld format, it shouldn’t be seen as a substitute for a fully-fledged desktop gaming computer. Instead, consider it an additional device, ideal for playing games away from your desk or when mobility matters more. It shines at offering portable PC gaming, but may not match the performance of top-tier desktop systems.

What’s the difference between the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck?

The primary distinctions are centered around performance capabilities and software options. Compared to the Steam Deck, the ROG Ally offers superior hardware, translating to smoother gameplay with faster frame rates and potentially higher resolutions – particularly beneficial in resource-intensive games. It operates on Windows 11, providing a broader spectrum of playable games and supporting various launchers. However, this enhanced performance comes at a premium price tag.

How long does the ROG Ally’s battery last?

In terms of gameplay duration, you can anticipate playing demanding titles for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours before needing a recharge. Lighter games with less graphical intensity will offer extended battery life as a result. However, the ROG Ally X stands out due to its larger battery and notably longer playtimes. If battery life is crucial for you, then the Ally X could be a more suitable choice.

Can I connect the ROG Ally to my TV?

Indeed! The ROG Ally can seamlessly link up with your television, offering a console-style gaming experience. Add a set of compatible controllers to the mix, and you’ll have an outstanding setup perfect for local multiplayer sessions or simply immersing yourself in larger-screen games.

Where can I buy the ROG Ally?

You can find the ROG Ally at popular stores such as Best Buy or online on platforms like Amazon and the ASUS official website. To get the most current information about pricing and availability in your area, I recommend checking these outlets.

2024-11-27 18:44