The ROG Ally by Asus joins the ranks of handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch and Valve Steam Deck. However, it stands out by being a Windows 11-based handheld, offering familiarity, accessibility, and complete compatibility with PC gaming libraries.
Powered by the impressive “Zen 4”-based AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, a debut in this device, the Ally promises robust gaming potential within its form factor. It delivers mostly smooth gaming experiences, although users might need to adjust graphics settings and accept occasional suboptimal frame rates, similar to the Steam Deck. Battery life during gaming and some Windows control issues pose certain limitations, but the device’s quality design and intuitive Asus software create a genuinely enjoyable handheld PC gaming experience, all at a lower price point compared to entry-level gaming laptops.
Design and Build
The design of the Ally is sleek, featuring an all-white case that gives it a sharp look. The RGB lighting at the base of each control stick adds a touch of fun but might be slightly distracting during gameplay. Despite its plastic build, the device feels sturdy and comfortable to hold for extended periods. It’s slightly lighter than the Steam Deck but heftier than the Switch, striking a balance in weight.
The 7-inch full HD touch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and 500 nits brightness offers an excellent display, complemented by decent-quality speakers and responsive control sticks. Additionally, the inclusion of rear macro trigger buttons enhances gameplay flexibility.
Windows Experience and Asus Software
The Ally’s Windows-based system allows easy installation and running of various Windows-based applications and games. This distinguishes it from the Steam Deck’s Linux-based system, providing familiarity and accessibility to a wider user base. Asus’ software, particularly the Armoury Crate, consolidates game libraries from different platforms, simplifying game access and navigation.
Performance
The Ally’s hardware, particularly the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, delivers commendable performance across various productivity tasks and gaming scenarios. Benchmarks indicate its efficiency and effectiveness, providing enough horsepower for everyday tasks and multitasking.
In gaming tests, the Ally handles titles differently based on settings. While some demanding games might struggle at maximum settings, adjusting settings to a more moderate level ensures smoother gameplay, albeit with compromises in resolution and details. The device performed reasonably well in handling big open-world games, offering playable experiences at lower settings.
Battery Life
Battery performance varies significantly depending on usage. While the device lasts a reasonable duration for tasks like watching videos or everyday computing, gaming drains the battery rapidly, especially with demanding titles like Cyberpunk. Expect limited gaming time away from a charger due to the device’s power consumption during gameplay.
Verdict
The ROG Ally emerges as a compelling option for handheld gaming, catering to PC gamers seeking a portable experience akin to the Switch. While it may not match the performance of gaming laptops, its form factor and Windows compatibility make it a viable alternative. Priced reasonably at ₹69,990, the Ally is recommended with minor considerations, offering a blend of gaming capability, intuitive design, and potential for software enhancements that could elevate its appeal further.
