If you’ve been considering the ASUS ROG Ally gaming handheld for its competitive price point and promising features, it’s time to pause and evaluate. Despite its attractive 120Hz high-refresh-rate display and remarkably quiet cooling fan, this device might leave performance-hungry gamers wanting more.

Comparing the ROG Ally and Steam Deck

The ASUS ROG Ally entered the market with the intention of going head-to-head with Valve’s Steam Deck. However, it seems that the lower cost model, priced at $600 and equipped with an AMD Z1 chip, does not live up to the expectations set by its competitors or its higher-priced counterpart. While both devices share a similar aesthetic, the ROG Ally’s performance and battery life fail to make a convincing argument for its existence.

Performance and Battery: A Trade-Off

Early reviews are in, and they suggest that the ROG Ally’s Z1 chip underperforms compared to the Z1 Extreme chip found in the original model. The performance dip is evident when comparing it to the $400-and-up Steam Deck, with no significant improvement in battery life to justify the compromise.

Despite these criticisms, the ROG Ally is not without its merits. The device can still handle a range of games reasonably well, and for those who are not as concerned about the highest performance levels, it might serve as a satisfactory gaming machine. Notably, the 120Hz display and Turbo mode, when plugged in, enhance the gaming experience.

Is the ASUS ROG Ally Worth It?

For gamers with a budget of $600, the ROG Ally may not be the best investment. Its performance issues are significant enough to consider other options, and those willing to spend $700 might find the original Z1 Extreme model a more suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision lies in balancing cost, performance, and gaming needs.