Alright, folks. So, here’s the deal. We’re talking handheld gaming gadgets today. Yeah, yeah, I know, not everyone cares, but stick around anyway. Steam Deck? Meet your new nemesis: the Asus ROG Ally. What’s that, you ask? Well, it’s a fancy name for a Windows-based handheld beast. I think that’s what sets it apart right off the bat. It runs on Windows 11. No fuss with Linux. Seriously, no conjuring tech wizardry here.
So why should you care? If you’ve been pulling your hair out over the Steam Deck’s limited launcher thingamajig, worry no more. The Ally says, “Here’s the entire darn library.” Epic, Xbox, EA—the whole shebang. Unless you’re into the dark arts of tech, really, this is your guy.
Also, speed! That Ally’s processor combo? An AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme and AMD Radeon notes. I mean, computers are faster, but for handhelds? It’s impressive! Ran through a bunch of games, and I have to say, no lag fest here. A fluke? Maybe. But still cool, right?
But listen, it’s not all rainbows. That lightness, which feels like a godsend when you’re binging a game, also makes it a bit, um, plasticky? Was kinda hoping for more than a flimsy stand that screams, “I’m an afterthought!” Oh, and the battery life—yeah, about two or three hours tops. Boo! So, wall sockets? Your best friend.
Don’t even get me started on the lack of a carrying case. Seriously, $699.99 and you don’t throw in a carrying case? And those back buttons are just…awkwardly low. But hey, that’s just me. You might have more luck.
So which to buy: Deck or Ally? Honestly? Depends. Decide what you need more. Wide access and power? The Ally’s your jam. Sleeker feel and battery edge? Stick with the Steam Deck. Both are pretty rad, though. No wrong choice here, promise.
That’s all from me. Test ‘em out and pick your poison… or elixir, whichever you fancy!
