CPU: AMD Zen 2 four core 2.4-3.5GHz
Graphics: AMD RDNA 2
RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
Screen: 7-inch, 1,280 x 800 touchscreen, 60Hz
Storage: Up to 512GB PCIe SSD
Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, microSD
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5
Weight: 1.47 pounds (0.67kg)
Dimensions (W x D x H): 11.73 x 4.6 x 1.9 inches (29.8 x 11.7 x 4.9cm; W x D x H)
The pioneering PC gaming handheld remains among the top contenders, yet it faces significant competition from Asus’s ROG Ally.
CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 / AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
Graphics: AMD Radeon Graphics
RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
Screen: 7-inch, FHD (1920 x 1080), 120Hz
Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD
Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, microSD
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
Weight: 608 g
Dimensions (W x D x H): 11.02 x 4.37 x 0.83 ~ 1.28 inches (28.0 x 11.1 x 2.12 ~ 3.24cm; W x D x H)
This contender is a robust PC gaming handheld in its own right, being significantly lighter and distinctly designed compared to the Steam Deck.
Following the introduction of Valve’s Steam Deck, arguably the first prominent dedicated PC gaming handheld, several other producers have launched their own versions of the PC gaming handheld such as the Lenovo Legion Go, Asus ROG Ally, and MSI Claw.
The Asus ROG Ally was the second major release in the realm of PC gaming handhelds and received generally favorable reviews; however, how does it stack up against the Steam Deck concerning pricing, specifications, and performance? Let’s delve into it.
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: price
The Valve Steam Deck is priced at $399 / £349 / AU$649 for its base 256GB LCD version, with two additional OLED variants available: the 512GB version at $549 / £479 / AU$899 and the 1TB model for $649 / £569 / AU$1,049.
The Asus ROG Ally comes in two models; the entry-level variant is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 SoC, currently retailing for $399.99 (approximately £640 / AU$1,280), while the model featuring an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme is priced at $549.99 / £449 / AU$999.
In terms of pricing, the Steam Deck was initially the frontrunner. However, since the ROG Ally’s launch in 2023, its price has significantly declined, with numerous discounts lowering it further. At present, both platforms are quite comparable in price, resulting in a tie on this aspect.
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: design & features
The original Asus ROG Ally is considerably smaller and lighter than the Steam Deck and other PC gaming handhelds, with its distinctive honeycomb white case giving it a unique appeal. Numerous gamers will likely feel inclined to purchase it due to its lighter weight and visually appealing design.
Both devices encompass dual analog sticks, a 7-inch screen, with controls at the front and back. Additionally, both units are equipped with ventilation systems on the top to manage the substantial heat produced by their internals.
The arrangement of their buttons and grips is also notably similar in feel, size, and quality. The Steam Deck is marginally lighter and smaller now, especially with an OLED variant that enhances the display quality even further.
Regarding design, I would tentatively declare the ROG Ally as the victor due to its lighter and more aesthetically pleasing construction. However, if you prefer a straightforward and functional design, the Steam Deck might be more suitable for you.
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: specs
| Header Cell – Column 0 | Steam Deck | Asus ROG Ally |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 298mm x 177mm x 49mm (W x H x D) | 280 x 111 x 32.4 mm (W x H x D) |
| Massa | 669g | 608g |
| Display resolution | Up to 1280 x 800px OLED (16:10 aspect ratio) | FHD (1920 x 1080) |
| Processor | AMD Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHz (up to 448 GFlops FP32) | Up to AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
| Graphics | AMD 8 RDNA 2 CUs, 1.0-1.6GHz (up to 1.6 Tflops FP32) | AMD Radeon Graphics |
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR5X (7500Mhz) | 16GB LPDDR5 |
| Storage capacity | Up to 1TB M.2 2242 SSD | 512GB M.2 2230 SSD |
| Luminance | 400 nits typical | 500 nits |
| Refresh rate | Up to 60Hz (LCD) / Up to 90Hz (OLED) | 120Hz |
| Touchscreen capability | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity options | Up to Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.0 | Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Sound | Stereo speakers, dual microphone array, 3.5mm stereo headphone jack | Stereo speakers, 2W x2, built-in array microphone |
| Battery specifications | 40 Whr (LCD), 50Whr (OLED) | 65 Whr |
| Operating Software | SteamOS 3.0 | Windows 11 |
| USB Type | USB Type-C for charging | USB Type-C for charging |
| Battery endurance | 2 to 8 hours of gameplay | approximately 3 hours of gameplay |
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: performance
The clear distinction between the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally lies in their specifications, as the latter is a significantly more formidable device thanks to its advanced CPU. Consequently, titles appear much sharper and perform better on the ROG Ally.
Although the ROG Ally lacks the robust gaming capability of its upgraded variant, the ROG Ally X, it remains quite impressive in its own manner. It is proficient at running DirectX 11 smoothly and even DirectX 12 on occasion (though the latter may crash following a reboot). I verified this with the game Ghostrunner, which operated almost entirely without stuttering.
Surprisingly, even the earlier Steam Deck version can execute demanding titles such as Cyberpunk 2077, though you’ll need to lower the graphics settings. Furthermore, the OLED model manages the game even more effectively, averaging around 26fps on Medium and Low settings.
However, the Steam Deck boasts a superior operating system, whereas the Armory Crate interface on the Ally is, frankly, quite poor (not to mention how inadequately Windows 11 performs on a gaming handheld). On the other hand, Steam’s operating system is specifically tailored for the device, promoting quicker startup times and more user-friendly navigation.
In terms of performance, the Steam Deck emerges victorious here. While gaming capabilities are generally better on the ROG Ally, the Steam Deck provides greater consistency and possesses a significantly enhanced operating system.
Steam Deck vs Asus ROG Ally: conclusion
So, which is the superior PC gaming handheld? Surprisingly, both devices are essentially on par at this stage.
The Steam Deck continues to be regarded by many as the premier PC gaming handheld, and rightfully so, as it strikes an optimal balance between portability, cost, and performance. It is a well-proportioned device that enables you to enjoy the latest PC games on the move with an intuitive interface and reliable battery life for its specifications. If this is your first foray into PC gaming handhelds, the Steam Deck is undoubtedly your best option.
Meanwhile, the Asus ROG Ally offers exceptional value in its own respect, thanks to its significantly lower entry price that competes with the Steam Deck, its lightweight, stunning, and highly portable design, alongside its impressive specifications and gaming performance. Either way, you truly cannot go awry with either handheld.
Have you recently acquired a Steam Deck or Asus ROG Ally? Consider exploring our compilation of the best Steam games and best PC games to enrich your collection on either device.