The handheld gaming market is heating up, and Asus has thrown its hat into the ring with the ROG Ally, a Windows-powered gaming device aimed at enthusiasts who want a portable yet powerful system. When I first reviewed the ROG Ally a month ago, I found it promising but not quite ready for mainstream adoption. Like Valve’s Steam Deck, which launched with a host of issues before numerous updates turned it into a more polished experience, Asus has been working tirelessly to refine the ROG Ally before it reaches everyday consumers.
As of June 13th, the ROG Ally is officially available worldwide for $700, £700, or €800. With units now on store shelves, the big question remains: Has Asus done enough to make the ROG Ally a must-buy handheld gaming PC?
Most considerable Improvements Since the Initial Review
One month of updates and refinements has undoubtedly made a difference. The ROG Ally is now a better product than it was in May, thanks to a combination of software patches and hardware tweaks. Here are some of the most notable improvements:
Armoury Crate Is No Longer a Mess
At launch, Asus’ Armoury Crate SE software was frustratingly buggy, with crashes, input lag, and unreliable performance. This was a huge issue for a gaming handheld that relies heavily on software for smooth usability.
Now, however, Armoury Crate has received multiple updates that have transformed it into a more stable and user-friendly interface. It still lacks some of the polish of SteamOS on the Steam Deck, but it’s far more reliable and functional, making it a viable launcher for managing your games and performance settings.
ABXY Buttons Are Finally Fixed
One of the most shocking flaws in the early review units was the sticky ABXY buttons—some keys would get stuck mid-game, which is a nightmare for fast-paced action titles. Fortunately, Asus has addressed this issue, and my replacement unit’s buttons have held up through a dozen intense Duck Game sessions without any problems. It’s a relief to see a company respond so quickly to hardware concerns.
Battery Life Gains (But at What Cost?)
Battery life has been a significant point of contention with the ROG Ally. Portable gaming PCs typically struggle in this area, and my initial tests showed that the device drained power faster than expected. However, Asus has pushed firmware updates to improve battery efficiency. Here’s what I observed:
- 14 minutes longer battery life in Dirt Rally
- 12 minutes more playtime in Elden Ring
- 1-4W power savings, depending on the game
These are welcome improvements, they come with a trade-off. Framerates have dipped by up to 20% in some cases, likely due to newer BIOS versions adjusting clock speeds to conserve energy. This raises an important question: Did Asus sacrifice performance to achieve better battery life?
The company is still tweaking these settings so that further optimizations may strike a better balance.
Performance: How Does the ROG Ally Hold Up?
With an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 120Hz 7-inch touchscreen display, the ROG Ally packs serious power for a handheld. In most games, it delivers a smooth experience at 720p and even 1080p in some cases. Here’s how it performed across popular titles:
- Elden Ring – 45-50 FPS (Medium Settings, 1080p)
- Cyberpunk 2077 – 40 FPS (Low-Medium Settings, 1080p)
- Doom Eternal – 60+ FPS (High Settings, 720p)
- Hogwarts Legacy – 35-40 FPS (Medium Settings, 1080p)
These results are impressive for a handheld, performance can be inconsistent, especially when balancing power draw and thermals. Asus is still working on firmware updates to fine-tune performance across different power profiles.
ROG Ally vs. Steam Deck: Which One Wins?
The biggest competitor to the ROG Ally is, of course, Valve’s Steam Deck. Here’s how they compare:
| Feature | ROG Ally | Steam Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme | Custom AMD APU |
| Display | 7” 120Hz IPS (1080p) | 7” 60Hz IPS (800p) |
| Battery Life | 1.5-3 Hours | 2-5 Hours |
| OS | Windows 11 | SteamOS |
| Price | $700 | Starts at $399 |
The ROG Ally has a superior screen, a more powerful processor, and native Windows compatibility, meaning it can run Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more without workarounds. However, the Steam Deck offers a more refined, optimized experience with SteamOS, which is designed specifically for handheld gaming.
Is the ROG Ally Worth Buying Now?
If you’ve been eyeing the ROG Ally, now is the best time to buy. Asus has addressed several significant concerns, and performance improvements continue to roll out.
Buy it if:
- You want a Windows gaming handheld with broad compatibility.
- You need higher refresh rates and better visuals than the Steam Deck.
- You prefer plug-and-play access to Game Pass, Epic, and other PC launchers.
Wait if:
- You want the most optimized, hassle-free handheld experience (Steam Deck is still ahead in that regard).
- You expect perfect battery life and thermals (updates are still rolling out).
The handheld gaming market has seen a significant shift with the rise of the Steam Deck. However, the Asus ROG Ally, launched on June 13th for $699.99, aims to challenge Valve’s dominance. With a more powerful AMD Z1 Extreme chip, a variable refresh rate screen, and Windows OS, the ROG Ally presents itself as a serious contender. But does it truly outshine the Steam Deck? Let’s dive into this comprehensive review.
Key Features of the Asus ROG Ally
Processor: AMD Z1 Extreme
- Screen: 7-inch, 120Hz variable refresh rate (VRR)
- Operating System: Windows 11
Battery Capacity: 40Wh
- Storage: 512GB SSD (M.2 2230) – upgradeable
- Price: $699.99
Performance: More Power, But at What Cost?
The Asus ROG Ally is undoubtedly a performance beast. With its AMD Z1 Extreme processor, it surpasses the Steam Deck in raw power. Games like Elden Ring and Cyberpunk 2077 run at higher settings with smoother frame rates. The VRR display enhances gameplay by reducing screen tearing and stuttering.
Performance varies based on power settings. You can tweak it between 7W TDP for battery efficiency and 35W TDP for high-end gaming. The device also includes a dedicated Turbo mode, delivering a significant boost when plugged in. This makes the ROG Ally an enticing choice for gamers wanting higher performance than the Steam Deck.
Battery Life: A Major Drawback
Despite its impressive performance, the ROG Ally’s battery life is underwhelming. With the same 40Wh battery as the Steam Deck, it struggles to provide extended gaming sessions. Here’s how battery performance stacks up:
- Low-power games (e.g., Slay the Spire): ~3.5-4 hours
- Moderate titles (e.g., Control): ~1.5-2 hours
- AAA games on Turbo Mode (e.g., The Last of Us Part I): ~53 minutes
In comparison, the Steam Deck can last up to seven hours with less demanding games. This discrepancy makes the ROG Ally less reliable for on-the-go gaming without a power source.
Windows OS: A Blessing and a Curse
Unlike the Steam Deck, which runs SteamOS, the ROG Ally operates on Windows 11. This offers compatibility with a broader range of PC games, including those from Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more. However, Windows is not optimized for handheld gaming, causing various usability issues:
Gamepad controls frequently glitch
- The OS interface isn’t touchscreen-friendly for gaming.
- Frequent software crashes hinder the experience.
- While updates may improve stability, Windows on a handheld device remains a challenge.
Build Quality and Design: Mixed Feelings
- The ROG Ally has a sleek, futuristic design, featuring:
- Smaller form factor than the Steam Deck
- Loud stereo speakers (though prone to crackling)
- Upgradable SSD (easier than Steam Deck’s process)
- RGB-lit joysticks (with limited customization)
It has drawbacks, such as:
- Flat ABXY buttons, which initially suffered from sticking issues. (Fixed in retail units)
- Less comfortable grip compared to Steam Deck.
- Larger bezels around the screen.
Software and Controls: Armoury Crate Issues
Asus relies on its Armoury Crate software for game management and system customization. Unfortunately, early users reported frequent crashes, sluggish interface, and input lag.
Some major issues included:
- No sensitivity adjustment for joystick controls.
- No gyro aiming support.
- Slow response when changing power modes.
- Frame rate limiter not always functional.
Thankfully, Asus has addressed some of these through updates, including improved button mapping and stability enhancements.
The Asus ROG Ally is an ambitious handheld gaming PC designed to compete with the Steam Deck and other portable gaming solutions. Running Windows 11, it aims to provide a more versatile gaming experience by allowing access to multiple game launchers, including Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, and more.
Despite Microsoft’s partnership with Asus, Windows on the ROG Ally feels less than optimized for handheld gaming. In this in-depth review, we explore the good, the bad, and the potential future of Windows-powered handheld gaming.
Windows and the ROG Ally: The Partnership and the Problems
Microsoft has actively supported the ROG Ally’s development, making exceptions to certify Windows 11 for the device’s 7-inch display and even providing UI optimizations. Yet, the experience still feels unpolished.
When you first boot up the device, you’re greeted with an unskippable Microsoft Edge setup process, a reminder of how much Windows still clings to its desktop-first approach.
Some key issues include:
- Lack of proper joystick input support for typing
- Inefficient touchscreen keyboard placement
- Erratic scrolling behavior with joysticks
No built-in Xbox button functionality (this was later updated to allow manual assignment)
While the Steam Deck’s Linux-based SteamOS is designed for handheld gaming, Windows 11 struggles to provide a seamless experience.
Gaming Performance: Steam Deck vs. ROG Ally
On paper, the ROG Ally is more powerful than the Steam Deck, thanks to its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. However, raw power isn’t everything.
Where the ROG Ally Shines:
- Runs a wider variety of games without compatibility issues from anti-cheat software
- Easier to install third-party launchers
- Higher performance in modern games (when plugged in)
Where It Falls Short:
- Poor optimization for Windows gaming controls
- No gyro aiming or touchpad controls
- Complicated control mapping for older games
Many classic PC games, such as Max Payne 2 and Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, struggled on the Ally due to poor control configurations. In contrast, the Steam Deck offered immediate compatibility with community controller profiles.
Windows UI Challenges for Handheld Gaming
One of the biggest letdowns is that Windows still isn’t built for handheld gaming. Microsoft has tested a gaming handheld mode in the past, but it’s not implemented in the ROG Ally.
Problems with Windows 11 on Handhelds:
- The touchscreen keyboard is poorly placed and not ergonomic
- Joysticks and D-pad don’t function for typing
- Windows UI elements are too small for a 7-inch screen
- Taskbar scaling issues between handheld mode and external displays
- Asus has implemented its own UI layer, it doesn’t completely fix Windows’ inherent usability issues.
Battery Life Concerns
- Portability is key in handheld gaming, and battery life is a major drawback of the ROG Ally. When compared to the Steam Deck:
- Steam Deck’s optimized SteamOS provides better battery efficiency
- ROG Ally’s battery drains significantly faster, especially in high-performance modes
- Windows background processes and bloatware contribute to excessive power consumption
The question remains: Would SteamOS improve battery life on the ROG Ally?
Should the ROG Ally Run SteamOS Instead of Windows?
Given the Steam Deck’s massive success, one has to wonder: Should the ROG Ally ditch Windows in favor of SteamOS?
Benefits of SteamOS on the ROG Ally:
- Better battery life
- Smoother UI optimized for gaming
- Seamless controller integration
Asus has stated that the ROG Ally is primarily a Windows device and currently has no plans for SteamOS support. That said, advanced users might explore dual-booting SteamOS alongside Windows for a more versatile experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What improvements have been made to the Asus ROG Ally’s performance?
Recent updates have led to significant performance gains. For instance, in GTA V at 1080p on normal settings, the frame rate increased from 28.71 fps to 59.2 fps, showcasing over a 100% improvement.
How has the battery life changed with the new updates?
The updated ROG Ally features a larger 80 Wh battery, doubling the capacity of the original model. This enhancement has improved battery life, allowing for extended gaming sessions without frequent recharging.
Have there been any changes to the device’s ergonomics and controls?
Yes, the ROG Ally X boasts a more comfortable design with rounded corners, improved rear buttons, and enhanced joysticks and D-pad, making it more ergonomic and user-friendly.
What software enhancements have been introduced?
Asus has redesigned the Armoury Crate software, addressing previous bugs and offering a more intuitive interface, enhancing the overall user experience.
Does the updated ROG Ally support external GPUs?
Yes, the ROG Ally X now includes two USB-C ports and is compatible with third-party external GPUs, allowing users to connect to monitors, TVs, or docking stations for an enhanced gaming experience.
How does the display quality compare to previous models?
The ROG Ally X maintains a bright and responsive display. While it uses an LED screen, which may not produce colors as vibrant as OLED displays like the Steam Deck’s, games still appear crisp and engaging.
Are there any remaining issues with the updated ROG Ally?
Some minor issues persist, such as inconsistent frame rate limiters and the absence of options to adjust analog stick sensitivity. Additionally, certain games may register simultaneous button presses when adjusting quick settings.
Conclusion
The updates to the Asus ROG Ally have substantially improved its performance, ergonomics, and software stability. The enhancements in frame rates, battery life, and user interface address many of the concerns from earlier reviews, positioning the ROG Ally as a more competitive option in the handheld gaming market. While some minor issues remain, the overall experience has been notably refined, making it a more compelling choice for gamers seeking a portable gaming solution.
