Julio Neves
The gaming industry has witnessed a significant evolution over the past few decades, with technology pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Among the latest innovations in portable gaming is the Asus ROG Ally, a device that promises to redefine the way we experience games on the go. This comprehensive review delves deep into the features, performance, design, and overall value of the Asus ROG Ally, providing an in-depth analysis for gaming enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike.
Introduction
Asus, a brand synonymous with gaming excellence, has consistently pushed the envelope with its Republic of Gamers (ROG) lineup. The ROG Ally is the brand’s latest venture into the portable gaming console market, competing directly with devices like the Nintendo Switch and the Steam Deck. With a focus on delivering high-end gaming performance in a handheld form factor, the ROG Ally aims to be the go-to device for gamers who crave top-tier performance without being tethered to a desk.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetics and Ergonomics
The design of the Asus ROG Ally is a testament to Asus’s commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. The device features a sleek, angular design that is instantly recognizable as part of the ROG family. With a matte black finish and subtle RGB lighting, the ROG Ally exudes a premium feel that appeals to gamers who appreciate the finer details.
Ergonomically, the ROG Ally has been crafted with long gaming sessions in mind. The device fits comfortably in the hands, with well-placed buttons, triggers, and analog sticks that provide a natural and responsive feel. The weight distribution is balanced, ensuring that the device doesn’t feel too heavy during extended use. Additionally, the textured grips on the back of the console enhance comfort and prevent slippage, even during intense gameplay.
Display
The display is one of the standout features of the ROG Ally. Sporting a 7-inch Full HD (1920×1080) IPS touchscreen, the ROG Ally offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent viewing angles. The screen is bright enough to be used in various lighting conditions, including outdoors, making it a versatile choice for gaming on the go.
The 120Hz refresh rate is a game-changer for a portable console, providing buttery-smooth visuals that are rarely seen in handheld devices. This high refresh rate, coupled with a low response time, ensures that fast-paced games look and feel incredibly responsive, with minimal input lag. The touch capabilities of the screen add an extra layer of functionality, allowing for intuitive navigation of menus and some in-game interactions.
Build Quality
The ROG Ally is built to last, with a robust chassis that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The device feels solid in the hands, with no noticeable flexing or creaking when pressure is applied. Asus has used high-quality materials in the construction of the ROG Ally, ensuring that it not only looks good but also stands the test of time.
The buttons and triggers have a satisfying click, providing tactile feedback that enhances the overall gaming experience. The analog sticks are responsive and precise, with a smooth range of motion that makes them ideal for both first-person shooters and racing games. The overall build quality of the ROG Ally is a testament to Asus’s dedication to creating a premium portable gaming console.
Performance
Hardware Specifications
Under the hood, the Asus ROG Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, a chip specifically designed for portable gaming. The Ryzen Z1 Extreme combines a powerful octa-core Zen 4 CPU with RDNA 3 graphics, offering a level of performance that rivals some gaming laptops. With 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, the ROG Ally is equipped to handle even the most demanding games with ease.
The inclusion of AMD’s SmartShift technology allows the ROG Ally to dynamically allocate power between the CPU and GPU, optimizing performance for different gaming scenarios. This ensures that the device delivers consistent frame rates and smooth gameplay across a wide range of titles.
Gaming Performance
The ROG Ally truly shines when it comes to gaming performance. Thanks to the Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, the device can run AAA titles at high settings without breaking a sweat. Games like “Cyberpunk 2077” and “Assassin’s Creed Valhalla” run smoothly at 1080p, with frame rates hovering around 60 FPS. The device also handles esports titles like “Fortnite” and “Valorant” with ease, delivering high frame rates that are crucial for competitive play.
One of the key advantages of the ROG Ally is its ability to run PC games natively. Unlike other portable consoles that rely on cloud gaming or mobile versions of games, the ROG Ally can run full-fledged PC games from platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, and Xbox Game Pass. This opens up a vast library of games for users, making the ROG Ally a versatile gaming device.
Thermals and Cooling
Managing heat is a critical aspect of any portable gaming device, and Asus has done an admirable job with the ROG Ally. The device features an advanced cooling system that includes a dual-fan design and large vents for optimal airflow. Even during prolonged gaming sessions, the ROG Ally remains relatively cool, with the fans working quietly in the background.
The cooling system does an excellent job of keeping the Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU at optimal temperatures, ensuring consistent performance without throttling. This is particularly important for portable gaming, where maintaining high performance in a compact form factor is a significant challenge. Asus has struck a good balance between performance and thermals, making the ROG Ally a reliable device for long gaming sessions.
Battery Life
Battery life is often a concern with portable gaming devices, and the ROG Ally is no exception. The device is equipped with a 40Wh battery, which provides around 4-5 hours of gaming on a single charge when playing demanding titles at high settings. For less intensive games or when using the device for media consumption, the battery life can extend to around 7-8 hours.
Asus has included several power-saving features that help extend battery life, such as the ability to lower the screen’s refresh rate and resolution, as well as adjusting the TDP (Thermal Design Power) of the APU. These settings allow users to prioritize battery life over performance when needed, making the ROG Ally a versatile device for different use cases.
Charging the ROG Ally is quick and convenient, thanks to the included 65W USB-C charger. The device supports fast charging, allowing it to reach 50% battery capacity in just 30 minutes. This is a handy feature for gamers who need to top up their device quickly before heading out.
Software and User Interface
ROG UI and Customization
The Asus ROG Ally runs on a customized version of Windows 11, which is optimized for gaming and touch input. The user interface, known as ROG UI, is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, with large icons and easy-to-navigate menus. The UI provides quick access to all of your games, settings, and applications, making it easy to jump into a game or adjust settings on the fly.
One of the standout features of the ROG UI is its customization options. Users can tweak various aspects of the interface to suit their preferences, such as changing the background, organizing game libraries, and adjusting system settings. The UI also includes a dedicated Game Center, where users can monitor system performance, adjust fan speeds, and customize RGB lighting.
Game Library Integration
The ROG Ally supports a wide range of game libraries, including Steam, Epic Games Store, Xbox Game Pass, and more. This seamless integration allows users to access all of their games from a single interface, without having to switch between different applications. The ROG UI also includes a built-in game launcher that can organize your games by platform, genre, or playtime, making it easy to find and launch your favorite titles.
Asus has also included support for cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now, allowing users to stream games directly to the ROG Ally. This feature is particularly useful for gamers who want to play high-end titles without downloading them or using up valuable storage space.
Software Performance
Running on Windows 11, the ROG Ally offers the full functionality of a Windows PC in a portable form factor. This means that users can install and run any Windows application, from productivity software to media players. The device handles multitasking with ease, thanks to its powerful hardware and optimized software.
The ROG Ally also includes several pre-installed ROG-branded applications, such as the ROG Game Visual and Sonic Studio, which allow users to fine-tune their gaming experience. These applications provide advanced settings for display calibration, audio customization, and performance optimization, giving users complete control over their device.
Connectivity and Expansion
Ports and Connectivity Options
The Asus ROG Ally comes equipped with a variety of ports and connectivity options, ensuring that users have everything they need for gaming and productivity on the go. The device includes a USB-C port with support for Power Delivery and DisplayPort, a USB-A port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
The USB-C port can be used to connect the ROG Ally to an external monitor or TV, allowing users to enjoy their games on a larger screen. The device also supports external GPUs (eGPUs) via the USB-C port, enabling users to boost the ROG Ally’s graphics performance for more demanding games.
Wireless connectivity is handled by Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, providing fast and reliable connections for online gaming, streaming, and peripheral pairing. The ROG Ally also supports Miracast, allowing users to wirelessly cast their screen to compatible devices.
Docking Station
Asus offers an optional docking station for the ROG Ally, which expands the device’s connectivity options and turns it into a full-fledged gaming PC. The docking station includes additional USB ports, an HDMI output, an Ethernet port, and an SD card reader. It also features a built-in stand that holds the ROG Ally at a comfortable viewing angle when connected to an external display.
The docking station is a valuable accessory for users who want to use the ROG Ally as a desktop gaming PC or for those who need additional connectivity options for peripherals like keyboards, mice, and external storage devices.
Audio and Multimedia
Speakers and Audio Quality
The ROG Ally features dual front-facing speakers that deliver surprisingly powerful and clear audio for a portable device. The speakers are tuned by Asus’s audio experts and feature support for Dolby Atmos, providing a rich and immersive soundstage. Whether you’re playing games, watching movies, or listening to music, the ROG Ally’s audio quality is impressive.
The device also includes a 3.5mm audio jack for those who prefer using wired headphones or gaming headsets. The audio output is clean and free from interference, providing a high-quality listening experience. Additionally, the ROG Ally supports Bluetooth audio, allowing users to connect wireless headphones or speakers.
Media Playback
The ROG Ally is not just a gaming device; it also excels at media playback. The Full HD display and powerful speakers make it an excellent choice for watching movies and TV shows on the go. The device supports a wide range of video formats and can handle high-definition content with ease.
Asus has also included several media-centric features, such as a built-in video player and support for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube. The device’s hardware acceleration ensures smooth playback of even the most demanding video files, making the ROG Ally a versatile multimedia device.
Value for Money
Pricing and Availability
The Asus ROG Ally is positioned as a premium portable gaming console, and its price reflects that. With a starting price of around $699 for the base model and up to $899 for the top-spec variant, the ROG Ally is priced higher than some of its competitors, such as the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. However, considering the performance and features on offer, the ROG Ally represents good value for money for serious gamers.
Asus has made the ROG Ally available in several markets worldwide, with plans to expand its availability further in the coming months. The device is available through major retailers and online stores, making it easy for gamers to get their hands on one.
Asus Rog Ally: Price Comparison →
Asus Rog Ally with the best price and discount was update for September 16, 2024
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Competitors
When comparing the ROG Ally to its competitors, it’s clear that Asus has aimed to create a device that offers more power and versatility than other portable consoles. The Nintendo Switch, while popular, is limited by its hardware and primarily caters to a different audience with its exclusive titles and family-friendly games. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, is a direct competitor to the ROG Ally, offering similar performance and the ability to run PC games.
However, the ROG Ally has several advantages over the Steam Deck, including a higher resolution display, better cooling, and a more refined user interface. The ROG Ally’s support for external GPUs and its docking station also give it an edge in terms of versatility, making it a more attractive option for gamers who want a portable device that can also function as a desktop gaming PC.
Conclusion
The Asus ROG Ally is a remarkable achievement in the world of portable gaming consoles. It combines the power of a gaming PC with the portability of a handheld device, offering gamers a versatile and high-performance solution for gaming on the go. With its sleek design, impressive display, and powerful hardware, the ROG Ally is a device that is sure to appeal to serious gamers who want the best possible experience in a portable form factor.
While the ROG Ally comes with a premium price tag, it offers excellent value for money when considering its performance, features, and build quality. Whether you’re a casual gamer looking for a portable device to play your favorite titles, or a hardcore gamer in need of a powerful handheld console that can also double as a desktop PC, the Asus ROG Ally is a device that deserves serious consideration.
In a market crowded with options, the Asus ROG Ally stands out as one of the best portable gaming consoles available today. It represents the future of gaming, where high performance and portability are no longer mutually exclusive. With the ROG Ally, Asus has set a new standard for what a portable gaming device can be, and it will be exciting to see how the industry evolves in response to this groundbreaking product.
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