Steam Deck vs ROG Ally: Which One Should You Buy

Asus ROG Ally, a powerful competitor in the world of portable gaming. This sleek handheld device runs on Windows 11 and boasts impressive features like a dazzling 120Hz display and a Zen 4-based AMD APU. With official support from Xbox and the ability to play any Windows-compatible game right out of the box, the ROG Ally seems poised to outshine Valve’s offering.

However, we know that exceptional specifications don’t always guarantee an exceptional gaming experience, and here is an overview of Steam Deck vs ROG Ally.

Steam deck vs ROG Ally

Also, let’s see why most people are referring to Asus ROG Ally as the Steam Deck Killer

Pricing

Rog Ally price

$699.99

The Z1 Extreme 512GB version of the ROG Ally is slated to hit the market with a price tag of $699.99, while the standard Z1 256GB model will be available for $599.99. The pricing of these devices holds immense significance as it can make or break their success.

In contrast, the Steam Deck offers three different tiers: the 64GB model priced at $399.99, the 256GB at $529.99, and the 512GB at $649.99.

steam-deck

$649.99

The ROG Ally’s highest-tier model, priced at just under $700, stands a mere $50 above the most powerful Steam Deck option. Meanwhile, the Steam Deck maintains its affordability, starting at just under $400 for the base variant. This attractive price point ensures accessibility to a broader range of gamers.

Steam Deck vs ROG Ally: Performance and Battery Life

Regarding specs and performance the ROG Ally beats the Steak Deck in every way such as The ROG Ally’ CPU features AMD’s cutting-edge Z1 Extreme mobile processor. This processor defeats the custom APU of the Steam Deck, as well as the leading mobile champion, the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U. With its 8-core Zen 4 processor, RDNA 3-powered graphics, and the ability to reach a maximum of 30W when plugged in, the Z1 Extreme packs an impressive punch.

In comparison, the Steam Deck’s CPU: 4-core custom Zen 2 APU is limited to 15W whether plugged in or on battery. The ROG Ally sets a new standard in mobile gaming power.

Rog Ally’s GPU is also far better than Steam Deck’s GPU.

While running games in 60fps both the consoles discharge in about 4 to 5 hours while some games lasting only 2 hours.

Steam Deck vs ROG Ally: Design

Both the Steam Deck and ROG Ally have a similar layout, with a screen in the middle and standard ABXY controls and joysticks on the sides. However, the ROG Ally stands out with its white design and glowing RGB thumbsticks, while the Steam Deck has a more classic black and grey look all over. Each device has its own distinct style, giving gamers options based on their personal preferences.

rog ally design

When comparing the size, the Steam Deck is a larger and heavier device that feels solid in your hands. It may take some time to get used to its weight, but it’s comfortable for long gaming sessions. In contrast, the ROG Ally has a slimmer and more angled design that may suit people with smaller hands better.

However, some may prefer the overall shape and comfortable grips of the Steam Deck.

Features: Steam Deck vs ROG Ally

With the ROG Ally, using Windows 11 feels like a big win. You can easily install and use different game launchers like Battlenet, Epic, EA, GOG, Steam, and Xbox directly on the device, just like on your PC. Unlike the Steam Deck, which is based on Linux, there’s no extra work involved but you can still get your Launchers like Heroic, Ubisoft, Epic on Steam Deck.

Since the ROG Ally runs on Windows, it misses out on the software-based optimizations that Valve has specifically designed for the Steam Deck. While you can make some adjustments on the Ally, like changing power settings, resolution, and framerate limits through Armoury Crate, it doesn’t have the same level of seamless integration between hardware and software as the Steam Deck

Moreover, the Ally does not have the same feature as the Steam Deck that allows you to easily suspend and resume a game with a button press. On the Ally, if you want to stop playing for a longer period of time, you will need to save and exit the game completely. When you want to play again, you will have to start the game from the beginning. This is how it typically works on desktop PCs, where saving and quitting is the standard process.

Game Verification

The ROG Ally and the Steam Deck have notable differences when it comes to game verification. Unlike the Steam Deck, the Ally doesn’t have a built-in game verification process. Instead, it functions more like a portable Windows 11 gaming PC. This means that you’ll need to manually install a game and test it out or check online to see if your device meets the necessary specifications. However, in general, most games should run smoothly on the Ally.

Xbox Game Pass: This is a Major Difference

One unique aspect that sets the ROG Ally apart from the Steam Deck is its compatibility with Xbox Game Pass. This feature gives the Ally a distinct advantage, making it feel like a handheld Xbox console that fans have been eagerly waiting for. Despite some occasional bugs in the Xbox launcher on PC, the overall experience is enjoyable

Xbox game pass rog ally

Unlike the ROG Ally, setting up native Game Pass support on the Steam Deck is not as straightforward. It involves following a complex guide to install Windows on a separate SD card, which can be confusing and uncertain. This extra effort and potential complications make it less user-friendly compared to the ROG Ally’s easy integration with Xbox Game Pass.

Steam Deck vs ROG Ally: Outlook

The ROG Ally and Steam Deck are both popular handheld gaming devices. The ROG Ally is known for its powerful performance and a great-looking screen, while also offering easy access to Xbox Game Pass. On the other hand, the Steam Deck focuses more on customizable software options, with features like touchpads and the ability to quickly resume games.

Some people feel that the ROG Ally could benefit from more software customization, while others appreciate its Xbox Game Pass integration. The Steam Deck is praised for its stability as a handheld device and compatibility with different gaming platforms.

As the handheld gaming market grows, both devices offer exciting options for gamers, but my personal preference will be the ROG Ally as it will give tough competition to the Steam Deck vs ROG Ally that could inspire many.

Zul
Zul

Zul is an avid gamer with a passion for RPG and racing games. He enjoys playing games like Need for Speed and Grand Theft Auto 5 and is also skilled at fixing errors and crashes to enhance the gaming experience. Zul stays up-to-date with the latest gaming news and enjoys sharing his knowledge through writing gaming guides and articles.
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