ASUS ROG Ally Review
Overview
The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerful handheld gaming console designed for high-performance mobile gaming, featuring a robust AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and an integrated Radeon graphics card.
What's In The Box
- Main product
- Carrying case or accessories
- Charging cable
- Documentation
Technical Specifications
Processor | AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme |
GPU | Radeon Graphics (RDNA3 Architecture) |
RAM | 16GB DDR5 |
Storage | 512GB NVMe SSD |
Display | 7-inch OLED 90Hz |
Battery | 83Wh |
Design & Build Quality
The ASUS ROG Ally boasts a sleek and ergonomic design with an all-aluminum chassis that not only looks premium but also feels sturdy in the hand. The back of the device features a textured finish to prevent slips when handling it for extended gaming sessions. Additionally, its compact form factor makes it easy to carry around without compromising on display quality or performance.
Performance
In real-world use, the ASUS ROG Ally delivers exceptional performance with very little lag or stutter in demanding games like 'Cyberpunk 2077' and 'Resident Evil Village'. The console's ability to run these titles at high settings comfortably is testament to its powerful AMD Ryzen processor and Radeon graphics card. Moreover, the quick response time and smooth frame rates make gaming sessions incredibly immersive.
Key Feature Analysis
One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Ally is its compatibility with Windows PC games via xCloud or xAxiom technology, allowing users to stream PC games directly onto the device. However, the lack of dedicated cooling fans means that during prolonged gaming sessions, heat management could become an issue.
Battery Life
The ASUS ROG Ally offers impressive battery life, easily lasting over 10 hours with moderate use. This makes it ideal for longer gaming sessions without needing a recharge. However, when playing graphically intense games for extended periods, the battery drains faster due to increased power consumption.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-performance AMD Ryzen processor
- Integrated Radeon graphics card
- Support for Windows PC game streaming
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Long-lasting battery
Cons
- Limited storage capacity (512GB)
- Lack of built-in cooling fans
- Higher cost compared to some competitors
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- No dedicated Wi-Fi adapter, relies on USB connection
Final Verdict
The ASUS ROG Ally is a premium handheld gaming console that excels in performance and design. It's particularly suited for gamers who demand top-tier graphics and seamless PC game compatibility.
Who should buy: Ideal for hardcore gamers looking for high-end hardware in a mobile format.
Who should skip: Should be skipped by those on a budget or who prefer more affordable alternatives.