What To Know
- The display is a crucial aspect of any handheld gaming device, and both the Ally and the Z1 Extreme offer compelling options.
- Overall, both devices offer sufficient battery life for a few hours of gaming on the go, but the Z1 Extreme has a slight edge in this regard.
- While the Z1 Extreme’s Android ecosystem is well-established and offers a vast library of mobile games, the Ally’s Windows platform provides a clear edge in terms of versatility and accessibility.
The world of handheld gaming has exploded in recent years, with the rise of powerful devices that can deliver console-quality experiences on the go. Two of the most prominent contenders in this space are the Asus ROG Ally and the **Z1 Extreme**, both boasting impressive specs and features. But which one comes out on top? Let’s dive into a head-to-head comparison to see how these gaming powerhouses stack up.
Performance: A Close Race
Both the Asus ROG Ally and the Z1 Extreme pack a punch when it comes to performance. The Ally is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, a custom-designed APU with 8 Zen 4 cores and 12 RDNA 3 graphics units. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, utilizes the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 processor, a powerful chip built on the 4nm process.
In real-world gaming scenarios, the Ally often takes the lead, thanks to its dedicated RDNA 3 graphics. In demanding titles like “Elden Ring” and “God of War,” the Ally consistently delivers smoother frame rates and higher fidelity visuals. However, the Z1 Extreme is no slouch, offering impressive performance in a variety of games, especially those optimized for Snapdragon.
Display: A Matter of Preference
The display is a crucial aspect of any handheld gaming device, and both the Ally and the Z1 Extreme offer compelling options. The Ally features a 7-inch, 1080p LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a crisp and responsive gaming experience. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, boasts a 6.8-inch, 1080p AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate.
While the Ally’s larger screen offers a more immersive experience, the Z1 Extreme’s AMOLED panel delivers vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and exceptional contrast. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. Some users may prioritize the larger screen size and high refresh rate of the Ally, while others may prefer the superior color accuracy and vibrant visuals of the Z1 Extreme’s AMOLED display.
Battery Life: A Mixed Bag
Battery life is a crucial factor for any handheld device, and both the Ally and the Z1 Extreme offer decent performance in this area. The Ally boasts a 40Wh battery that can deliver up to 8 hours of playtime on a single charge. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, features a 6000mAh battery that promises up to 10 hours of gaming time.
However, real-world battery life can vary depending on the game being played and the display settings. High-demanding games will naturally drain the battery faster, as will higher brightness levels. Overall, both devices offer sufficient battery life for a few hours of gaming on the go, but the Z1 Extreme has a slight edge in this regard.
Software and Ecosystem: A Clear Winner
The Asus ROG Ally runs on Windows 11, providing access to a vast library of PC games through Steam, Epic Games Store, and other platforms. This makes it a highly versatile device that can handle virtually any game you throw at it. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, runs on Android, offering access to a wide range of mobile games through the Google Play Store.
While the Z1 Extreme’s Android ecosystem is well-established and offers a vast library of mobile games, the Ally’s Windows platform provides a clear edge in terms of versatility and accessibility. With Windows, you can play PC games, use productivity apps, and even browse the web, making it a truly all-in-one device.
Design and Ergonomics: A Matter of Comfort
Both the Ally and the Z1 Extreme offer comfortable and ergonomic designs. The Ally features a sleek and modern design with a textured grip that provides a secure hold. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional gamepad design, with comfortable triggers and buttons.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. Some users may prefer the more modern design and textured grip of the Ally, while others may find the more traditional gamepad layout of the Z1 Extreme more comfortable.
Price and Value: A Tough Decision
The Asus ROG Ally and the Z1 Extreme are both premium handheld gaming devices, with price tags to match. The Ally starts at $699, while the Z1 Extreme is priced at $599.
The Ally’s higher price tag is justified by its more powerful hardware and Windows platform, which offers access to a wider range of games. The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, provides a more affordable alternative with impressive performance and a compelling Android experience.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Handheld for You
So, which handheld gaming PC comes out on top? The answer is: it depends.
The Asus ROG Ally is the clear winner for gamers who prioritize performance and access to a vast library of PC games. Its powerful hardware and Windows platform make it a truly versatile device that can handle virtually any game you throw at it.
The Z1 Extreme, on the other hand, is a compelling option for gamers who want a more affordable device with impressive performance and a well-established Android ecosystem. It offers a great selection of mobile games and a comfortable design, making it a solid choice for casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Ultimately, the best handheld gaming PC for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you want the ultimate in performance and versatility, the Asus ROG Ally is the way to go. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a solid Android experience, the Z1 Extreme is a great choice.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which handheld has better graphics performance?
A: The Asus ROG Ally generally offers better graphics performance, thanks to its dedicated RDNA 3 graphics. However, the Z1 Extreme is still a capable performer, especially in games optimized for Snapdragon.
Q: Which handheld is better for playing PC games?
A: The Asus ROG Ally is the better choice for playing PC games, as it runs on Windows 11 and provides access to a vast library of PC games through Steam, Epic Games Store, and other platforms.
Q: Which handheld has a better display?
A: The Z1 Extreme’s AMOLED display offers superior color accuracy, deeper blacks, and exceptional contrast. However, the Ally’s larger 7-inch screen and 120Hz refresh rate provide a more immersive and responsive gaming experience.
Q: Which handheld is more affordable?
A: The Z1 Extreme is the more affordable option, with a starting price of $599. The Asus ROG Ally starts at $699.
Q: Which handheld is better for casual gamers?
A: Both the Ally and the Z1 Extreme are great options for casual gamers. The Ally offers a more versatile experience with access to PC games, while the Z1 Extreme provides a more affordable and comfortable option with a vast library of mobile games.
