What To Know
- On paper, the Legion Go boasts a slightly larger and higher-resolution display with a faster refresh rate.
- The ROG Ally offers a more competitive price point compared to the Legion Go, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious gamers.
- The ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go represent a significant leap forward in handheld gaming, offering high-performance gaming experiences on the go.
The world of handheld gaming is exploding, and two titans have emerged to claim the throne: ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go. Both offer powerful hardware, immersive displays, and the promise of AAA gaming on the go. But which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive guide will dissect the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of each device, helping you make an informed decision.
Hardware and Performance: A Battle of the Titans
Both the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go boast impressive specs, capable of delivering smooth, high-fidelity gaming experiences. Let’s break down the key differences:
ASUS ROG Ally:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
- GPU: AMD Radeon 780M
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (expandable via microSD)
- Display: 7-inch 120Hz FHD IPS LCD
Lenovo Legion Go:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
- GPU: AMD Radeon 780M
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD (expandable via microSD)
- Display: 8.8-inch 144Hz QHD IPS LCD
On paper, the Legion Go boasts a slightly larger and higher-resolution display with a faster refresh rate. However, the ROG Ally’s smaller size and lighter weight might be more appealing for on-the-go gaming. Both devices share the same processor and GPU, promising similar performance in most games. However, the Legion Go’s larger display might require slightly more processing power to maintain high frame rates in demanding titles.
Design and Ergonomics: A Matter of Preference
The ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go offer distinct design philosophies catering to different preferences.
ASUS ROG Ally:
- Design: Compact, ergonomic, resembles a traditional handheld console
- Controls: Traditional gamepad layout with shoulder buttons, triggers, and analog sticks
- Weight: 608 grams
Lenovo Legion Go:
- Design: Larger, modular, detachable controller design, similar to the Nintendo Switch
- Controls: Detachable controllers with customizable buttons and analog sticks
- Weight: 858 grams
The ROG Ally’s compact design and familiar gamepad layout provide a comfortable and intuitive gaming experience. The Legion Go’s modular design and detachable controllers offer greater flexibility and customization, but the larger size and heavier weight might be less appealing for extended gaming sessions.
Software and Features: Beyond the Hardware
Both devices offer a range of software features and functionalities to enhance the gaming experience.
ASUS ROG Ally:
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Software: Armoury Crate, ROG GameVisual, ROG GameFlow
- Features: Game streaming, cloud gaming support, integrated microphone and speakers
Lenovo Legion Go:
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Software: Lenovo Vantage, Legion Toolkit
- Features: Game streaming, cloud gaming support, integrated microphone and speakers, detachable controllers with customizable button mapping
The ROG Ally’s Armoury Crate software provides comprehensive control over system settings and performance optimization, while the Legion Go’s Lenovo Vantage offers similar functionalities. Both devices support game streaming and cloud gaming services, allowing you to access a wider library of titles.
Battery Life: A Crucial Factor for On-the-Go Gaming
Battery life is a critical consideration for handheld gaming devices.
ASUS ROG Ally:
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours (claimed)
Lenovo Legion Go:
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours (claimed)
Both devices offer respectable battery life for casual gaming sessions, but heavy gaming might drain the battery faster. The ROG Ally’s slightly longer battery life might be a deciding factor for gamers who prioritize extended play sessions.
Price and Availability: A Competitive Landscape
ASUS ROG Ally:
- Price: Starts at $699
Lenovo Legion Go:
- Price: Starts at $799
The ROG Ally offers a more competitive price point compared to the Legion Go, making it a more accessible option for budget-conscious gamers.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go boils down to personal preferences and priorities.
Choose the ASUS ROG Ally if:
- You prioritize portability and a familiar gamepad layout
- You prefer a compact and lightweight design
- You have a tighter budget
Choose the Lenovo Legion Go if:
- You prefer a larger display with higher resolution and refresh rate
- You value modularity and customizable controls
- You’re willing to pay a premium for the latest features
Beyond the Battlefield: A Look at the Future of Handheld Gaming
The ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go represent a significant leap forward in handheld gaming, offering high-performance gaming experiences on the go. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more powerful and innovative handheld devices in the future. Expect to see advancements in display technology, battery life, and processor performance, pushing the boundaries of mobile gaming further.
What People Want to Know
1. Can I play all PC games on the ROG Ally and Legion Go?
Both devices run Windows 11, so you can theoretically play any PC game that meets the minimum system requirements. However, some games might require specific drivers or settings to run optimally.
2. Which device is better for cloud gaming?
Both devices offer excellent support for cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and GeForce Now. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences and the specific cloud gaming service you plan to use.
3. Do the Legion Go’s detachable controllers feel comfortable?
The detachable controllers offer a comfortable and customizable gaming experience, but some users might find the overall size and weight of the device a bit cumbersome for extended gaming sessions.
4. What are the pros and cons of having a larger display on the Legion Go?
The larger display offers a more immersive gaming experience, especially for games with detailed graphics. However, it also contributes to the overall size and weight of the device, making it less portable.
5. Is the ROG Ally worth the price?
The ROG Ally offers a compelling value proposition, providing a powerful handheld gaming experience at a competitive price point. It’s an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize portability, performance, and affordability.
