What To Know
- The ROG Ally boasts a 7-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering a sharp, vibrant image and smooth gameplay.
- The Steam Deck, meanwhile, features a 7-inch LCD display with a 1280 x 800 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate.
- The Steam Deck, on the other hand, has a more robust and larger design, with a larger grip area and more prominent buttons.
Choosing your next handheld gaming device can be a tough decision, especially when you’re faced with two titans like the Asus ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. Both offer impressive power and features, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key differences between these two gaming beasts, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance: A Close Race with Different Strengths
Both the Asus ROG Ally and Steam Deck boast powerful hardware that can handle modern games with ease. The ROG Ally packs a custom AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU with 8 Zen 4 cores clocked up to 4.0 GHz, paired with an impressive Radeon 780M GPU. This combination delivers smooth gameplay at high frame rates, even with demanding titles.
The Steam Deck, on the other hand, utilizes a custom AMD Zen 2 processor with 8 cores clocked at 3.5 GHz, coupled with an AMD Radeon Vega GPU. While less powerful than the ROG Ally, the Steam Deck still offers excellent performance for most games, especially with its focus on Steam library compatibility.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers superior raw performance, especially in demanding games.
- Steam Deck: Delivers solid performance across a wide range of titles, with a focus on Steam library compatibility.
Display: A Matter of Resolution and Refresh Rate
The ROG Ally boasts a 7-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering a sharp, vibrant image and smooth gameplay. The Steam Deck, meanwhile, features a 7-inch LCD display with a 1280 x 800 resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. While the Steam Deck’s display is adequate, the ROG Ally’s higher resolution and refresh rate provide a more immersive and responsive gaming experience.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers a sharper and smoother visual experience with higher resolution and refresh rate.
- Steam Deck: Provides a decent display with a focus on affordability and battery life.
Operating System: Windows vs. SteamOS
One of the biggest differences lies in the operating systems. The ROG Ally runs on Windows 11, offering access to a vast library of games from various platforms, including Steam, Epic Games Store, and more. This flexibility makes the ROG Ally a more versatile device for those who want to play games beyond the Steam ecosystem.
The Steam Deck, as its name suggests, runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system optimized for gaming. While SteamOS provides a seamless experience for Steam games, it lacks the broad compatibility of Windows. However, it’s worth noting that SteamOS has been continuously improving, with support for other platforms like the Epic Games Store and even the ability to install Windows.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers greater flexibility with Windows 11, supporting various game platforms.
- Steam Deck: Provides a streamlined and optimized experience for Steam games with SteamOS.
Design and Ergonomics: Comfort and Control
Both devices boast comfortable and ergonomic designs, but with subtle differences. The ROG Ally features a more compact and sleek design, with a slightly smaller footprint than the Steam Deck. The controls on the ROG Ally are well-placed and responsive, offering a comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions.
The Steam Deck, on the other hand, has a more robust and larger design, with a larger grip area and more prominent buttons. This design might be more comfortable for larger hands, but it can feel slightly bulky for smaller hands.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers a more compact and sleek design with comfortable controls.
- Steam Deck: Features a more robust and larger design, which might be more comfortable for larger hands.
Battery Life: A Trade-off Between Performance and Endurance
Battery life is a crucial factor for handheld gaming. The ROG Ally boasts a 48Wh battery, delivering an estimated 4-8 hours of gameplay depending on game settings and usage. The Steam Deck, with its 40Wh battery, offers a similar battery life, ranging from 4 to 8 hours. However, the Steam Deck’s lower power consumption can extend its battery life in less demanding games.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers a slightly shorter battery life but compensates with higher performance.
- Steam Deck: Provides a slightly longer battery life, especially in less demanding games.
Price: A Matter of Budget and Features
The ROG Ally comes in various configurations, with prices ranging from $699 to $899. The Steam Deck also has different storage options, with prices starting at $399. The ROG Ally offers a premium experience with its higher-end hardware and Windows operating system, but it comes at a higher price tag. The Steam Deck, while less powerful, provides a more affordable option with a focus on Steam library compatibility.
Key Takeaways:
- ROG Ally: Offers a premium gaming experience at a higher price point.
- Steam Deck: Provides a more affordable option with a focus on Steam library compatibility.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Features and Considerations
Both devices offer unique features that cater to different needs. The ROG Ally comes with a built-in cooling system, ensuring smooth performance even during intense gaming sessions. It also features a dedicated MUX switch, allowing for direct connection to the GPU for improved performance.
The Steam Deck, on the other hand, features a unique controller design with trackpads and gyroscopes, providing additional control options for games that support them. It also boasts a user-replaceable SSD, allowing for easy storage upgrades.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Handheld for You
Ultimately, the choice between the Asus ROG Ally and the Steam Deck comes down to individual preferences and priorities. If you prioritize raw performance, a wider game library, and a premium gaming experience, the ROG Ally is the ideal choice. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a focus on Steam library compatibility and a longer battery life, the Steam Deck is a compelling alternative.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I play any game on the Steam Deck?
A: The Steam Deck primarily focuses on Steam games, but it has become more versatile with support for other platforms like the Epic Games Store and even the ability to install Windows. However, some games might not be fully compatible with the Steam Deck’s operating system.
Q: Is the ROG Ally compatible with Steam games?
A: Yes, the ROG Ally is compatible with Steam games, as it runs on Windows 11. You can access your Steam library and play your favorite titles on the ROG Ally.
Q: Which device offers better graphics performance?
A: The ROG Ally boasts superior graphics performance due to its more powerful AMD Radeon 780M GPU. This translates to smoother gameplay and higher frame rates, especially in demanding games.
Q: Which device is better for emulating games?
A: Both devices are capable of emulating games, but the ROG Ally‘s more powerful hardware and Windows operating system make it a better choice for emulating demanding games.
Q: What are the pros and cons of each device?
A:
ROG Ally Pros:
- Superior performance
- Wider game library support
- Sleek and compact design
- Dedicated MUX switch for improved performance
ROG Ally Cons:
- Higher price
- Shorter battery life
Steam Deck Pros:
- More affordable
- Longer battery life
- Unique controller design
- User-replaceable SSD
Steam Deck Cons:
- Lower performance
