What To Know
- With the rise of handheld gaming, two of the most popular devices on the market are the Nintendo Switch and the ASUS ROG Ally.
- The Ally, on the other hand, is more expensive and requires additional purchases for a gamepad and potentially a microSD card for expandable storage.
- On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more powerful handheld console with access to a wider range of games, including PC titles via cloud streaming, the ASUS ROG Ally is a solid option.
With the rise of handheld gaming, two of the most popular devices on the market are the Nintendo Switch and the ASUS ROG Ally. Both consoles offer unique features and experiences, making it difficult to decide which one is the best choice for gamers. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Nintendo Switch against the ASUS ROG Ally, examining their specs, performance, games, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Nintendo Switch vs. ASUS ROG Ally
| Feature | Nintendo Switch | ASUS ROG Ally |
| — | — | — |
| Processor | Custom NVIDIA Tegra X1 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ |
| Memory | 32GB (expandable up to 2TB) | 8GB (expandable up to 1TB) |
| Display | 6.2-inch OLED (1280 x 720) | 6.0-inch AMOLED (2160 x 1080) |
| Battery Life | Up to 9 hours | Up to 6 hours |
| Controllers | Detachable Joy-Con controllers | Integrated touch controls, optional gamepad |
| Games | Nintendo Switch games, select third-party titles | Android games, select PC games via cloud streaming |
| Price | Starting at $299.99 | Starting at $399.99 |
Performance: Which Console Packs More Power?
In terms of raw performance, the ASUS ROG Ally has a slight edge over the Nintendo Switch. Its Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ processor and 8GB of RAM provide faster loading times, smoother gameplay, and the ability to handle more demanding games. However, the Nintendo Switch’s custom NVIDIA Tegra X1 processor is still capable of delivering solid performance, especially for Nintendo’s first-party titles.
Display: Which Console Offers the Best Visuals?
The ASUS ROG Ally boasts a superior display compared to the Nintendo Switch. Its 6.0-inch AMOLED screen offers a higher resolution (2160 x 1080) and more vibrant colors, resulting in sharper and more immersive visuals. On the other hand, the Nintendo Switch’s 6.2-inch OLED screen provides excellent contrast and deep blacks, making it ideal for playing games in dark environments.
Battery Life: Which Console Lasts Longer?
When it comes to battery life, the Nintendo Switch has a clear advantage over the ASUS ROG Ally. The Switch can provide up to 9 hours of gameplay on a single charge, while the Ally only offers up to 6 hours. This makes the Switch a better choice for longer gaming sessions or when you’re on the go.
Controllers: Which Console Offers the Best Control Options?
The Nintendo Switch’s detachable Joy-Con controllers offer a unique and versatile control scheme. They can be used separately for motion controls or attached to the console for traditional gamepad controls. The Ally, on the other hand, relies on integrated touch controls and an optional gamepad. While the touch controls are intuitive and responsive, they may not be ideal for all games. The gamepad provides a more traditional control experience, but it comes at an additional cost.
Games: Which Console Has the Best Selection?
The Nintendo Switch has a distinct advantage in terms of game selection. It offers access to a vast library of Nintendo’s first-party titles, including popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon. The Ally, on the other hand, relies on Android games and select PC games via cloud streaming. While the Ally has access to a wider range of games overall, the Switch’s exclusive titles and more curated selection may be more appealing to some gamers.
Value: Which Console Offers the Best Bang for Your Buck?
When it comes to value, the Nintendo Switch offers a more compelling proposition than the ASUS ROG Ally. The Switch starts at a lower price point and includes a pair of Joy-Con controllers. The Ally, on the other hand, is more expensive and requires additional purchases for a gamepad and potentially a microSD card for expandable storage.
The Verdict: Which Console Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch and the ASUS ROG Ally depends on your individual preferences and gaming needs. If you’re a fan of Nintendo’s first-party titles and value portability, the Switch is the clear winner. Its excellent battery life, versatile controllers, and curated game selection make it the ideal choice for casual gamers and Nintendo enthusiasts.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more powerful handheld console with access to a wider range of games, including PC titles via cloud streaming, the ASUS ROG Ally is a solid option. Its impressive display, powerful processor, and expandable storage make it a great choice for gamers who demand the best performance and flexibility.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Unique Features
Nintendo Switch:
- Joy-Con Motion Controls: The Switch’s Joy-Con controllers feature motion controls that allow for intuitive and immersive gameplay in supported games.
- Hybrid Design: The Switch can be played both as a handheld console and a home console by connecting it to a TV.
- Nintendo Online: The Switch offers an online subscription service that grants access to online multiplayer, cloud saves, and a library of classic NES and SNES games.
ASUS ROG Ally:
- Cloud Streaming: The Ally supports cloud streaming services like NVIDIA GeForce Now and Xbox Game Pass, allowing you to play PC and console games on the go.
- Expandable Storage: The Ally has a microSD card slot that allows you to expand its storage capacity for more games and media.
- Gaming Accessories: ASUS offers a range of gaming accessories specifically designed for the Ally, including a gamepad, a cooling fan, and a carrying case.
Information You Need to Know
1. Which console has better graphics?
The ASUS ROG Ally has a higher resolution display and a more powerful processor, resulting in better graphics and visual fidelity.
2. Can I play Nintendo Switch games on the ASUS ROG Ally?
No, the ASUS ROG Ally does not support Nintendo Switch games. It runs on the Android operating system and is compatible with Android games and select PC games via cloud streaming.
3. Which console has a longer battery life?
The Nintendo Switch has a longer battery life, offering up to 9 hours of gameplay on a single charge compared to the Ally’s 6 hours.
4. Which console is more portable?
Both consoles are portable, but the Nintendo Switch is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around.
5. Which console has a better selection of games?
The Nintendo Switch has a more curated selection of games, including a vast library of Nintendo’s first-party titles. The ASUS ROG Ally has access to a wider range of games, including Android games and select PC games via cloud streaming.
