The ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming Console is a powerful device designed for gamers on the go. It features a 7” glossy display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% coverage of the sRGB colour space for vibrant visuals. Enjoy ultra-smooth gaming experience with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, 2-speaker system with Smart Amplifier technology, AI noise-canceling technology, built-in array microphone and Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The anti-gravity heat pipes and zero-gravity thermal system ensure your system runs cool even when upside down. With its lightweight design and long battery life, it’s the perfect device for gaming anywhere, anytime.
The ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming Console is a powerful device designed for gamers on the go. It features a 7” glossy display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% coverage of the sRGB colour space for vibrant visuals. Enjoy ultra-smooth gaming experience with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, 2-speaker system with Smart Amplifier technology, AI noise-canceling technology, built-in array microphone and Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The anti-gravity heat pipes and zero-gravity thermal system ensure your system runs cool even when upside down. With its lightweight design and long battery life, it’s the perfect device for gaming anywhere, anytime.
in 3 offers
The lowest price for Asus ROG Ally Ryzen Z1 Handheld Gaming Console (512GB) right now is $818.78 at eBay.com.au, compared across 3 retailers.
The all-time low was $649.00 on 14 Nov 2025 — today's price is 26% above the lowest ever. It has been notably cheaper before — worth setting a price alert.
Prices last updated 23 July 2026.
Asus ROG Ally Ryzen Z1 Handheld Gaming Console (512GB)
The ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming Console is a powerful device designed for gamers on the go. It features a 7” glossy display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% coverage of the sRGB colour space for vibrant visuals. Enjoy ultra-smooth gaming experience with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, 2-speaker system with Smart Amplifier technology, AI noise-canceling technology, built-in array microphone and Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The anti-gravity heat pipes and zero-gravity thermal system ensure your system runs cool even when upside down. With its lightweight design and long battery life, it’s the perfect device for gaming anywhere, anytime.
The ASUS ROG Ally Handheld Gaming Console is a powerful device designed for gamers on the go. It features a 7” glossy display, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% coverage of the sRGB colour space for vibrant visuals. Enjoy ultra-smooth gaming experience with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, 2-speaker system with Smart Amplifier technology, AI noise-canceling technology, built-in array microphone and Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. The anti-gravity heat pipes and zero-gravity thermal system ensure your system runs cool even when upside down. With its lightweight design and long battery life, it’s the perfect device for gaming anywhere, anytime.
Last updated at 23/07/2026 16:41:43
ASUS ROG Ally 512GB Handheld White Console
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Asus Rog Ally White Handheld Console - Other
Delivery $30.45
ASUS ROG Ally - 7" FHD IPS, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, iGPU, Windows 11 Home - International Version (Renewed)
Free delivery between 3–6 Aug
originally posted on asus.com
The Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is an amazing device! I'm a 41-year old woman gamer and this is more comfortable to hold than my Nintendo Switch Lite and plays like a dream. It's been exactly 4 months since my purchase and I am in LOVE! I love being able to play from my catalog of games available from Xbox (PC games), Good Old Games, Switch, EA, Epic, and many others. I really like the Armory Crate interface on this device, too. I think I like it better on here than I do on my ROG Strix SCAR 17 laptop. The device fits into a large purse (Dooney & Bourke Florentine Large Satchel, looking at you) and it's great fun. Games that I love to play on my Ally: Final Fantasy XIV, Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, Disney Dreamlight Valley, No Man's Sky, Strange Horticulture, My Time ... MoreThe Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is an amazing device! I'm a 41-year old woman gamer and this is more comfortable to hold than my Nintendo Switch Lite and plays like a dream. It's been exactly 4 months since my purchase and I am in LOVE! I love being able to play from my catalog of games available from Xbox (PC games), Good Old Games, Switch, EA, Epic, and many others. I really like the Armory Crate interface on this device, too. I think I like it better on here than I do on my ROG Strix SCAR 17 laptop. The device fits into a large purse (Dooney & Bourke Florentine Large Satchel, looking at you) and it's great fun. Games that I love to play on my Ally: Final Fantasy XIV, Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, Disney Dreamlight Valley, No Man's Sky, Strange Horticulture, My Time at Portia, Power Wash Simulator, Fae Farm, Ace Attorney Chronicles, Skyrim and more to come! Recommended travel accessories: ASUS - ROG 65W Charger Dock (sturdy USB-c cable connects to wall charger and allows you to connect HDMI displays + USB-A accessories), hard case with deep well to hold the Ally + the charger dock, portable trifold Bluetooth keyboard (I use the on-screen keyboard just fine during game sessions but if you are docking this at the hotel and want to stream your shows/movies from the bed...). I don't dock the Ally to play on a large screen at home because I already have better options for this: laptop mentioned above + custom built desktop (with Asus - ROG Maximus XIII Hero motherboard). I do encourage anyone who is new to PC gaming to invest in this first as it's a wonderful gateway and I see no reason for it to become obsolete once you decide to take the plunge and purchase other gaming options. The portability of this device cannot be overstated. The only con is the battery life but that's not really a con to me as big time graphics and audio have never run on energy saver mode. It's got 512 GB of storage so I've no reason to use an SD card and thus haven't run into any of the issues others ran into with regard to that. I own a lot of games but it's easy to rotate what I actually want to play on my mobile device (meaning, what I want to play in bed).
originally posted on asus.com
I was wanting high tier gaming-made portableI didn’t want high tier gaming -on the goThis product made that possible. I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend, because sometimes in my line of work I will have moments of free time and wanted my games with me. When Iam home Iam busy too so it works great there too. I couple this with a portable 16” 2k display I caught on sale on amazon and a dock with cooling fans for the ROG. And the dock lets me bring my headset and the ROG allows my controller to Bluetooth right to it no hassle. I currently play Starfeild at 60fps upscaled 30 “no issue” and the quality is plunty good for me. I was worried at first about having to update drivers and the learning curve involved in PC gaming (optimizing ... MoreI was wanting high tier gaming-made portableI didn’t want high tier gaming -on the goThis product made that possible. I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend, because sometimes in my line of work I will have moments of free time and wanted my games with me. When Iam home Iam busy too so it works great there too. I couple this with a portable 16” 2k display I caught on sale on amazon and a dock with cooling fans for the ROG. And the dock lets me bring my headset and the ROG allows my controller to Bluetooth right to it no hassle. I currently play Starfeild at 60fps upscaled 30 “no issue” and the quality is plunty good for me. I was worried at first about having to update drivers and the learning curve involved in PC gaming (optimizing games,mods,updates,etc) but with the already downloaded apps that come default on the ROG everything has been a very refreshing experience.……Now the things I worry about and some hang ups I’ve had….i worry about the battery of the device. Not so much the duration of a full charge. But the duration of its life. But there has been a update to the software that allows for “smart care” of the battery so that has helped my mind a lotThe price…I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend bare bones for around 300 dollar's US …and slowly over around four months was able to get a portable monitor a productive case and screen protector,dock,cooling fans, extra portable battery bank, 65w and above charging docks or power cables. So after purchasing the ROG I was relived to notice everything worked with it aside from the screen protecter and protective case I also bought another dock to help keep it cool during longer game sessions but not going to lie the thought does cross my mind “why didn’t I just buy a gaming laptop”- in a nutshell- the ROG is better suited for someone who is new to PC gaming vs a laptop that after your initial purchase (witch would most likely be over 1000$ US) of a mid level gaming laptop I don’t feel like you would have the same level of attention and support for a laptop pc as u do with the ROG.So if your like me and need to be able to set up a mobile gaming hub in places you spend most of your life at, to be able to set up and tear down in min and still have your AAA games with you to help satisfy that gamer feeling inside that always says “ man I have no time to game anymore” then I think this is well worth the time/money/effort. Giving the right amount of patience I think this product can satisfy the needs of all gamers weather you travel or don’t ..have a big family or a small…single/married…busy/relaxed…hardcore/retro..you got something here.
originally posted on bestbuy.com
The ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld boasts an impressive set of features, including a high refresh rate, powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, and ample storage capacity. However, a critical flaw in the form of a faulty MicroSD slot significantly hampers the overall user experience.Pros:Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor delivers on its promise, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The 120Hz FHD display adds to the immersive gaming visuals.Ample Storage: With a spacious 512GB storage capacity, the ASUS ROG Ally ensures that gamers have sufficient space for their favorite titles, apps, and media.Sleek Aesthetics: The white color variant adds a touch of sophistication to the device, making it visually appealing for ... MoreThe ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld boasts an impressive set of features, including a high refresh rate, powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, and ample storage capacity. However, a critical flaw in the form of a faulty MicroSD slot significantly hampers the overall user experience.Pros:Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor delivers on its promise, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The 120Hz FHD display adds to the immersive gaming visuals.Ample Storage: With a spacious 512GB storage capacity, the ASUS ROG Ally ensures that gamers have sufficient space for their favorite titles, apps, and media.Sleek Aesthetics: The white color variant adds a touch of sophistication to the device, making it visually appealing for gaming enthusiasts.Cons:Faulty MicroSD Slot: Perhaps the most significant drawback of the ASUS ROG Ally is its unreliable MicroSD slot. Users have reported issues, rendering it virtually unusable within the first month of usage. This flaw not only limits the expandable storage options but also raises concerns about the device's overall durability and reliability.Initial Usability Concerns: The reported issues with the MicroSD slot contribute to a frustrating user experience, especially for those who rely on additional storage for their gaming libraries. This flaw can be a deal-breaker for potential buyers seeking a reliable and fully functional gaming handheld.In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld offers a compelling package for gaming enthusiasts, combining powerful hardware and an attractive design. However, the serious issues with the MicroSD slot undermine the overall quality and reliability of the device. Prospective buyers should be cautious and consider alternative options until ASUS addresses and resolves this critical flaw.
| Brightness | 500cd/m² |
| Display Size | 7" |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
ASUS ROG Ally 512GB Handheld White Console
Affiliate Disclosure: We may receive a small commission for purchases made through this link at no extra cost to you. This helps support our site. Thank you!
Asus Rog Ally White Handheld Console - Other
Delivery $30.45
ASUS ROG Ally - 7" FHD IPS, AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, iGPU, Windows 11 Home - International Version (Renewed)
Free delivery between 3–6 Aug
The Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is an amazing device! I'm a 41-year old woman gamer and this is more comfortable to hold than my Nintendo Switch Lite and plays like a dream. It's been exactly 4 months since my purchase and I am in LOVE! I love being able to play from my catalog of games available from Xbox (PC games), Good Old Games, Switch, EA, Epic, and many others. I really like the Armory Crate interface on this device, too. I think I like it better on here than I do on my ROG Strix SCAR 17 laptop. The device fits into a large purse (Dooney & Bourke Florentine Large Satchel, looking at you) and it's great fun. Games that I love to play on my Ally: Final Fantasy XIV, Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, Disney Dreamlight Valley, No Man's Sky, Strange Horticulture, My Time ... MoreThe Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is an amazing device! I'm a 41-year old woman gamer and this is more comfortable to hold than my Nintendo Switch Lite and plays like a dream. It's been exactly 4 months since my purchase and I am in LOVE! I love being able to play from my catalog of games available from Xbox (PC games), Good Old Games, Switch, EA, Epic, and many others. I really like the Armory Crate interface on this device, too. I think I like it better on here than I do on my ROG Strix SCAR 17 laptop. The device fits into a large purse (Dooney & Bourke Florentine Large Satchel, looking at you) and it's great fun. Games that I love to play on my Ally: Final Fantasy XIV, Car Mechanic Simulator 2021, Disney Dreamlight Valley, No Man's Sky, Strange Horticulture, My Time at Portia, Power Wash Simulator, Fae Farm, Ace Attorney Chronicles, Skyrim and more to come! Recommended travel accessories: ASUS - ROG 65W Charger Dock (sturdy USB-c cable connects to wall charger and allows you to connect HDMI displays + USB-A accessories), hard case with deep well to hold the Ally + the charger dock, portable trifold Bluetooth keyboard (I use the on-screen keyboard just fine during game sessions but if you are docking this at the hotel and want to stream your shows/movies from the bed...). I don't dock the Ally to play on a large screen at home because I already have better options for this: laptop mentioned above + custom built desktop (with Asus - ROG Maximus XIII Hero motherboard). I do encourage anyone who is new to PC gaming to invest in this first as it's a wonderful gateway and I see no reason for it to become obsolete once you decide to take the plunge and purchase other gaming options. The portability of this device cannot be overstated. The only con is the battery life but that's not really a con to me as big time graphics and audio have never run on energy saver mode. It's got 512 GB of storage so I've no reason to use an SD card and thus haven't run into any of the issues others ran into with regard to that. I own a lot of games but it's easy to rotate what I actually want to play on my mobile device (meaning, what I want to play in bed).
I was wanting high tier gaming-made portableI didn’t want high tier gaming -on the goThis product made that possible. I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend, because sometimes in my line of work I will have moments of free time and wanted my games with me. When Iam home Iam busy too so it works great there too. I couple this with a portable 16” 2k display I caught on sale on amazon and a dock with cooling fans for the ROG. And the dock lets me bring my headset and the ROG allows my controller to Bluetooth right to it no hassle. I currently play Starfeild at 60fps upscaled 30 “no issue” and the quality is plunty good for me. I was worried at first about having to update drivers and the learning curve involved in PC gaming (optimizing ... MoreI was wanting high tier gaming-made portableI didn’t want high tier gaming -on the goThis product made that possible. I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend, because sometimes in my line of work I will have moments of free time and wanted my games with me. When Iam home Iam busy too so it works great there too. I couple this with a portable 16” 2k display I caught on sale on amazon and a dock with cooling fans for the ROG. And the dock lets me bring my headset and the ROG allows my controller to Bluetooth right to it no hassle. I currently play Starfeild at 60fps upscaled 30 “no issue” and the quality is plunty good for me. I was worried at first about having to update drivers and the learning curve involved in PC gaming (optimizing games,mods,updates,etc) but with the already downloaded apps that come default on the ROG everything has been a very refreshing experience.……Now the things I worry about and some hang ups I’ve had….i worry about the battery of the device. Not so much the duration of a full charge. But the duration of its life. But there has been a update to the software that allows for “smart care” of the battery so that has helped my mind a lotThe price…I started with the steam deck I bought from a friend bare bones for around 300 dollar's US …and slowly over around four months was able to get a portable monitor a productive case and screen protector,dock,cooling fans, extra portable battery bank, 65w and above charging docks or power cables. So after purchasing the ROG I was relived to notice everything worked with it aside from the screen protecter and protective case I also bought another dock to help keep it cool during longer game sessions but not going to lie the thought does cross my mind “why didn’t I just buy a gaming laptop”- in a nutshell- the ROG is better suited for someone who is new to PC gaming vs a laptop that after your initial purchase (witch would most likely be over 1000$ US) of a mid level gaming laptop I don’t feel like you would have the same level of attention and support for a laptop pc as u do with the ROG.So if your like me and need to be able to set up a mobile gaming hub in places you spend most of your life at, to be able to set up and tear down in min and still have your AAA games with you to help satisfy that gamer feeling inside that always says “ man I have no time to game anymore” then I think this is well worth the time/money/effort. Giving the right amount of patience I think this product can satisfy the needs of all gamers weather you travel or don’t ..have a big family or a small…single/married…busy/relaxed…hardcore/retro..you got something here.
The ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld boasts an impressive set of features, including a high refresh rate, powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, and ample storage capacity. However, a critical flaw in the form of a faulty MicroSD slot significantly hampers the overall user experience.Pros:Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor delivers on its promise, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The 120Hz FHD display adds to the immersive gaming visuals.Ample Storage: With a spacious 512GB storage capacity, the ASUS ROG Ally ensures that gamers have sufficient space for their favorite titles, apps, and media.Sleek Aesthetics: The white color variant adds a touch of sophistication to the device, making it visually appealing for ... MoreThe ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld boasts an impressive set of features, including a high refresh rate, powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor, and ample storage capacity. However, a critical flaw in the form of a faulty MicroSD slot significantly hampers the overall user experience.Pros:Powerful Performance: The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor delivers on its promise, providing a smooth and responsive gaming experience. The 120Hz FHD display adds to the immersive gaming visuals.Ample Storage: With a spacious 512GB storage capacity, the ASUS ROG Ally ensures that gamers have sufficient space for their favorite titles, apps, and media.Sleek Aesthetics: The white color variant adds a touch of sophistication to the device, making it visually appealing for gaming enthusiasts.Cons:Faulty MicroSD Slot: Perhaps the most significant drawback of the ASUS ROG Ally is its unreliable MicroSD slot. Users have reported issues, rendering it virtually unusable within the first month of usage. This flaw not only limits the expandable storage options but also raises concerns about the device's overall durability and reliability.Initial Usability Concerns: The reported issues with the MicroSD slot contribute to a frustrating user experience, especially for those who rely on additional storage for their gaming libraries. This flaw can be a deal-breaker for potential buyers seeking a reliable and fully functional gaming handheld.In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Ally 7" Gaming Handheld offers a compelling package for gaming enthusiasts, combining powerful hardware and an attractive design. However, the serious issues with the MicroSD slot undermine the overall quality and reliability of the device. Prospective buyers should be cautious and consider alternative options until ASUS addresses and resolves this critical flaw.
I recently purchased the ASUS ROG Ally 7" 120Hz FHD 1080p Gaming Handheld in White, and I must say, I am extremely impressed with its performance and features.Firstly, the design of the handheld is sleek and stylish. The white color gives it a premium look, and the build quality feels solid and durable. The 7" display is vibrant and sharp, with a 120Hz refresh rate that provides smooth and fluid gameplay.The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor is a powerhouse, delivering excellent performance for gaming. The handheld handles even the most demanding games with ease, thanks to its powerful processor and 512GB of storage. I have not experienced any lag or slowdowns during gameplay, which is a huge plus.The controls on the ASUS ROG Ally are well-designed and ... MoreI recently purchased the ASUS ROG Ally 7" 120Hz FHD 1080p Gaming Handheld in White, and I must say, I am extremely impressed with its performance and features.Firstly, the design of the handheld is sleek and stylish. The white color gives it a premium look, and the build quality feels solid and durable. The 7" display is vibrant and sharp, with a 120Hz refresh rate that provides smooth and fluid gameplay.The AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Processor is a powerhouse, delivering excellent performance for gaming. The handheld handles even the most demanding games with ease, thanks to its powerful processor and 512GB of storage. I have not experienced any lag or slowdowns during gameplay, which is a huge plus.The controls on the ASUS ROG Ally are well-designed and responsive. The buttons and joysticks feel comfortable to use, and the handheld also features a touchpad for added convenience. The placement of the controls is ergonomic, allowing for extended gaming sessions without discomfort.Battery life is another area where this handheld excels. I was pleasantly surprised by how long the battery lasted, even during intense gaming sessions. It easily lasts for several hours, which is impressive considering the power-packed performance it offers.One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Ally is its connectivity options. It supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for seamless online gaming and easy pairing with other devices. The handheld also features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, as well as an HDMI port for connecting to a larger display.Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase of the ASUS ROG Ally 7" 120Hz FHD 1080p Gaming Handheld. It offers top-notch performance, a stylish design, and a range of features that make it a must-have for any gaming enthusiast. If you're in the market for a high-quality gaming handheld, I highly recommend considering this one.
I'm obsessed with miniature computing. I've had just about every sub 8" PC built by all the big manufacturers, and none of them were any good for real gaming. When Valve came out with their handheld gaming device, the gauntlet was thrown down, and Asus picked it up. I actually sold my gaming laptop to fund this purchase, and I'm so glad that I did.As a gaming-first PC, Asus tries to take away the pain of navigating Windows 11 without a typical PC interface by providing a picture based menu featuring all of the games that you install. If you are already a PC gamer, then your entire Steam, GoG, EGS, and other gaming libraries are available to be installed, since this is fundamentally still a gaming PC. Windows could care less what it was wrapped up in, so long as you ... MoreI'm obsessed with miniature computing. I've had just about every sub 8" PC built by all the big manufacturers, and none of them were any good for real gaming. When Valve came out with their handheld gaming device, the gauntlet was thrown down, and Asus picked it up. I actually sold my gaming laptop to fund this purchase, and I'm so glad that I did.As a gaming-first PC, Asus tries to take away the pain of navigating Windows 11 without a typical PC interface by providing a picture based menu featuring all of the games that you install. If you are already a PC gamer, then your entire Steam, GoG, EGS, and other gaming libraries are available to be installed, since this is fundamentally still a gaming PC. Windows could care less what it was wrapped up in, so long as you have the specs to run the game you can run it. You won't be able to run your game in ultra graphics mode with all the settings turned all the way up, but it's a small compromise to be able to play on the go.I have an old USB-C dock that I got for my wife's laptop, and I was pleasantly surprised to be able to use it to connect to multiple monitors and attach my keyboard and mouse. Why wouldn't it work, it's a Windows 11 PC after all! This came in super handy when I took my family on vacation. I docked the Ally to the large TV in the living room of the villa, and I had a full featured entertainment system. I was also able to login remotely to my work PC to pull a Winston Wolf during a little emergency that occurred back at the office while I was supposed to be surfing. And of course, it was a lifesaver on the long plane ride out to the islands and back, but a couple movies and a few adventure games, and I could hardly tell the difference.The device itself is pretty huge, but surprisingly comfortable to hold for long gaming sessions. I could do without the rgb lighting around the sticks, but there's a software option to customize it or turn it off entirely. Yes, like any other gaming PC, you have to deal with Windows and its quirks, but for real for real, if you're a PC gamer this is nothing new and nothing to complain about, you already signed the unholy pact long ago and dealing with the update cycle and drivers and tweaking every single setting is just the ritual sacrifice that we all partake in in order to bask in the phosphorescent glow of our favorite pixelated pastimes. Of course, there are launcher programs designed to replace Asus' Armory Crate launcher that incorporate emulators (yes, you can install them) but I sort of like dealing with the desktop, since I use mine for the PC part as well as the gaming aspect.
The ROG Ally was my first introduction to the handheld gaming pc space. When it comes to performance, there are few that come close to it within its class, especially with the Z1 Extreme processor. The majority of games, with the exception of some AAA titles, run as good as you can get for a handheld. The 120hz LCD screen is also a nice plus. HOWEVER, the blessing and curse of this device is the software, namely Windows, in my opinion.If you like tweaking settings, installing mods, and are okay with typical Windows quirks, then this device is perfect for you. However, if you want a machine that boots up and just plays games with little hassle, you may want to look towards a Steam Deck or even look into installing a Linux-based OS designed for handhelds. Armory ... MoreThe ROG Ally was my first introduction to the handheld gaming pc space. When it comes to performance, there are few that come close to it within its class, especially with the Z1 Extreme processor. The majority of games, with the exception of some AAA titles, run as good as you can get for a handheld. The 120hz LCD screen is also a nice plus. HOWEVER, the blessing and curse of this device is the software, namely Windows, in my opinion.If you like tweaking settings, installing mods, and are okay with typical Windows quirks, then this device is perfect for you. However, if you want a machine that boots up and just plays games with little hassle, you may want to look towards a Steam Deck or even look into installing a Linux-based OS designed for handhelds. Armory Crate SE certainly does a great job of hiding certain Windows issues, but you will still encounter a bug here and there. Typically, the bugs are quick fixes, though.Battery life is okay, with my top end at around 3 hours and bottom at around 1 hour. It really depends on the games/tasks you’re using and the TDP you set it to. For example, I was able to play Halo 2 on this device at 1080p normal graphics for close to 2 hours at 12-15W before the battery started getting somewhat low. Honestly, that’s plenty of time for me, but if battery life is a concern for you, a power bank would most likely cover those issues.Now for the other parts: The speakers were great for what they are, and the joysticks were a little loose for my tastes. The weight of the actual device is light but not cheap feeling. I have a case on mine, but I don’t think you’ll really need it unless you’re carrying it around in your backpack all day with a bunch of other items. The screen is a great LCD panel, but sometimes the slightly raised black level as compared to an OLED screen did cause minor issues in terms of visibility on same games. Usually this is easily remedied by changing gamma settings in game.All in all, as a first generation product, the ROG Ally Z1X is a great all rounder, with the main issues really coming from typical Windows bugs you see every once in a while. If you are okay and/or used to that, then this device is for you.
As an ROG fanboy I have their 4090, their latest $1,000 Extreme motherboard (despite flaws), their Hyperion case, etc, etc. and when I saw the original April Fools trailer I hoped it would be a real product and naturally preordered.Having a baby, I thought this would be a good way to sneak my fix in which accessibility. You log in with the fingerprint reader fast and are instantly greeted with Asus's Armory Crate software...that's kind zof where it ends. A hiccup here or there will encourage you to update drivers, bios, or Windows which then leads to other things needing an update and a restart too- which then begets another thing needing an update and a restart. I just want to get into a stinking game for 20 minutes and instead I spend over 30 updating and ... MoreAs an ROG fanboy I have their 4090, their latest $1,000 Extreme motherboard (despite flaws), their Hyperion case, etc, etc. and when I saw the original April Fools trailer I hoped it would be a real product and naturally preordered.Having a baby, I thought this would be a good way to sneak my fix in which accessibility. You log in with the fingerprint reader fast and are instantly greeted with Asus's Armory Crate software...that's kind zof where it ends. A hiccup here or there will encourage you to update drivers, bios, or Windows which then leads to other things needing an update and a restart too- which then begets another thing needing an update and a restart. I just want to get into a stinking game for 20 minutes and instead I spend over 30 updating and resetting. And then the fun boat sets sail without me...but that's assuming everything works as intended.The SD card was fine at first but after a daisychain of updates and resets, all of the sudden things started happening- games take to long to load if at all, touch screen stops working, windows stops responding, plugging in the power or the official HDMI adapter leads to blackscreens and then I notice ejecting the SD card "fixes" everything. I tried updating the firmware "successfully" through intel since the geniuses at Asus posted for the wrong OS and same issue. It cant be formatted because inserting it bogs the system down so this $200 accessory investment felt like a slightly worse investment than the $40 official travel case that doesnt even have room for the AC adapter on a device that runs out of juice in about 90 minutes of updates and system resets...or maybe the occasional game if it works right.That aside, if you get to play a game, it does run quite well if you're flexible with settings and have realistic expectations. Gears 5, Stray, some of the Yakuza games, Doom, Tekken 7, amon others ger ran quite well although with some much newer games you may need to adapt and make concessions. Lies of P looked pretty good but the frame rate wasn't cutting it for me but lowering the visuals made it too much an eyesore despite the added fluidity.Aside from the lack of features, Armoury Crate runs and looks pretty clean and smooth conpared to its PC brother and is well planned out. There can be a learning curve for getting the most out the user experience because there can be a lot to learn but if you're lazy you will get by as well but the only oddity I feel is that there's a secondary Asus app for additional system downloads- most importantly the Bios updates. The controls feel solid although a little unnatural if you're transitioning from a console controller. IF the hardware or software was perfect (I'm inclined to think the hardware issues stem from software), then my biggest wosh would be for a better adapted Windows experience as the standard mode can be very hard to read and navigation can be quite inaccurate unless you have a mouse set and/or use larger screen. I only tried using this on my large screen TV after buying the HDMI adapter to disappointment. At first the bloated-proce Raikiri controller needed drivers installed but even after that the UI was unusable while the Ally was plugged in. To reiterate a previous mention, you will want the generously long AC adapter or a portable battery handy because you will burn through the small battery FAST and thus kind of defeating the purpose if you're expecting true "Gaming on the go".This product has so much potential but so many flaws at the same time. If I didnt have these catastrophic issues woth stability then I can easily overlook issues like the short battery life. Otherwise, I spent $700+tax to play 3 hours of games and 20 hours of updates, rests, more updates and resets, and failed troubleshooting
Handheld PC - A Compact PowerhouseThe ROG Ally handheld PC is a compact marvel that packs a punch in the world of portable computing. Its sleek design and robust performance make it a standout choice for users on the go.Powered by high-end components, the ROG Ally effortlessly handles demanding tasks with finesse. The combination of a powerful processor and dedicated graphics ensures smooth multitasking and an immersive gaming experience, making it suitable for both work and play.The 7-inch display may seem small, but its vibrant colors and sharp resolution deliver an impressive visual experience. The touchscreen functionality adds a layer of convenience, enhancing the overall user interaction.One of the key strengths of the ROG Ally is its portability. The ... MoreHandheld PC - A Compact PowerhouseThe ROG Ally handheld PC is a compact marvel that packs a punch in the world of portable computing. Its sleek design and robust performance make it a standout choice for users on the go.Powered by high-end components, the ROG Ally effortlessly handles demanding tasks with finesse. The combination of a powerful processor and dedicated graphics ensures smooth multitasking and an immersive gaming experience, making it suitable for both work and play.The 7-inch display may seem small, but its vibrant colors and sharp resolution deliver an impressive visual experience. The touchscreen functionality adds a layer of convenience, enhancing the overall user interaction.One of the key strengths of the ROG Ally is its portability. The lightweight design and compact form factor make it easy to carry, fitting comfortably in a backpack or even a pocket. The inclusion of a long-lasting battery ensures that you can stay productive or entertained without constantly worrying about running out of power.The build quality of the ROG Ally is top-notch, reflecting ASUS’s commitment to durability and aesthetics. The device feels sturdy in hand, and the tactile buttons and controls contribute to a satisfying user experience.While the ROG Ally excels in many aspects, it’s worth noting that the compact size may pose limitations for extended typing sessions or intricate design work. Additionally, the pricing places it in the premium category, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users.In conclusion, the ROG Ally handheld PC stands out as a versatile and powerful companion for those who need performance on the go. Its impressive specs, portability, and build quality make it a commendable choice for professionals, gamers, and anyone seeking a compact computing solution.
Note: I have returned the ally at the time of writing due to already having a top of the line pc and gaming laptop though do plan on picking it up in the future for gaming outside of my house.This review is written in regards to the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme and not the non extreme version.My first impression is that it won't be replacing my pc as my main source of gaming entertainment, but it can definitely work well at certain times.1) Storage looks great but with the amount of storage games take up I wish that there was an option to opt for 1tb or even 2tb from the factory, especially with the issue of the sd card slot getting too hot and damaging the sd card thats inserted.Note: ASUS do plan on implementing a fix but Im unsure if it has already happened or not ... MoreNote: I have returned the ally at the time of writing due to already having a top of the line pc and gaming laptop though do plan on picking it up in the future for gaming outside of my house.This review is written in regards to the ROG Ally Z1 Extreme and not the non extreme version.My first impression is that it won't be replacing my pc as my main source of gaming entertainment, but it can definitely work well at certain times.1) Storage looks great but with the amount of storage games take up I wish that there was an option to opt for 1tb or even 2tb from the factory, especially with the issue of the sd card slot getting too hot and damaging the sd card thats inserted.Note: ASUS do plan on implementing a fix but Im unsure if it has already happened or not so do research if needed.2) Performance is not going to replace your top of the line gaming pcs in terms of graphics power, but it is solid for its price and even its size. Even though you won't be cranking graphics to max you can definitely enjoy games with solid fps as long as you tone the graphics down.3) Controller and just controls in general were actually amazing, armory crate worked well, and the ease of access to different power profiles and fan speed settings was a very welcome feature. Also being able to change the refresh rate of the screen to save battery if needed was nice too.4) Battery life is rough when you're going full tilt at the highest power profile but with the different power profiles you can make the battery last. The included charger is quick and speedy, but I do think that the charger hdmi all in one accessory should have come in the box as it blows the included one out of the water due to having the hdmi and having the wire be detachable so replacment of said wire is an option.All in All I will definitely recommend this as an entry to pc games/gaming as it is a very solid option, you can play all the games that you would be able to on a normal PC right out of the box unlike the steamdeck and you have access to xbox game pass for pc/ultimate. Definitely recommend it for a good holiday gift for any aspiring gamers that want to play pc games.Besides gaming this machine is also solid at being a normal pc albeit needing a dongle/dock to plug in more than one device such as a mouse and keyboard.Side Note: You can technically use it as a powerful gaming pc by buying an external graphics card that is compatible with the ROG Ally but note that its worth investing into and actual PC because of the prices of these external cards.
I still own a Steam Deck, but I prefer the ROG Ally. Having said that, I think console-only gamers will prefer the Steam Deck because, in a strange reversal, the Linux-based operating system "just works" as a prepackaged experience while the Windows-based ROG Ally requires frequent tinkering (this is literally a desktop version of Windows, after all). Tinkering isn't easy with fat fingers and a tiny screen, which is another point in favor for Steam Deck and its unusually precise dual trackpads. ASUS's Armoury Crate is a preloaded application that attempts to simplify the front end experience, but I often find myself avoiding it because it isn't as slick as SteamOS and requires updating far too often.I think most PC veterans will prefer ROG Ally as well, especially ... MoreI still own a Steam Deck, but I prefer the ROG Ally. Having said that, I think console-only gamers will prefer the Steam Deck because, in a strange reversal, the Linux-based operating system "just works" as a prepackaged experience while the Windows-based ROG Ally requires frequent tinkering (this is literally a desktop version of Windows, after all). Tinkering isn't easy with fat fingers and a tiny screen, which is another point in favor for Steam Deck and its unusually precise dual trackpads. ASUS's Armoury Crate is a preloaded application that attempts to simplify the front end experience, but I often find myself avoiding it because it isn't as slick as SteamOS and requires updating far too often.I think most PC veterans will prefer ROG Ally as well, especially those who frequently emulate older consoles or plan to use the device for anything other than Steam-related activities. Yes, you can also emulate games on Steam Deck, but I just don't like jumping through the hoops Emudeck requires (such as constantly switching between Gaming Mode and Desktop Mode) and I've had no issues running Fightcade on the Ally either. I find it's a lot easier for me to set up shared folders for ROMs and save states to get a more seamless transition from desktop gaming and portable gaming. Having said that, Steam Deck probably scores yet another point for even having the option between Gaming and Desktop mode, whereas the Ally is pretty much Desktop mode only (unless you count Armory Crate as its gaming mode).I even prefer the Steam Deck's face buttons, battery life, and speakers just a TINY bit more, but the 120hz display is enough for me to look past those barely perceivable shortcomings. The display is also 1080p, but let's be real: 720 and 1080 look pretty much the same at this size.Yes, Windows is awkward to get the hang of in a touchscreen interface, but doing anything outside of Steam Deck's Gaming Mode is also awkward without a keyboard and mouse. Which brings me to another point: either one of the devices is improved by a USB dock ($40-100) for peripherals. I find that these "extras" are more necessary than optional in the long run, so there's another expense you can look forward to. You should also plan on a case as well; D-Brand just came out with theirs, but I had already purchased the Skull & Co. GripCase for $20 which massively improves the grip and has a simple solution to requiring a dorky kickstand.I can think of quite a few features I like better in the Steam Deck than in the ROG Ally (I haven't even mentioned the Ally's overheating SD card issue, which is frankly a ridiculous oversight in this day and age), and yet I still prefer the ROG Ally overall.
| Brightness | 500cd/m² |
| Display Size | 7" |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
