Which console is superior, the Asus ROG Ally or the Steam Deck?

We at SmartRead, as our name implies, are passionate about gaming on the move, and we're thrilled that the newest portable game consoles provide an extensive selection of games to enjoy, whether you're lounging on the couch at home or on the go. But which console prevails in the end? We compare the Asus ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. to determine which we suggest.

We can recommend the top Nintendo Switch console if you're in the market for a new portable gaming console, but you should also think about getting one of the best gaming phones. as the choices available now have a lot of power.

Now, let's discuss which one you should choose between the Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally.

Steam Deck with Asus ROG Ally specifications

Here's a brief summary of the main specifications that separate ROG Ally from Steam Deck so you can see what goes into each piece of hardware.

  Asus ROG Ally Steam Deck
APU AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme
AMD Van Gogh
Cores/Threads 8/16 4/8
Graphics 12 RDNA 3 CUs
8 RDNA 2 CUs
RAM 16GB LPDDR5 6400 MT/s dual channel
16GB LPDDR5 5500 MT/s quad channel
Display 7-inch IPS 1080p/120Hz VRR
7-inch IPS 800p/40-60Hz
Storage 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD / microSD
64GB – 1TB
Weight 608g
669g
OS Windows 11
SteamOS

Price

The Asus ROG Ally is available at most major shops, including Best Buy in the US and Argos or Currys in the UK, for $699 (£699). The Ally exists in a single version.However, there are a few choices available for the Steam Deck, each at a different pricing point:
  • 64GB storage with LCD screen – $349 / £309
  • 256GB storage with LCD screen – $399 / £349
  • 512GB storage with LCD screen – $449 / £389
  • 512GB storage with OLED screen – $549 / £479
  • 1TB storage with OLED screen – $649 / £569
The pricing might be a touch steep depending on how much storage you want, but it's still much cheaper than the ROG Ally. If the model you're interested in isn't available, try checking again as different models go out of supply periodically.

Features

Let's get right to it. These two handhelds are around the same size and have a similar appearance. What distinguishes them, though? We have an in-depth review of the ASUS ROG Ally console if you'd want to take a closer look at either one. as well as a Steam Deck analysis. Given its increased pricing, you would expect the ROG Ally's AMD Z1 Extreme APU to be much more powerful. A beautiful screen that makes use of all that power is quicker, crisper, brighter, more vibrant, and smoother than the Steam Deck's. By avoiding the headache of having to precisely tune your settings for a predetermined objective, the refresh rate irons out the wrinkles from lost frames. Adjust the visuals to your preference and proceed.In if the offer wasn't already too amazing, Asus is also throwing in three months of Xbox Game Pass for free.But the Deck is by no means a slouch; it can more than hold its own.After all, gaming is about more than just performance. Another benefit is that the screen is somewhat taller. The screen is somewhat fuzzier, yet it still seems bigger despite the decreased resolution. It also implies that because of the lower target resolution, framerates may be comparable to that of the ROG Ally. When combined with the gyro controls, the trackpads on the Steam Deck allow for considerably more accurate control over your 360 no-scopes. They work very well for exploring desktop environments and strategic games.There is no obvious winner in terms of battery life between the two. As the ROG Ally comes with a fast charger, you won't need to spend as much time plugged in unless you already own a third-party charger for the Deck.

Steam Deck vs. Asus ROG Allyesign

Plastic is used to make both the Steam Deck and the Asus ROG Ally. They both have 7-inch displays and weigh about the same—608 g and 669 g, respectively—but the ROG Ally has a higher frequency of 120 Hz than 40–60 Hz.Asus obviously caters to us gamers with the fashionable gaming look of the ROG Ally. Customizable RGB lighting is something we can appreciate, and the white design is quite striking.Of the two, the Steam Deck is the most practical. Don't get us wrong, we think its straightforward design is really appealing, and it withstands the risks associated with being a portable device rather well. There are a ton of skins and cases available to personalize the Deck if you just can't tolerate the way it looks.

ASUS ROG Ally vs Steam Deck - a split-screen photo showing two people holding each consoleUsability

The smaller grips on the ROG Ally are a bit disappointing since they make it more difficult to wield, but other from that, it is still quite comfortable, particularly given its reduced weight. Additionally notable is the asymmetrical joystick configuration, which gives the device a somewhat more comfortable feel in the hand. When we used the ROG Ally for regular gaming, we also noticed that it was much quieter.The Deck's flexible grasp on so much land that your local council may simply decide to construct dorms for students on top of it works to its advantage. Although the trackpads are quite effective, we feel that they add a little more awkwardness to the joystick configuration. When in company, you may need to play less complex games since The Deck is also very literally loud and proud.

GAmes Libraries

The ROG Ally unquestionably has a larger library. It runs Windows 11 instead of SteamOS, which is adapted from Linux, which explains why.You're out of luck if you can't install Windows on the Deck since several games, like Roblox and Fortnite, don't work well with SteamOS. With the exception of a few anomalies, the Deck can play almost any game, and selecting titles via Valve's Deck Verified program ensures a fantastic gaming experience. It eliminates a great deal of uncertainty and allows you to get started right away.Additionally advantageous to the Deck are a sizable community and emulators designed specifically to function nicely with the Deck's hardware..

Is it wise to get the Steam Deck?

The 64GB Steam Deck variant delivers an incredible amount of speed for a much lower price if you feel comfortable updating the storage yourself. Many additional gaming choices are made available by the trackpads, particularly for strategy and older PC games. The platform allows for infinite customization and is supported by a sizable aftermarket for components and extras to make your Deck really unique.But the Deck is starting to show its age and is having trouble keeping up with the newest games. If you value this, maybe you should spend your money on something else. portable video game system.

Is it wise to purchase the Asus ROG Ally?

If you don't desire the 512GB version of the Deck, the ROG Ally might be more difficult to suggest because to its high price. Additionally, you can have difficulty with strategy and older games that don't work well with their controllers.The Ally is perhaps a better option if you prioritize having the best possible performance. Its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU and excellent specifications guarantee a snappy, quick, and seamless experience.Additionally, the Ally has enhanced compatibility, which includes Xbox's (PC) Game Pass, ensuring that you never miss out on any of your favorite games.Would it be possible to persuade you to give a handheld that has some of the greatest indie games or some fantastic JRPGs on Switch a try? Here is everything we know about the Nintendo Switch 2, however, if you decide to wait out.

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