Customer Ratings & Reviews

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 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.

It's honestly an incredible device when fully set up. I don't mind setting things up if it's a one and done deal; download main launchers, configure Playnite for the all-in-one launcher, optimize for best performance settings, and create custom performance profiles. The problem with this device at the moment is Quality Control. There are lingering issues with joystick deadzones and the SD Card slot "killing" cards. Thankfully, ASUS is continuously listening to feedback and making the experience better for users. With that said, hopefully they will fix these other major issues, whether through a software update or mass RMA. Until that time comes, I will be sticking with my Steam Deck. However, if you're still okay with the above, here is what I would recommend if you are trying to make a decision between the two: Go with the Steam Deck if you want something cheaper, a better battery, easier out-of-the-box experience, more comfortable grip, better support, extra controls, and access to more accessories. The downplays for the Steam Deck are a worse screen, slightly worse performance, and less compatibility for games that use Easy Anticheat and similar systems. Go with the ROG Ally if you want better performance, slightly quieter fan, better screen (1080p, 120Hz, and FSR are great with the latter only being worth it imo), Windows 11, better game compatibility, and the ability to use it like a normal desktop by using the XG Mobile adapter (which has issues in itself with the Ally). As I mentioned, overall it's an incredible piece of tech and if I didn't already have a Steam Deck, I probably would have gone with this one. I would have dealt with the issues it's having by swapping out the m.2 drive with a bigger one so that I didn't need an SD Card reader, and could have modded or altered the joystick deadzones. Maybe I'll have both later on down the line as they are both fantastic devices for their specific cases.

After a whole month of owning it I haven’t had no problems. Literally runs any games I throw at it. The reasons why I give it a 4 star and not a 5 is because battery life. But what do you expect with a handheld this powerful. I recommend a 65w power bank if you do a lot of gaming on the go and also upgrade that SSD to higher storage capacity because trust me you’ll run threw that 512GB quick!

Never a single issue in the 16months of owning the z1 extreme. I use it daily, 30w manual mode plugged in all the time. Very seldomly do i have a need to run on battery. You also get better performance plugged in. I have a backup power brick just in case there is no outlet nearby. Ppl buy these handhelds, no matter who the manufacturer is, and then get upset because the battery doesnt last… if you wanna pump out the power to run demanding titles, your going to drain any battery in no time. Fact of life. The purpose of these is to have the convenience of enjoying your hobby almost anywhere. The internal batteries on any handheld can only do so much. So invest in a power brinck, or more outlets lol. 10/10 one of my favorite gaming devices.

ROG ally does exactly what i need it to. The set up is not nearly as much work as people say it is. But ive had windows computers before so maybe thats why. The setup took about 45 minutes with my wifi. Gaming performace is very good. The new bios made my device get hotter especiialy at 25 WATS lt would reach about 95 c. All the buttons and joysticks have been working without getting stuck. Battery is trash but just get a portable charger that supports 65 watts to boost performace and battery.

Powerfully fun device. Bought to replace Steam Deck. Feels great, plays AAA games at 60 with tweaks. Screen is great if you can’t get 60 with variable refresh rate. Be prepared for lots of windows and software updates on day one but once done windows 11 and ASUS software is pretty good. My SD card stopped working, but other than that annoyance, the device has awesome. ASUS has kept the software updates coming as well.

So far so good. It plays all the games I currently want to play. The battery life is a little low, but I am primarily playing on the couch or in bed, so it doesn't matter too much. It does take a decent amount of accessories to make docking it worth it, but it's nice to have a fairly portable machine that can run all my steam games and more.

Works great, it’s usually hooked up to a monitor and Xbox controller. I can play doom eternal for hours without any problems. As a mobile device, I played about 2 hours of video games and had 40% battery left. Which is better than I thought since the device is so light.

The Asus ROG Ally is a direct competitor of the Steam Deck that you may end up liking more. It's a tad bit smaller and has less handle on the back than the Steam Deck (the part of the device that rest in your palms). Display - The display is what really sets it apart. It has a nice bright 1080p display that looks really nice and you can tell immediately from first boot up the quality of the display. The images look nice and crisp. Features - The best feature is you can play any game that you can play on a P.C. on the ROG Ally because it runs Microsoft Windows. For instance, I can play COD Mobile on this device which is on a mobile platform form for Android and iOS but I can still play it on the Ally. Another stand out feature is the RGB on the joysticks that can be customized how you see fit. You can use the Asus dock (sold separately) or a third party dock to add a mouse, keyboard and monitor to have the ultimate gaming experience. Sound - The sound quality is amazing, the device really gets loud and in my opinion I don't see you having to put the volume pass 30. The overall sound quality is really good, I would say the tuned the audio perfectly. There is also a headphone jack when you want to play and not disturb anyone. The headphone jack can obviously be used to plug in a gaming headset so you can talk to your squad. Battery - The battery is just ok and is on par with what you get from the Steam Deck. I wish they could have figure out a way to extend the battery life but, I get about 2 to 2 1/2 hours of play before I have to place it back on the charger. Please keep in mind that battery life does depend on which mode you play on. I typically use Turbo performance so that is why the battery drains faster than the other modes in my use. The ROG Ally comes with a charger and cable combo so you really have everything you need to get it up and running. I am very happy with the device and would recommend it.

Bought this for my husband and he absolutely loves it! He was looking for something hand-held so he could sit on the couch and watch TV with us while being able to catch up on some games he said he's been wanting to play. This was the way to go! It plays anything thrown at it.

As an avid gamer on the go, I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Rog Ally Handheld System, and I must say, it left a lasting impression on me. This compact gaming device from Asus is a true powerhouse, boasting impressive performance and features that elevate the handheld gaming experience to new heights. First and foremost, the design of the Rog Ally is sleek and ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions. Its 6-inch high-resolution display delivers vibrant colors and sharp visuals, ensuring an immersive gaming experience whether you're playing the latest AAA titles or retro classics. The heart of the Rog Ally lies in its powerful hardware. Equipped with a cutting-edge processor and a dedicated GPU, this handheld system can handle demanding games with ease, providing smooth frame rates and quick load times. As a result, I was able to enjoy graphically intensive games without any noticeable lag or performance hiccups. One standout feature of the Rog Ally is its excellent cooling system. Gaming on a handheld device often raises concerns about overheating, but Asus has clearly addressed this issue. The device stayed cool even during prolonged gaming sessions, thanks to its efficient cooling design, which kept performance at its peak without any noticeable noise. The controls on the Rog Ally deserve special mention as well. The responsive buttons and tactile joysticks offer precise input, ensuring an enjoyable and accurate gaming experience. Additionally, the system supports various control configurations, accommodating both traditional and modern gaming preferences. To top it all off, the Rog Ally boasts an impressive battery life. With its large capacity battery, I was able to squeeze in hours of gaming before needing to recharge. Furthermore, the USB-C charging port allows for quick and convenient recharging, making it perfect for gaming on the go. While the Rog Ally shines in most aspects, it's not without a few minor drawbacks. The limited game library on its proprietary store could benefit from further expansion, and the higher price tag might be a concern for some budget-conscious gamers. However, given the performance and build quality it offers, the price seems justified for serious gamers looking for top-tier handheld gaming experiences. In conclusion, the Rog Ally Handheld System from Asus impresses on many fronts, offering remarkable performance, a comfortable design, and outstanding battery life. Whether you're a casual gamer seeking portable entertainment or a hardcore enthusiast who wants a full-fledged gaming experience on the go, the Rog Ally will not disappoint. Despite some minor downsides, this handheld system stands tall as a worthy investment for anyone looking to elevate their gaming on the move.

I love this device. It runs whatever I throw at it (albeit it with some settings tweaks) with no issues. The 512GB drive may be a bit slim for some but it's easily upgradable by the end-user. There is one major design flaw, however. The SD card slot is directly above one of the vents and the slot is prone to failure. Mine only works intermitently but as I upgraded the internal drive I'm not really stressing it.

It's a great device considering its size and it runs games well, but don't expect it to run every game; it will run most of them. So, as a portable device, I can say it's excellent. My advice to you guys is, if you have a small budget, invest in the X version because the RAM in this device isn't the best.

I have a steam deck too and I personally like the ASUS Rog Ally more. The ASUS Rog Ally is a mini handheld gaming computer. I just like that I don't need to bring my gaming laptop with me anymore because I can just use the handheld now. Despite hearing that the buttons were bad, I've had no issues with the buttons yet. None of the buttons were stuck or hard to push when I used it. I heard that there is no sleep mode and the system goes into the lock screen when the power button is pressed or the black screen shows when the system is idle. I turned the settings on the lowest since I heard the battery does not last long. So far, the battery has lasted for a long time but I guess that is because I was just playing older games like fallout 4 and genshin impact . Games like COD or Fortnite will drain the battery fast. I like the lights on the analog sticks when the system is turned off. If you want something cheaper, then the steam deck would be the best. I got the Steam Deck 512GB. One more thing too since I heard some people saying the system is not working when they open it. You are supposed to plug it in first and let it charge! As far as I know, every system is like that! Haha! The gameplay looks good and runs smoothy but it will make the system hot.

I have enjoyed the gaming experience on the Ally. The Xbox adaptation of a controller feels more comfortable than my steam deck. The screen is great and Star Field runs just below 60 fps on med graphics. I still use a lot of my steam library on the Asus Rog Ally. The 512gb is a little small for AAA games. I’ll pick up my 2tb ssd Friday. I bought a reconditioned model and you can’t even tell it was used. Best Buy does a great job with the used merchandise. I would definitely recommend this handheld if you have a steam deck or not.

This handheld gaming PC from Asus is an absolute banger. I find myself wanting to play on this, more than my RTX 4090 laptop or desktop. The reason is that some games are just more fun to play on a gamepad/handheld and you can relax on a couch, lounge in a chair, or wind down in bed for 30-40 minutes playing a few lighter games. Diablo IV has been amazing on this Ally. Pros: Stunning 1080p 120Hz 500-nit display with vibrant colors Great Speakers Smooth and accurate touch screen Performance exceeded my expectations, despite not having a true dGPU inside. The AMD APU with it's powerful RDNA3 iGPU does a great job pushing this handheld and it's games. Windows PC with full Windows 11 OS. You could truly replace daily Windows 11 PC with this Ally, use it for gaming on the go, or PC tasks, and then dock the device when home for an office/home PC with an external screen, keyboard, and mouse. It's so versatile. Solid construction, feels solid and high quality plastics FANTASTIC WiFi and excellent for game streaming via GeForce Now or Moonlight for streaming from your own gaming PC to the Ally. I've been streaming 4K 120 FPS to the Ally and it look incredible. Cons: The joysticks aren't as solid feeling as I would like. Joystick deadzones and accuracy for FPS games is just not there IMO. FPS gaming on this Ally is not great and that is down to the deadzones and less than accurate/smooth movements. I'm also a keyboard and mouse gamer usually so this could be a skill issue. I think I would prefer it to be black Initial setup can be time consuming and tedious for those not PC literate. New BIOS update 322 has increased fan noise, this is sort of annoying as it makes it noisier to use at night in a bedroom with others. Performance does seem increased though. You can roll back BIOS to revert this, but this needs to be addressed in future updates.

Did I really need this? Absolutely not. Did I really want one thought? You betcha! This now makes PC #3 for me, though my first handheld and im impressed. I have a proper gaming desktop and laptop and usually always take my laptop when traveling so I can play and its become a bit more of a hassel lately, so enter the ROG Ally. The $599 sale price for the Z1 extreme model also did me in. The fact this thing can play Cyberpunk 2077 is a revelation and also played Starfield on it today. I have a collection of almost 1000 games on PC and this can play most and it just makes me happy to hold I still dont think this is at its peak, performance wise but it sounds like making the purchase 6 months in, was a smarter decision than at launch. Im still super happy with this and plan on upgrading the SSD first thing in January. Im still getting used to settings as im not familiar with AMD products (others are Intel/Nvidia) but i had some hitches with their software upon setup but just needed to redownload. All in all, im pretty stoked with this little marvel. Well, the word little is subjective but you get it. Its definitely a good time to be a PC gamer, now if devs can release finished products instead of broken games, we'd be all better off

So the thing is I was welcoming to the thought of having a Steam Deck and trying out their OS because it’d be new and unfamiliar. However owning both seemed absurd to me, but I ended up buying the Ally. The ROG Ally is really nice to an extent of compatability. The Ally claims to be able to play all your games, but it’s weird as I can’t play my huge backlog whether it be in handheld mode or “docked”. Granted I am able to emulate which is a nice avenue to go down, but I also understand that it’s not the most accesible especially if you don’t know whay you’re doing. Being able to up the tdp helps when i’m trying to emulate my PS3 games it’s nice. Steam deck can barely handle some of the games i’ve tried to emulate, but it can handle enough at the same time. The deck is also pretty nice with it’s UI and using Steam OS which took me a while to understand when I’d go into desktop mode, but after I learned what to do and how to use it, it just felt like second nature. Of course with the Ally I was able to just boot it up, run updates, and set up with ease. It can be a bit much having to wait for updates and all that, but once you get it through and over with you’re on your way to start downloading games. Playing the Ally with Steam alongside Epic Games, Ubisoft Connect, and Battle.net worked with ease compared to the Deck. This is able to run the more recent and current games with some ease. Best to tweak a thing or twon on the Ally’s settings and game settings, but once you do you’re on your way. Both of the systems have their quirks and advantages Maybe even one over the other at times, but that’s all I can really say for now about the two. If you’re willing to expiriment with a new/familiar OS go with Steam Deck, but if you’re more comfortable with sticking to the usual the ROG Ally is your best bet.

Rog Ally is exactly what i was looking for as an on the go PC solution. It has better performance and graphics than the steam deck especially when plugged in. I typically use mine laying in bed or hanging on the coach so being plugged in isnt a problem. Playing on battery doesnt last long with AAA games but you can get 3 or 4 hours if you are playing retro titles. I did change out the hard drive for a 2TB drive so i can add all the games I want (Starfield, Elden Ring, etc). I have been able to play those games without much issue beside lowering the settings.

Great unit. Just know what you are getting into. Beautiful screen and loads of horsepower to run most games. The battery life is kind of short and the SD card issue is real. So you will likely want to plan to upgrade the internal storage. I was ok with these things because it's the nicest screen and the most horsepower for a handheld. If you are not ok with those then this may not be the unit for you.