Asus has jumped into the handheld gaming PC market with their upcoming ROG Ally, set to launch worldwide on May 11. The device is set to compete with Valve’s popular Steam Deck, which has dominated the market since its launch in 2022. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from the ROG Ally:
Specifications:
Display:
- 7″ 1080p 120Hz 7ms touch display with FreeSync
Weight:
- 608g
Processor:
- AMD Ryzen Z1 Series CPU
Graphics:
- RDNA 3 Graphics
Storage:
- 512GB PCI Express 4.0 SSD
RAM:
- 16GB RAM
Expansion:
- MicroSD slot for storage expansion
Operating System:
- Windows 11 operating system
Additional Features:
- Haptic feedback
- Fingerprint sensor for unlocking
Asus has stated that the device will be priced below $1,000, making it a higher-end alternative to the Steam Deck, which tops out at $650. While the exact pricing details are still unknown, interested buyers can sign up for stock notifications on Best Buy’s website. It’s also advised to act fast, as quantities may be limited.
The ROG Ally comes bundled with three months of Game Pass Ultimate, which should be perfect for the handheld thanks to its Windows 11 operating system. However, those looking to get their hands on a handheld gaming PC sooner can opt for the already-available Steam Deck, which can be purchased directly from Valve.
The Asus ROG Ally joins a constantly growing market of Windows-based handheld gaming PCs, including the impressive Ayaneo series. As the market expands, it will be interesting to see how each device competes.
