The Asus ROG Ally, a much-anticipated entrant into the handheld gaming market, is now available for preorder at Best Buy. This robust handheld device, boasting an AMD Z1 Extreme, is set to provide serious competition for the Steam Deck. The device, priced at $699.99, is scheduled to be released next month, with a more affordable model following later in the summer.
Recognized as the first significant contender against the Steam Deck, the Asus ROG Ally brings an intriguing blend of Windows-based convenience and challenges to the burgeoning handheld PC gaming sphere. Despite its potential drawbacks, the excitement surrounding the expansion of this market is palpable. For those eager to get their hands on the Asus ROG Ally, preorders for the high-end model, equipped with an AMD Z1 Extreme processor, are now live at Best Buy. The device is slated to hit the shelves on June 13th.
Prospective buyers interested in the base model, powered by a standard AMD Z1 processor, will have to wait a little longer. This variant is expected to launch in the third quarter of 2023. As of now, Best Buy is the exclusive retailer for the Asus ROG Ally.
The Asus ROG Ally is a commendable attempt by Asus to challenge the Steam Deck's dominance. The device features a seven-inch, 1080p, 120Hz touchscreen, integrated gamepad controls, and is encased in a sleek white body. The device is equipped with joysticks, buttons, and a D-pad on either side of the screen, a design choice that closely mirrors the configuration of its black counterpart.
Despite mixed feedback (thus far) on its battery life, the Asus ROG Ally has several key advantages over the Steam Deck. These include a more robust processor, a higher refresh rate screen, and much quieter operation. Furthermore, as it runs on Windows, it doubles as a full-fledged PC. Buyers can use the device as a desktop computer, pairing it with a mouse, keyboard, and an external monitor.
The Asus ROG Ally, while not without its quirks, is an appealing alternative for users desiring more power than what the Steam Deck offers, along with native support for Xbox Game Pass.
Check out the full coverage on the specs and details of the Asus ROG Ally for more information.
~Smash
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