The long-awaited challenger to the Steam Deck is nearly here. On a mission to smash any barriers faced when playing Windows-based titles on the go, the Asus ROG Ally is as much a mini PC as it is a handheld gaming device. The Asus ROG Ally will release on June 13th, but preorders for the system with a 7-inch 1080p display are already underway.
ASUS ROG Ally
The Asus ROG Ally is the ultimate handheld system for PC gamers. Relying on the new AMD Ryzen Z1 series of processors, the ROG Ally can handle any game thrown at it. The 7-inch 1080p Full HD display with FreeSync Premium on the system provides gamers with a crystal clear and smooth gaming experience.
The advantage of the ROG Ally is that it can run most Windows-compatible games and is compatible with Xbox Game Pass titles. The ROG Ally also features an ergonomic design that makes it easy to grip while all buttons are within easy reach.
- Dimensions
- 2 Speakers with Dolby Atmos
- Playing Time
- 1.3-4+ hours
- Brand
- Asus
- Weight
- 1.34 lbs
- Chipset
- AMD Ryzen Z1 / Z1 Extreme
- RAM
- 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage
- 512GB NVMe SSD (PCIe 4)
- Wireless Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Headset Compatibility
- Wired, Wireless
- Display
- 7-inch LED IPS
- Output resolution
- 1080p
- Graphics
- 2.8 GHz AMD RDNA 3
- Ports
- USB-C, Custom Asus PCIe Port
The initial version of the ROG Ally features an AMD Z1 Extreme Processor with a base model running on a slightly slower processor due out in the third quarter of 2023. Packing some impressive specs, the more expensive ROG Ally also features 16GB of DDR5-6400 RAM and a 512 GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD for storage.
The major distinction between the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck is the fact that the Asus handheld runs Windows 11, while Valve's device relies on their custom SteamOS. Since it uses Windows, the ROG Ally is able to run more games and support a host of launchers including the Xbox App and ironically, the Steam Client. A forthcoming HDMI charger dock will also unlock the potential of the handheld as a full-fledged compact PC. After connecting an external monitor as well as a wireless keyboard and mouse, gamers can also enjoy some web browsing or complete some office work.
Where Can I Pre-Order the Asus ROG Ally?
In North America, the Asus ROG Ally is priced at $699 and available exclusively for pre-order at Best Buy. The less expensive version with a non-Extreme AMD Z1 processor is also already listed and costs $599. However, only the $699 model is available for pre-order at this time. Gamers can either choose to pick up their ROG Ally at a Best Buy store or have it shipped for free with delivery on its release date, June 13th. Of course, it won't be at all surprising if other major retailers like Amazon and Newegg also sell the handheld, either before or after its debut.
Vital Asus ROG Ally Accessories
Asus ROG Raikiri Pro Wireless Controller
The Asus ROG Raikiri Pro is the perfect complement to the ROG Ally handheld gaming system. For gamers who need the performance and customization that only a pro-grade controller can provide, the ROG Raikiri Pro is a wireless controller with 3 ways of connecting. Gamers can utilize a USB cable, Bluetooth, or a 2.4 GHz RF adapter to pair the controller with PCs or Xbox consoles.
Featuring an integrated built-in OLED display, users can view the status of the controller and switch between profiles managed in Asus Armoury Crate. 4 remappable rear buttons allow gamers to execute commands faster while the left and right triggers offer adjustable dead zones.
- Brand
- Asus
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, Mobile
- Battery
- 48 hours
- Connectivity
- USB, Bluetooth, RF
- Headset Support
- Yes
- Programmable
- Yes
- Extra Buttons
- 4
The only official ROG Ally accessory that is actually available for pre-order at the moment is the ROG Raikiri Pro Wireless Controller. Some buyers may think twice after seeing its asking price, but the Raikiri Pro is ready to compete with the most-feature packed game controllers on the market. While many buyers will be satisfied using the Xbox-style button layout on the ROG Ally itself, if using the device from a distance, a controller is a necessity.
Some of the highlights of the ROG Raikiri Pro include 4 remappable back buttons, triggers with adjustable sensitivity, and an OLED display giving gamers constant status updates and also allowing users to switch profiles. Complete with RGB lighting effects, the Asus controller connects via Bluetooth, a 2.4 GHz RF adapter, or a USB cable. Adding to its value, the ROG Raikiri Pro should work fine with Xbox consoles and other mobile devices. If the ROG Raikiri Pro is too pricey, or it meets the same fate as the Valve Steam Controller, many existing wireless controllers are also compatible with the ROG Ally.
Official Asus ROG Ally Travel Case
Protect your ROG Ally with the official travel case from Asus. This accessory has the perfect dimensions to keep the ROG Ally secure when on the move with a weather-resistant PU fabric exterior and soft fleece interior.
The ROG Ally Travel Case also doubles as a stand, for when gamers want to use a controller, keyboard, or mouse. Also, the case accommodates a variety of MicroSD cards and other portable storage.
- Material
- Polyester coating PU
- Brand
- Asus
At $699, the Asus ROG Rally is a considerable investment to make. Especially when taking it with you on a bus, plane, train, or car, a travel case can protect it from devastating drops or scratches. While many Steam Deck cases and accessories are close enough in dimensions to work with the ROG Ally, a travel case from Asus should soon be available to meet the exact specifications of the new handheld. This travel case has a water-resistant exterior and also doubles as a stand for when gamers wish to place the ROG Ally on a desk.
Game Rant will continue to provide the latest news and information on the Asus ROG Rally as its June 13th release date approaches.