SteamDeck OLED vs ASUS ROG Ally: The Ultimate Gaming Showdown!
What To Know
- The SteamDeck OLED is powered by an AMD Zen 2 CPU and an AMD RDNA 2 GPU, while the ASUS ROG Ally is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1195G7 CPU and an Intel Iris Xe GPU.
- In terms of raw performance, the SteamDeck OLED has a slight edge in CPU performance, while the ASUS ROG Ally excels in GPU performance.
- The SteamDeck OLED starts at $399 for the 64GB model, while the ASUS ROG Ally is priced at $1,299.
In the realm of handheld gaming, two titans emerge: the SteamDeck OLED and the ASUS ROG Ally. Both devices boast impressive specs and features, leaving gamers torn between the two. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of each device to help you make an informed choice.
Display: OLED vs. IPS
The SteamDeck OLED sports a vibrant 7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1280×800. OLED technology offers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and wide viewing angles. The ASUS ROG Ally, on the other hand, features a 7-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 1920×1080. IPS displays provide excellent color accuracy and viewing angles, but they struggle to match the contrast ratio of OLED panels.
Performance: AMD vs. Intel
The SteamDeck OLED is powered by an AMD Zen 2 CPU and an AMD RDNA 2 GPU, while the ASUS ROG Ally is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1195G7 CPU and an Intel Iris Xe GPU. In terms of raw performance, the SteamDeck OLED has a slight edge in CPU performance, while the ASUS ROG Ally excels in GPU performance. However, the real-world difference is negligible for most games.
Storage: Expandable vs. Limited
The SteamDeck OLED comes with 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB of internal storage. All three models feature a microSD card slot for expandable storage. The ASUS ROG Ally offers 1TB of internal storage, but it lacks a microSD card slot. If you plan on storing a large library of games, the SteamDeck OLED’s expandable storage is a significant advantage.
Battery Life: On-the-Go Gaming
The SteamDeck OLED has a battery life of 2-8 hours, depending on the game and settings. The ASUS ROG Ally has a slightly shorter battery life of 1-5 hours. Both devices support fast charging, allowing you to quickly replenish their batteries.
Ergonomics and Controls
The SteamDeck OLED has a comfortable and ergonomic design with full-sized analog sticks and buttons. The ASUS ROG Ally is slightly smaller and lighter, but its controls are not as well-spaced. Both devices have built-in speakers and microphones.
Software: Steam OS vs. Windows
The SteamDeck OLED runs on Steam OS, a custom operating system optimized for gaming. Steam OS provides a seamless gaming experience with access to the Steam library. The ASUS ROG Ally runs on Windows 10, offering more flexibility and compatibility with a wider range of games and applications.
Price and Availability
The SteamDeck OLED starts at $399 for the 64GB model, while the ASUS ROG Ally is priced at $1,299. The SteamDeck OLED is widely available, while the ASUS ROG Ally is currently in pre-order.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
The SteamDeck OLED and ASUS ROG Ally are both excellent handheld gaming devices. The SteamDeck OLED offers a superior display, expandable storage, and a more affordable price point. However, the ASUS ROG Ally provides better GPU performance and a more versatile software experience.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize display quality, storage capacity, and affordability, the SteamDeck OLED is the way to go. If you seek maximum performance and software flexibility, the ASUS ROG Ally is the superior option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which device has a better cooling system?
Both the SteamDeck OLED and ASUS ROG Ally have active cooling systems to prevent overheating. However, the ASUS ROG Ally’s larger size and dedicated cooling vents give it a slight advantage.
2. Can I play non-Steam games on the SteamDeck OLED?
Yes, you can install third-party launchers, such as the Epic Games Store and GOG Galaxy, on the SteamDeck OLED to play non-Steam games.
3. Does the ASUS ROG Ally support external monitors?
Yes, the ASUS ROG Ally has an HDMI port that allows you to connect it to an external monitor or TV.
4. Which device is better for emulation?
Both the SteamDeck OLED and ASUS ROG Ally are capable of emulating a wide range of retro consoles. However, the SteamDeck OLED’s open-source nature and dedicated emulation software make it slightly better for emulation.
5. Can I install custom firmware on the ASUS ROG Ally?
No, the ASUS ROG Ally does not allow users to install custom firmware.
