Best Buy is currently offering the Asus ROG Ally at an attractive price of $400, down from its regular $600. This handheld Windows PC is a formidable device in the growing portable PC market, gaining traction alongside Valve's Steam Deck. While the Linux-based Steam Deck is commendable, the ROG Ally's Windows compatibility makes it a standout choice. This $400 deal, available since December, marks the lowest price ever for the ROG Ally at Best Buy. Take advantage of this offer soon, as the expiration date is unspecified.
The entry-level model of the ROG Ally packs a punch with a sharp 1080p screen, AMD’s Ryzen Z1 processor, 16GB LPDDR5 6400 RAM, and a 512GB NVMe SSD. Expandable storage options include a microSD card for a cost-effective upgrade, or consider boosting the internal SSD with the WD Black SN770M 1TB or 2TB drive.
What sets the ROG Ally apart from the Steam Deck is its Windows 11 compatibility, allowing you to play PC games from various storefronts, including Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, Prime Gaming, and more. The inclusion of the Xbox app enables access to a vast Game Pass library for on-the-go gaming. With a standard set of inputs, rear paddles, and USB-C charging, the white-shelled device offers convenience.
In terms of performance, the standard Z1 is a solid choice for indie and older AAA titles, though more demanding games may require graphical adjustments. The Z1 Extreme, with its eight Zen 4 CPU cores and enhanced GPU, excels at handling modern games at 1080p. While the base Z1 is a great handheld PC gaming console, those prioritizing graphical fidelity may prefer the Z1 Extreme.
Competing handhelds, like the Lenovo Legion Go and the upcoming MSI Claw, boast powerful chipsets for high-performance gaming. However, considering the price, the $400 Asus ROG Ally Z1 stands out as an excellent choice for a handheld Windows PC.