What To Know
- The Steam Deck boasts a larger 7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 and a refresh rate of 60Hz.
- While the resolution is lower, the Steam Deck’s display offers a wider field of view and is still capable of providing a satisfying gaming experience.
- If you prioritize portability, a sleek design, and a high-quality display, the ROG Ally is a great choice.
In the realm of portable gaming, two formidable contenders stand out: the ASUS ROG Ally and the Valve Steam Deck. Both devices promise immersive gaming experiences on the go, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the ROG Ally and the Steam Deck, helping you make an informed decision about which gaming companion suits your needs best.
Design and Build Quality
The ROG Ally boasts a sleek and futuristic design, with a matte black finish and angular lines. Its compact dimensions (228 x 104 x 25mm) and lightweight (635g) make it easy to carry around. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, has a more traditional handheld design with rounded edges and a glossy black finish. It is slightly larger (298 x 117 x 49mm) and heavier (669g), but its ergonomic grips provide a comfortable hold for extended gaming sessions.
Display
The ROG Ally features a 6.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a refresh rate of 144Hz. This display delivers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and incredibly smooth gameplay. The Steam Deck boasts a larger 7-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1280 x 800 and a refresh rate of 60Hz. While the resolution is lower, the Steam Deck’s display offers a wider field of view and is still capable of providing a satisfying gaming experience.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the ROG Ally is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 1 processor, paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. This hardware combination provides ample performance for demanding games and ensures seamless multitasking. The Steam Deck features an AMD Zen 2 CPU with 8 cores, 16GB of RAM, and a choice of 64GB, 256GB, or 512GB of storage. Its more powerful hardware allows for higher graphical settings and faster load times.
Game Library and Ecosystem
The ROG Ally runs on the Android operating system, which gives access to the Google Play Store. This vast library includes a wide range of games, both free and paid. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, uses a custom version of Linux called SteamOS. It provides access to the Steam store, which offers a huge collection of PC games. Additionally, the Steam Deck supports emulation, allowing you to play classic games from various consoles.
Controls and Input
The ROG Ally features a built-in controller with analog sticks, triggers, and buttons. It also supports external controllers via Bluetooth or USB-C. The Steam Deck has a similar control layout, but it also includes two additional bumpers and two touchpads. The touchpads can be used for various functions, such as aiming or controlling the camera.
Battery Life
Battery life is crucial for portable gaming devices. The ROG Ally has a 7,660mAh battery that provides up to 10 hours of gameplay. The Steam Deck has a slightly smaller 40Wh battery that lasts for around 6-8 hours of gameplay. However, the Steam Deck supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly replenish the battery when needed.
Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
The ROG Ally and the Steam Deck are both excellent portable gaming devices, but they cater to different needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, a sleek design, and a high-quality display, the ROG Ally is a great choice. However, if you value a more powerful hardware, a wider game library, and advanced controls, the Steam Deck is the better option. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual gaming habits and preferences.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which device has a better display?
A: The ROG Ally has a superior AMOLED display with a higher resolution and refresh rate.
Q: Which device has more powerful hardware?
A: The Steam Deck has more powerful hardware, allowing for higher graphical settings and faster load times.
Q: Which device has a larger game library?
A: The Steam Deck has a larger game library thanks to its access to the Steam store and support for emulation.
Q: Which device is more portable?
A: The ROG Ally is more portable due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
Q: Which device has better battery life?
A: The ROG Ally has a longer battery life, lasting up to 10 hours of gameplay.
