Gadget Review: The ASUS ROG Ally 7″ Gaming Handheld

The ASUS ROG Ally 7″ 120Hz FHD 1080p Gaming Handheld stands out as a versatile gaming device that caters to a wide range of preferences and gaming styles. This portable gaming console allows you to access any game compatible with Windows across various platforms, including Steam, GOG, Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming services, and Android apps. Its flexibility is further enhanced by the option to play in handheld mode or connect it to a TV, linking multiple controllers for a shared gaming experience.

Powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 processor, the ROG Ally offers a seamless gaming experience with a smooth 7-inch 1080p touchscreen featuring AMD FreeSync technology. The visuals are stunning, with a 120Hz refresh rate ensuring crisp and clear gameplay without tearing or stuttering. The device’s incredible power is driven by the latest AMD Ryzen Z1 processor on Zen4 architecture, providing a groundbreaking 2.8 TFlops of computational power.

Graphics are handled by AMD RDNA3 Architecture-based Graphics, offering 4GB VRAM and 4 compute units for an immersive gaming experience. The ROG Ally boasts blazing fast 16GB LPDDR5 6400 RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking and quick application swapping. With a 512GB NVMe PCIe 4 M.2 SSD, ample storage is provided for your favorite games, and the device supports easy upgrades with a pop-open screw for M.2 2230 SSD.

The device’s versatility shines as it transforms into a gaming PC by connecting to the ROG XG mobile eGPU and dock. This setup supports peripherals like mouse, keyboard, and monitor, providing a comprehensive gaming experience. The ability to play games from various platforms, including Steam, XBOX Game Pass, Android apps, and more, makes the ROG Ally a truly inclusive gaming device.

ROG’s extensive experience in engineering gaming hardware is evident in the Ally’s design, with over 100 prototypes ensuring ergonomic excellence at a weight of 608 grams. The ROG Intelligent Cooling system, featuring dual fans, dust filters, and heat pipes, sustains peak performance while maintaining low fan noise.

Additionally, the ROG Ally prioritizes convenience with fast charge technology, allowing a 0% to 50% charge in just 30 minutes. The included biometric fingerprint reader and Windows Hello provide modern security features, and the device comes with Dolby Atmos and smart AMP for immersive audio.

The inclusion of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for 3 months adds extra value to the gaming package. With advanced user experience through Armoury Crate SE and compatibility with a variety of games and applications, the ASUS ROG Ally emerges as a formidable gaming handheld, offering a comprehensive and enjoyable gaming experience.