Sure thing, here we go:
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Alright, so I’ve been fiddling with these new-fangled handheld gaming PCs lately. There’s the Steam Deck, which, let’s be honest, kinda needs you to be a mini-Linux wizard to get anything other than Steam games running. Enter the Asus ROG Ally. Seriously, this thing is like a pocket-sized, fully functional PC. So, if you’re like me and just want stuff to work without dealing with Linux sorcery, this one’s for you.
Now, where was I? Right, the Steam Deck used to be the lone wolf out there, but the Asus ROG Ally just waltzes in — oh, by the way, it’s a Windows 11-based device. Big win already, if you ask me. I mean, the freedom to use whatever launcher you like! Steam, Epic, Xbox Game Pass, you name it, it’ll run it without you having to break into a sweat over command lines or whatever.
But wait, there’s more. The Ally packs some serious oomph — it’s got this AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme thingy and AMD Radeon graphics. Techie words aside, this means it’ll play some fairly demanding games without turning into a mini space heater. And let’s not forget that sweet Full HD display. It’s shiny, colorful, and my eyes dig it. Plus, it doesn’t give you the hand cramps like the chunkier Deck.
Ah, but here’s the catch (gotta be one, right?). That lightweight feel, while kinda nice, also gives off a bit of a… plasticky vibe, no offense. And the tabletop stand? Flimsy. Like, barely-there-why-bother flimsy. But you know what’s a real kicker? Battery life. Two hours tops in gaming mode — yikes. Compare that to the Steam Deck, which isn’t perfect but still clocks in more generously. Moral of the story: keep that charger handy.
Oh, and don’t get me started on the lack of a carrying case. At seven hundred bucks, you’d think they’d throw one in, right? Last minor gripe — those back buttons are a bit oddly placed, but maybe that’s just me.
So here’s the million-dollar question: Ally or Deck? Honestly, it’s all about what you value most. Want more gaming options and raw power? Go Ally. Prefer something that feels luxe and travels well? Steam Deck, my friend. Both are solid, though. Just whatever floats your boat.
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And, well, that’s that. Hope you, uh, find it… useful?
