The hunt for a portable gaming PC just got a little more interesting. While securing a Steam Deck in the US remains a challenge, a compelling alternative has emerged with a significant price drop.
The standard ROG Ally, boasting impressive specs, is currently available for $489.99 – a $110 reduction from its usual price. This makes it notably more affordable than even the base model Steam Deck, despite offering a substantial performance advantage.
Under the hood, the Ally packs a quad-core Ryzen Z2 A processor, RDNA 2 graphics, and a generous 16GB of shared memory alongside 512GB of storage. Its vibrant 7-inch, 1080p IPS display refreshes at a silky-smooth 120Hz, delivering a visually superior experience compared to the Steam Deck.
Powering this performance is a substantial 60 watt-hour battery, promising extended gaming sessions. The device itself is larger and features more ergonomic grips, though its size might make it slightly less convenient for travel.
The ROG Ally’s biggest differentiator – and potential drawback – is its reliance on Windows 11. While this unlocks broader game compatibility, particularly for online multiplayer titles, the operating system can feel cumbersome even with Asus’s dedicated Xbox Fullscreen Experience.
Fortunately, resourceful gamers aren’t limited to Windows. The Ally’s hardware is capable of running alternative operating systems like SteamOS or Bazzite, offering a more streamlined and console-like experience.
The current sale is being offered through Amazon, with availability also reported at Best Buy and Walmart for a slightly higher price of $500. A quick comparison across retailers could yield the best deal.
