Quick summary
- The Steam Deck, on the other hand, uses a custom Linux-based operating system called SteamOS, which is optimized for gaming and includes a curated library of titles.
- The ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is priced at around $2,800, while the Steam Deck ranges from $399 to $649, depending on the storage configuration.
- The Ally Z1 Extreme has access to a wider range of games through Windows 11, while the Steam Deck has a curated library optimized for its hardware.
In the realm of portable gaming, two titans stand tall: the ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme and the Valve Steam Deck. Both devices boast impressive specs and features, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to determine the ultimate victor.
Design and Build Quality
The ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme exudes a sleek and futuristic aesthetic with its angular design and RGB lighting. Its aluminum chassis provides a sturdy and premium feel, weighing in at 1.17 kg.
The Steam Deck, on the other hand, features a more rugged and ergonomic design. Its plastic shell is durable and comfortable to hold for extended gaming sessions, weighing slightly heavier at 1.25 kg.
Display
The Ally Z1 Extreme boasts a stunning 144Hz 14-inch HDR IPS display with a resolution of 3840 x 2160. This provides vibrant colors, deep blacks, and ultra-smooth gameplay.
The Steam Deck‘s display is also impressive, offering a 7-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1280 x 800. While it lacks the high refresh rate of the Ally Z1 Extreme, it delivers sharp images and good color accuracy.
Performance
Under the hood, the Ally Z1 Extreme packs an Intel Core i7-12700H processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti graphics card. This powerhouse combination delivers exceptional performance, handling demanding games with ease.
The Steam Deck, however, is powered by a custom AMD Zen 2 APU with RDNA 2 graphics. While it’s not as powerful as the Ally Z1 Extreme, it provides a solid gaming experience for most titles, especially at lower resolutions.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for portable devices. The Ally Z1 Extreme houses a 90Wh battery, while the Steam Deck has a 40Wh battery.
In real-world tests, the Ally Z1 Extreme can last up to 6 hours of gaming, depending on the settings and games played. The Steam Deck offers a more modest battery life of around 2-8 hours, depending on usage.
Connectivity and Expandability
Both devices offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB-C ports. Additionally, the Ally Z1 Extreme features an HDMI 2.1 port for external display output.
The Steam Deck has a built-in microSD card slot for storage expansion, while the Ally Z1 Extreme requires external storage via USB-C or Thunderbolt 4.
Software
The Ally Z1 Extreme runs on Windows 11, providing access to a vast library of games and applications. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, uses a custom Linux-based operating system called SteamOS, which is optimized for gaming and includes a curated library of titles.
Price and Availability
The ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is priced at around $2,800, while the Steam Deck ranges from $399 to $649, depending on the storage configuration. The Ally Z1 Extreme is currently available for purchase, while the Steam Deck is still in its reservation phase.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Ultimately, the choice between the ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme and the Steam Deck depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize raw performance and a premium gaming experience, the Ally Z1 Extreme is the clear winner. However, if you value portability, affordability, and a curated gaming ecosystem, the Steam Deck is an excellent option.
Questions You May Have
1. Which device has a better display?
The ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Extreme has a superior display with a higher resolution, refresh rate, and HDR support.
2. Which device is more powerful?
The Ally Z1 Extreme features a more powerful processor and graphics card, providing exceptional performance.
3. Which device has longer battery life?
The Ally Z1 Extreme offers longer battery life, lasting up to 6 hours of gaming.
4. Which device is more portable?
The Steam Deck is more portable due to its smaller size and weight.
5. Which device has a larger game library?
The Ally Z1 Extreme has access to a wider range of games through Windows 11, while the Steam Deck has a curated library optimized for its hardware.