★★★★☆

ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming PC - Ryzen Z1 Extreme

Category: Best for Casual Gamers

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Octa-Core Processor
1920 x 1080 FHD 120Hz Display
16GB LPDDR5 RAM
512GB UHS-II MicroSD card slot
Built-in Fingerprint Sensor
1 Lithium Ion Battery (included)
Portable and Lightweight

Overview and First Impressions

The ASUS ROG Ally 7-inch is a high-performance gaming handheld that delivers a blend of portability and power. With its stunning FHD display, it offers a sharp and vibrant gaming experience. The built-in fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of security, making it perfect for shared devices. Its slim design makes it easy to carry around, even on long trips or family outings.

Design and Build Quality

The ROG Ally 7-inch boasts a sleek and modern design that exudes gaming prowess. The build quality is solid, with a sturdy frame that can withstand daily use. The display is well-built and provides excellent color accuracy and contrast. However, the build might feel slightly bulkier compared to some other handhelds on the market, but it's still comfortable enough for extended gaming sessions.

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process for the ROG Ally 7-inch is straightforward. It comes with all necessary accessories, including a USB-C cable and a microSD card reader. The touch screen is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to navigate menus and control games. One minor inconvenience is the lack of a dedicated volume control button, which requires you to use the touch screen for basic audio adjustments.

Performance

The ROG Ally 7-inch's performance is top-notch, thanks to its AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. It handles even the most demanding games with ease, providing smooth and responsive gameplay. The 16GB of RAM ensures that multitasking and running multiple applications simultaneously is a breeze. However, the battery life could be better; it takes about 3-4 hours to charge fully, which might limit your gaming sessions on longer outings.

Game Library

The ROG Ally 7-inch comes with a robust game library that includes both popular and exclusive titles. The platform is continually updated with new games, ensuring you always have something exciting to play. It supports SteamOS, which offers access to a wide range of PC titles, making it a versatile gaming device.

Online and Multiplayer

The ROG Ally 7-inch excels in online multiplayer. The platform is designed for social gaming, with features like instant matchmaking and easy communication options. The built-in microphone works well, allowing you to engage in voice chat without external accessories. For hardcore gamers, SteamOS offers deep integration with Steam Workshop, where players can download custom content.

Audio and Visuals

The audio quality on the ROG Ally 7-inch is solid, with clear and balanced sound. The visual performance is excellent, thanks to the FHD 120Hz display that provides smooth motion for fast-paced games. However, you might notice some screen tearing in demanding titles unless you enable V-Sync.

Features and Extras

The ROG Ally 7-inch comes with a variety of extras that enhance its gaming experience. The built-in fingerprint sensor adds an extra layer of security. There's also a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, as well as a microSD card slot for additional storage. The device supports both wired and wireless controllers, making it versatile for different gaming styles.

Performance in Use

In real-world use, the ROG Ally 7-inch has proven to be an excellent companion for gamers on-the-go. Whether you're commuting, hiking, or camping, this device offers a high-quality gaming experience without compromising portability. It's a great choice for families looking for a versatile gaming solution that can be used for both casual and hardcore gameplay.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:- High-performance AMD Ryzen processor- Excellent FHD 120Hz display- Large 512GB storage- Built-in fingerprint sensor for security- Strong game library with SteamOS supportCons:- Slightly bulkier build compared to some other handhelds- Average battery life, takes about 3-4 hours to charge- Lack of dedicated volume control button

Final Verdict and Recommendation.

The ASUS ROG Ally 7-inch is an excellent gaming handheld that offers a powerful performance experience in a compact form factor. It's perfect for both casual and hardcore gamers who value portability and quality. If you're looking for a high-performance device to take on the go, this ROG Ally 7-inch delivers. However, if you have specific needs like longer battery life or more advanced features, you might want to consider other options available in the market.

Hardcore and Competitive Gaming

Portable and On-the-Go

Family and Party Play

Streaming and Media

Cinematic and Story-Driven