ASUS ROG Ally: The Ultimate Handheld PC Gaming Experience
The ASUS ROG Ally is a powerful and versatile handheld gaming console that runs a full Windows 11 operating system, giving you access to your entire PC game library on the go. Designed for comfort, speed, and immersive visuals, the ROG Ally offers a true console-like experience with the freedom and flexibility of a PC. It’s an excellent choice for gamers who want to play AAA titles anywhere, without being tied to a desk.
Processor (CPU)
The console is powered by the AMD Ryzen™ Z1 Processor. This is a custom AMD APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) designed specifically for handheld gaming.
- Architecture: Built on the “Zen 4” architecture with a 4nm process.
- Cores/Threads: 6 Cores / 12 Threads, providing a balanced blend of performance for a wide range of games.
- Max Boost Frequency: Up to 4.90 GHz, ensuring a responsive and smooth gaming experience.
- TDP: The processor has a variable TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 9-30W, allowing it to adjust performance and power consumption based on the power mode (Silent, Performance, or Turbo).
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
ASUS ROG Ally Graphics are handled by the integrated AMD Radeon™ Graphics with RDNA™ 3 architecture.
- Compute Units: This version of the ROG Ally features 4 Compute Units (CUs).
- Performance: The GPU provides a solid performance foundation for gaming, capable of running many modern games at 1080p with moderate settings, and even more demanding titles at 720p or with AMD’s performance-enhancing technologies like FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) enabled.
Display
The ASUS ROG Ally display is a standout feature, offering a high-quality visual experience.
- Size: 7-inch with a 16:9 aspect ratio.
- Resolution: Full HD (1920 x 1080), which is a significant step up from many other handheld consoles.
- Refresh Rate: A high-speed 120Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync™ Premium, ensuring tear-free, fluid gameplay.
- Panel Type: An IPS-level touchscreen with a 10-point multi-touch capability.
- Brightness: The screen is rated for up to 500 nits, making it usable in a variety of lighting conditions, including outdoors.
Memory (RAM) and Storage
- Memory: The system comes with 16GB of LPDDR5-6400MHz RAM. This high-speed, on-board memory is shared between the CPU and GPU, ensuring quick access for both.
- Storage: A fast 512GB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD is included, providing fast game loading times. Storage can be expanded with the built-in UHS-II microSD card reader.
Design and Build
The ASUS ROG Ally is designed with ergonomics and portability in mind.
- Chassis: A lightweight and solid plastic chassis with a comfortable, ergonomic grip.
- Weight: At approximately 608 g (1.34 lbs), it is easy to hold for long gaming sessions.
- Controls: Features a full suite of controls including dual analog sticks, A/B/X/Y buttons, a D-pad, L/R bumpers and Hall Effect analog triggers, and two assignable grip buttons on the back.
- Cooling: ASUS’s Zero Gravity thermal system with dual fans keeps the device cool and quiet in any orientation.
Connectivity
The ASUS ROG Ally console offers versatile connectivity options for both handheld and docked use.
- Ports: Includes a ROG XG Mobile Interface and USB Type-C combo port (with USB 3.2 Gen2 and DisplayPort™ 1.4 support), and a 3.5mm combo audio jack.
- Wireless: Features Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) for super-fast and stable wireless connections, and Bluetooth® 5.2 for connecting wireless peripherals.
Battery and Power
- Battery: A 40WHr Li-ion battery provides the power for on-the-go gaming.
- Battery Life: Varies depending on the workload, from several hours on less demanding games to approximately 1-2 hours on high-fidelity AAA titles.
- Power Adapter: A 65W AC Adapter is included with USB-C, which supports fast charging.
Key Specifications (Summary)
- Model: ASUS ROG Ally RC71L-ALLY.Z1_512
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Processor: AMD Ryzen™ Z1 Processor (6 Cores, 12 Threads, 4.90 GHz Boost)
- Graphics: AMD Radeon™ Graphics (RDNA™ 3, 4 CUs)
- Display: 7-inch FHD (1920×1080) 120Hz IPS Touchscreen with FreeSync™ Premium.
- Memory (RAM): 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 512GB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
- Design: Ergonomic Handheld, 608g (1.34 lbs)
- Connectivity: USB-C (DisplayPort), MicroSD reader, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2.
- Battery: 40WHr Li-ion
- Key Features: Windows 11, Armoury Crate SE software, Zero Gravity cooling.
