Thinking of Buying Steam Deck? You Might Consider ROG Ally First and Here's Why

Choosing the right gaming device for you is as important as choosing the games for your needs.

If you're navigating some of the handheld consoles this year, the ASUS ROG Ally emerges as a strong contender against the Steam Deck. It might appear to be a "never-heard" console at first, but you might try it out later, and here's why.

ROG Ally Takes the Lead With Unmatched Performance

Among the gaming heavyweights like the Nintendo Switch and Legion Go, the ROG Ally and Steam Deck stand out for PC gamers. The ROG Ally, in particular, excels with its robust performance, outshining the competition. The device runs on Windows 11, providing access to a plethora of gaming services, including Battlet.net, Epic Games, Steam, Xbox Game Pass, and more.

According to Windows Central, the device's display steals the spotlight with its IPS technology, delivering vibrant and crisp visuals at up to 1920 x 1080p. In contrast, the Steam Deck's LCD screen supports only up to 780p, leading to pixelation and a muddy appearance. The ROG Ally's superior display is a game-changer for an immersive gaming experience.

Versatility of Windows 11: ROG Ally's Edge

Running on Windows 11, the ROG Ally transcends the boundaries of a gaming handheld. It doubles as a versatile device for web browsing, content streaming, and even productivity tasks.

While dealing with Windows 11-specific challenges, users can harness the freedom and flexibility unmatched by Steam Deck's SteamOS.

The ROG Ally does face an overheating issue affecting microSD cards, but the solution lies in upgrading storage with a larger WD_BLACK SSD. The straightforward installation process enhances storage without compromising performance, providing a practical workaround for the overheating concern.

ROG Ally's Wide Range of Accessories

The popularity of the ROG Ally has spawned a rich ecosystem of third-party accessories. From TV docks to carrying cases, screen protectors, thumb grips, and more, users can tailor their gaming experience with a diverse array of accessories. Compatibility with many Steam Deck accessories further adds to the ROG Ally's appeal.

When is the Right Time to Buy a Steam Deck?

Valve's Steam Deck, powered by SteamOS, caters to a niche audience keen on an immersive Steam gaming experience. While the screen resolution is limited to 800p, the software simplicity mirrors the familiarity of the Steam client on PC. The recent introduction of the Steam Deck OLED enhances the device's display quality and battery life.

A crucial factor to note is that Steam Deck is designed specifically for Steam games, and compatibility is key. Only games optimized for Steam Deck or compatible with SteamOS can be played on the device.

Users seeking a broader range of services akin to the ROG Ally may need to explore installing Windows 11 on the Steam Deck for expanded functionality.

If you're a PC user and you want to play Dota 2 or Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on the go, Steam Deck is the way to go.

Speaking of Steam Deck, its OLED version has already been announced last time. While it's expected to be hot in the eyes of not only true-blue gamers and collectors but also scalpers, Valve is one step ahead of scalping by limiting the sales of the Limited Edition Steam Deck OLED.