Seems just like the Asus ROG Ally may be a real Steam Deck competitor in any case, because the top-spec AMD Z1 Excessive variant might price $699.99. That’s solely $51 greater than Valve’s 512GB handheld, however an excellent cheaper base mannequin might flank Valve’s lineup with a lower cost tag.
We not too long ago obtained a maintain of Asus ROG Ally specs, and the brand new handheld gaming PC on the block has spectacular innards. Armed with a seven-inch 1080p 120Hz show and the aforementioned AMD Z1 APU, the mini rig might snatch the moveable efficiency crown. That truth alone gained’t essentially assist Asus tackle the mighty Steam Deck, as Valve’s pricing is arguably what offers it an edge.
Nevertheless, as we’ve already lined above, there’s motive to consider the ROG Ally will truly take the value struggle to the Steam Deck. A report by The Verge cites numerous sources that time in the direction of the $699.99 MSRP, together with an early Greatest Purchase itemizing, information offered by dependable leaker Roland Quandt, and a leak by SnoopyTech through Twitter.
So, we’ve established that the highest ROG Ally mannequin in all probability gained’t price way more than its Steam Deck counterpart, however what in regards to the non-Excessive mannequin? Effectively, we doubt the hand held will match Valve’s 64GB MMC mannequin MSRP, as $399 feels a bit too low. That mentioned, there’s a probability the vanilla AMD Z1 variant will goal Valve’s $529 center baby – a transfer that may bolster the corporate’s probabilities throughout the handheld PC ring.
After all, it’s price reiterating that the above pricing relies on rumours, hypothesis, and a sprinkle of wishful considering. Asus hasn’t shared a strong ROG Ally worth but, however the gaming PC big specified that its handheld would price “lower than $1,000.” Theoretically, which means a $999 tag continues to be a risk, however premium pricing may very well be an unforgivable pitfall.
We’re holding a detailed eye on the Asus ROG Ally, because it’s shaping as much as be the most effective handheld gaming PC choices available on the market. Matching Valve’s aggressive pricing may be sufficient to shake up the moveable scene solely, one thing that would affect the value of the eventual Steam Deck 2.
Planning on holding onto Valve’s handheld for now? Try the most effective Steam Deck equipment and put collectively an ideal moveable setup.
