Starting this week, Best Buy is slashing $200 off the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme gaming handheld, bringing the price down to an irresistible $449.99. This deal marks the lowest price we've seen for a brand new unit, even lower than Black Friday offers. On top of that, you'll receive a free official ROG Ally travel case, a one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and a two-month Crunchyroll Mega Fan subscription. The Asus ROG Ally stands out as one of the premier gaming handhelds on the market, especially if you're looking to break free from Steam's ecosystem.
Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme Gaming Handheld for $449.99
Asus ROG Ally AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Gaming Handheld
$649.99 save 31% $449.99 at Best Buy
The Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is a powerhouse of a Windows 11-based gaming handheld PC. It's the top-tier model of the two Asus ROG Ally variants, featuring an AMD Zen 4-based Z1 Extreme CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a spacious 512GB SSD. The device boasts a vibrant 7" screen with a crisp 1080p resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Unlike its primary competitor, the Steam Deck, which operates on a Linux-based Steam OS, the ROG Ally runs on the widely recognized Windows 11. This compatibility with virtually any Windows-based game launcher, including Steam, Battle.net, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, GOG, Ubisoft Connect, and more, makes it an attractive choice for gamers who prefer a diverse gaming library.
In our comprehensive Asus ROG Ally review, Robert Anderson noted, "The Asus ROG Ally truly feels like the portable Xbox Game Pass machine that many fans have been clamoring for. While it's not without its challenges—such as a frustrating user experience, poor battery life, and the absence of Steam Deck-style touchpads—the handheld shines when it comes to gaming enjoyment. Its stunning 1080p screen is ideal for on-the-go gaming in any condition, and with its robust specs and competitive price, it might just be the Steam Deck competitor we've been waiting for."
Keep in mind that CES 2025 has introduced new contenders in the handheld gaming PC arena. The more compact and updated Lenovo Legion Go S is now available for preorder. The Windows 11 version, equipped with a Z2 Go chip and 32GB of RAM, is set to launch in January 2025, starting at $729. A more budget-friendly version, featuring the same Z2 Go chip but with 16GB of RAM and the option of either Windows 11 or SteamOS, will be released in May 2025 for $599. Additionally, the Asus ROG Ally X, released in 2024, offers superior performance at a $300 premium.
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