ASUS ROG Ally Z1 Handheld: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS ROG Ally (model RC71L) is a handheld gaming computer that runs Windows. Instead of being tied to one console ecosystem, it can run games from any launcher that works on Windows, and it can be docked to a TV or desktop setup when you want a bigger screen.

A Windows handheld, not a closed console

Because it runs Windows, ASUS says the Ally supports Windows-compatible games across platforms such as Steam, Xbox Game Pass, Epic and GOG, plus cloud gaming services and Android apps. In general, that means you install each launcher yourself and sign in with your own accounts, just as on a laptop. The trade-off is that Windows is built for a keyboard and mouse, so some setup and tweaking of settings is typical on a handheld.

The listing also mentions 90 days of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, with terms that apply, so check the current terms for any bundled subscription.

What the Ryzen Z1 and RDNA 3 graphics mean

The Ally uses AMD's Z1 processor with RDNA 3 graphics, which ASUS rates at 2.8 TFLOPs. TFLOPs is a rough measure of graphics throughput, useful for comparing chips of the same family but not a guarantee of how any one game will run. Chips for handhelds are designed to work within limited power and heat, so demanding recent titles may need lower settings or resolutions to stay smooth.

The 7-inch 1080p 120Hz screen

The touchscreen is 7 inches across at Full HD (1920 x 1080) with a 120Hz refresh rate. A higher refresh rate shows more frames per second, which typically makes motion look smoother when the game can keep up. The screen also supports AMD FreeSync Premium, which lets the display match its refresh rate to the frame rate the game is producing, reducing tearing and stutter.

Handheld, TV and desktop modes

ASUS describes three ways to play. In handheld mode you use the built-in controls. Connected to a TV, you can add multiple controllers and play with friends or family. ASUS also says the Ally can become a desktop replacement with a single plug when paired with an XG Mobile eGPU, a mouse, a keyboard, a monitor and other peripherals. The eGPU and other accessories are separate products, so confirm they are compatible.

ROG Intelligent Cooling is ASUS's name for the thermal design that keeps the chip within its limits during longer sessions.

Size and carrying

The listing gives dimensions of 11.2 x 4.4 x 0.8 inches (about 28 x 11 x 2 cm). The listed weight reads 0.0 lb, which is clearly a placeholder, so check the manufacturer's specifications for the real figure if carrying weight matters to you.

Who it suits

It suits people who already have a Windows game library and want to play it away from a desk, and anyone who likes the flexibility of choosing their own launchers. It is less suited to those who want a console-style interface with no setup at all.

What to check before you buy

• Your game libraries: confirm the launchers you use run on Windows and install on a handheld.
• Storage: 512GB fills up quickly with large modern games, so check what storage expansion the manual describes.
• Accessories: the dock, eGPU, controllers and cases are separate; confirm compatibility.
• Subscription terms: if you plan to rely on the included game subscription, read the current terms.
• Battery and charging: check the manual for battery size and the charger it uses.

The short version

• A Windows handheld from ASUS, model RC71L, with an AMD Ryzen Z1 processor and RDNA 3 graphics.
• 512GB of storage and a 7-inch Full HD touchscreen at 120Hz with FreeSync Premium.
• Plays games from several launchers and cloud services, as ASUS describes.
• Can connect to a TV with extra controllers, or to a desktop setup with the XG Mobile eGPU.
• Includes 90 days of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, terms apply.

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