This week, Best Buy is slashing $200 off the price of the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme gaming handheld, bringing it down to an unprecedented low of just $449.99. This is the best deal we've seen, even better than Black Friday offers. Not only do you get this amazing price, but the package also includes a free official ROG Ally travel case, one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and two months of Crunchyroll Mega Fan subscription. For those looking to dive into gaming on the go without being locked into Steam's ecosystem, the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme stands out as one of the premier choices on the market.
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 gaming handheld, running on Windows 11. This model is the top-tier version of the Asus ROG Ally lineup, featuring an AMD Zen 4 based Z1 Extreme CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It boasts a vibrant 7-inch screen with a crisp 1080p resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
Unlike its main competitor, the Steam Deck, which operates on a Linux-based Steam OS, the ROG Ally leverages the versatility of Windows 11. This compatibility extends to virtually all Windows-based game launchers, including Steam, Battle.net, Xbox Game Pass, Epic Games Store, GOG, Ubisoft Connect, and more. This broad support makes the ROG Ally an excellent choice for gamers who enjoy a diverse library of games not readily available or more challenging to install on the Steam Deck.
In our comprehensive Asus ROG Ally review, Robert Anderson praised it, stating, "The Asus ROG Ally feels like the portable Xbox Game Pass machine many fans have been eager for. While it faces challenges with user experience, battery life, and the absence of Steam Deck-style touchpads, the enjoyment derived from using this handheld is undeniable. With its stunning 1080p screen, which shines brightly and is perfect for gaming on the go, combined with its robust specs and competitive pricing, it's a formidable contender against the Steam Deck."
With CES 2025 now behind us, the handheld gaming PC market is set to see increased competition. The more compact and updated Lenovo Legion Go S has been announced and is available for pre-order. The Windows 11 version, equipped with a Z2 Go and 32GB of RAM, is slated for release in January 2025 at $729. A more budget-friendly option will follow in May 2025, featuring the same Z2 Go chip but with 16GB of RAM and a choice between Windows 11 or SteamOS, starting at $599. Additionally, the Asus ROG Ally X, released in 2024, offers an enhanced gaming experience, though it comes with a $300 premium over the Z1 Extreme.
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