The ASUS ROG Ally stands as an innovative new console in the handheld gaming device market. With its sleek design, robust build, and powerful features, the Ally is indeed a game-changer. One question that frequently comes up about this device is, “Can the ASUS ROG Ally run Windows?”
Yes! The ASUS ROG Ally is powered by Windows 11 and a custom AMD chipset, the Z1 Extreme processor which propels it to function as a miniature PC.
This compact gaming device offers the full Windows 11 experience, complete with a desktop interface, taskbar, and Start menu. It means you can download and play any PC game, and its touchscreen and launcher make the device a breeze to use.
However, having Windows 11 on a handheld gaming PC has its drawbacks. Where Valve’s Steam Deck uses both SteamOS and Linux, the ROG Ally has full Windows support that could cause problems in gaming mode. The shift from a traditional PC environment to a handheld device like the Nintendo Switch presents challenges that are yet to be fully addressed.
How Does Windows Work on the ASUS ROG Ally?
Being a Windows-powered handheld device, the Ally functions like a PC in your palm. However, Windows OS has been primarily designed for larger screens and traditional input devices like a keyboard and mouse. While it’s certainly a bonus to have such a powerful operating system on a handheld device, there are noticeable hurdles when navigating the interface and even potentially when you launch a game.
The challenge arises in the translation of the Windows interface to a 7-inch gamepad device. Windows still feels largely foreign in this setup, and many reviewers have pointed out that there’s a steep learning curve in terms of navigation and operation.
Microsoft has been working on this issue, intending to improve the experience of using Windows on handheld devices. However, as of now, this ergonomic aspect hasn’t been fully resolved.
While the ASUS ROG Ally can indeed run Windows 11, there’s still work to be done in terms of refining the user interface and experience for handheld devices. Despite these current shortcomings, the Ally remains an impressive handheld gaming device that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.
Its robust hardware, immense amount of storage, the ability to run PC games and software, and the promise of ongoing improvements, make the ASUS ROG Ally an exciting prospect for any gaming enthusiast. It’s an indication of the new direction that handheld gaming devices may take in the future, opening up new possibilities and gaming experiences.
FAQs
What version of Windows is ROG Ally?
The ASUS ROG Ally runs a full-fledged version of Windows 11 Home. It is equipped with a unique edition of Asus Armoury Crate software, designed specifically to enhance gaming performance and customization on the device.
