Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally X - Which to buy?

Steam Deck OLED vs. ROG Ally X: Which Should You Buy Late 2024

The handheld gaming console market has seen a resurgence in recent years, with the Steam Deck and ROG Ally emerging as two of the most popular options for gamers looking for a small portable machine.

Both devices offer powerful performance, portable designs, and extensive gaming libraries.

However, there are key differences between them that may influence your decision.

Let's delve deeper into the Steam Deck OLED and ROG Ally X to help you determine which one is the best fit for your gaming needs.

Hardware and Performance

The ROG Ally X boasts a more powerful processor, the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, which offers higher clock speeds and additional cores, resulting in better overall performance for demanding games.

Both devices utilize AMD Radeon GPUs, but the ROG Ally X has a more powerful GPU that is capable of handling higher resolutions and frame rates.

In terms of RAM and storage, the ROG Ally X also offers a slight advantage with up to 2TB of internal storage compared to the Steam Deck OLED's maximum of 1TB (if you opt to upgrade the internal storage on the X yourself).

However, both devices support microSD card expansion for additional storage.

Display and Audio

The Steam Deck OLED features a 7.4-inch 800p OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, while the ROG Ally X has a slightly smaller 7-inch 1080p IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate.

The OLED technology on the Steam Deck OLED offers superior color accuracy, contrast, and viewing angles, making it a more visually appealing option.

Both devices have built-in stereo speakers, but the ROG Ally X generally offers better audio quality with louder and more immersive sound.

If you like to play more intense games with high action, the smaller 120hz refresh rate screen might be better for you, however if you like slower paced games and mostly singleplayer games, the OLED's beautiful screen is for you.

Software and User Experience

The Steam Deck OLED runs SteamOS, a custom Linux-based operating system optimized for gaming.

The ROG Ally X, on the other hand, runs Windows 11, which offers more flexibility but can be less intuitive for gaming and normal every day activities and is one of the worst operating systems.

In terms of game compatibility, both devices have excellent options, but the ROG Ally X can run a wider range of games due to its Windows-based operating system.

The Steam Deck OLED offers a more streamlined gaming experience with its dedicated SteamOS interface.

Both devices also provide customization options, but the Steam Deck OLED offers more extensive customization for controls, UI elements, and even the operating system itself.

Portability and Battery Life

The ROG Ally X is slightly smaller and lighter than the Steam Deck OLED, making it more portable for on-the-go gaming.

However, the Steam Deck OLED's larger size and more comfortable grip can be a benefit for longer gaming sessions.

In terms of battery life, the ROG Ally X generally lasts slightly longer due to its more efficient processor.

However, your actual battery life will depend on factors such as game settings and usage habits.

Additional Features

Both devices support docking stations, allowing you to connect them to a larger display, keyboard, and mouse for a more traditional PC gaming experience.

They also have a variety of accessories available, including cases, controllers, and charging cables.

The Steam Deck OLED is generally more affordable than the ROG Ally X, especially at the lower storage tiers.

Conclusion

The Steam Deck OLED and ROG Ally X are both excellent handheld gaming consoles, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

The Steam Deck OLED offers a more refined and gaming-focused experience with superior ergonomics, a high-quality display, and extensive customization options.

The ROG Ally X provides greater flexibility thanks to its Windows-based operating system and can run a wider range of games.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your personal preferences and priorities. Consider your gaming needs, budget, and preferences to determine which device is the best fit for you.