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Starting this week, Best Buy is slashing $200 off the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme gaming handheld, bringing it down to just $449.99. This marks the lowest price we've seen for a brand new unit, even beating Black Friday deals. Alongside this fantastic discount, you'll also receive a free official ROG Ally travel case, a month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and two months of Crunchyroll Mega Fan subscription. If you're looking for a top-tier gaming handheld that isn't limited to Steam's ecosystem, the Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is a standout choice.
Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme Gaming Handheld for $449.99
Asus ROG Ally AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme Gaming Handheld
Originally priced at $649.99, save 31% now at just $449.99 at Best Buy. The Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme is a powerhouse Windows 11 gaming handheld PC. As the higher-end model of the Asus ROG Ally lineup, it features an AMD Zen 4-based Z1 Extreme CPU, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Its 7-inch screen delivers crisp visuals with a 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 runs on the versatile 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 excellent choice for gamers looking to enjoy a broader range of games without the hassle of additional setup.
In our Asus ROG Ally review, Robert Anderson highlighted its appeal, stating, "The Asus ROG Ally truly feels like the portable Xbox Game Pass machine that many fans have been clamoring for. Despite some drawbacks like a frustrating user experience, poor battery life, and the absence of Steam Deck-style touchpads, it's undeniable how enjoyable this handheld is when it's in full swing. With its stunning 1080p screen, perfect for on-the-go gaming in any condition, coupled with its powerful specs and compelling price point, it might just be the Steam Deck competitor we've been waiting for."
It's worth noting that with CES 2025 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 now available for preorder. The Windows 11 version, equipped with a Z2 Go chip and 32GB of RAM, will launch in January 2025, starting at $729. A more budget-friendly option, featuring the same Z2 Go chip but with 16GB of RAM and a choice between Windows 11 or SteamOS, will be available in May 2025 for $599. Additionally, the Asus ROG Ally X, released in 2024, offers an enhanced gaming experience, though at a $300 higher price point.
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