Top Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2025: Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and More

Wow, okay, so here’s the thing: I’ve been wrestling with this Steam Deck versus Asus ROG Ally debate in my head for way too long, like, no joke. I mean, I know it should be simple, but here we are.

So, listen up. If the Steam Deck is giving you a headache because you’re stuck with its game launcher situation—enter the Asus ROG Ally. It’s this neat little portable PC that laughs in the face of Linux complications. Seriously, all your fave apps can just do their thing without any stage fright.

And guess what? We’ve got a new actor on the stage. Yep, the Asus ROG Ally is here, challenging the Steam Deck like it’s nobody’s business. Asus is flaunting Windows 11 on their device—handy, right? It’s like an open bar for your game launchers. Epic, Xbox Game Pass, EA Origin, you name it! Steam’s there too, without the hassle of weird Linux voodoo.

Let’s just talk power for a sec. The Ally goes hard with that AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor. Oh, and the AMD Radeon graphics piece—that’s like the chocolate drizzle on your sundae. Games ran buttery smooth, no overheating drama. Okay, yes, a couple of hiccups, but nothing major. Plus, it feels like a feather compared to the Deck, which is a win because who likes cramped fingers?

But, hey, full disclosure—lightweight equals plasticky vibe sometimes. Meh, maybe Asus tried, maybe not. And hello, table stand? It’s like, “Why bother?” And can we talk battery? The Ally, bless its heart, lasts about as long as my morning coffee in gaming mode. Compare that to the Deck’s somewhat longer run—still not marathon-worthy, but better. Seriously, just keep ‘em plugged in. My advice.

Now, random downsides: where’s a carrying case when you need one, Asus? For 700 bucks, it’s not too much to ask, right? And those back buttons—just a smidge too low, but that’s probably just me being picky.

In the grand showdown of Deck vs. Ally—it’s kind of a toss-up. Each device has its own bag of tricks. If you crave accessibility and power, jump on the Ally bandwagon. But if you’re eyes glitter at premium feels and battery life that goes the distance, team Steam Deck might be your tribe. Either way, these gadgets? Game-changers, no doubt. I’m just glad I don’t have to pick a favorite—at least not today.