The Asus ROG Ally series has captured the attention of gaming enthusiasts since its launch earlier this year. Designed as a handheld Windows gaming device, this series allows seamless gaming experience across platforms like Xbox Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, and more. This review aims to help you make an informed decision between the Asus ROG Ally Z1 and the Z1 Extreme, focusing specifically on performance metrics and value for the price.

Processor Performance: Geekbench 5 Results

Asus ROG Ally Z1

  • Multi-core Score: 7,639
  • Single-core Score: 1,754

Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme

  • Multi-core Score: 11,542
  • Single-core Score: 2,096

The disparity between these processors is evident in the Geekbench 5 scores. The Z1 Extreme displays a significant leap in both multi-core and single-core performance compared to its counterpart. Although both machines are designed for gaming, their processing capability can have a cascading effect on gaming performance as well as on other tasks you might intend to perform on the device. Therefore, processor performance remains a crucial factor for consideration.

Graphics Performance: 3D Mark Results

Asus ROG Ally Z1

  • Time Spy: 1,800
  • Fire Strike: 4,448

Asus ROG Ally Z1 Extreme

  • Time Spy: 3,556
  • Fire Strike: 7,980

The 3D Mark scores for the Z1 Extreme are dramatically better, especially in the Fire Strike benchmark. This discrepancy is more than just numerical values; it implies a substantial difference in the devices’ ability to handle graphics-intensive tasks. For potential buyers, this is an essential point of deliberation, especially if graphics performance is a priority.

Gaming Experience

Dirt 5 (Ultra High)

  • Z1: 11.5 fps
  • Z1 Extreme: 32 fps

GTAV (Very High)

  • Z1: 15 fps
  • Z1 Extreme: 34.5 fps

GTAV (Normal)

  • Z1: 27 fps
  • Z1 Extreme: 59 fps

When it comes to actual gaming, the Z1 Extreme offers an unquestionably superior experience, as shown in the fps (frames per second) it achieves in Dirt 5 and Grand Theft Auto V. Such discrepancies indicate that the Z1 might struggle with modern, graphics-heavy games, whereas the Z1 Extreme is considerably more capable of handling them.

Battery Life

PCMark 10 Battery Life Test

  • Z1: 1 hour, 46 minutes
  • Z1 Extreme: 1 hour, 43 minutes

Laptop Mag Battery Life Test

  • Z1: 6 hours, 17 minutes
  • Z1 Extreme: 5 hours, 51 minutes

Surprisingly, despite the difference in performance capabilities, the battery life for both devices is comparable, both in gaming and general use scenarios.

Conclusion

Choosing the base Z1 over its more potent counterpart, the Z1 Extreme, would not be advisable for most gamers. The performance difference is profound and unlikely to be mitigated by any software updates in the foreseeable future. While the Z1 may suffice for lighter indie games or emulation tasks, those interested in a robust, future-proof gaming experience should consider the Z1 Extreme to be well worth the extra $100.

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