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Battle of the Handheld Gaming Consoles: Comparing Top Models of 2024

GOOVER DAILY REPORT July 17, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Introduction to Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2024
  3. Feature Comparisons
  4. In-depth Analysis: Lenovo Legion Go vs. ASUS ROG Ally
  5. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • The report "Battle of the Handheld Gaming Consoles: Comparing Top Models of 2024" provides a detailed comparison of four major handheld gaming consoles: the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go. It examines various aspects such as features, performance, pricing, and user experience. Notably, the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally are highlighted for their advanced specifications and capabilities. The Steam Deck is praised for its robust performance and large game library, while the Nintendo Switch stands out as an affordable, versatile option. The report aims to guide gamers in selecting the ideal portable gaming device by analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each console.

2. Introduction to Handheld Gaming Consoles of 2024

  • 2-1. Overview of the Steam Deck

  • The Steam Deck is recognized as the best overall handheld gaming console of 2024. It features a powerful 4-core Zen 2 processor, 16GB RAM, 512GB built-in storage, and an 800p@90Hz OLED display. The Steam Deck runs on a Linux-based operating system and supports WiFi 6 for faster downloads, Bluetooth v5.3 for wireless headsets, and video output up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz when docked. However, it is relatively pricey, and the dock station is sold separately. Also, it lacks a built-in NFC for amiibos.

  • 2-2. Overview of the Nintendo Switch

  • The Nintendo Switch, particularly the OLED model, is celebrated as the best budget handheld gaming console of 2024. Featuring a Tegra X1+ chip, removable controllers, and three different play modes (handheld, tabletop, docked), the Nintendo Switch offers versatility and affordability. It includes a built-in Ethernet port, NFC for amiibos, and a MicroSD slot for expanded storage. However, it struggles with AAA PC games, has a maximum video output of 1080p@60Hz when docked, and does not support WiFi 6E.

  • 2-3. Overview of the ASUS ROG Ally

  • The ASUS ROG Ally is noted for offering the best deal in handheld gaming PCs in 2024. It is equipped with a superfast 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor and a 1080p@120Hz display. The device is compatible with WiFi 6E, has Bluetooth v5.2, and includes a MicroSD slot for expanding storage. It comes preinstalled with Windows 11 and features a built-in ROG XG Mobile interface for external GPUs. The cons include less than desired battery life and the absence of built-in trackpads. The ROG dock with HDMI output is sold separately.

  • 2-4. Overview of the Lenovo Legion Go

  • The Lenovo Legion Go, Lenovo's first handheld gaming PC, offers excellent value. Launched in the last quarter of 2023, it features an 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, an 8.8-inch QHD+ display with a 144Hz refresh rate, detachable controllers, and a rear kickstand. The device supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth v5.2 and includes a MicroSD slot for expanded storage. Despite its robust features, the Lenovo Legion Go has a relatively poor battery life, is bulkier than most competitors, and lacks a dock station currently.

3. Feature Comparisons

  • 3-1. Performance: Processing Power and RAM

  • The Steam Deck is equipped with a 4-core Zen 2 processor and 16GB RAM. The Nintendo Switch, on the other hand, utilizes a Tegra X1+ chip. Both the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go are powered by the 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, which offers significant raw processing power. The ROG Ally comes with a superfast processor and is noted for its ability to handle demanding AAA games smoothly. Similarly, the Lenovo Legion Go also shares the 8-core Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, ensuring robust performance akin to the ASUS ROG Ally.

  • 3-2. Displays: Size and Resolution

  • The Steam Deck features a 7.4-inch, 800p HD+ OLED display. The Nintendo Switch OLED has a smaller 7-inch display but offers vibrant graphics with a 1080p resolution. Meanwhile, the ASUS ROG Ally includes a 7-inch 1080p@120Hz display, providing a smooth experience. The standout is the Lenovo Legion Go, with its large 8.8-inch QHD+ display, offering a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a 144Hz refresh rate. This makes the Legion Go's display one of the brightest and most vibrant among the compared models.

  • 3-3. Controllers: Design and Functionality

  • The Steam Deck includes built-in trackpads to emulate a mouse for shooter games. The Nintendo Switch is known for its removable side controllers, allowing different play modes. ASUS ROG Ally does not have built-in trackpads but supports external ROG XG Mobile for external GPUs. Lenovo Legion Go features detachable controllers that can be used in various play modes and includes a versatile kickstand. Despite some criticisms, the Legion Go's detachable controllers offer a unique pseudo-mouse function.

  • 3-4. Pricing and Value for Money

  • The Steam Deck is relatively pricey, especially considering additional costs like the dock station. The Nintendo Switch OLED is more budget-friendly, priced significantly lower at $350. The ASUS ROG Ally is positioned as a good deal with its high performance and is currently available for around $400. Lenovo Legion Go also offers good value for money, especially with its unique features and a recent discounted price of $1,200.

  • 3-5. Accessories and Customization Options

  • The Steam Deck includes Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity and MicroSD support for expanded storage. Nintendo Switch allows expansion via MicroSD cards and includes an NFC sensor for amiibos. ASUS ROG Ally supports the latest WiFi 6E and also allows installing additional storage via MicroSD cards. Lenovo Legion Go provides comprehensive customization through its Legion Space interface, including performance modes and controller mapping, and features a robust kickstand for different play configurations. It also supports Bluetooth v5.2 and WiFi 6E.

4. In-depth Analysis: Lenovo Legion Go vs. ASUS ROG Ally

  • 4-1. Design and Build Quality

  • The Lenovo Legion Go boasts a more substantial build with its larger 8.8-inch display, making it physically larger and heavier compared to the ASUS ROG Ally. The Legion Go's detachable controllers are a unique feature, though they are noted for being somewhat difficult to detach. The device features a robust kickstand that covers its entire backside, ensuring stability. In contrast, the ROG Ally is more compact and lightweight, with built-in controllers that cannot be detached. It measures 11.02 inches in length, 0.83 inches thick, and weighs approximately 1.34 pounds, making it more portable. The ROG Ally comes in white, while the Legion Go is available in a sleek Shadow Black.

  • 4-2. User Interface: Windows 11 vs. Competitors

  • Both the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally operate on Windows 11, allowing compatibility with a wide range of PC games and programs. The Legion Go includes a built-in launcher, Legion Space, which provides an intuitive interface for accessing games and services like Xbox, Epic Games, Ubisoft Connect, and more. This launcher also offers extensive customization options for display resolution, refresh rate, and controller mapping. The ROG Ally, on the other hand, does not feature a dedicated launcher but relies on the standard Windows 11 interface, which can be less optimized for touchscreen and handheld use.

  • 4-3. Gaming Experience

  • The Lenovo Legion Go offers a superior gaming experience with its expansive 8.8-inch display, featuring a 2560x1600 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. This display provides vibrant colors and sharp details, although the 144Hz refresh rate is not always utilized due to game limitations. The Legion Go also includes detachable controllers with features like a trackpad and mouse functionality, offering versatility in gameplay. The ASUS ROG Ally features a slightly smaller 7-inch display with a 1920x1080 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. While not as sharp as the Legion Go, the ROG Ally provides a robust gaming experience with its AMD Ryzen Z1 processors and built-in controls.

  • 4-4. Pros and Cons of Lenovo Legion Go

  • Pros: - Large 8.8-inch display with high resolution and refresh rate. - Detachable controllers with versatile functionality. - Strong kickstand for stable placement. Cons: - Larger and heavier, reducing portability. - Detachable controllers can be difficult to handle. - Higher resolution can be detrimental to battery life.

  • 4-5. Pros and Cons of ASUS ROG Ally

  • Pros: - More compact and portable design. - Sharp Full HD display with 120Hz refresh rate. - Powerful performance with AMD Ryzen Z1 processors. Cons: - Built-in controllers are not detachable. - Display resolution and color accuracy are lower compared to the Legion Go. - Windows 11 interface can be less user-friendly for handheld gaming.

  • 4-6. Market Positioning and Availability

  • As of now, the ASUS ROG Ally is available for purchase at major retailers like Best Buy in the U.S. at a price point of $700 for the high-end model with the AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip and 512GB of SSD storage. A lower-end model with the regular Ryzen Z1 and 256GB of storage is expected to be available at $600. The Lenovo Legion Go is set to start at $700 but is not yet available for sale. It is anticipated to be launched in October 2024, with potential configurations including a Ryzen Z1 CPU, 16GB RAM, and storage options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB.

5. Conclusion

  • The comprehensive comparison of handheld gaming consoles in 2024 underscores the distinct advantages and market positioning of each model. Key findings spotlight the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally, which show superiority in display quality, processing power, and user interface. The Legion Go's large, high-resolution screen and detachable controllers offer a customizable and immersive gaming experience, making it an exciting option for avid gamers. Conversely, the ASUS ROG Ally impresses with its compact design, powerful performance, and affordability. Despite their benefits, each console has limitations such as the Steam Deck's higher price and lack of NFC, and the ASUS ROG Ally’s shorter battery life. Future developments in handheld gaming are likely to focus on enhancing battery life, reducing device weight, and further integrating advanced connectivity features. These findings help potential buyers make informed decisions based on their personal preferences and budget constraints.

6. Glossary

  • 6-1. Steam Deck [Product]

  • Valve's Steam Deck is a prominent handheld gaming console known for its robust performance and extensive game library. It has significantly influenced the handheld gaming market, spurring competition and innovation among other manufacturers.

  • 6-2. Nintendo Switch [Product]

  • The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid gaming console that offers both handheld and docked play modes. Its versatility, exclusive game titles, and innovative Joy-Con controllers have popularized it among casual and dedicated gamers.

  • 6-3. ASUS ROG Ally [Product]

  • ASUS ROG Ally is a handheld gaming console designed to compete with the Steam Deck. It features a competitive design with a high-resolution display, ergonomic controllers, and customization options, making it a favorite among tech enthusiasts.

  • 6-4. Lenovo Legion Go [Product]

  • Lenovo Legion Go stands out in the handheld gaming market with its large display, detachable controllers, and intuitive Windows 11 interface. Its vibrant screen and performance capabilities make it a formidable competitor against other leading models.

7. Source Documents